Valkyrie Drive: Mermaid

Valkyrie Drive: Mermaid

Characters

Mirei Shikishima

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Mamori Tokonome

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Momoka Sagara

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Noe Ooya

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Miranda

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Doumoto

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Marianne

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Lady J

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Sri

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Hex

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Taiin

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Futaba Kirii

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D5

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Yui Hiiragi

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Aoi Miyasato

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Juunin

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Hyouko Yumidou

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Hibiki Kenjo

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Ichiha Shirasu

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Tomomi Nukui

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Mitsuji

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Yotsuya

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Torino Kazami

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E9

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Ritter A

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Valkyrie Drive: Mermaid – Season 1: A Bold Blend of Action, Ecchi, and Emotional Depth

Valkyrie Drive: Mermaid, the anime component of the Valkyrie Drive multimedia franchise created by Marvelous, premiered in Japan from October 10 to December 26, 2015. Produced by Arms Corporation and directed by Hiraku Kaneko, this 12-episode series combines intense action, provocative yuri-themed fanservice, and surprising emotional resonance, set against a unique sci-fi backdrop. Aired uncensored on AT-X and produced by Kadokawa, Showgate, and others, the show is a wild ride that balances high-energy battles with character-driven storytelling.

The Premise: A World of Weapons and Bonds

Valkyrie Drive: Mermaid is set in a world where a mysterious Armed Virus (A-Virus) infects a small percentage of young women, granting them extraordinary abilities. These girls are divided into two groups: Extars, who transform into weapons when sexually aroused, and Liberators, who wield these living weapons through a process called the “Drive.” The story unfolds on Mermaid Island, one of five artificial quarantine islands where infected girls are sent to either survive or perish.

The narrative centers on Mamori Tokonome (voiced by Yuka Iguchi in Japanese, Morgan Garrett in English), a naïve 16-year-old Extar whose surname, humorously written with the kanji for “virgin,” makes her a target of teasing. Kidnapped during gym class and sent to Mermaid Island, Mamori is attacked but saved by Mirei Shikishima (voiced by Yuka Iguchi in Japanese, Morgan Garrett in English), a skilled Liberator with a mysterious past. When cornered by enemies, Mirei unlocks Mamori’s Extar abilities through a passionate kiss, transforming her into a powerful curved sword. Together, they face the island’s challenges, including the authoritarian Wärter organization, which seeks to control the most powerful virus carriers.

Plot and Themes

Season 1 follows Mamori and Mirei as they navigate Mermaid Island’s dangers, forming a deep bond while battling foes and uncovering the island’s secrets. The show introduces a colorful cast, including Charlotte Scherzen, a sadistic Liberator with a harem of Extars; Meifon Sakura, a crafty and gluttonous opportunist; Akira Hiiragi, the enigmatic governor of Mermaid; and Lady Lady, a sultry biker duo. The season builds toward a climactic confrontation with Momoka Sagara, Mirei’s former partner, whose actions unleash a devastating Valkyrie Effect, threatening everyone on the island.

Thematically, Valkyrie Drive: Mermaid explores survival, identity, and the power of relationships. The Drive mechanic, which requires physical intimacy to activate, serves as both a fanservice element and a metaphor for trust and partnership. While the show leans heavily into yuri and ecchi tropes, it doesn’t shy away from emotional depth, delving into Mamori’s insecurities, Mirei’s troubled past, and the moral complexities of the Wärter’s control. The balance between action and character development keeps the series engaging beyond its provocative premise.

Production and Style

Directed by Hiraku Kaneko, who also designed the characters, Valkyrie Drive: Mermaid boasts vibrant animation with fluid fight scenes and detailed character designs. The action sequences are dynamic, with each battle showcasing unique weapon transformations and strategies, ensuring variety in the combat. Hiroaki Tsutsumi’s music, including the energetic opening theme “Overdrive” by Hitomi Harada and the playful ending “Super Ultra Hyper Miracle Romantic” by Yuka Iguchi and Mikako Izawa, complements the show’s tone. The uncensored AT-X broadcast embraces the series’ bold aesthetic, though censored versions aired on other networks.

The show’s world-building is one of its strengths, hinting at a broader universe with five islands and a shadowy organization behind the A-Virus. However, with only 12 episodes, some plot threads, such as the other islands’ roles and certain character backstories, remain underdeveloped, leaving viewers craving more.

Reception and Impact

Valkyrie Drive: Mermaid has a polarizing reputation due to its explicit content, earning a TV-MA rating and a niche but dedicated fanbase. Fans of ecchi and yuri genres praise its unapologetic approach, with one Amazon reviewer calling it a “wild ride” with “wonderful voice acting” and “great animation” that balances playful eroticism with a surprisingly solid plot. Critics, however, note that the fanservice can overshadow the story for some viewers. The series holds a 6.0/10 rating on IMDb, reflecting its divisive nature, but its emotional depth and unique concept have earned it a cult following.

The show’s connection to the broader Valkyrie Drive franchise, including the Bhikkhuni game for PlayStation Vita and the short-lived Siren mobile game, adds context but isn’t necessary to enjoy the anime. Two manga adaptations, Valkyrie Drive: Siren—Breakout and an adaptation of Mermaid, further expand the universe.

Streaming and Availability

As of July 2025, Valkyrie Drive: Mermaid Season 1 is available for streaming on platforms like Crunchyroll and the Crunchyroll Amazon Channel, with purchase options on Apple TV and Amazon (Blu-ray). No free streaming options are currently available. The complete series, including six special episodes, is also accessible via the Internet Archive for subbed versions.

Final Thoughts

Valkyrie Drive: Mermaid Season 1 is a daring mix of action, ecchi, and heartfelt storytelling. Its premise—girls transforming into weapons through intimacy—may not appeal to everyone, but the series shines in its character-driven moments and thrilling battles. Mamori and Mirei’s evolving relationship anchors the narrative, while the vibrant animation and catchy soundtrack enhance the experience. Though it leaves some questions unanswered and lacks a second season, its rich world and emotional core make it a standout for fans of bold, genre-blending anime. If you’re open to yuri ecchi with substance, Valkyrie Drive: Mermaid is a 10/10 must-watch that lingers long after the credits roll.

Stream it on Crunchyroll or grab the uncensored Blu-ray for the full experience, and dive into the chaotic, captivating world of Mermaid Island.