RWBY: Ice Queendom Review: Flashy Action with a Friendly Attitude
- The Weebersons
- Jun 5
- 5 min read
Updated: Aug 15
Introduction
RWBY: Ice Queendom (RWBY: Hyōsetsu Teikoku) is a 12-episode anime adaptation of Rooster Teeth’s cult-favorite web series RWBY. Produced by Studio Shaft (March Comes in Like a Lion), this reboot introduces a new visual style and deeper emotional tone to the familiar world of Remnant. Set in a sci-fi fantasy world overrun by monstrous creatures called Grimms, the series centers on four young women training to become Huntresses—protectors of humanity.
While it condenses earlier material from the original show, Ice Queendom focuses on character relationships, inner conflict, and the slow forging of trust and teamwork. With visually inventive dream sequences, symbolic storytelling, and an accessible runtime, it’s a great entry point for newcomers and a thoughtful reimagining for longtime fans.
Editor’s note: I remember seeing clips of the original digitally animated show in the early 2010s when it was still new. I never made the time to watch it, but I had the impression that it was good. With that background, I was happy to watch this true anime adaptation—and it did not disappoint. I’ve made an effort to avoid spoilers in this review.
Plot Summary (Spoiler-Light)
In the world of Remnant, humans survive only by combining advanced weaponry with elemental magic called "dust" to fend off the shadowy Grimms. At the prestigious Beacon Academy, a combat school for future Huntresses, four girls—Ruby, Weiss, Blake, and Yang—are thrown together as a team.
Each brings her own talents and baggage. Ruby, though gifted, is young and uncertain. Weiss is cold and calculating, shaped by her privileged upbringing. Blake is secretive and reserved, while Yang brings confidence and heart.
As they confront both physical threats and mental invasion from a new kind of Grimm, the girls must learn to fight as one. Through trials, misunderstandings, and growing pains, their journey becomes more about internal transformation than external conquest.
Themes and Genre
RWBY: Ice Queendom blends action, fantasy, and science fiction—but its emotional core is what makes it stand out. The series explores friendship, leadership, prejudice, and identity, using its fantastical setting to mirror real-world dynamics. Weiss’s journey, for instance, addresses inherited bias and the slow process of unlearning harmful beliefs. Ruby’s arc focuses on rising to responsibility despite insecurity, making her growth genuinely relatable.
While the show features flashy battles and cool gadgets, the moral weight behind those conflicts gives them staying power. Teachers offer wisdom, not just orders. Conflict is less about brute strength and more about learning who you are, how to lead, and how to love others well.
Though the pacing is brisk due to its 12-episode format, the themes are presented clearly and without condescension—making this a rare example of clean, values-driven anime in the action genre.
RWBY: Ice Queendom blends fantasy powers, futuristic tech, and school-life tropes in a way that defies easy classification—which makes it a great case study in how anime genres bend and blend. If you’ve ever felt unsure how to label a show like this, our genre guide breaks down what really defines each category.
Character Analysis
Ruby Rose is a gifted young fighter, but she's unsure of herself as a leader. Watching her slowly accept responsibility—without bravado or instant success—is one of the series’ most moving arcs. Her humility and perseverance resonate, especially for viewers who value quiet strength.
Weiss Schnee, the group’s most conflicted member, stands out for her complexity. Raised in a powerful but emotionally cold family, Weiss begins the story full of pride and prejudice. Her gradual transformation—learning to trust others, challenge her worldview, and admit her flaws—forms the emotional spine of the series.
Blake Belladonna carries emotional weight without saying much. Her calm exterior masks deeper pain, and her discomfort with small talk and team dynamics feels authentic. She becomes a quiet source of strength as trust builds.
Yang Xiao Long, Ruby’s older sister, offers balance. Outgoing and steady, she doesn’t undergo as dramatic a change as the others, but her loyalty and warmth help glue the team together.
Each character represents a different strength and struggle—offering viewers multiple emotional entry points into the story.
Animation and Sound
Studio Shaft brings its signature flair to the visual presentation. Combat scenes are fluid and imaginative, often highlighting each character’s unique weapon and fighting style. The dream sequences—especially those set inside Weiss’s mind—are symbolic and striking.
The music supports the mood without overpowering it, and both the Japanese and English voice casts deliver solid, emotionally resonant performances.
Is RWBY: Ice Queendom Family-Friendly?
Yes. This is a great pick for families or conservative viewers who want action anime without explicit content. Here’s a quick content guide:
Violence: Comic-book style fight scenes, no gore.
Language: Clean.
Sexual content: None. Outfits are stylish but not exploitative.
Scary Elements: Some Grimms may be intense for younger or sensitive viewers.
Tone: Wholesome, with positive role models and mature themes handled thoughtfully.
If you’re looking for something emotionally grounded or reflective, this likely won’t be your match—but our guide to evaluating anime for value alignment can help you find titles that are.
Where to Watch RWBY: Ice Queendom
You can stream RWBY: Ice Queendom on Crunchyroll and Amazon Prime Video. No prior knowledge of the original RWBY series is required—this adaptation stands on its own.
Final Verdict
RWBY: Ice Queendom is a highly watchable anime that blends fantasy action with meaningful growth arcs and moral clarity. It’s especially ideal for viewers who prioritize character depth over shock value. While it may move quickly through its plot, the emotional threads are strong enough to leave a lasting impression. A great pick for fans of emotionally intelligent anime who want something exciting but clean.
Editor's note: RWBY: Ice Queendom makes for light, entertaining spectacle for those looking for flashy fight scenes and sci-fi aesthetics, but the compressed format makes me wish for more stories with the characters.
Pros:
Emotionally grounded story with clear themes of friendship, trust, and growth
Strong female leads in a team-driven, character-focused narrative
Stylish action, symbolic visuals, and unique fantasy weapon designs
Believable worldbuilding with moral complexity and emotional depth
Clean, family-friendly content — no sexual material or foul language
Accessible even without watching the original RWBY series
Cons:
Pacing can feel rushed due to condensed story arc
Some side characters and plot elements aren’t fully developed
Heavy themes like prejudice and trauma are touched on, but not deeply unpacked
May feel incomplete for viewers hoping for long-term character arcs or worldbuilding depth
Our Rating:
Similar Anime Recommendations
If you enjoyed the character-driven dynamics and emotional growth here, you may also like:
Summer Wars – Digital battles meet heartfelt family bonds and teamwork.
Violet Evergarden – A powerful journey of emotional healing after war
March Comes in Like a Lion – Quiet, introspective character growth
Spy x Family – Light action and found-family warmth
Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind – Courage, heart, and environmental stakes in a fantasy world.
FAQ:
Is RWBY: Ice Queendom a prequel or a sequel?
Neither. It is a remake that uses much of the same material as the original.
Can I watch RWBY: Ice Queendom without seeing the original RWBY?
You can do whatever you want. But yes; see above question.
Is RWBY: Ice Queendom suitable for kids?
It’s clean and non-graphic, but best for teens due to some intense themes and pacing.
Is RWBY: Ice Queendom available on Crunchyroll?
Yes. Also on Amazon Prime.
Comments