Otaku Central

Have you ever found yourself in a situation at school where you were placed in detention for something utterly absurd? It’s a bit like the reaction stages I went through after watching “Tsuki ga Michibiku Isekai Douchuu.” Yes, this anime adaptation is nothing short of ludicrous.

Based on Kei Azumi’s light novel, the story unfolds in a fantasy world influenced by the ever-present isekai trend. Our protagonist, Makoto Misumi, is summoned to this world by the God Tsukuyomi. However, he’s immediately banished to a desolate Wasteland realm due to his unattractive appearance. The twist is that Makoto possesses incredible powers, quickly gaining companions, with the most notable being a dragon girl named Tomoe and the Black Spider of Calamity, Mio.

Initially, Makoto appears as your typical humble adventurer, lacking distinctive traits. Nevertheless, his humility wins the trust of Tomoe and Mio, eventually evolving into genuine affection as they pledge to serve him. The trio’s adventures resemble a party in a JRPG-like game, taking on quests together.

One might assume that the show’s main attraction is the relationship between these three characters, but this aspect falls short. Makoto’s naiveté hinders their character dynamics. When Mio expresses her affection or seeks intimacy, Makoto dismisses it without even realizing it. As a protagonist, Makoto comes across as plain and uninteresting.

The author had a playful approach to the series, incorporating humour in each episode while delivering the expected fantasy drama of isekai anime. Additionally, characters like Ema, Rinon, and Shiki add some variety to the show, with Shiki’s introduction as a meme-worthy character (‘Oh no, he’s hot!‘) and Ema’s unique pig-like appearance. Despite these efforts, the show struggles to break free from the conventional light novel formula in countless isekai stories.

So, what sets “Tsuki ga Michibiku Isekai Douchuu.” apart from other isekai anime? It offers a straightforward, naive protagonist who takes everything at face value. However, the core relationship among the characters needs more solid development, and the fantasy world fails to distinguish itself. The enigmatic God Tsukuyomi, responsible for Makoto’s transfer, remains largely unexplored. The show abruptly immerses viewers into the story, emphasizing quick information absorption. Given the limited 12-episode format, it’s clear that the anime serves as a promotional tool for the novels, which contain more extensive content.

The art style of “”Tsuki ga Michibiku Isekai Douchuu.”” aligns with the fantasy isekai genre, featuring character designs that befit non-human characters. Tomoe can transform from a dragon to a curvaceous woman with cyan hair. At the same time, Mio exudes a sultry allure in her black silky yukata. They act as devoted companions around Makoto, displaying a range of emotions, including jealousy, embarrassment, and anger. Any harm that comes to Makoto triggers their protective instincts. On the other hand, Makoto is intentionally portrayed as an unremarkable, plain-looking guy devoid of princely qualities, and he maintains a stoic expression throughout, making him a rather unmemorable character.

While “”Tsuki ga Michibiku Isekai Douchuu.”” offers moments of amusement and popcorn entertainment, it doesn’t take itself as seriously as it could, and you shouldn’t either. Unfortunately, what prevents this anime from succeeding is its lacklustre storytelling, underwhelming character cast, and a world that seems haphazardly constructed.