After their victory over Shitenhouji Middle School in the semifinals, Ryouma Echizen and the Seishun Academy Boys Tennis Team must now face off against the two-time defending champions of Rikkai University-Affiliated Middle School in order to claim the national title. Rikkai is not only seeking revenge for its team's previous loss to Seishun at the Kanto Regional Tournament, but they also are aiming to win the national title for a third consecutive year.
In the conclusion of Tennis no Oujisama, the titular "Prince of Tennis" is pitted against the "Child of God" in a head-to-head battle for the national championship title. Along the way, Ryouma must teach his opponents and teammates that there is more to tennis than winning.
Review: The Prince of Tennis: National Tournament – Final
The Prince of Tennis: National Tournament – Final completes the trifecta of the national-level arc started in Tennis no Oujisama: Zenkoku Taikai-hen and its sequel, Tennis no Oujisama: Zenkoku Taikai-hen – Semifinal. This anime indulges its audience in a universe where tennis matches are not just about personal skill, determination, or physical prowess but initiating a full-on power-packed battle, magic style. Nothing less!
The story revolves around an extraordinary seventh-grader, Ryoma Echizen, who is as diligent as he is unassuming. The Seigaku Junior High tennis team aims for the ultimate honor of becoming Nationals champions. Each episode brings them a step closer towards this auspicious title, yet another obstacle appears in the form of formidable opponents. These aren’t your plain vanilla enemies; they’re as strong, if not stronger, providing viewers with an unprecedented critical edge that can change the game’s course and the storyline’s tapering climax.
The Anime Critic’s In-Depth Review
This anime series ends the Prince of Tennis saga in a manner nothing short of spectacular. From intense animation to the heart-racing plot twists, Prince of Tennis: National Tournament – Final makes the most of these unconventional tennis matches. Admittedly, the series plays around with the theme of game physics, but this is its very charm. You watch Prince of Tennis for the adrenaline, the creativity, and the thrill of seeing your favorite characters grow and overcome their challenges.
From the beginning of the series, Ryoma Echizen champions the narrative with his exceptional skill and poker-faced demeanor. Yet, in this final arc, the creators have done an excellent job fleshing out other favorable personalities. Shuichiro Oishi and Eiji Kikumaru’s charming bond, Shusuke Fuji’s calm yet devastating intellect, and even the stern but endearing Coach Ryuzaki are all given their chance to shine in the sun.
Animation and Sound
What stands out exquisitely from the onset is the impeccable excellence placed in animating every kick, every toss, and every magical tennis maneuver. Production I.G has yet again revealed its capability of delivering unparalleled and breathtaking art. The sound design accompanies the vivid animation with a striking balance of intensity and subtlety, paving an electrifying way through the climactic battles.
Final Thoughts
You’re caught in a whirlwind of excitement where every episode ends on a cliffhanger, and the desire to reach the final arc becomes overwhelming. But take it from this seasoned anime critic – savor, relish, and plunge into the experience. It’s well worth the time and emotions you’ll invest.
If you are a binge-watcher looking for a thrilling jaunt into a world of sports and magic, or a mature anime fan desiring a unique sports animation perspective, Tennis no Oujisama: Zenkoku Taikai-hen – Final is an absolute must-see. Not only is it an exhilarating climax to a well-loved series, but it’s also a testament to the brilliant concoction of sports and anime, seasoned with a dash of fantasy.
Whether you choose to rent, buy, or stream, ensure you’ve experienced the previous arcs to soak in the full action-packed narrative. It’s indeed a victorious match point from the world of Prince of Tennis!
Rating: 9/10
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