I just finished wrapping up my Thursday reflection, and now I am starting on Friday’s anime selection. I am fed, I have my snacks, and it is eight pm on Saturday night. I doubt I will get through everything tonight, but I at least am going to try to get through the majority of Friday’s anime since I have two weeks of watching to catch up on, resulting in eleven episodes over seven anime.

The seven Friday seasonal anime I am watching:

Here are five of the seasonal anime that are airing on Fridays, and I’m watching and reviewing them on Saturdays. Each title below is linked to its respective section, so feel free to jump straight to the one you’re following or most curious about:

1. Can a Boy-Girl Friendship Survive (5/5)
2. Everyday HOST CLUB (4/5)
3. Sumikko Gurashi: Tokage no Yume (5/5)
4. Teogonia (4/5)
5. The Dinner Table Detective (3/5)
6. The Land of NOMO (5/5)
7. Twins Hinahima (4/5)

This lineup will shift as the season progresses. Some shows might drop off, and others could be added as more anime is released in the coming weeks. Each week will be a little different, and to me, that is part of the fun!

The scores you see above reflect my overall impressions of the latest episode I watched for each anime. In the sections that follow, I’ll break down what stood out (for better or worse), from story progression and animation quality to character development and emotional impact.

Let’s dive into the episode impressions!

Can a Boy-Girl Friendship Survive?

• Episode 1: Anemone Flaccida and Queen of the Night
• Release date: 4 April 2025
• Crunchyroll
• Episode Score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
  • Sharp, funny, and emotionally grounded from the start.

What a start! Episode one really hooked me more than I expected. The moment Himari wrapped herself around Yuu like a spider monkey, I knew this show was going to lean into that fun, hot/cold dynamic I tend to enjoy. Honestly, their chemistry is strong right out the gate, playful, occasionally chaotic, and teetering just enough on the edge of more than friends to keep things interesting. The “can a guy and girl really just be friends?” question might be familiar territory, but the way this show frames it, with humour, sharp timing, and surprisingly thoughtful emotional beats, gives it a bit of extra charm. I’m actually really liking Yuu as a protagonist. His quiet passion for making floral accessories is such a sweet niche, and his introverted, grounded vibe balances Himari’s bubbly chaos perfectly. I wasn’t expecting the “business” subplot to be so compelling, but it’s a fun hook, especially when you see how seriously Yuu takes it. And then there’s Rion. Her entrance didn’t disrupt the story as much as it felt like another anime just wandered in, she’s that composed, and I kind of love that contrast. She’s clearly going to be a different kind of presence from Himari, and I’m already curious to see how that plays out. It’s also nice that not every girl is being positioned as an immediate love interest, though let’s be honest, this is shaping up to be a love triangle sooner rather than later. The animation is expressive, especially in the facial details, and the comedic timing lands well without feeling overdone. Himari could easily have slipped into the “teasing best friend” stereotype, but there’s something endearing about her timing and her small moments of emotional awareness. Also, I have to admit: the breast grab was unhinged, but somehow it fits. There’s something unfiltered about her, and it works. I can already tell this show isn’t aiming to reinvent the wheel, but if it continues with this level of emotional detail, it could become a genuinely fun and heartfelt rom-com. Plus, I’m never saying no to a gremlin heroine. Himari is an absolute menace, and I love her for it.

Verdict: An excellent rom-com opener with great chemistry, humour, and a surprising amount of depth. I’m fully invested in these characters already.

• Episode 2: The Hibiscus Hair Ornament
• Release date: 11 April 2025
• Episode Score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
  • The love triangle kicks in with emotional clarity and chaos.

Episode two was a real turning point, both emotionally and narratively, and it’s safe to say the love triangle has properly taken shape now. The reveal that Yuu and Rion had already met before was a pleasant surprise, especially since that sort of thing is usually saved for much later in a rom-com. It added a softness to their chemistry that’s already starting to bloom, and Rion’s quiet honesty makes her really easy to root for. She’s shy and uncertain, but she’s also clear about what she wants, and I respect that. Himari, on the other hand, is still a delightful gremlin, confident, loud, and constantly teasing Yuu, but clearly a bit lost when it comes to her own feelings. Her little kiss dare, followed by teasing Yuu to a near meltdown, was priceless. But beneath all that playful chaos, it’s becoming obvious that something deeper is stirring in her. Watching her set Yuu up with Rion, only to immediately feel the sting of that decision, was the emotional centre of the episode. That moment when she realised she might not be okay with this new arrangement hit just right. Meanwhile, Rion has her own little love coach on the sidelines, and I wouldn’t be surprised if we end up with multiple triangles before long. Himari’s older brother, Hibari, continues to steal every scene he’s in, his support of Yuu and his total lack of subtlety about wanting them to get married is hilarious. Honestly, his dynamic with Yuu is just as entertaining as the main trio. The whole “creative muse” angle with Yuu’s jewellery was a nice touch, too; the idea that new relationships spark artistic inspiration added some nice thematic weight. Himari may have accidentally opened a can of worms here by introducing Rion as that muse, and I don’t think she realised just how personal that would end up feeling. This is shaping up to be proper romcom chaos in the best way, and I am so here for it. There is a great balance between humour and heart again; if the show can keep this up, we might be in for a real gem.

