I want this merch

The buildup to the finale was so naturally included that I didn’t even realize what was happening, and it made it that much more touching and impactful. And for long-time viewers of Aikatsu, you may also recognize the kind of idol that Mirai seems to want to make, one who can, as they say, produce herself, if you catch my drift. So awesome.

This week is unexpectedly last minute because I had to spend the entire weekend and more in DC for a conference, but I did sneak away for long enough to see some cosplay at Otakon. I hope some people were there representing Aikatsu in my absence.

Episode 067: Torrent | Magnet

Green Mirai is not Mirai in disguise

Yes, this hits so many Aikatsu themes that I love, and it’s a totally novel take on the “imitation” archetype that’s so often used for antagonists. Everyone has their part to play, and we’re steadily moving forward, although there are still some mysterious left to resolve.

Episode 066: Torrent | Magnet

What is the measure of a man?

This episode has some of the best timing, both comedic and dramatic, that I’ve seen in a long time. That’s in addition to just how realistic the hesitations, doubts, and fears are between Hibiki and Alicia, and the interplay between them. You can really feel the difference between a fine episode and a great one in Aikatsu. Plus, the girls visit a very familiar food truck that many people might remember. And I haven’t forgotten about talking about AX either, I’ve just been busy.

Episode 065: Torrent | Magnet

They should’ve asked Koharu and Ako for help

I’m back from AX! And I’ll share more about it in a separate post, but I wanted to get this out as soon as it was finished first. The short version is that our cosplay meetup was a lot of fun, and it was awesome meeting everyone throughout the week. See you tomorrow (in spirit) for the next episode!

Episode 064: Torrent | Magnet

If only Karen was the last person I say good night to and the first I say good morning to

Every single time I see Karen I feel my soul being healed from her love. Is she able to alleviate Alicia’s worries about starting Aikatsu again as well? You can see for yourself. Next week’s episode will probably be later than usual, because as you can see pinned, I’ll be at AX and running the cosplay meetup. If you see a Koharu running around, please come up and say hi!

Episode 063: Torrent | Magnet

Are you my sister?

I was very close to having to deal with the whole かえる (kaeru, frog) and 帰る (kaeru, to come back) pun, but thankfully they didn’t make me dance around it. But it does explain why the frogs are relevant to the episode. In any case, we’re finally back in Japan, and getting a bit more of our new girl, Harukaze Wakaba. This felt like more of a breather episode, but from here on we should be ramping it up once more.

Episode 062: Torrent | Magnet

Goodbye, snow sisters. I will miss you

We have reached the thrilling climax of the Solvette saga, as well as the first cour of the season. I laughed, I cried, and in the end I was satisfied. Never doubt the power of Aikatsu, and its ability to bring smiles to everyone.

Episode 061: Torrent | Magnet

Memories of you

This may be one of the heaviest episodes of Aikatsu, and not just because of the snow. What could’ve caused such self-denial for so long? We’re racing towards the conclusion, but we’re not there yet. Also, even though you may think that Solvette is on the planet Tundrastar from 0048, I’m now somewhat confident that it’s in alternate Switzerland. The geography is one thing, but Neve, Schnee, and Neige all mean “snow” in French, German, and Italian, the three official languages of Switzerland (thanks to Etoce for his encyclopedic knowledge of languages). Good on you if you figured that out earlier. Now then, try not to freeze by keeping your heart warm with more Aikatsu.

Episode 060: Torrent | Magnet

What is it that the witch wants?

And what do the magic words mean? The Solvette arc continues, slowly but surely revealing what lies inside everyone’s hearts. Even knowing what inevitable conclusions Aikatsu will show us, I’m engrossed in the process each and every step.

Episode 059: Torrent | Magnet

Charles is handsomest boi

Just an absolutely fantastic episode. If you’re into this more mature plotline with Hibiki and Alicia, you’ll love it. Keep writing episodes, Narita.

Episode 058: Torrent | Magnet