Ep 7. Too Short To Ride

Steven Universe season 4 episode 7 Too Short To Ride is a heartwarming and thought-provoking episode that explores themes of self-worth, identity, and friendship. This episode focuses on Steven and Amethyst's relationship and their shared experiences of feeling like outsiders in their own world.

As the title suggests, the episode begins with Steven and Amethyst trying to ride a rollercoaster at Funland, a local amusement park. However, they are both deemed too short to ride and are left feeling disappointed and frustrated. Steven is especially upset, as he has been looking forward to this ride for a long time and was counting on it to make him feel more grown up.

Feeling down on themselves, the pair goes to The Kindergarten, a place where Gems are created in the show's universe. Amethyst, who is a Gem, shows Steven how much she has grown since emerging from the Kindergarten and encourages him to find something he is good at. Steven takes her advice and decides to build a robot at the nearby arcade, Funland Arcade.

At the arcade, Steven meets a new character named Peridot, another Gem who has recently defected from the show's main villainous organization called Homeworld. Peridot is initially dismissive of Steven, as she is focused on her own goal of repairing a broken spaceship so she can return to Homeworld. However, Steven's enthusiasm and determination impress her, and she agrees to help him build his robot.

As Steven and Peridot work on the robot, they bond over their shared experiences of feeling inadequate and out of place. Peridot, who is smaller and less powerful than other Gems, recognizes herself in Steven's struggles to prove himself. Steven, in turn, admires Peridot's technical expertise and determination to succeed.

As they build the robot, Steven learns valuable lessons about the importance of perseverance and the value of different types of intelligence. He is frustrated by his inability to create certain technological components but realizes that his empathy and creativity are just as important in building a functional robot. Peridot, too, learns to appreciate her own strengths and to recognize that her differences make her valuable to the group.

In the end, Steven and Peridot successfully build the robot, and Steven gets to ride it through Funland with Amethyst. The episode concludes with Steven and Amethyst reflecting on their shared experiences of feeling like outsiders and how they have come to value their differences. The episode dovetails nicely with the show's overarching themes of acceptance and inclusivity, serving as a touching reminder that everyone has something unique to offer.

Overall, Steven Universe season 4 episode 7 Too Short To Ride is a standout episode that will resonate with viewers of all ages. With its relatable characters, meaningful themes, and heartwarming message, this episode is a must-watch for fans of the show and newcomers alike.