Iwa Kakeru! Sport Climbing Girls: MAL Review & Guide

Hey guys! Ever stumbled upon an anime that just climbs its way into your heart? Well, for me, that anime was Iwa Kakeru! -Sport Climbing Girls-! If you're even remotely interested in anime, sports, or just a good underdog story, then buckle up, because we're diving deep into this gem. This guide and review will cover everything you need to know about Iwa Kakeru, including a detailed look at what MyAnimeList (MAL) users are saying, and why this show might just be your next obsession.

What is Iwa Kakeru! -Sport Climbing Girls-?

Iwa Kakeru! -Sport Climbing Girls- is a sports anime that aired in the Fall 2020 season. At its core, the anime revolves around the competitive world of sport climbing, specifically focusing on high school girls. The story centers around Konomi Kasahara, a brilliant puzzle solver from a young age, who stumbles into the world of sport climbing and discovers her natural talent for it. It’s not just about the physical exertion; it’s about strategy, problem-solving, and the mental fortitude required to conquer seemingly impossible climbs. The series masterfully blends the thrill of competition with the personal growth of its characters, making it an engaging watch for both sports enthusiasts and casual anime viewers. One of the most refreshing aspects of Iwa Kakeru is its dedication to accurately portraying the technical aspects of sport climbing. The animators clearly did their homework, capturing the nuances of grip techniques, body positioning, and route planning. This attention to detail adds a layer of authenticity that enhances the viewing experience. Beyond the technicalities, the anime also delves into the camaraderie and rivalry among the climbers. Each character has their own unique background, motivations, and climbing style, creating a diverse and compelling cast. Whether it's the stoic Jun Uehara, the energetic Sayo Yotsuba, or the calculating Nonoka Sugiura, each girl brings something different to the table, both on and off the wall. But what truly sets Iwa Kakeru apart is its ability to capture the emotional journey of its characters. As Konomi and her teammates face challenges both on and off the wall, they learn valuable lessons about perseverance, teamwork, and self-belief. The anime doesn't shy away from exploring their insecurities and doubts, making their triumphs all the more rewarding. Moreover, the series emphasizes the importance of mental strength in sport climbing. Konomi's puzzle-solving abilities prove to be a valuable asset, as she approaches each climb like a complex riddle waiting to be solved. This unique perspective adds an intellectual dimension to the sport, highlighting the strategic thinking required to succeed. Visually, Iwa Kakeru is a treat. The animation is fluid and dynamic, perfectly capturing the intensity and excitement of sport climbing. The character designs are appealing, and the backgrounds are richly detailed, creating a vibrant and immersive world. The use of color is particularly effective, with bright and bold hues accentuating the energy of the climbs. Overall, Iwa Kakeru! -Sport Climbing Girls- is a must-watch for anyone looking for an inspiring and entertaining sports anime. It's a celebration of athleticism, strategy, and the human spirit, sure to leave you feeling motivated and uplifted. So, if you're ready to embark on a thrilling climbing adventure, give Iwa Kakeru a try – you won't be disappointed!

Detailed Story and Plot

The storyline of Iwa Kakeru! -Sport Climbing Girls- is not just about climbing; it’s a narrative that intricately weaves together the personal journeys of its characters with the competitive spirit of sport climbing. The narrative begins with Konomi Kasahara, a prodigious puzzle solver, who, upon entering Hanamiya Girls' High School, is introduced to the world of sport climbing. Konomi's transition from solving puzzles to scaling walls forms the central arc of the story. Her innate ability to decipher complex problems translates seamlessly into sport climbing, where each route is a puzzle waiting to be solved. As Konomi begins her sport climbing journey, she joins the school's sport climbing club, where she meets a diverse group of girls, each with their unique skills and personalities. Among them are Jun Uehara, a seasoned climber with a stoic demeanor; Sayo Yotsuba, an energetic and acrobatic climber; and Nonoka Sugiura, a tactical genius. Together, they form a formidable team, pushing each other to improve and achieve their goals. The initial episodes focus on Konomi learning the ropes of sport climbing. She grapples with the physical demands of the sport, mastering essential techniques, and understanding the strategies involved in route planning. Her puzzle-solving skills give her an edge, allowing her to visualize the best path to the top. However, she also faces challenges, such as overcoming her fear of heights and learning to trust her teammates. As the series progresses, the team enters various competitions, both local and national. These competitions serve as a platform for the characters to showcase their skills and test their limits. The stakes are high, and the pressure mounts as they face off against rival schools and talented climbers from across the country. Throughout the competitions, the anime delves into the personal lives of the characters, exploring their motivations, dreams, and insecurities. We learn about Jun's past struggles with injuries, Sayo's desire to prove herself, and Nonoka's strategic mind. These character-driven subplots add depth and emotional resonance to the story, making the characters relatable and sympathetic. The storyline also explores the theme of teamwork. As the girls work together, they learn to rely on each other's strengths and support each other through difficult times. They develop a strong bond, becoming more than just teammates but also friends. The anime highlights the importance of communication, trust, and mutual respect in achieving collective success. One of the most compelling aspects of the plot is the way it incorporates the technical aspects of sport climbing. The anime accurately depicts the various climbing techniques, route setting, and competition formats. This attention to detail adds authenticity and credibility to the story, making it engaging for both climbers and non-climbers alike. The narrative also addresses the mental challenges of sport climbing. The characters must overcome their fears, manage their nerves, and maintain focus under pressure. The anime emphasizes the importance of mental resilience and the ability to learn from failures. Overall, the story of Iwa Kakeru! -Sport Climbing Girls- is a captivating blend of sports action, character development, and emotional depth. It's a story about overcoming challenges, pursuing dreams, and the power of teamwork. Whether you're a fan of sport climbing or simply looking for an inspiring anime, Iwa Kakeru is sure to leave you feeling motivated and entertained.

