Fractale Season 1 Episode 1 Encounter
- TV-PG
- January 13, 2011
- 23 min
In the world of Fractale, humanity lives in a futuristic version of the European Union known as the Fractale System. This advanced system provides everything humans need to live their daily lives, including food, water, and entertainment. The Fractale System is managed by an advanced Artificial Intelligence called the Fractale, which is worshiped by the people as a deity.
The first episode of Fractale, titled "Encounter," centers around the show's protagonist, Clain. Clain is a teenage boy who lives a quiet life in a remote village with his parents. Clain spends most of his time in his secret hideaway, a room full of gadgets and technology. Clain's love for technology leads him to collect and restore old machines and robots. His favorite pastime is creating holograms of his imaginary friend, an anime character called Phryne.
One day, while exploring the ruins of an abandoned amusement park, Clain encounters a strange girl named Phryne. She is being chased by men in black suits and a strange woman with wings. Clain decides to help Phryne and he takes her back to his hideaway. He quickly learns that Phryne, who is mysterious and a little bit strange, has an important mission. She reveals that she possesses something known as a "Doppel," a device that must be delivered to a predetermined location. Phryne also claims that the Fractale System is corrupt and that it is up to her to fix it.
Meanwhile, Clain's parents are out of town, attending a religious event. This is significant because Clain's parents are devout followers of the Fractale and they have instilled this belief in Clain. However, Clain has always been skeptical of this belief system and the Fractale's role in their lives. His encounter with Phryne and her mission to bring down the Fractale only fuels his skepticism.
The men in black suits, who were chasing Phryne earlier, eventually track her down to Clain's hideaway. Clain and Phryne are forced to flee, leaving behind Clain's prized collection of robots and gadgets. The show ends with Clain and Phryne escaping on a flying vehicle called a "whale ship."
"Encounter" sets up the premise of the show and introduces viewers to the world of Fractale. The episode leaves many compelling questions unanswered, such as who Phryne is and what exactly is her mission. Viewers are also left to wonder if Clain will continue to help Phryne, or if he will follow in his parents' footsteps and remain a loyal follower of the Fractale System. The vibrant animation and compelling soundtrack make this episode an excellent introduction to the series.