Aoba Watase
Aoba Watase |
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| Kanji: | 渡瀬 青葉 |
| Romaji | Watase Aoba |
| Statistics | |
| Age: | 16 |
| Birthday: | Unknown |
| Height: | Unknown |
| Portrayed by: | |
| Japanese: | Yoshitsugu Matsuoka |
| English: | TBA |
Aoba Watase (渡瀬 青葉, Watase Aoba), is the main protagonist of the Buddy Complex anime television series. Initially a high school student at Seio High School, Aoba’s life takes a dramatic turn when his classmate, Hina Yumihara, sends him to the future, where he becomes entangled in an interstellar war. Upon arrival in the future, Aoba is thrust into the cockpit of the XV-7001 Luxon Coupling Valiancer, a powerful mecha that plays a crucial role in the conflict.
In this new world, Aoba forms an important partnership with Dio Junyou Weinberg, a fellow pilot in the Free Pact Alliance, and becomes a vital member of the alliance’s forces. Under the close supervision of Captain Gengo Kuramitsu, Aoba is enlisted as an Ensign-ranked pilot, joining the Valiancer Unit aboard the Cygnus, a powerful warship. As the series progresses, Aoba faces intense battles, emotional turmoil, and personal growth, all while navigating the complexities of war and leadership.
Background
Appearance in Anime
Aoba Watase’s journey begins as a seemingly ordinary high school student with a relatively uneventful life. However, his world is turned upside down when Hina Yumihara, a classmate with ties to a mysterious future, sends him to the year 2080. Upon his arrival, Aoba is thrown into a chaotic conflict between the Free Pact Alliance and the Aerial Army.
Aoba’s unexpected transition into the future forces him to adapt quickly to his new reality. Initially inexperienced in combat, Aoba is forced to pilot the XV-7001 Luxon Coupling Valiancer, a powerful mecha that becomes his partner in battle. This marks the beginning of his transformation from a regular student into a key player in the war, developing his skills as a pilot and understanding the larger political and military forces at play.
As a member of the Free Pact Alliance, Aoba’s role in the conflict expands as he forms close bonds with other key characters, particularly Dio Junyou Weinberg. Together, they work to combat the threat posed by the Aerial Army, uncover the mysteries of the war, and navigate the complex relationships between the factions involved.
Appearance
Aoba Watase has a youthful and athletic appearance that reflects his background as a student before being thrust into the future. His short, dark hair and expressive brown eyes give him a relatable, down-to-earth look. Aoba’s attire is typically that of a student at the beginning of the series, but after becoming a pilot, he adopts the uniform of the Free Pact Alliance and a Valiancer pilot, with the distinctive markings and equipment associated with his new role.
His physical build is lean and athletic, appropriate for his role as a mecha pilot. Aoba’s demeanor can be described as earnest and focused, with his face often showing determination or worry as he comes to terms with the realities of his new life. His overall appearance is that of someone who is transitioning from adolescence to maturity, reflecting his journey throughout the series.
Personality
Aoba Watase is characterized by his earnestness, bravery, and strong sense of duty. Though initially thrown into the chaos of war with no prior combat experience, Aoba adapts quickly, learning to navigate the battlefield and the emotional complexities that come with it. He is compassionate, driven by a desire to protect those around him, and often finds himself caught between his ideals and the harsh realities of the war.
Aoba’s sense of responsibility grows throughout the series as he moves from being an inexperienced pilot to a key member of the Free Pact Alliance. He is often seen as a relatable protagonist, torn between the weight of his duties and his personal desires. His friendship and partnership with Dio Junyou Weinberg form a central element of his emotional development, and his relationships with others help him grow emotionally, transitioning from a reluctant participant in the war to a committed leader.
Role in the Story
Time Travel and Arrival to the Future: Aoba’s story begins in present-day Japan, where his peaceful school life is interrupted by an enemy Valiancer attack. He is saved by Hina Yumihara, who activates a time travel device and sends him into the future. There, he lands in the middle of a war between the Free Pact Alliance and the Zogilia Republic.
Joining the Free Pact Alliance: After crash-landing inside the Luxon, Aoba is forced to pilot it in battle and demonstrates unexpected proficiency. This leads to his recruitment into the Cygnus crew, where he is trained and officially enlisted as an Ensign. He becomes Dio Weinberg’s Coupling partner, forming a combat duo critical to the FPA’s military strategy.
Growing as a Pilot and Leader: Through intense battles, Aoba forms bonds with the Cygnus crew and proves himself in the battlefield. His Coupling compatibility with Dio surpasses expectations, creating new tactical advantages. Over time, he gains insight into the true nature of the war, Hina’s role in his journey, and the secrets surrounding the Coupling system.
Relationships
Hina Yumihara: Hina is Aoba’s classmate and the person responsible for sending him to the future. Her identity as both a rescuer and a future soldier adds layers of mystery and emotion to their relationship. Aoba holds deep feelings for her, which continue to influence his actions throughout the series.
Dio Junyou Weinberg: Initially cold and skeptical of Aoba, Dio grows to trust and respect him as a reliable partner in battle. Their Coupling compatibility becomes the foundation for their tactical superiority, and over time, they develop a deep “buddy” bond forged through mutual trust.
Gengo Kuramitsu: The seasoned captain of the Cygnus who monitors Aoba’s progress with caution. Kuramitsu recognizes Aoba’s potential and plays a key role in helping him adjust to life as a soldier in the future.