Umamusume: Pretty Derby
Synopsis
Famous racehorses that have left behind worthy legacies, unique as they can be, are reincarnated as horse girls in a parallel world. In this life, they start their journey anew as they continue to race and perhaps relive the success they once lived through. Aspiring to become the best racehorse in Japan, a horse girl named Special Week moves to Tokyo to enroll in the Tracen Academy—an institution that nurtures horse girls like her to become better racers. There, Special Week witnesses the sophisticated running style of Silence Suzuka and is inspired to become a racer like her. Shortly after, Special Week finds herself recruited into Silence Suzuka's team, Spica. From there, she begins her path to the top—one lap at a time. [Written by MAL Rewrite]
Audience Consensus
Overall, Uma Musume: Pretty Derby is a surprisingly enjoyable anime that combines sports and idol themes. While the premise is unconventional, the series is praised for its heartwarming story, well-developed characters based on real-life racehorses, and exciting races. Some viewers find the concept strange or the plot lacking, but it generally exceeded expectations.
Strengths
- Characters are based on real racehorses, adding depth and interest.
- The series is heartwarming with themes of friendship and achieving goals.
- Well-animated races and exciting moments
Weaknesses
- The premise of horse girls racing and becoming idols can be off-putting or seem weird.
- Some found the first season lacking in compelling plot and stakes.
- The idol aspect feels like an afterthought.