Skip and Loafer

Skip and Loafer boasts a fantastic opening featuring a unique animation style that quickly won me over. The show introduces a plethora of characters, and I found myself growing fond of them. Let's begin with the main heroine, Mitsumi, a walking ball of optimism. Hailing from a village, she ventures into the city with dreams of studying and becoming a government employee. Mitsumi's infectious energy and positive outlook on life lend strength to everyone around her. Despite moments of naivety, her sympathetic and entertaining approach to handling problems made every scene with Mitsumi enjoyable. The main hero, Sōsuke, initially appeared as a typical city boy cliché — unnaturally kind yet somewhat distant. However, the series skillfully developed his character, revealing layers of complexity that I hadn't anticipated. Other characters in the spotlight also defied my initial assumptions, with Mika undergoing particularly notable development. Supporting characters were not overlooked, and I grew fond of Mitsumi's aunt Nao. The creators introduced her character adeptly, allowing her to engage in the plot in a fun and experienced way. The series even seamlessly addressed her identity as transgender. The overall atmosphere of the show provided a pleasant glimpse into the various joys and sorrows of student life. Everything felt believable and logical. What surprised me most was the minimal presence of classic romance, the lack of which I actually didn't even mind. Skip and Loafer firmly establishes itself as a student slice of life, with perhaps a hint of romance just to round out the experience. This series was a delightful and unexpected treat for me, aligning perfectly with my taste, and I eagerly anticipate a second season. 8.5/10. (20/06/2023)