Free! Dive to the Future Episode 0
Synopsis
As they adjust to life in Tokyo, Haruka Nanase and Makoto Tachibana prepare for their university's opening ceremony. However, while running some errands, they find themselves representing Iwatobi in a regional mascot wrestling tournament. Unbeknownst to them, the rest of the Iwatobi and Samezuka swim club members are watching the event's live broadcast at a local festival. While also adapting to the quick change of pace, Ikuya Kirishima and Hiyori Toono discuss what moving from the countryside to the city was like. Crossing paths with old friends on the bustling streets of Tokyo, the curtain rises on a new chapter in the boys' lives. [Written by MAL Rewrite]
Audience Consensus
The audience generally enjoyed the episode as a fun and lighthearted addition to the Free! series, praising its comedic elements and character interactions. Some felt the story was less significant and missed the deeper emotional tones, while others appreciated the fan service and lightheartedness. The episode serves as a pleasant prequel, setting the stage for the next season.
Strengths
- Hilarious and fun episode.
- Great animation and art style.
- Enjoyable character interactions and new beginnings.
- Good music, especially the ending theme.
- Satisfying fan service with handsome characters.
- The Iwatobi-chan Mascot Sumo sequence.
Weaknesses
- Story not very important or transcendent.
- Character payoff for returning characters is lacking.
- Episode feels different, more comedy-focused than drama.
- Lack of Rin's presence in the episode.