Me, this episode

Disclaimer: We couldn’t do anything about Ruli this episode. The entire point is that nobody understands her, so please accept it. And just so you’re not confused I’ll say upfront that Meruli is stated to be male later in the episode.

So those things aside, I really loved the scene in the middle of the episode with Ruli and one other person. I’ll never tire of those lessons in children’s shows, and that particular interaction was unique, this being the first time. And I’ll never complain about more drama episodes.

Episode 007: Torrent | Magnet

I’m pretty sure there’s a particular “dere” archetype describing her…

Subs were late this week because I was away and got stuck because of snow, so sorry about that (no it wasn’t Texas). I’m really enjoying Ann’s character here, and I think there’ll be some interesting interactions later on down the line. But my favorite part of this episode was probably the tiny little reference to Mizuki. It makes me emotional every time I remember it. You’ll know when you see it.

Episode 006: Torrent | Magnet

I think this actor’s name might literally be Prince

In terms of buildup and every single scene leading up to the conclusion of this plot, this episode probably has all the others beat. I’m really impressed with the way all the pieces came together to build a satisfying story for Hana and the others. Maybe eventually there’ll be a drama episode which utilizes both inside and outside Aikatsu Planet together.

Episode 005: Torrent | Magnet

I guess Aikatsu Planet is connected to America

Kyouko is such a wonderful new character, superficially a combination of Sakura and Seira, but so much more. I think she really embodies the themes Aikatsu Planet is trying to share, and what each episode starts out by saying—this is a place where you can be true to yourself and become who you want to be. The sincerity with which this is told and shown made me tear up each time I rewatched it. Next week, something special that I think every Aikatsu fan has been hungry for a long time. Also I started putting my recorded episode thoughts up again, which I don’t do here to avoid absurdly long posts.

Episode 004: Torrent | Magnet

That’s a nice little atelier Sala has there

At this point I can only say that Planet is just getting better and better with each episode. There’s a bit more lore about how the system works this time, and a few mysteries I look forward to seeing solved. The way Swing and Dressia work are so cool, and the points system really jives with my own philosophy about what makes an idol.

Episode 003: Torrent | Magnet

Cute… pajamas?

Now that Mao has become an idol, it’s her turn to start learning the ins and outs of the trade. Luckily for her, she’s got the perfect teacher, Ruli—except she needs to keep her identity a secret?

Okay, I have no idea why I went all preview on that when I never do. I just feel like this season is going to ramp up slowly rather than go blazing right out of the gate, especially with Hana’s identity being such a huge plot point, and our knowledge that Meisa’s coming back as Rose later on. For the longtime Aikatsu fans, there are three returning voices who make appearances this episode; see if you can pick them out. I found it pretty hard for two of them without checking the credits, but felt pretty silly once I read it. Maybe I’ll give the answer later if nobody figures it out.

Episode 002: Torrent | Magnet

The shining line continues

It’s been a long time, but we’ve finally returned. Things look a bit different this time around, but deep down inside, I can feel that this is surely Aikatsu. More than Akari gen, and more than Stars, I think we’ll all need some time to adjust, so take it at your own pace. We’ll be here, as always, doing our subkatsu.

Episode 001: Torrent | Magnet