Bit late to be introducing another route, but… a’ight.

Bokutachi wa Benkyou ga Dekinai
Studio(s): Silver, Arvo Animation
Genre(s): Harem, Comedy, Romance, School, Shounen

Okay. Asumi’s great. It’s weird that she’s being introduced this late into the game, though. Usually, any girl added at this point in such a series would be treated as sort of a mini-antagonist. Someone perceived as a “threat” by the other routes or someone who’s a lot more active in pursuing the lead. But given the generally laidback and non-combative nature of this series, it kinda makes sense. Either way, Asumi’s essentially like a combination of Nariyuki and either of the first two girls – somewhat unfortunate but hard-working and pursuing a lofty dream that currently exceeds her grasp.

Nariyuki’s natural ability to understand others continues to make him really great to watch in action. Yes, it’s a very standard trait of harem protagonists, but it’s often sort of just hand-waved as a natural part of their personality. Nariyuki is helped by having a background that gives this part of his personality context. Informing that part of him gives him a more concrete character. Thus he feels like more than just a “Checklist Lead.” Meanwhile, we learn a lot about Asumi in very little time and it all felt really natural (for a comedy, of course. contrivances are expected). What’s more, she’s a rather likable character. Very serious-minded about the things she’s interested in, but with a temper and something of a playful streak that was genuinely amusing.

Given how much time was spent on her, early on, I didn’t expect to see much of the other girls. But, what do you know, I was wrong. I like how they handled the misunderstanding of Nariyuki “dating” Asumi. Side note: Fumino grows increasingly terrifying as the series stretches on. One can tell the stress her emotions are causing her is tearing her apart and the show is displaying this through some fun comedic moments that I think work for its overall vibe. More Uruka or Rizu might’ve weighed down the otherwise pretty stuffed episode, though, so I was glad they weren’t featured in great detail. Overall, this one was yet more Super Effective goodness.

What’d you think? Did you like the new addition to the mix? Let me know, down below. Prefer something a bit more serious? Try Kimetsu no Yaiba. In the meantime, thanks for reading, as always. Keep up the Awesome!

Take Care,
Voyager