Diligent and methodical honor student Eiichirou Maruo decides to exercise more during the little free time he has available because he is worried about his health. For this reason, after seeing a flyer, he joins the Southern Tennis Club at the beginning of his freshman year.
During his free trial at the club, he meets Natsu Takasaki, another first year student, who is determined on becoming a professional tennis player due to her love for the sport. In contrast, Eiichirou's study-oriented life exists because he believes that it is what he has to do, not because he enjoys it. However, his monotonous days come to an end as the more he plays tennis, the more he becomes fascinated by it.
Baby Steps is the story of a boy who makes the most of his hard-working and perfectionist nature to develop his own unique playing style. Little by little, Eiichirou's skills begin to improve, and he hopes to stand on equal footing with tennis' best players.
Baby Steps Anime Review
Stepping onto the courts of the vibrant and fast-paced world of professional tennis, we have Eiichiro Maruo, the protagonist of Baby Steps, an anime series based on the manga by Hikaru Katsuki. An academically meticulous student, Eiichiro stumbles across tennis as an effort to maintain his health but soon becomes engulfed with the intricacies and fierce competition of the sport. With his analytical mind and methodical approach, our protagonist starts from scratch, each progress marked by his ‘baby steps’.
Joining him in this journey is Natsu Takasaki, a spirited teenage tennis prodigy who dreams of being a professional player. Her passion inexplicably draws Eiichiro deeper into the world of competitive tennis. Further pushed by supportive friends and rigorous training at Southern Tennis Club, the anime unfolds Eiichiro’s evolving journey from a novice to a competitive tennis player, hence aptly named Baby Steps.
STORYLINE & CHARACTERS
If you’re seeking an engaging sports anime with substantial character development, mature romance, and sense of realism, Baby Steps captures all with finesse. The storyline shines as it masterfully blends the tension of professional tennis matches with endearing everyday life moments. Unlike many sports anime, Baby Steps focuses on the strategic element of tennis, displaying Eiichiro’s meticulous detail-orientated learning process.
The character development in this series deserves lavish praise. Each character is unique, complete with distinct attributes and personal progression arcs. From the main protagonist Eiichiro Maruo to the supporting characters, all have palpable depth that renders them life-like and easy to connect with. Eiichiro with his disciplined approach, Natsu with her vivacious energy and sheer talent, Coach Aoi with his wisdom and patience, all bring distinct colors to the grand picture of Baby Steps.
ANIMATION & SOUND
The animation might seem standard at first, but its simplicity is what makes Baby Steps more relatable. The character designs and background settings are uncluttered while featuring a bright, spirited color palette that stays true to the enthusiastic atmosphere of tennis. This simplicity works as an advantage while focusing on in-game strategies and plays.
On the sound front, Baby Steps scores well, the upbeat and energetic OST perfectly resonating with the series’ pacing. The voice acting is noteworthy, especially the leads, effectively bringing each character to life. Background score during matches ups the ante, pulling viewers right alongside Eiichiro on his Baby Steps journey.
OVERALL
Whether you’re a tennis fan or not, Baby Steps is a worthwhile watch. With a perfect concoction of sports action, heartfelt character development, and a dash of romance, it promises an engaging experience. The series exemplifies the resilient spirit of sports, capturing the trials, tribulations, and triumphs that resonate beyond the court. Overall, Baby Steps delivers a grand slam, making it a must-watch for any anime fan. This is an anime you should not just stream, but consider owning, as you might find yourself visiting the inspiring journey of Eiichiro time and again!
Rating: 9/10
Be the first to leave a review.
