Retsgip’s Anime Blog

This originally wasn’t on my list, but when I learned about Tokimeki Memorial’s history, it was just too good for me to pass up. The original game is like 12 years old and I can’t help but expect good things from something that’s been paradied or copied for years, something like the Doom of dating sims. Also, I tend to enjoy harem, slice-of-life, and romance-comedy type anime, so once I learned of it I thought it could be perfect!

I didn’t particularly enjoy the method they used (sequence of flashbacks) nor did I feel like there was any real plot involved, but there were plenty of other things to keep me occupied and my senses stimulated. The most impressive aspect of Tokimeki Memorial was the sheer amount of stereotypes that were flung at me throughout the episode. What I also noticed, was the lack of ecchi situations, especially for something spawned from a dating sim. Those two things, coupled with a bit of slapstick comedy made for a mindlessly pleasurable watch. The artwork wasn’t immensly unique, but it was well done and did it’s job. Overall, it had me thinking of School Rumble.

Stereotypes:

I’ve got you now Ash, OH hohohoho! *pose*

The fact that I can’t even count how many different types of stereotypical characters there are in this anime is what makes Tokimeki Memorial stand out so much from other generic harems. It adds spice to what might have been a boring harem, and turns it into something that’s funny purely by existing.

All of the teachers are different in nature, each of them assuming a perfect stereotypical role, whether it be the busty blond or the all too innocent teacher. Not to mention the AWESOME villainous science teacher (pictured above) who apparently floats when he runs and should be the feature villain on Pokemon or something. OMG, and how could I forget the cross-dressing male vocal instructor? Sounds like a recipe for success already!

What’s great is that the stereotypes don’t stop at the teachers, but exists EVERYWHERE. The most poignant, and my personal favorite, are the animal ears on everyone’s head. These head accessories are won by the student body when they do well in school, clubs, or sports, which make them rare and sought after. Also, we got most every type of student (bad, friendly, sporty, sexy, etc.) who all make an appearance at some point during the episode. I’ll admit the “event” was a unique and entertaining way to introduce everyone, but the flashbacks were just a poorly executed.

Girls:

Nice use of sunlight to make her appear like a goddess

Of course we have the most important factor in every harem or dating simulation, the females. All the females seem to have been put on a pedestal of innocence in this anime. I don’t foresee any strange or unneeded erotic situations because the guys are more interested in fighting each other or chasing after the girls than actually touching them. If you’ve ever watched School Rumble, this sort of thing happens a lot, and it makes for similar comedy.

Comedy:

Warning: Keep all bodyparts OUTSIDE of the cage. We are not responsible for any injury that may result upon failure to comply.

And so the legend of the Yakuza Chicken starts here (name stolen from Hinano). Perfect example of the slapstick comedy in this series. It pretty much just makes you go WTF whenever you see it, and the scene where he pwns the dude only added to the already ridiculous image. I have a feeling the majority of the comedy will be females getting mad and pwning guys, Yakuza Chicken, and weird situations involving the main character and your choice of any stereotypical group of students. If you’re looking for less slapstick, but still mindless comedy, I’d suggest trying Sumomomo Momomo.

Other:

Hopefully it stays crazy, weird, and all together ridiculous so that I can continue to enjoy it. Without all that craziness, it would just be another typical slice-of-life romance like every other. I’m gonna blog this in hopes I get to see more Yakuza Chiken, cat ears, and sexy innocently beautiful females.

-Retsgip