Basic Information
- Title: DECA-DENCE
- Genre: Sci-Fi, Action, Adventure, Post-Apocalyptic
- Episodes: 12
- Aired: July–September 2020
- Studio: NUT
- Director: Yuzuru Tachikawa
Plot Summary
In the distant future, humanity is on the brink of extinction after mysterious monsters called Gadoll nearly wipe them out. The surviving humans live inside a massive moving fortress — Deca-dence, a mobile city built to protect them and fight the Gadoll.
The story follows Natsume, a young girl who dreams of becoming a warrior (a Gear) to battle Gadoll, though society assigns her to a maintenance job. Her life changes when she meets Kaburagi, a grizzled veteran who secretly knows the truth:
The entire world of Deca-dence is controlled by cyborgs who use humans as “avatars” in an entertainment system.
As Natsume’s spirit reignites Kaburagi’s sense of purpose, they join forces to challenge the system itself — to reclaim freedom not just for humans, but for all beings living under its control.
Main Characters
Natsume
A spirited, one-armed girl who refuses to let fate or disability define her. Her optimism and determination inspire others to question the world around them.
Kaburagi
A disillusioned cyborg veteran who once obeyed the system but lost his faith. Natsume rekindles his will to fight — not for duty, but for freedom.
Minato
Kaburagi’s former comrade who still works within the system’s rules. He represents the struggle between conformity and conscience.
Themes & Symbolism
- Freedom vs. Control
Humanity’s world is literally a system controlled by higher beings — a metaphor for real-world social and corporate structures that dictate human life. - Human Spirit and Identity
Even when existence is artificial, Natsume’s will to live authentically defines what it means to be human. - Rebellion and Self-Awareness
Both Kaburagi and Natsume awaken to the truth and defy the system — symbolizing personal and collective liberation. - Technology and Humanity
The anime explores coexistence between organic life and machinery — questioning whether machines can develop purpose beyond programming. - Mentorship and Legacy
The dynamic between Kaburagi and Natsume represents the transmission of ideals across generations — from despair to hope.
Why This Anime Is Special
- Original Storytelling: Unlike many anime, Deca-Dence is entirely original — offering an unpredictable narrative with deep world-building.
- The Mid-Series Twist: The shocking revelation in episode 2 flips the story’s genre — from post-apocalyptic survival to a philosophical sci-fi about systems and free will.
- Visual Duality: The realistic human world contrasts beautifully with the vibrant, cartoonish cyborg world — symbolizing two levels of existence.
- Philosophical Depth: Beneath its action lies a meditation on human nature, purpose, and rebellion against societal control.
- Emotional Core: Despite its grand themes, Deca-Dence centers on a touching mentor–student relationship that feels deeply human.
