Deca-Dence is an original anime series that follows Natsume, a spirited young girl in a post-apocalyptic world, who dreams of becoming a warrior to fight against monstrous Gadoll threats while uncovering deeper truths about her reality with her mentor Kaburagi. The show explores profound themes such as ambition, the illusion of control in a simulated world, resistance against systemic oppression, and personal growth through adversity.
This collection curates the best 25 quotes from the series, highlighting emotional impacts, character development, and connections to its core themes across battle-intensive and reflective moments from various story arcs.
I just can’t accept it. You told me before not to have ambitions. Perhaps you’re right, Boss, but to me that’s the same as being dead.
(Episode 1: Ignition)
Natsume
Natsume rejects complacency, showcasing her fiery ambition and growth from victim to fighter, tying into themes of perseverance in a controlled world.
This world… it’s all a game.
(Episode 5: Differential Gear)
Kaburagi
Revealing the truth shatters Natsume’s reality, marking Kaburagi’s shift from obedience to rebellion, emphasizing illusion and systemic control.
Limits are just illusions we impose on ourselves
(Episode 2: Sprocket)
Kaburagi
During training, this motivates Natsume, highlighting her character development in overcoming physical limitations and broader themes of self-imposed barriers.
I won’t let the system define my fate.
(Episode 8: Turbine)
Natsume
In a moment of defiance, Natsume’s resolve peaks, illustrating emotional empowerment and resistance against corporate decadence.
Bugs like us can change the game.
(Episode 6: Radiator)
Kaburagi
Encouraging rebellion, this quote underscores Kaburagi’s evolution from cynic to leader, connecting to themes of uprising and hope.
Dreams are worth fighting for, even if it means breaking the rules.
(Episode 3: Steering)
Natsume
Reflecting on her father’s legacy, this peaceful moment reveals Natsume’s inner strength and ties to ambition amidst oppression.
The real monsters aren’t the Gadoll; it’s the ones pulling the strings.
(Episode 9: Turbocharger)
Kaburagi
Amid betrayal, this exposes corruption, heightening emotional tension and Kaburagi’s protective development.
I’ll keep pushing forward, no matter how many times I fall.
(Episode 4: Transmission)
Natsume
In a training battle, this shows her resilience, linking to personal growth and perseverance themes.
Freedom isn’t given; it’s taken.
(Episode 10: Brake System)
Kaburagi
Challenging the system, this climactic line marks his full transformation, evoking themes of liberation.
Even in a fake world, our bonds are real.
(Episode 7: Driveshaft)
Natsume
A heartfelt talk with Kaburagi strengthens their friendship, highlighting emotional depth and reality vs. illusion.
Don’t underestimate the power of a single bug.
(Episode 11: Engine)
Kaburagi
During the final battle, this inspires allies, showcasing leadership growth and anti-system themes.
I choose to believe in a better tomorrow.
(Episode 12: Decadence)
Natsume
In the series finale, this optimistic close reflects her complete arc from doubt to hope.
Pain is proof that we’re alive and fighting.
(Episode 5: Differential Gear)
Kaburagi
Comforting Natsume after revelation, this adds emotional weight to endurance themes.
The system thrives on our obedience; let’s starve it.
(Episode 8: Turbine)
Kaburagi
Planning the infiltration, this strategic quote shows his tactical evolution and rebellion motif.
My arm may be gone, but my will is unbreakable.
(Episode 1: Ignition)
Natsume
Early declaration of strength, setting her development in overcoming disability.
Truth is the ultimate weapon against deception.
(Episode 6: Radiator)
Kaburagi
Exposing secrets, this intensifies the narrative’s focus on illusion and awakening.
We’re not pawns; we’re players now.
(Episode 9: Turbocharger)
Natsume
Facing betrayal, her empowerment shines, connecting to control and agency themes.
Every step forward is a victory against despair.
(Episode 3: Steering)
Kaburagi
Mentoring in a quiet moment, this fosters Natsume’s growth and perseverance.
The game ends when we say it does.
(Episode 10: Brake System)
Kaburagi
Rallying for shutdown, this climactic line embodies resistance and change.
Hope is the spark that ignites revolution.
(Episode 7: Driveshaft)
Natsume
Reflecting on alliances, this highlights emotional bonds and uprising themes.
I fight not for glory, but for a world worth living in.
(Episode 4: Transmission)
Natsume
In battle, this reveals her maturing motivations and anti-decadence stance.
Secrets bind us, but truth sets us free.
(Episode 11: Engine)
Kaburagi
Confronting the enemy, this adds depth to his arc and reality themes.
No more hiding behind avatars; this is real.
(Episode 12: Decadence)
Kaburagi
Final confrontation, symbolizing authenticity and breaking free.
Ambition isn’t a sin; it’s survival.
(Episode 2: Sprocket)
Natsume
Defending her dreams, this early quote sets her defiant character.
Together, we can rewrite the rules.
(Episode 6: Radiator)
Kaburagi and Natsume
A joint declaration, emphasizing partnership and systemic change themes.