MyAnimeList (MAL) Community Reviews

When diving into any anime, checking out what the community thinks is crucial, right? MyAnimeList (MAL) is a go-to platform for anime enthusiasts to rate, review, and discuss their favorite shows. So, how does Iwa Kakeru! -Sport Climbing Girls- fare on MAL? Generally, Iwa Kakeru receives mixed to positive reviews on MAL. While it's not the highest-rated sports anime out there, it certainly has its fans. Many users praise the series for its accurate portrayal of sport climbing, its engaging characters, and its inspiring message. However, some criticize it for its pacing and occasional reliance on clichés. One common point of praise is the animation quality. The climbing sequences are fluid and dynamic, capturing the thrill and intensity of the sport. Users also appreciate the attention to detail in the character designs and backgrounds. The use of color is particularly effective, with bright and bold hues accentuating the energy of the climbs. Character development is another aspect that many users appreciate. The characters are well-developed, each with their own unique motivations, strengths, and weaknesses. The anime explores their personal lives and struggles, making them relatable and sympathetic. The relationships between the characters are also well-written, with a strong emphasis on teamwork and camaraderie. On the other hand, some users criticize the anime for its pacing. The story can feel rushed at times, especially during the competition arcs. Some feel that the anime could have benefited from more episodes to flesh out the characters and explore the themes in greater depth. Another common criticism is the anime's reliance on clichés. Some feel that the story follows a predictable formula, with familiar tropes and plot devices. However, others argue that the anime executes these clichés well, making them enjoyable despite their familiarity. Overall, the MAL community seems to have a positive view of Iwa Kakeru! -Sport Climbing Girls-. While it may not be a masterpiece, it's a solid sports anime that's worth checking out, especially if you're a fan of sport climbing or inspiring stories. The series' strengths lie in its accurate portrayal of the sport, its engaging characters, and its uplifting message. Just be aware that it may not appeal to those who are looking for something groundbreaking or unconventional.

Why You Should Watch Iwa Kakeru!

So, why should you give Iwa Kakeru! -Sport Climbing Girls- a shot? Well, let me break it down for you! First off, if you're even remotely interested in sport climbing, this anime is a must-watch. The attention to detail in the climbing sequences is remarkable. The animators clearly did their homework, capturing the nuances of grip techniques, body positioning, and route planning. It's not just eye candy; it's educational too! You'll learn a thing or two about the sport, even if you've never touched a climbing wall in your life. Beyond the technical aspects, Iwa Kakeru is just a really inspiring story. It's about overcoming challenges, pushing your limits, and achieving your dreams. The characters are relatable and sympathetic, and their journeys are sure to resonate with you. Whether it's Konomi's determination to master sport climbing, Jun's struggle with injuries, or Sayo's desire to prove herself, each character has their own unique story to tell. And let's not forget about the teamwork! Iwa Kakeru emphasizes the importance of collaboration, communication, and mutual support. The girls in the sport climbing club learn to rely on each other's strengths and help each other through difficult times. It's a heartwarming reminder that you don't have to go it alone. Moreover, Iwa Kakeru is just plain fun to watch. The animation is vibrant and dynamic, the music is catchy, and the characters are endearing. It's the kind of anime that will leave you feeling uplifted and motivated. So, if you're looking for a feel-good show that will put a smile on your face, Iwa Kakeru is definitely worth checking out. But perhaps the most compelling reason to watch Iwa Kakeru is its unique blend of sports action and puzzle-solving. Konomi's background as a puzzle solver adds an intellectual dimension to the sport. She approaches each climb like a complex riddle waiting to be solved, using her analytical skills to find the best path to the top. This unique perspective sets Iwa Kakeru apart from other sports anime and makes it a truly captivating watch. So, if you're ready to embark on a thrilling climbing adventure, gather your gear and give Iwa Kakeru! -Sport Climbing Girls- a try. You might just discover your new favorite anime!