Apr 2, 2023
Handyman Saitou in Another World is an anime that is often easily swept under the rug. Because it comes from a relatively small studio and is adapted from a virtually unknown manga (1300 users), it can be tossed aside as a B or C-list production. But as an isekai, it stands out because it does not have the common tropes that draw the average viewer in; that is what makes this anime great. Adapting a 4-koma style, the anime is able to successfully tell the stories of the main cast and supporting characters in a concise yet still meaningful manner.
The show follows a cast of
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four unique adventurers who depend on one another to get by. Our main protagonist, Saitou, was a handyman in his previous life, taking on jobs considered menial, such as lock-picking or helping animals stuck in trees. He felt unimportant, unwanted, and unnecessary. This all changes when he is "isekai'd" into the current world where he finds himself in the company of a perverted, dementia-ridden grandpa, a tomboyish, headstrong, female knight, and a seemingly greedy, upbeat fairy. Together, the four adventure into the Great Labyrinth, a overwhelmingly large and unknown structure where treasures await. Through their individual skills, they contribute equally to the party and grow a strong chemistry and affinity between one another.
As the anime progress, many additional side characters are introduced. This is one of the highlights of the anime. Each of the side characters and groups are given proper development, and as a viewer, it is easy to empathize with their goals and perspectives. Through the 4-koma style scenes, the background stories and developments are brief, yet they provide just the right amount of information that gives these characters character. Each one has their own personality and beliefs, with goals and niches within the Great Labyrinth. Their designs and writing, while often personifying existing archetypes, still prove to be unique enough to be more than just throwaway side characters. The writers provide just enough information that allows one to see the deeper side of the characters without drawing out full-length episodes dedicated to just a singular character.
From a general perspective of the entire 12 episodes of the anime, it was very easy to digest. Unlike your typical overpowered harem MCs and uninteresting "evil" villains that we see in our favorite guilty pleasure isekai (Eminence in Shadow, ahem), Handyman Saitou in Another World breaks free from standard tropes. It almost makes one forget that it is an isekai, as the show focuses more on the relationships, aspirations, and developments of the characters rather than trying to give the feel-good factor of seeing an overpowered protagonist tear through a new world. Throughout the course of the show, we can see Saitou overcome his insecurities with the help of the colorful cast. This allows for a greater enjoyment, seeing a character overcome a hardship through effort and dedication, much like Shinichi from Parasyte or to some extent, Subaru from Re:Zero. And for the most part, we see this in the other main cast and side characters as well. Because of this, I would say that the experience is enriched as the show progresses, and that what helps set this apart from other isekai, on top of already not falling into standard tropes.
While this show may just begin as a background show to leave on for some entertainment as a 6 or 7, the growth of the cast and the world around them sets this show up for success, culminating to a more serious production that can be fully enjoyed. If you're looking for something more mature than the likes of the many "demon lord" or "trapped in a game" production, Handyman Saitou in Another World is a great option to look into.
9/10
Reviewer’s Rating: 9
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