Steins;Gate (シュタインズ・ゲート (Shutainzu Gēto Steins;Gate?)) is a Japanese science fiction visual novel created by 5pb. and Nitroplus, later adapted into a manga, anime, and various spin-offs. The story centers on time travel and the consequences of tampering with the past.
Plot[]
The story follows Rintarou Okabe, a self-proclaimed mad scientist, and his friends at the Future Gadget Laboratory in Akihabara. They accidentally discover a way to send text messages to the past using a modified microwave, which they dub the "Phone Microwave." As they experiment, they unintentionally create alternate timelines, attracting the attention of the mysterious organization SERN and leading to dramatic and life-altering consequences.
Characters[]
- Rintarou Okabe (岡部 倫太郎 Okabe Rintarō?)
- The eccentric protagonist, known for his theatrical behavior and love of science. He often refers to himself as Hououin Kyouma.
- Kurisu Makise (牧瀬 紅莉栖 Makise Kurisu?)
- A genius neuroscientist who becomes a critical member of the group after uncovering their experiments.
- Mayuri Shiina (椎名 まゆり Shiina Mayuri?)
- Okabe’s childhood friend, known for her kind and innocent demeanor. She has a significant role in the story’s emotional stakes.
- Itaru Hashida (橋田 至 Hashida Itaru?)
- A skilled hacker nicknamed Daru. He provides technical support for the group’s experiments.
Media[]
Visual Novel[]
Steins;Gate was originally released in 2009 for the Xbox 360 and later ported to various platforms. It gained critical acclaim for its complex narrative and character development.
Manga[]
The manga adaptation by Yomi Sarachi was serialized in Monthly Comic Alive and collected into three volumes. Additional spin-offs and side stories have also been released, further expanding the universe.
Anime[]
The anime adaptation, produced by White Fox, aired in 2011. It faithfully adapts the visual novel while introducing new audiences to the intricate world of Steins;Gate.
Other Media[]
The franchise includes light novels, drama CDs, a movie titled Steins;Gate: The Movie – Load Region of Déjà Vu, and a sequel, Steins;Gate 0.