Figure 17 [Season 1 Episodes 1 to 13]

Figure 17: A Heartfelt Journey of Loss, Love, and Alien Twins

If you’re looking for an anime that blends slice-of-life warmth with sci-fi intrigue, Figure 17: Tsubasa & Hikaru might just be the hidden gem you’ve been missing. Directed by Naohito Takahashi and animated by OLM, Inc., this 2001 series stands out not just for its unique premise but also for its unconventional release schedule—one episode per month, mirroring the passage of time in the story itself.

The series follows Tsubasa, a young girl who moves to the countryside after her mother’s death. There, she encounters an alien lifeform called a “Figure,” which takes the form of her twin sister, Hikaru. What unfolds is a touching tale of friendship, identity, and the bittersweet reality of growing up—with a side of alien battles, because why not?

What Fans Loved (and Cried Over)

The finale of Figure 17 has left fans emotionally wrecked—in the best and worst ways possible. Here’s what the community had to say:

1. The Feels Train Has No Brakes
   One fan lamented, “I watched thirteen episodes solely to see Hikaru and Tsubasa together forever. Can you hear that? The sound of my heart breaking into tiny, little, fragile pieces?” The ending, while poignant, wasn’t the happily-ever-after many hoped for. Instead, it delivered a gut-wrenching yet beautifully executed conclusion that stayed true to the story’s themes of loss and acceptance.

2. A Bittersweet Masterpiece
   Another viewer praised the series, calling it “a well-made mix of slice-of-life and action.” The blend of everyday moments—like Tsubasa adjusting to school life—with high-stakes alien conflicts created a unique tone that kept fans invested. The character development, especially Tsubasa’s growth, was a standout.

3. The Ending: Love It or Hate It
   Opinions on the finale were split. Some, like one fan, found it “bitter sweet” and fitting, while others were left devastated. “I was hoping that somehow, DD would leave Hikaru on Earth just for the sake of Tsubasa,” one comment read. The emotional weight of the ending, though divisive, undeniably left a lasting impact.

4. The Unnecessary Reporter?
   Not every aspect of the series was flawless. A recurring gripe was the reporter character, who many felt added little to the plot. “He’s just a big waste of time,” one fan bluntly stated. While his presence did help ground the sci-fi elements in reality, his role could’ve been more impactful.

5. Visuals That Aged Like Fine Wine
   Despite being over two decades old, Figure 17 holds up visually. One viewer noted, “I was impressed with the visual quality of this one, being from 2001.” The animation’s simplicity and attention to detail, especially in capturing the changing seasons, added depth to the storytelling.

Why You Should Watch It

Figure 17 isn’t your typical action-packed or overly sentimental anime. It’s a slow burn, but one that rewards patience with rich character arcs and emotional payoff. The relationship between Tsubasa and Hikaru is the heart of the story—their bond feels genuine, making the finale all the more powerful.

If you’re a fan of:
– Emotional storytelling that doesn’t shy away from tough themes,
– Sci-fi with a human touch, where aliens and everyday life collide,
– Character-driven narratives where growth feels earned,

then Figure 17 is worth adding to your watchlist. Just keep tissues handy—because, as one fan put it, “No matter how dead you are inside, this show will make you feel.”

Final Verdict: 8.5/10

A hidden classic that balances heart and sci-fi in a way few anime do. The ending might leave you in tears, but it’s a journey worth taking.