Sky Wizards Academy
| Industry | Publishing |
|---|---|
| Headquarters | Japan |
| Products | Light novels, manga, anime |
is a Japanese light novel series authored by Yū Moroboshi with illustrations by Mikihiro Amami. Released by Fujimi Shobo under the Fujimi Fantasia Bunko label, the series comprises fourteen volumes published between July 2013 and July 2017. A manga version, drawn by Arisu Shidō, appeared in Media Factory's Monthly Comic Alive magazine from July 2014 until July 2016, compiled into four volumes. The franchise further developed with a 12-episode anime adaptation produced by Diomedéa, which aired from July to September 2015, accompanied by an OVA released in March 2016.
Plot
In a future where humanity inhabits airborne cities, wizards engage in aerial battles against magical armored insect creatures. Kanata Age, formerly renowned as the elite "Black Master Swordsman" of the special S128 squad, has fallen into disgrace as a "traitor." He is appointed to train E601, a team plagued by over 100 consecutive defeats, with the goal of elevating their combat abilities. The E601 unit features three female members—Misora Whitale, Lecty Eisenach, and Rico Flamel—each possessing distinct characteristics.
Main characters
- Once the top Sky Wizard and ace of Platoon S128, Kanata ceased participating in missions following a perilous operation and is now branded a traitor. As the instructor for Platoon E601, he endeavors to improve their capabilities despite frequent misunderstandings.
- Commanding officer of Platoon E601, Misora excels in speed and endurance but lacks proficiency with weapons and leadership skills. Driven by the desire to honor her deceased mother’s legacy, she trains under Kanata's guidance. She develops romantic feelings towards Kanata and becomes envious of his interactions with Yuri.
- E601’s close-quarters combat specialist, Lecty is talented yet socially reserved and overly apologetic. Kanata encourages her social growth by having her work at a maid café. She also nurtures feelings for him.
- The sniper of E601, Rico is intelligent but exhibits narcissistic tendencies and avoids training due to insecurities related to her older sister. Kanata assists in rekindling her fighting spirit. She too harbors affection for Kanata.
- A member of Platoon S128 who once admired Kanata but now regards him as a traitor after an unsuccessful mission. Despite antagonizing him, she seeks his attention and ultimately joins Fireteam E601 following defeat in a tournament.
- Guard Captain of Platoon S128 and childhood friend of Kanata who defends his decisions and recommends him as the instructor for E601.
- Another member of Platoon S128 and close companion to Kanata, frequently seen engaged in conversation with him.
- Rico’s elder sister and overseer of Sky Wizard Platoons. She disapproves of Rico’s attitude and remains critical of Kanata’s leadership over E601. She aggressively pursues their removal from competition and pressures Yuri to guarantee victory.
Other characters
- A member of the medical division whose infatuation with Yuri motivates him to seek power through illicit means, resulting in possession by sky beetles and nearly destroying the academy. He serves as the primary antagonist in the anime adaptation.
- Greg Hastuck
- Socie Whitale
- Misora’s deceased mother and former Sky Wizard, renowned for her combat skills but forgotten by all except Misora after her passing.
- Gail Whitale
- Misora’s widowed father who runs a restaurant and fears losing memory of his daughter should she perish.
Light novels
The light novel collection was first issued by Fujimi Shobo through their Fujimi Fantasia Bunko label starting on July 20, 2013. By July 2017, the series had reached fourteen volumes.
Anime
The anime adaptation, produced by Diomedéa, aired as a 12-episode television series from July 8 to September 23, 2015. The opening track, titled "D.O.B.," was sung by Iori Nomizu, while the ending theme, "Hallelujah," was performed by la la larks.
Episode list
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Reception
The premiere episode of the anime was met with unfavorable critiques from Anime News Network during the Summer 2015 preview season. Nick Creamer categorized it alongside Absolute Duo and World Break as a "low-cost promotional anime for a light novel fantasy-action harem," pointing out its "extended, budget-conscious monologues" and overused comedic elements, describing it as "slowly paced" with an abundance of exposition. Bamboo Dong criticized the initial action scenes as uninspired and poorly executed, labeling the storyline, characters, and humor as lacking creativity. Hope Chapman considered the production to be low-budget, devoid of originality or charm, comparing it to the inferior works produced by Studio ARMS. Theron Martin acknowledged some merit in the character designs and Kanata’s character arc but ultimately described the series as "a weak, overly scripted effort that fails to engage."
In a comprehensive review of the full series in 2016, ANN editor Rebecca Silverman praised the character development—particularly noting Real as a standout—and complimented the soundtrack. Nevertheless, she faulted the stiff animation, awkward character movements, and underwhelming plot advancement, summarizing it as "typical of countless magic high school harem shows," concluding with unresolved plot points unlikely to receive closure.