Umamusume : Cinderella Gray [Season 1 Episode 22]

Uma Musume: Cinderella Gray Episode 22 Review: “Gray Phantom” Delivers a Heart-Stopping Climax

Let’s cut straight to the chase: Episode 22 of Uma Musume: Cinderella Gray—titled “Gray Phantom”—is the kind of sports anime episode that makes you jump out of your seat, scream at your screen, and then spend the next hour replaying the final stretch. For anyone who’s been following Oguri Cap’s underdog journey from a countryside “Beast” with a wild stride to a national contender, this episode isn’t just a race—it’s the payoff we’ve all been waiting for.

First, let’s recap the stakes. After 21 episodes of near-misses, training montages, and watching rivals like Tamamo Cross dominate the G1 circuit, Oguri finally gets her shot at the big leagues. The episode centers on a high-stakes race where Tamamo (voiced with icy intensity) unleashes her signature “White Lightning” surge early, catching everyone off guard. But here’s the twist: Oguri, the ash-gray-haired girl who once stumbled out of gates in beat-up shoes, triggers her own Zone for the first time—dubbed the “Gray Phantom”—and pulls off a photo finish win that had fans losing their minds.

What makes this episode work so well? For starters, it leans into the show’s greatest strength: subverting expectations. As one MyAnimeList user put it, “This show continues to surprise by not doing what almost every other show would do.” Instead of a predictable blowout, we get a nail-biter where every stride matters. The animation, especially during the Zone sequences, is top-tier—CygamesPictures doesn’t hold back on dynamic camera angles and fluid movement that makes you feel like you’re right there on the track.

But let’s talk about the fans’ reactions, because they’re half the fun. Over on MyAnimeList, the discussion thread blew up with excitement. One user raved, “That photo finish was insane—I had to pause and rewind three times just to make sure I saw it right!” Another added, “Oguri’s Gray Phantom move? Chef’s kiss. Finally, she gets the win she deserves.” Even skeptics who initially dismissed the series (like the user who admitted, “I tried watching one of these Umamusume shows before and couldn’t get into it”) are now hooked, calling this episode a “game-changer.”

Of course, no anime is perfect, and Cinderella Gray has its quirks. A few fans pointed out the physics-bending moments—like how the girls’ race outfits (think frilly skirts and thigh-highs) would create way too much wind drag in real life. “Tamamo Cross is short, so her stride should be shorter than Oguri’s,” one user argued. “In real life, Oguri would’ve won easily!” But let’s be real—this is Uma Musume we’re talking about. It’s a show where horse girls sing and dance after races; realism takes a backseat to heart, and that’s okay.

What’s most impressive about Episode 22 is how it ties together Oguri’s character arc. Remember when she was a rookie at Kasamatsu Training Center, fumbling with skirts and struggling to fit in? Now, she’s a confident racer who’s not just copying others—she’s creating her own legacy. The “Gray Phantom” move isn’t just a cool new trick; it’s a reflection of her journey: unorthodox, unexpected, and impossible to ignore.

And let’s not forget the supporting cast. Dicta Striker, who’s been struggling all season, gets a moment to shine (even if she finishes 4th), and Super Creek’s DQ adds a layer of drama that keeps the race from feeling too straightforward. It’s these little details—like Dicta hitting her head on the gate or Creek’s illegal move—that make the episode feel lived-in and real, even with the anime’s whimsical premise.

For anyone new to the series, Episode 22 might feel a bit overwhelming (there are a lot of characters and backstories to keep track of), but it’s a perfect example of why Cinderella Gray stands out from other sports anime. It’s not just about winning races—it’s about growth. Oguri doesn’t just beat Tamamo; she beats the self-doubt that’s held her back since the first episode. When she crosses that finish line, covered in sweat and grinning like an idiot, you can’t help but cheer.

In conclusion, “Gray Phantom” is a masterclass in how to deliver a climax. It’s emotional, exciting, and leaves you wanting more (thankfully, the series is ongoing!). Whether you’re a die-hard Uma Musume fan or just someone who loves a good underdog story, this episode is a must-watch. As one fan put it, “This show continues to surprise by not doing what almost every other show would do.” And honestly? That’s the highest praise an anime can get.

So grab your popcorn, turn up the volume, and get ready to witness the birth of a legend. Oguri Cap’s Gray Phantom has arrived—and it’s here to stay.

Final Verdict: 9/10. A heart-pounding, satisfying episode that rewards long-time fans and leaves new viewers curious for more. Don’t miss the photo finish—you’ll be talking about it for weeks.