Free! [Season 1 Episode 1 to Episode 12]

Free! Season 1: A Splash of Nostalgia and Friendship

When Free! first hit the screens in 2013, it wasn’t just another sports anime—it was a cultural phenomenon that redefined how fans viewed swimming, friendship, and male camaraderie in anime. Produced by Kyoto Animation and Animation Do, and directed by Hiroko Utsumi, Free! follows the story of Haruka Nanase and his childhood friends as they reunite to revive their school’s swimming club. With its stunning animation, emotional depth, and a soundtrack that still gives fans chills (shoutout to OLDCODEX’s “Rage on” and STYLE FIVE’s “SPLASH FREE”), Free! Season 1 remains a beloved entry in the sports anime genre.

The Plot That Dives Deep

The first season introduces us to Haruka, a quiet but passionate swimmer who lives for the water. Alongside his friends—the energetic Makoto, the competitive Rin, and the cheerful Nagisa—Haruka navigates high school life while reigniting their shared love for swimming. The show’s strength lies in its character dynamics. Rin’s rivalry with Haruka, Makoto’s role as the emotional anchor, and Nagisa’s infectious enthusiasm create a perfect blend of tension and heartwarming moments.

Fans on MyAnimeList and other forums often highlight how Free! balances slice-of-life elements with intense sports drama. One user pointed out, “It’s not just about swimming; it’s about the bonds between these guys. The pool is just where they happen to pour their hearts out.” And honestly, that’s the best way to describe it. Whether it’s Haruka’s silent determination or Rin’s fiery ambition, every race feels personal.

The Animation That Makes Waves

Kyoto Animation’s signature style shines in Free!—every water droplet, every ripple, and every muscle movement is animated with breathtaking detail. The swimming scenes are fluid (pun intended) and dynamic, making you feel like you’re right there in the pool with the characters. Fans often joke that Free! ruined other sports anime for them because nothing compares to its visual polish.

One Reddit thread even debated whether the show’s animation was too good. “I came for the abs, stayed for the animation,” one user admitted, echoing a sentiment shared by many. And let’s be real—the character designs are undeniably eye-catching. But beyond the aesthetics, the animation enhances the storytelling, making every victory and defeat hit harder.

The Soundtrack That Sticks

Music plays a huge role in Free!, and the opening and ending themes are iconic. OLDCODEX’s “Rage on” perfectly captures the show’s energy, while STYLE FIVE’s “SPLASH FREE” is an upbeat anthem that fans still sing along to. The background score, composed by Tatsuya Kato, adds emotional weight to key moments, whether it’s a tense race or a quiet conversation between friends.

A fan on MyAnimeList shared, “I rewatch the first episode just to hear ‘Rage on’ again. It’s like a shot of adrenaline.” And they’re not wrong—the music elevates the entire experience, making Free! unforgettable.

What Fans Are Saying

The discussions around Free! Season 1 are still lively, even years later. Some fans debate the best watch order (with many advising newcomers to skip the prequel movie Starting Days until after Season 2), while others reminisce about their favorite episodes. Episode 12, the season finale, is a standout for many. “That last race between Haruka and Rin had me screaming at my screen,” one fan wrote. “It was the perfect payoff to their rivalry.”

Others appreciate the quieter moments, like Haruka’s bond with Makoto or Nagisa’s comic relief. “The show knows when to be intense and when to let the characters breathe,” a Reddit user noted. “That’s why it’s so rewatchable.”

Final Thoughts

Free! Season 1 isn’t just a sports anime—it’s a story about passion, friendship, and finding your place in the world. Whether you’re here for the races, the characters, or the sheer beauty of the animation, there’s something for everyone. As one fan perfectly summed it up: “Free! makes you care about swimming in a way you never thought possible. And by the end, you’ll wish you had friends like these.”

So, if you haven’t taken the plunge yet, now’s the time. Dive in—the water’s fine.