On the first time seeing the harem tag on the show, I thought it was going to be a generic show of one of the genres I despise the most. But after seeing some of the praise it had for being a rom con, I just had to give it a try. Honestly I'm so glad I did. The series was a very messed up ride for the most because of Kazuya, but it does kind of show how the pursuit of romance can be messy and new to ppl. The new mc is especially a proffesional at this, and being oblivious sometimes lol. Let's get right into it.
Story: 8
There are some scenes in the first episode that I cringed pretty hard at tbh, but the story had some good points too that go me hooked the first episode. Personally later on in the series, I think it did a great job showing just how much smart characters can be flawed as well, especially with Chizuru and how she knows she likes Kazuya, but can't bring herself to do smtg abt it. This feels like one of those long rollercoasters of a show, but I'm feeling positive we'll at least see Kazuya change drastically next season.
Art: 8
Pretty nice and vibrant. I think it does the job extremely well when it wants to. Some of the backgrounds during the funny drop in quality scenes make me uncomfortable, but its nothing that I cant tolerate. I think for the type of show it is, the character designs are great, and unique to each one.
Sound: 7
The OP is a jam man, loved it. The animation was pretty nicely done for those transitions between the 4 girls doing those poses, didn't ever skip it so that's a big W in my book. For the overal OSTs placed in some scenes, I think does have some decent OSTs, but placement really lacks in some crucial scenes throughout the series, which bring down importance. After watching the last episode, I think they did a extremely good job on it sound wise, jus not the rest of the series consistently enough.
Character: 8
On the first episode I didn't see as much character as I do currently now. The MC honestly does seem stupid to me sometimes, but I do like that he sees his own faults and tries to improve little by little. I also liked that there are different aspects of what can happen in a relationship imminent in this show too. For example, Mami chans character showcases toxic and abusive relationships, which a lot of romance shows don't really show in general, or play off as a character for humor. This series however showcases clearly how a toxic relationship can trouble you before, during, and after it ends. All these characters are also pretty well placed, and a lot of them are enjoyable asf. We got introduced to Sumi and Ruka which are goddamn S Tier as well, and ruka almost topples Chizuru who is legit perfect. Kazuya also has a lot of shit to work on, after that stalking thing its pretty obvious. Can't wait for even more character moments and drama in future episodes especially with S2 announced!
Enjoyment: 9
Since I've been getting into rom cons recently, this has been really entertaining to watch. This brought me back frm the depression of Kaguya Sama ending with S2. I also enjoyed a lot of the character interactions and of Kazuya redeeming himself even just a little bit. Truly one of the best shows this season alongside Re Zero and Misfit of Demon Academy.
Overall: 8
I'm looking forward to future episodes since they keep getting better at telling the story. Just hope Kazuya becomes a little more of a player as the anime goes on. I think this anime did a great job with what it set out to do. Kazuya is literally a shitbag, but I can understand why he is and sympathize with any little growth he gets. All the main girls were amazing too, minus Mami, all my homies hate Mami chan. Gonna miss watching this show. The wait for season 2 begins! 🙏