Tobidase! Machine Hiryuu [Episode 1]

“Tobidase! Machine Hiryuu” Episode 1: A Retro Racing Gem That Still Thrills

Rev up your engines, anime fans—because “Tobidase! Machine Hiryuu” Episode 1 is here to take you on a nostalgic joyride! This 1977 classic from Toei Animation and Tatsunoko Production (the same studios behind “Speed Racer” and “Gatchaman”) roars onto the screen with all the campy charm and high-octane action that defined 70s anime.

The episode kicks off with a bang: rival car company bosses decide to settle their differences not in boardrooms, but on the racetrack. Cue the introduction of our hero, a plucky young driver with a tricked-out race car named Hiryuu (Japanese for “flying dragon”). The animation, though dated by modern standards, oozes retro cool—think bold lines, vibrant colors, and those iconic “speed lines” that make every race feel like a pulse-pounding adventure.

What makes this episode stand out is its unapologetic embrace of 70s anime tropes. There’s the over-the-top villain with a sinister laugh, the last-minute plot twist that leaves you on the edge of your seat, and a soundtrack that’s equal parts funky and heroic. It’s like stepping into a time capsule, but one that’s still surprisingly fun to open.

Fans on MyAnimeList are raving about the episode’s “pure, unadulterated entertainment.” One user wrote, “I wasn’t expecting much, but the race scenes had me cheering like I was at a real Grand Prix!” Another praised the show’s “old-school heart,” noting that it’s a refreshing break from today’s more complex anime. Even the cheesy dialogue—think lines like “Hiryuu, let’s show them what we’re made of!”—adds to the charm, making it feel like a love letter to a bygone era.

But don’t let the retro vibe fool you: “Tobidase! Machine Hiryuu” Episode 1 has enough action to keep modern viewers hooked. The race sequences are surprisingly dynamic, with the Hiryuu pulling off gravity-defying stunts that would make even “Initial D” fans raise an eyebrow. And while the plot is simple—good vs. evil on the racetrack—it’s executed with such enthusiasm that you can’t help but get invested.

If you’re a fan of classic anime or just looking for something light and fun, “Tobidase! Machine Hiryuu” Episode 1 is a must-watch. It’s not perfect (the character development is minimal, and some of the animation shortcuts are noticeable), but it’s a reminder of why we fell in love with anime in the first place: for the thrills, the heart, and the sheer joy of watching something that doesn’t take itself too seriously.

So grab your popcorn, turn up the volume, and get ready to “tobidase” (take off) with the Hiryuu. This is one race you won’t want to miss!

Note: “Tobidase! Machine Hiryuu” Episode 1 originally aired in 1977 and is available to stream on select platforms. Check your favorite anime sites for availability!