Story:
Inu X Boku SS follows the life of female protagonist Ririchiyo, Shirakiin. As we see her move to this new Hotel/Apartment complex called, "Ayakashi Kan," we meet her undying servant, Soushi Miketsukami who is obsessed in pleasing Ririchiryo to her greatest satisfaction. Aside from some added fantasy elements and exposition that bind all the residents of Ayakashi Kan together, majority of the show is dedicated towards the growing relationship between Ririchiryo, Miketsukami and all the fellow tenants that reside in Ayakashi Kan. What makes this such a fun setup to watch however is thanks to the interactions between all the characters and the wacky events that happen. Starting with the main driving force of the series: the relationship between Ririchiyo and Miketsukami is a comedic yet palpable one. Both characters receive much development and grows at a smooth pace, making almost all their actions seem reasonable and in context to the character. It was fun to see Miketsukami start off as a self depreciative, over-obedient servant into a more laid back, but still caring individual by the end of it. However, it does not stop there, and half of the spotlight is also given to the other members living in Ayakashi Kan. Despite being one dimension and even remaining mostly static throughout the series, the residents all have a certain quirk to them that will no doubt harbor favorites. Whether it's the silent-but adorable Karuta (my personal favorite!), the mindless Tsundere Watanuki, or the simply strange Natsume, each character is uniquely different and is what really gives the show the charm it deserves. Despite this however, the show does nothing to break any boundaries and remains nothing more than a good time. In addition, since most of the episodes each have their own scenario with the relationship between Ririchiyo and Miketsukami really the one thing that connects the episodes together, the pacing can sometimes be all over the place. This ranges from fun episodes that have a fast and wacky pace, to the next episode potentially being slow and dramatic. At times it can somewhat jarring, but nonetheless it did nothing to ruin my experience.
7/10
Art:
The animation was produced by the company simply known as, "David Production" whose other works include: Jojo's Bizzare Adventure (2012) and Level E. The overall art in Inu X Boku SS was once again nicely detailed and well animated, but nothing of a master stroke. The character designs on the other hand were greatly distinctive, making each character easily stand out to suit their personality.
7/10
Sound:
A major fault on my part is to recognize an OST during a show, as I hardly notice it due to my one sided attention being on the dialogue and events on the screen. Therefore, for an OST to really stand out as "Good" for me, it has to make it self heard by highly enhancing the mood at the particular moment or simply just having a good and solid beat that I can even listen to without any context. Sadly, Inu x Boku never had any of that for me. The OP Nirvana (no, not the english band Nirvana) by MUCC (No, also not the band english MUSE) provided a good rock piece, and the End Credits featured a variety of character themed ending animations plus songs. While the themes fit the characters themselves, none of them particularly grabbed my interest and I unfortunately skipped them.
5/10
Character:
In my humble opinion, the best thing about Inu x Boku SS was indeed the characters. As previously mentioned, most of the cast each had their distinctive character trait that can make you absolutely love or hate them, but in the end; the show really needed to make likable characters for their two mains: Ririchiyo and Miketsukami. Thankfully, Inu X Boku does well for these two as even though Ririchiyo may not be liked by everyone due to her Tsunshun personality (A new character archetype created in the show where she would act cold towards someone but get depressed afterwards due to regret), she well makes up for it due to her naivety and some-what laid back personality that makes characters sympathize (and laugh at) with, but also allows her to not be completely helpless. Miketsukami also shows high appeal as throughout most of the show he is covered in mystery, but also has this overly obedient side that is used to great comedic effect. No doubt however that he will/did definitely appeal to many Josei fans as his never ending will to please Ririchiyo seems like the ideal butler.. Kinda like another well loved Butler (Cough cough).
8/10
Enjoyment/Overall:
The time I spent at Ayakashi San was definitely a satisfying one. I easily grew attached with all the characters, and I effortlessly devoured the episodes more faster than you can say your favorite long running Shounen series. Though it wasn't anything groundbreaking, this was a show that flew under the radar and definitely deserves all the attention it can get. If you're looking for a good comedy and want or don't mind a bit of substance to it then the only thing I have left to say is: Enjoy your stay at Ayakashi Kan!
7/10
