Uma Musume: Cinderella Gray [Season 1 Episode 22]

Uma Musume: Cinderella Gray Season 1 Episode 22 Review – March’s Glow-Up & Oguri’s Next Big Race

Let’s cut to the chase: if you thought the wait for Uma Musume: Cinderella Gray’s return was tough, Episode 22 makes every second worth it. The episode kicks off with a surprise focus on Fujimasa March, and honestly? It’s the best kind of detour. Fans have been begging to see more of her since Season 1, and this episode delivers—big time.

March’s arc here is all about redemption. Remember how she lost to Oguri Cap in the first season? Well, she’s not letting that define her anymore. The episode dives into her training, her doubts, and that epic showdown against Yamano Southern in the Gifu Okan Sho. When March crosses the finish line first? The hype was real. “Nice to see March getting some W,” one fan cheered on MyAnimeList, and I couldn’t agree more. Her character growth is so satisfying—she’s no longer just the “side character who lost to Oguri.” She’s a force to be reckoned with now, and her new short hair? Chef’s kiss. It’s a visual metaphor for her fresh start, and it looks amazing.

But let’s not forget the main star: Oguri Cap. She’s back with her signature derpy faces and “I don’t care about your threats” energy. When Dicta Striker tries to intimidate her by saying she’ll hand Oguri her second loss? Oguri’s response? Crickets. Literally. She’s too busy thinking about… well, whatever Oguri thinks about (probably food, let’s be real). Fans are loving her cluelessness: “Oguri in all her cluelessness is back,” one comment reads, and it’s true—her lack of filter is what makes her so endearing.

The episode also teases what’s next: the Japan Cup. Oguri’s got her eyes set on revenge against Tamamo Cross, and the tension is already building. “Next stop, the Japan Cup,” another fan notes, and I’m here for it. The show does a great job of setting up stakes without giving too much away—you can feel the excitement in every scene.

Now, let’s talk about the music. The new opening by 10-FEET is polarizing, to say the least. Some fans are obsessed (“Amazing OP!”), while others miss the first season’s iconic track (“Not as iconic as the first one,” one criticizes). But the ending? Everyone is raving about it. The duet between Oguri and Tamamo is cute, catchy, and has that 2000s anime vibe we all love. “Love the ending with a duet between Oguri and Tamamo,” a fan gushes, and it’s easy to see why—it’s the perfect way to wrap up the episode.

Animation-wise, there’s a mixed bag. Some fans noticed more CGI in the races compared to Season 1, which they’re not thrilled about (“Animation felt a bit weak,” one says). But let’s be real—Uma Musume’s animation has always been about the heart of the races, not just flashy visuals. And when March crosses that finish line? The animation shines. It’s dynamic, emotional, and captures the thrill of victory perfectly.

Of course, no Uma Musume episode is complete without new characters. We get a glimpse of Super Creek, and she’s already making waves. “Super Creek aura though… :O” one fan exclaims, and yeah—she’s got that mysterious, powerful vibe that makes you want to know more. Will she be Oguri’s next rival? Only time will tell, but I’m already hooked.

So, is Episode 22 worth the hype? Absolutely. It’s a solid start to the new cour, with great character moments, exciting race sequences, and enough teases to keep you coming back for more. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just jumping in, this episode has something for everyone.

As one fan put it: “Peak is back time to get readdicted to uma musume all over again.” Truer words never spoken. Let’s hope the rest of the season lives up to this high bar—because if Episode 22 is any indication, we’re in for a wild ride.

Final Verdict: 8.5/10. March’s glow-up alone makes this episode a must-watch, and Oguri’s return is the cherry on top. Bring on the Japan Cup—we’re ready.