SK8 The Infinity Analysis | Explaining The Tragedy Of Rika

Would you'll rather have Reki become a top tier skater or turn into a support?

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Out of all the amazing anime in winter 2021. Never did I think SK8 the infinity would amaze me! SK8 the infinity at first seems like a simple, fun and lighthearted skating anime. However, that was flipped upon our faces, with the tragic fall of the protagonist; Reki.


When Reki was first introduced, he was shown as a hot headed, energetic boy with a passion for skating. So obviously we the audience assumed Reki was a top tier skater with exceptional skills compared to his peers. Welp that assumption was immediately proven wrong after his first race against shadow, resulting in a terrible loss. However, Reki didn’t Sull and pity himself; he just accepted the loss and moved on. So, what caused Reki to digress into the depressive state he’s in now?


The answer to that is Langa. A.K.A SNOW; the exceptionally talented rookie dominating the competition, and enthralling the admiration from the masses! However, Rika didn't internalize jealousy until later in the series. Actually, he was supporting Langa’s speedily growth, basking at his success in taking down legendary skaters such as Catboy, Shadow, and almost Adam! It’s not until episode 7 where his heart shatters as he realizes that he is just the sidekick of Snow, the starboy of this story.


And it's quite Ironic how Rika the “main protagonist” has been sidelined by the deuteragonist. Usually, the protagonist of sports stories is the destined hero's brimming with once in a lifetime talent. While the supporting cast struggles to not be left in the dust as the MC skyrockets to the stars, becoming a legendary athlete. SK8 is unique in this case, because Rika has never once been shown in good light, not even in episode 1! Langa, a rookie who has no experience in skateboarding; a snowboarder for fucks sake, rapidly exceeds Rika in success, leaving him in the dust. And the funny thing is, that Rika is the one who instructed Langa on how to skate.


However, it seems the basics where too easy for Langa, because after he defeated the antagonist of the week, he seemingly mimicked their skills, surpassing Rika’s fundamentals in days! But the crucial moment that truly shattered Rikas mentality is his beef with Adam. Rika gets absolutely obliterated in the race with Adam, apparently traumatizing him for life. But Langa manages to easily match Adam in skill, and dodge the deadly love hove that injured Reki. However, it’s not until his asshole “friends” mocks Rika for being the lacky of Langa, that causes him to open his eyes and register that everyone views him as a loser.


This is the turning point in his character. His passion for skating swiftly plummets, and his pent-up jealousy explodes as he lashes out against Langa, his only true friend. But he doesn’t give up yet, he tries once more in a pathetic performance to mimic the tricks Langa has pulled off. Unfortunately, it only results in utter failure...


Nevertheless, we finally move on the current episode. And you would think Reki would be given a motivational speech, and endure some hard training to become a top competitor. Shockingly, the story seems to be directing his character into transitioning into a support role. And this actually correlates to his character, because Reki has always been a skilled skateboard engineer. So, if Reki can manage to find happiness in skating again, while putting his efforts into something more akin to his skills, then I’m all for it!

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It’s still depressing that Rika might never match his peers, but his story doesn’t have to end in complete tragedy. This could be the start of new growth that finally escalates Reki into the protagonist role.
 
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