Verdict: It builds beautifully on the first episode with deeper emotional beats. Himari’s inner conflict is compelling, and the dynamic with Rion is already complex. A great follow-up.

Everyday HOST CLUB

• Episode 1: First drink: “Career Change Night”
• Release date: 4 April 2025
• TV er
• Episode Score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
  • Chaotic and nonsensical in the best way.

What did I just watch? I wasn’t sure what I was getting into, but this odd little show about male hosts from another dimension somehow worked. Hajime quitting his job out of sheer desperation, only to end up applying to a host club, was a choice… and surprisingly gutsy. The recycled business cards and stage names were a clever touch. I’m still wondering how the contact information is supposed to work, but I guess logic isn’t a high priority here. The moment with everyone glued to their phones actually felt pretty real, and I can understand why Hajime would be both overwhelmed and deeply worried. The humour is completely off-the-wall, loud, and packed with nonsense, but it leans into that energy so confidently that it’s hard not to enjoy. It’s basically chaos in short form, and that format suits it well. That said, I wouldn’t mind just a few more minutes to let some of the absurdity breathe. It’s the kind of show that doesn’t need to make sense to be fun, and I’m strangely okay with that.

Verdict:

• Episode 2: 2nd drink: “Sexuality
• Release date: 11 April 2025
• Episode Score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
  • Hajime’s awkward customer service makes it even funnier.

I honestly don’t know what I just watched, but it definitely got a few laughs out of me. I think I’m in. Go ahead and hand me the popcorn. Hajime’s customer service strategy of just nodding and repeating “I see” and “That’s true” was hilarious in its awkwardness and somehow even more relatable. Realising he might need more than polite small talk to make it as a host, he goes to the club’s number three host, Senichi, for help. Of course, Senichi’s a ‘tough guy’. That dynamic already has a lot of potential. It was also nice seeing the cast outside of the club for a bit, it helps flesh them out and gives the show some variety. This is still pure nonsense, but I’m enjoying it.

Verdict: The second episode builds on the humour and even adds a little character depth. Still absurd, still delightful. I’m in.

Sumikko Gurashi: Tokage no Yume

• Episode 1: Everyday
• Release date: 4 April 2025
• YouTube
• Episode Score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
  • Adorable chaos in under a minute.

A polar bear and a penguin fighting over a corner shouldn’t be this cute, but here we are. This show doesn’t really exist for any deeper reason beyond pure, concentrated cuteness, and honestly, that’s perfectly fine. It’s just one-minute snippets of adorable animals doing tiny, silly things. I’d only seen the illustrations before, so the little scuffle over who gets the corner genuinely made me laugh. The tiny footsteps, the polar bear’s determined search for a cosy spot, the penguin being feisty, and the cat getting dragged along, every bit of it was precious. This is definitely here to make us smile, and it works.

Verdict: This is pure comfort viewing. It’s wholesome, silly, and totally calming.

• Episode 2: Cherry Blossom Viewing
• Release date: 11 April 2025
• Episode Score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
  • One minute of gentle bliss.

This was a one-minute traffic jam of pure cuteness and quiet charm. The narration is calm and soothing, and the soft little sound effects add to the overall cosy feel. Watching them enjoy the cherry blossoms together was just so sweet that all I could do was sigh. It’s simple, wholesome, and exactly the kind of tiny moment that lifts your mood.

Verdict: As soothing as a warm cup of tea. No plot needed, just cute vibes and soft narration.

Teogonia

• Episode 1: Kai of Lag Village
• Release date: 11 April 2025
• Crunchyroll
• Episode Score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
  • Serious, grounded fantasy with real promise.

