When it comes to psychological thriller anime, Tomodachi Game is an underrated series in the genre. The debt and psychological games in the anime often remind fans of the parallels in the Squid Game. And while the mind games and tacts are engaging, it has its fair share of cons for the most part.
In particular, the anime has more cons compared to its pros, as pointed out by fans. From characters to plot, the series rendered its core aspects bland and lackluster in every way. Its treatment of these elements is what makes it rather complicated for both viewers and readers.
There are, however, areas in which the series excels, which somewhat neutralizes the criticisms in this manner. Where there are pitfalls and setbacks, there is a bright side to the series as well. It does balance out the criticism in this case.
Tomodachi Game stands flawed in this manner
Based on Mikoto Yamaguchi’s manga of the same name, Tomodachi Game anime premiered in 2022. It follows the story of Yuuichi Katagiri and his four classmates, who are forced to participate in a game. This would eventually rid them of their debts, as revealed by Manabu.
There are parallels between Manabu and Young-Hee being the mascots of these menacing games. But the one thing that makes the anime stand out is the lack of death, which makes it rather palatable. The manipulation, betrayal, and psychological games are a plus point, albeit a major flaw in the plot.
On r/anime, Redditors pointed out the inconsistencies that render the series lackluster in many ways.
On several occasions, the gameplay is rather repetitive and too complex for the readers and viewers to follow. The predictability itself makes the plot dull and banal, as most fans can catch on to the outcomes. This ties in well with Yuuichi’s overpowered and overhyped character in the anime.
Barring the criticism, there are several advantages and pros as well, which get thoroughly overlooked by fans. In their criticism, most viewers may have slept on the better parts of the series.
The good, the bad, and everything in between
Is the anime laden with fanservice? Yes. Is it convoluted and repetitive? Yes. But does that make it a terrible series? Probably not. In all honesty, it is a mixed bag in terms of its elements. While the fanservice is excessive and character development is a major concern, there is a silver lining to that as well.
Even as an overpowered MC, Yuuichi has moments of vulnerability in the anime. And while most characters are driven by their respective motivations, it ties in well with the core theme of betrayal, deception as well as zeal. The debt is the common goal, which makes them turn their backs on each other.
The game unpacks the workings of the human psyche and the relationships the characters share. The web of lies and trickery exposes the fragility of these dynamics, which is a refreshing take on the idea of friendships itself. The game isn’t a mere plot device but serves as a major driving force in the series.
Overall, the anime is a mixed bag in terms of its elements, but it is a must-watch for those who are intrigued by the human psyche and its complexities.
Tomodachi Game is available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video.
This post belongs to FandomWire and first appeared on FandomWire
