Enen no Shouboutai, also known as Fire Force, is a Japanese anime series based on the manga written and illustrated by ATSUSHI ŌKUBO. The series, which premiered in 2019, takes place in a world where spontaneous human combustion has turned people into dangerous fire monsters called Infernals. The story follows Shinra Kusakabe, a young man who joins Special Fire Force Company 8, a group tasked with fighting these Infernals and uncovering the mystery behind the phenomenon. Shinra, known for his ability to ignite his feet at will, earning him the nickname “Devil’s Footprints,” becomes a key player in the fight against Infernals, but also in the pursuit of the truth behind the fire outbreaks.
The series is set in a world where fire-related phenomena are common, with different companies and forces dedicated to controlling and extinguishing these fires. Company 8, where Shinra works, is a special division of firefighters made up of pyrokinetic individuals who can control and utilize fire to combat the Infernals. Alongside Shinra are his fellow team members, each with their own unique abilities and personalities, such as the mysterious Arthur Boyle and the powerful Maki Oze. Together, they investigate the source of the human combustion and battle the increasingly dangerous and enigmatic enemies that threaten the peace of their world.
Enen no Shouboutai combines high-octane action, supernatural abilities, and a fascinating world-building system. The unique concept of fire-based powers and the exploration of different fire forces provides a diverse range of abilities, making each battle dynamic and visually spectacular. The series is known for its fast-paced action scenes, with Shinra and his team using their pyrokinetic powers in creative ways to fight the Infernals and other powerful foes, which gives the series an exciting and energetic vibe.
The anime also delves into deeper themes, such as the nature of human fear, the corrupt systems within society, and the consequences of unchecked power. As Shinra and his team continue their mission to uncover the truth behind the spontaneous combustion and the greater mystery of the “Adolla Burst,” they encounter various factions, including those with more sinister motives, and grapple with their own personal struggles and goals. Shinra’s growth as both a fighter and a person, along with his desire to protect those around him, is a central emotional thread throughout the series.
Enen no Shouboutai has been praised for its striking animation, particularly its fluid combat scenes and the dramatic visual effects used to depict the fire abilities. The animation studio, David Production, known for its work on JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure, brought the manga’s exciting action sequences to life with vibrant, high-energy visuals that match the intensity of the story. The series also features an impressive soundtrack, with music composed by Kenichiro Suehiro, which enhances the atmosphere of both action-packed and emotional moments. With its balance of thrilling battles, humor, and emotional depth, Fire Force has become a standout anime series that continues to capture the hearts of fans worldwide.