This world is harsh. With limited resources, little food, and constant attacks from demi-human tribes, just surviving looks like a full-time job. Teogonia immediately sets a serious tone and leans into survival-focused fantasy, and I found myself appreciating how grounded the setup is. There’s no fluff, no easy power-ups, just grit and well-thought-out world-building. The tribal conflict, the magic system tied to spiritual energy, and the sense of actual danger make it stand out. Jose and Kai are introduced as the leads, but it’s Kai who really holds the spotlight. He’s just a regular village boy for now, but with fragments of memories from another life and his sudden, uncontrolled use of fire magic, he clearly has more going on. I’m curious to see whether the isekai angle will actually matter or if it’s one of those elements that fade into the background. Hopefully, it gets developed properly and not just used as a quick plot device. The moment where Kai nearly burns himself out and gets dragged to a cliff by an ogre had some real tension, and I liked how magic comes with cost and consequence. Manso also stood out as a solid supporting character. He seems dependable and gives the story a bit more emotional weight. Overall, a strong and promising premiere. I’m glad the show is taking its time to establish the world properly, and if it continues in this direction, it could become something worth sticking with.

Verdict: Strong world-building, harsh survival setting, and an intriguing protagonist. I’m hoping the isekai element gets explored with care.

The Dinner Table Detective

• Episode 1: Welcome to the Murderous Party File 1
• Release date: 4 April 2025
• Prime Video
• Episode Score: ⭐⭐⭐ (3/5)
  • Fun characters but a bit clunky as a mystery opener.

I’ve always enjoyed murder mysteries and detective settings, so I was hoping this would be a proper mystery series with actual investigation rather than just using the word “detective” for decoration. So far, it feels like a tad amis, but there is still promise. Visually, the show looks polished, and the music adds a nice, refined atmosphere. Reiko Hosho stands out immediately. Despite being a wealthy heiress, she works undercover as a regular detective, preferring to be judged on her skills rather than her status. She’s composed and observant, and it seems she is the one doing the actual detective work. I am questioning her capability, though. Kazamatsuri, meanwhile, is more ego than brains; he throws himself into dramatic performances after finding one clue and almost always ends up wrong. His antics are amusing, and Reiko’s patient reactions to him are part of what makes their dynamic so enjoyable. Kageyama, the butler, seems like the dark horse here, quiet, sharp, and probably more perceptive than either of them, a.k.a the brains. I do wonder how much character development we’ll get, especially for Kazamatsuri. Hopefully, he will grow into more than just comic relief. I also tried the English dub, which felt a bit off to me; serviceable but lacking some of the nuances. Overall, it’s not the strongest premiere of the season, but it has a charming setup, some fun character dynamics, and enough potential to keep me watching. Thankfully, I can go straight to episode two and solve this mystery, although I can already guess who it is

Verdict: Not a bad start, but it hasn’t quite nailed the mystery pacing yet. The cast is carrying it for now, especially Kageyama.

• Episode 2: Welcome to the Murderous Party File 2
• Release date: 11 April 2025
• Episode Score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
  • Stronger mystery execution and better use of its cast.

I actually guessed the culprit this time, though not for the same reason the show gave, which was a fun twist. I really liked how they went about proving it, which was clever and felt satisfying to watch play out. The English dub also felt stronger in this episode, more comfortable with the tone and pacing. There’s no doubt that Kageyama stands out as the most competent character in the room. His ability to pull all the threads together and calmly point to Hinako as the attacker while also highlighting her motive shows he’s operating on a completely different level than Reiko or Kyouichirou. That said, with this new murder case, it doesn’t really feel like we’re getting anywhere yet. The first case was predictable, though I still enjoyed how it was handled. I’m definitely here for more of Kageyama’s sarcastic commentary, though. His blunt, unimpressed remarks about Reiko are some of the best parts. And as always, Miyano’s delivery brings a lot of charm to every scene he’s in. The show has its weak points, but the characters keep it fun enough that I’m willing to stick around.

Verdict: A big improvement. Kageyama really shines, and the first case wraps up in a mostly satisfying way. If it keeps this energy, I’ll enjoy the ride.

The Land of NOMO

• Release date: 28 March 2025
• YouTube
• Episode Score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
  • Gentle, emotional, and beautifully animated.

Short but truly lovely, this feels like one of the most overlooked gems I’ve seen in a while. The animation is soft and dreamlike, with a pastel palette and painterly visuals that make everything feel light, delicate, and immersive. It follows a girl named Sora who once loved to sing but, after being teased, grew afraid and lost that part of herself. The way the story explores how small moments can deeply affect us really resonated with me. I completely understood her hesitation and self-doubt, especially when something that once brought her joy became a source of fear. Her little brother Daichi is absolutely adorable and balances the emotional tone with his sweetness. When the two stumble upon the land of Nomo, a place shaped by thoughts and feelings, the story takes on a quiet, magical quality. The world-building is simple but meaningful, using soft colours, gentle lines, and expressive animation to reflect emotion rather than spectacle. The sound design also stood out, adding to the immersive feel. It’s sad but also hopeful, with a lovely message about overcoming fear and rediscovering your voice. Sora’s journey is a quiet reminder that we often hold ourselves back more than others do, and that finding courage can start with the smallest step. I loved the message of believing in yourself and how the show framed that through a whimsical yet emotionally grounded lens.

Verdict: A quiet, heartfelt gem with a powerful message. Short, but it stayed with me. I’d absolutely recommend it.

Twins Hinahima

• Release date: 28 March 2025
• Episode Score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
  • Experimental and rough around the edges, but intriguing.

“According to Frontier Works, AI technology has been utilized to achieve visual expressions that were traditionally considered challenging due to production constraints in this production, such as scenes depicting naturally flowing hair. By integrating AI, the aim is to explore new animation techniques and create additional artistic value within the medium. The production team emphasizes the concept of “Supportive AI,” a method designed to assist creators rather than replace them. The development process adheres to Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry’s AI Business Operator’s Guidelines and incorporates legal guidance from attorneys to ensure compliance with current Japanese copyright regulations. ” My Anime List

I was honestly surprised by this. I expected it to look much worse, but it turned out to be more interesting than I thought. It feels very experimental, and since we don’t get many anime that take risks like this anymore, I appreciated that side of it. Of course, the AI elements weren’t perfect. There were definitely moments where the animation had that odd stiffness or inconsistency that only AI-assisted work tends to produce. Still, for what it is—just a one-episode story about two girls making short videos and accidentally discovering they’re in a fabricated world—it worked well enough. The concept was simple, but the execution had a kind of charm to it. I still much prefer traditional, hand-drawn animation, and I wouldn’t want to see this method replace that, but I can see how AI could be useful as a support tool for specific tasks or time-saving touch-ups. People forget that the AI here was only used to create the foundation. The final visuals were still refined by human artists, not unlike how CGI gets cleaned up in post-production. AI can’t invent or tell stories—it still needs direction, and this episode shows that clearly. As far as tech demos go, this was impressive. The fact that they kept the style fairly consistent across the whole runtime is no small feat, especially for something this experimental. It’s not perfect, but it shows how AI could be used more thoughtfully as part of the process, not the whole thing. It does make me both curious and hesitant about the future of animation.

Verdict: A bold attempt to explore AI-assisted production. It’s not flawless, but it’s compelling. A fascinating glimpse into animation’s potential future.

Final Thoughts on this week Friday’s anime releases

Friday’s lineup was a fun mix of chaos, comfort, and surprising emotional depth. Can a Boy-Girl Friendship Survive? is easily becoming a standout for me. It manages to balance heartfelt moments and sharp comedy in a way that’s genuinely refreshing. Everyday HOST CLUB continues to be short, strange, and weirdly endearing. It’s the kind of nonsense I didn’t expect to enjoy this much.

Teogonia brought in a more serious and grounded fantasy vibe, and I’m hoping it continues building on its strong world-building. Meanwhile, The Dinner Table Detective is still finding its footing but has potential, especially if it keeps leaning into Kageyama’s sharp wit.

The Land of NOMO was absolutely beautiful, both in message and execution, a quiet standout I’ll be thinking about for a while. And Twins Hinahima was better than expected. It’s rough in places, but I respect the experimental spirit, especially when it comes to animation innovation.

Anime I Am Most Looking Forward to Next Week Friday:

Definitely Can a Boy-Girl Friendship Survive?. The emotional stakes are rising, the characters feel real, and I can’t wait to see how Himari handles the growing tension between what she wants and what she thinks she should want. The chemistry is so strong that even the quieter moments land with impact. I’m also curious to see where Teogonia goes next now that the survival stakes have been laid out.

Any I’m considering binging instead of watching weekly or dropping outright?

I’ll continue watching Sumikko Gurashi: Tokage no Yume, but I won’t be including every episode in this feature. It’s adorable, relaxing, and lovely to have on during a quiet moment, but there’s not a lot to analyse week-to-week. It’s consistent in what it offers—cute, soft, and soothing—so I’ll enjoy it more as a personal treat rather than something I regularly review. Everything else is safe for now.

What have been your thoughts on Friday’s anime releases? Are you following along with the season?

Follow along with Friday’s anime releases here: