Using a multitude of anime sites, I have a somewhat comprehensive anime release schedule. Sunday, the 6th, saw the return of a big-name anime and the start of many titles for the season. I started working on Sunday’s anime post, then. I have finally wrapped it up, even after adding an additional Sunday’s worth of releases to the lineup.

What I watched this Sunday and my thoughts on the episodes:

I am catching up on the seasonal episodes that are released on Sundays. Next week should be singular weekly releases.

Here are nine of the seasonal anime that are airing on Sundays, and I’m supposed to be watching and reviewing them on Mondays. 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. Koupen-chan (5/5)
2. Lazarus (4.5/5)
3. Maebashi Witches (4/5)
4. One Piece (4.5/5)
5. The Gorilla God’s Go-To Girl (4/5)
6. The Unaware Atelier Meister (4/5)
7. TO BE HERO X (5/5)
8. Witch Watch (4.5/5)
9. Yandere Dark Elf She Chased Me All the Way From Another World! (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!

Koupen-chan

• Episode 1: I’m Koupen-chan, nice to meet you!
• Release date: 6 April 2025
• YouTube
• Episode Score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐(5/5)
  • Instantly heartwarming with handmade charm and a perfectly soothing vibe.

Watching the hand creation of Koupen-chan and seeing the process and the use of the different materials had me straight away. Then they animated Koupen Chan and that was me done. Koupen-Chan has my heart. This cute fluff of a penguin is quickly becoming an obsession, and it has only been a single minute. So cute, so wholesome, if I could get an episode a week for the remainder of my life, I’d be content. I feel this is a good anime choice to air on a Sunday and bring a piece of fresh breath for the week ahead.

Verdict: An impossibly charming debut that instantly wins your heart with hand-crafted animation and gentle, wholesome vibes. Koupen-chan’s soft introduction feels like a fresh breath of kindness to start the week with, absolutely perfect Sunday viewing.

• Episode 2: Morning Toughness
• Release date: 13 April 2025
• Episode Score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
  • A single minute of pure emotional support and kindness that genuinely lifts your spirits.

My heart genuinely cannot handle this much cuteness. Koupen-chan telling me that I’m doing a good job and that I’m awesome? That absolutely melted me. It was such a small moment, but it made a big difference in how I felt. There’s something so soothing about the way this show delivers kindness without any catch—no irony, no over-the-top antics, just sincere encouragement. It felt like a gentle hug in the middle of a busy day, and honestly, I think we all need that sometimes. The animation continues to be soft and comforting, and the way Koupen-chan looks right at the viewer to offer those words of support makes it feel deeply personal. I didn’t expect to get emotional over a penguin, but here we are. This is exactly the kind of tiny, meaningful joy I want more of in my week.

Verdict: Short, sincere, and utterly uplifting. Koupen-chan telling you you’re doing your best is exactly the emotional support we all need. A tiny penguin with big healing energy, this episode is comfort distilled into one gentle minute.

Lazarus

• Episode 1: Goodbye Cruel World
• Release date: 6 April 2025
• Hulu
• Episode Score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)
  • Strong character intros and slick pacing make for a stylish, high-potential premiere.

Doug has some pretty unusual music requests. The flow of this episode was very satisfying. The animation was fluid, but honestly, it was the pacing and scene progression that stole the show. We got a look at each character and their personality, giving just enough to gain interest in them. I look forward to the insane antics I am sure these personalities are going to bring. Honestly, at this point, I do not care too much for the stakes we have been presented. The plot premise is interesting, sure, but I want to see how these characters are going to work as a team. SPOILER: having a ‘honey pot’ be the winning move, and then ‘tasering’ Axel brought me more joy than I thought it would. That quick thinking places Christine as my favourite character of the bunch so far. P,s. I wonder how he earned that 888-year sentence since occasionally, hitmen are sent after him.

Verdict: Lazarus opens with confidence, introducing its chaotic cast and high-stakes premise with just the right energy. It’s stylish, fast-paced, and surprisingly funny. I’m curious to see how this wild crew comes together.

• Episode 2: Life in the Fast Lane
• Release date: 13 April 2025
• Episode Score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.5/5)
  • Deeper character reveals, high-stakes setup, and a twist that raises the stakes.

You’d think a drug that powerful would have tighter control. On a lighter note, I absolutely love that chubby little cat always darting away from chaos; it’s like a tiny comic relief mascot. The crew doesn’t waste any time chasing down leads on Skinner, which I appreciate. The biggest clue so far is that he bought a nuclear shelter years back. From there, the team splits up: one group heads to the shelter, the other to the company that sold it. And I’ve got to give Axel some credit. It turns out he’s not the villain I expected. He explains how he got 888 years in prison; it all started with a simple three-year sentence, which ballooned each time he escaped. If we’re excluding his latest escape in episode one, he must have broken out of prison nine times. Both teams end up ambushed; one gets held at gunpoint right away while the other walks straight into a trap. But Axel proves he’s still a beast. No weapons are needed. He just throws hands, and it works. Somehow things don’t escalate. Then we hit the twist with dozens of Skinners showing up. That little reveal suggests this won’t be a strictly episodic series, and I’m definitely here for that. It’s wild how a single episode can flip your entire view of a character or plotline. That UN scene, with countries walking out during his speech about climate change, hit harder than it should. It felt uncomfortably real. He warned them that the North Pole would melt in three years, and no one listened. Now that his miracle drug threatens to do the same damage people are already doing to themselves, suddenly, it’s a crisis? Honestly, I get where he’s coming from. The Lazarus team dynamic is starting to take shape. Axel’s still hilarious, and his line about being like the Avengers made me laugh, as well as when Christine kicked him out of the car for saying how long he was in prison. They’re more like the Suicide Squad than anything noble. This episode definitely felt like a setup, meant to give us insight into the team and a clearer picture of Skinner’s motivations. I’m eager to see what kind of action sequences are coming. For now, I’m enjoying the character development and the gradual reveals. No major twists yet, but the foundation is solid. I like where it’s going. The countdown at the end of the episode adds a great touch of tension, and the action scenes continue to be entertaining.

Verdict: A strong second episode that layers in real-world commentary, team dynamics, and a shocking reveal, all while keeping the humour alive. Lazarus is definitely shaping into a must-watch thriller with heart.

Maebashi Witches

• Episode 1: What’s Wrong with the Status Quo?!
• Release date: 6 April 2025
• Crunchyroll
• Episode Score: ⭐⭐⭐☆ (3.5/5)
  • Pretty to look at, a bit rough in parts, but heartfelt with potential.

Instantly, the animation had me hesitant. The still frames are very pretty and cute. I want to take screenshots. The eyes are gorgeous, and I can see where the budget went. I was relieved the animation improved as the episode carried on. Until it got to the singing and dancing part. It became very obvious when the CGI was used. I don’t typically watch this type of anime, so it is taking some getting used to. A lot of the scenes are stunning, and I really enjoyed the message that this episode put out. It’s okay to dream and reach for those dreams, and it is also okay if they don’t work out. I think I will end up enjoying this. The facial expressions are a delight, and so fa,r I like each of the girls.

Verdict: A visually appealing debut that stumbles slightly on animation shifts but makes up for it with charm and sincerity. If it leans into its message and cast, this could grow into something special.

• Episode 2: You’re As Cheap and Flimsy As Your Clothes
• Release date: 13 April 2025
• Episode Score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)
  • Gorgeous visuals and solid character development hint at a promising arc.

The doors in this episode are absolutely gorgeous, and the eye-catch was especially cute. Visually, this show is so satisfying to watch. That said, Azu’s attitude really rubbed me the wrong way. Sure, she probably has her reasons and will get a redemption arc down the line, but that doesn’t excuse how hurtful and toxic her behaviour has been. Just because someone is struggling doesn’t mean they get to mistreat others. This episode did a great job developing the story, with the girls learning more about what it means to be witches, running the shop, and granting wishes. Plus, we got our uniforms! I’m really looking forward to next week to see how they handle the situation and hopefully see Azu start to accept herself and her role in the group. Yuina continues to be a ray of sunshine, and while Azu is hard to watch at times, I’m hoping she’ll grow on me once her backstory is revealed. Right now, she’s a bit much, but I have hope, so I’m trying to stay patient. The pacing was better than the first episode, and it gave us a deeper look at the cast, which I really appreciated. If the show keeps improving like this, it’s going to be a hidden gem. And who knows, maybe it’s setting up for something darker, like a Madoka Magica twist. Either way, I’m in.

Verdict: With improved pacing and more emotional depth, Maebashi Witches steps up in episode two. Still visually stunning, and the interpersonal drama adds weight. Azu’s attitude grates, but I’m hopeful for a satisfying payoff.

One Piece: Egghead

• Episode 1123: The World Shakes! The Straw Hats’ Hostage Situation
• Release date:  April 2025
• Crunchyroll
• Episode Score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)
  • A nostalgic, far-reaching episode that juggles world-building and tension with care.

Opening with a sunrise is a beautiful move. Seeing Laboon for the first time in a really long while made me happy. I do enjoy seeing people from past arcs and how they react to the news of our crew. It is also great to get catch up on how they are doing. As well as seeing them with updated animation. I am glad that we get to see that the destruction of an island has far-reaching consequences. We were just introduced to a whole lot of characters in the form of Navy HQ vice admirals. New eye-catch sequences, I love ’em! The scheming and manoeuvring of the second half of this episode drew me in. I am ready for One Piece to continue. It’s always chaos when Luffy get’s the snail phone. I’m a tad upset that Sanji didn’t make the group shot.

Verdict: Revisiting past characters and seeing ripple effects from the Straw Hats’ actions adds emotional weight. It’s setup-heavy, but rich in detail and hype.

• Episode 1124: Completely Surrounded! The Operation to Escape Egghead
• Release date:  April 2025
• Episode Score:⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5) 
  • Classic Straw Hat chaos with clever plotting and layered character beats.

Brace yourself, Luffy’s got the snail! Robin forcibly stopping Luffy from saying something he shouldn’t, is the only way to make it so Luffy wouldn’t be his overly honest self. Luffy really is insanely optimistic. That is a harsh and cruel way to view life. I adore seeing Nami get upset on Robin’s behalf. The way they carefully explained what happened for the capture of York and the submission of the Seraphim was done really well. The team have an actual plan for themselves, but the way that the Strawhat crew comments and accepts that the plan is probably not going to go according to the plan is brilliant. Lucci quietly mumbled to himself as he did an actual assessment of everybody’s state. It was nice to see. Even if he is a ‘bad guy’ I am still a stan. Although the idea of him feeding information sucks. I am glad that Kizaru is a man of principles. This episode started making me like him more as a character. I am really looking forward to their escape. And in regards to Luffy’s original plan of using York as a shield, I mean, I did not expect it to work in the first place, but I was surprised Luffy actually came up with some sort of a plan.

Verdict: Sharp writing, emotional moments, and a chaotic escape plan that’s so One Piece it hurts, in the best way. Great balance of tension and humour.

• Episode 1125: A Clash of Two Men’s Determination! Kizaru and Sentomaru
• Release date:  April 2025
• Episode Score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.5/5)
  • Emotional flashbacks and tactical action make this a strong character-focused episode.

The brief flashes of the relationship between Kizaru and Sentomaru from the previous episode has me anxious for this fight. And so it has begun. I am with Brook, this does bring back memories from Sabaody. I have a love-hate relationship with flashbacks. This was a flashback I appreciated and adored. The way that fight went was predictable but still, I appreciate the effort Sentomaru gave, even if he was torn fighting an uncle figure. I wonder who can eat the most between Bonny and Luffy. I do wonder why Sanji and Zoro let their guard down with Lucci, especially when they know how he is. I love that Sanji’s immediate response was to neutralise a potential second immediate threat while Zoro dealt with the active threat. Good, unspoken, teamwork. I loved that Luffy wasted no time with greetings. The effects with the To Be Continued card were satisfying to see. Next week’s episode is going to be fun, Luffy’s first actual fight against an admiral where he can hold his own.

Verdict: Sentomaru vs. Kizaru brought the feels and the fists. Luffy stepping up against an admiral? Yeah, I’m ready.

The Gorilla God’s Go-To Girl

• Episode 1: The Gorilla Life of a Lady and Blessings
• Release date: 6 April 2025
• Crunchyroll
• Episode Score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5
  • Heartfelt and unexpectedly fun, with just enough mystery to hook you in.

Why does it feel like Sophia is being ostracised? I feel so bad for her at the start of this episode, not only did she get a rare blessing that grants strength when she wanted a blessing that would not make her stand out. She then gets told, ‘Here’s your future path’ while still trying to come to terms with her overwhelming strength. She’s just a 16-year-old girl. That would be a tough pill to swallow. The knight exam section of the episode was a lot of fun. I now want to tell my husband to watch this. I am mildly annoyed that the opening song gives away who the male lead is. There are also a few characters presented during the knight exam who will obviously be important later.

Verdict: Strong emotional start with relatable inner turmoil and big shoujo energy. If it leans into the humour and chaos, this could be a hidden gem.

• Episode 2: The Gorilla Signs of Affection That I Always Dreamed Of
• Release date: 13 April 2025
• Episode Score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)
  • Sweet, sparkly chaos with a strong cast and love triangle hijinks incoming

Louis is adorable, and seriously, how does he manage to keep those gloves on all the time? I really enjoy how Sophia talks herself through things, her inner monologue is charming and relatable. I’m already looking forward to seeing more of the trio’s dynamic. Isaac is such a bright-eyed airhead, and I absolutely love him for it. Sophia is lucky she didn’t accidentally bash Louis over the head. There’s a heavy use of sparkle effects throughout the episode, and honestly, I hope that continues. Sophia clearly feels something for Louis but doesn’t quite understand it yet, while her friendships with Eddie and Isaac are forming quickly and naturally. She’s trying hard to protect her peaceful school life, but that bubble burst the moment Eddie and Isaac transferred, and things only got messier when Louis arrived, especially since the other girls were jealous that she already knew him. The episode had some hilarious moments, and I’m loving the over-the-top energy this show brings. It’s setting itself up for some serious chaos now that Sophia and the boys are at the same school every day. I did notice a dip in animation quality this time, some cuts feel awkward. Still, despite the limitations, the episode was fun and simple in the best way. I can’t wait to see what’s next.

Verdict: A charming, slightly messy continuation full of adorable moments and growing friendships. It’s not deep, but it’s definitely delightful.

The Unaware Atelier Meister

• Episode 1: The Guy In Charge of Chores With Low Self-Esteem Turned Out to Actually Possess Incredible Skills
• Release date: 30 March 2025
• Crunchyroll
• Episode Score:  ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)
  • Familiar formula, executed with care and an endearing lead.

The level of detail in this episode was impressive, seeing the texture in the cement on the wall really stood out. It’s a fairly standard first episode for this kind of series, but leaning on familiar tropes isn’t necessarily a bad thing. What matters is how those tropes are used, and so far, it’s been handled well. The characters are already likeable, and that alone is enough to keep me interested. There’s something really uplifting about watching people grow into their strengths and rediscover confidence in themselves. Even though the story doesn’t seem like it’s trying to reinvent the genre, there’s a hint of something deeper going on beneath the surface, as if a bigger twist is waiting to be revealed. I’m not sure where it’s headed just yet, but I genuinely enjoyed the episode, and I’m looking forward to what comes next.

Verdict: A comfy, trope-aware fantasy starts with solid world-building and a genuine heart. I’m here for good vibes, and it delivers.

• Episode 2: His First Atelier
• Release date: 6 April 2025
• Episode Score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)
  • Laid-back power fantasy with a loveable, unbothered protagonist.

Kurt is just out here being Kurt, breaking curses like it’s no big deal. Honestly, it was like a casual stroll for him. He’s ridiculously overpowered, and the fact that he’s just getting started makes it even funnier. The episode kept that same lighthearted and silly tone, and I’m totally here for it. It feels like a parody of typical fantasy tropes, but it’s done in a way that’s charming. Kurt handles every over-the-top situation with this calm, laid-back attitude, which only makes the reactions of the people around him more entertaining. Sure, we’ve seen these kinds of stories before, but this one is still a lot of fun. I love how he just casually solves absurd problems like it’s nothing. At this point, I’m mostly watching to see what completely illogical thing he’s going to pull off next.

Verdict: Kurt casually flexing through absurd problems is both hilarious and calming. Perfect Sunday watch for low-stakes fun.

• Episode 3: What Mining Means To Him
• Release date: 13 April 2025
• Episode Score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)
  • Comfy chaos and quiet character growth keep things moving smoothly.

Yulishia’s reactions to Kurt’s antics are genuinely fun to watch, and the show as a whole has been a pretty comfy experience so far. I especially liked the scene where Kurt casually proved he could lift 200 kilograms, which was oddly satisfying. He’s also starting to realise just how poorly he was treated by his previous party. It’s funny how he struggles against a basic slime but can take down a massive dragon stone golem without breaking a sweat. This is definitely one of those shows you watch just to relax. It’s not meant to be taken seriously, and honestly, that’s part of the appeal. You’re better off just enjoying what’s on screen rather than trying to read too deeply into it.

Verdict: The charm hasn’t worn off yet, still relaxed, still silly, and still sweet. It’s basically a fantasy slice of life, and that’s the point.

TO BE HERO X

• Episode 1: Nice
• Release date:  April 2025
• Crunchyroll
• Episode Score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
  • Visually stunning, emotionally punchy, and expertly paced.

This was an excellent start to the show. The pacing was definitely quick, but rather than feeling rushed, it came across as sharp and energetic. I wouldn’t mind if things slowed down a little in future episodes now that the world and characters have been introduced. We got a glimpse into the lives of the heroes and how their powers seem to function, which helped ground the action in some solid character work. The moment where Nice made his signature hand sign even while jumping stood out, and it likely hints at the pressure he felt to maintain a perfect image. That could very well tie into the reason behind his suicide, and I’m really interested to see how the story explores that side of him. I fully expect we’ll learn more about the previous Nice in upcoming episodes. The storytelling was clear and engaging, and the episode did a great job of establishing its tone and introducing the central cast. The music also left a strong impression—the opening already sounds iconic, and I’m excited to hear more from the soundtrack. And that cliffhanger at the end? Brilliant.

Verdict: A fantastic premiere that balances intense action with character-driven depth. Stylish, sharp, and worth the hype.

• Episode 2: Moon
• Release date:  April 2025
• Episode Score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
  • A heavy, beautifully handled exploration of freedom, identity, and grief.

I really enjoyed the animation changes throughout the episode—they added a lot of style and energy to the scenes, especially during the action sequences. The opening minutes had such a striking look, it immediately pulled me in. That said, the cameras inside their house felt seriously creepy, and I couldn’t help but feel sorry for the friends caught up in all of this. I’m still unsure about what exactly happened with Moon at the end of the previous episode. Was it a dream, a glimpse of the future, or maybe an alternate reality that Nice experienced? Whatever it was, this episode gave us a much deeper understanding of Moon. Her feeling of being trapped—reduced to nothing more than an accessory to Nice—really resonated. That desire for freedom seems to be a shared struggle among both the heroes and villains we’ve met so far. They’re stuck playing out roles that have been forced on them, unable to live for themselves. Even Nice’s rival in this episode seemed genuinely moved by his death, reflecting on their shared past and abandoned dreams. The action scenes stood out again, fast and chaotic in a way that felt exciting rather than disorienting. It seems like the shifts in art style are mostly for visual flair, especially during fights, and while it’s a little abrupt at times, it looks fantastic, so I’m not complaining. The interviewer from the last episode popped up again too, and now that he’s joining forces with what looks like an evil organisation, I expect he’ll play a bigger role going forward. One of Nice’s friends had a standout moment in this episode as well—his backstory was compelling, but his character design really stole the show. On a deeper level, it was striking how the show gave us the heroes’ perspective and showed just how miserable their lives are, to the point where the ending feels like the only escape. That’s heavy, and it adds more weight to the whole concept. Overall, this episode delivered on nearly every front, from the fluid animation to the emotional beats, and Moon’s development, if that’s all we get from her arc, was truly impressive for just 24 minutes of screen time.

Verdict: Visually creative and thematically bold. This show isn’t messing around.

Witch Watch

• Episode 1: Witch’s Return
• Release date: 6 April 2025
• Crunchyroll
• Episode Score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
  • Chaos and cuteness in equal measure, with excellent production to back it up.

Nico Wakatsuki, is a massive clutz and ditz. I also don’t like the way she ‘forgets’ to tell Morihito Otogi the cost of each spell. Like knowing you are going to destroy something really important to him and not let him know. It does not matter that it was just a cup. It was important to him, and then being so proud and trying to sound profound after the fact to casually explain its destruction. I feel bad for Moi; he knows he just has to deal with it, no matter the cost to him. It’s as if Nico has two brain cells, and both are fighting for third place. This show is absolutely unhinged in the best way. The production quality is surprisingly solid, too, which makes the chaos hit even harder. That first episode was an instant hit for me. Nico’s relentless gremlin energy clashing with Morihito’s stone-cold straight-man routine is comedy gold. It’s like watching a hyperactive magical girl constantly test the patience of her no-nonsense babysitter, and honestly? I love it. The humour lands exactly where it needs to, the comedic timing is sharp, and even with all the madness, there’s some genuinely interesting worldbuilding sneaking in—like Nico’s witch training and hints about Morihito’s backstory. If it keeps this energy going, this might end up being one of the funniest shows of the season. I’m fully ready for more ridiculous spells, emotional damage to Morihito, and Nico somehow making everything worse with a big smile on her face. Let’s go!

Verdict: Nico is a walking disaster and Morihito is suffering beautifully. Together, they make one of the season’s best comedy duo.

• Episode 2: A Giant Rookie / Let’s Go to a Diner / The Flying Classroom
• Release date: 13 April 2025
• Crunchyroll
• Episode Score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.5/5)
  • otal chaos, peak anime references, and wholesome moments that stick.

Oh Nico… she really thought using magic at school was a good idea, huh? Not even trying to hide it, girl went full chaos mode in public and somehow expected no one to notice. At least she made one hell of a first impression. Morihito just wanted to keep things low-key, but of course, Nico’s out here enlarging herself during introductions, missing every spell, and turning classmates into Gon lookalikes like it’s casual. That said, seeing Morihito beat up those creeps waiting for the girls outside the diner? Absolutely loved that. He’s so protective it’s borderline stalker-y, but in a way that works for him. And the way the class just rolled with “yeah, we’ve got a witch and an ogre now” like it’s Tuesday? Peak comedy. Also, can we talk about the avalanche of anime references in this episode? DBZ, HxH, Fruits Basket, Saiki K and more. The homeroom teacher being an otaku is wonderful. And honestly? Respect. I love that the show didn’t bother with a dragged-out secret identity arc. Nico blew their cover on Day One, and instead of drama, we got classmates cheering them on and flying around the room. Morihito looked so relieved to finally have people accept him for who he is, he’s never had friends, and now he’s the cool ogre kid with a magical menace attached to him. The diner scene was surprisingly sweet too, with Nico lowkey gatekeeping Morihito while pretending he’s someone totally different. The truck-catching moment? Pure anime greatness. Nico’s getting on my nerves a bit, not gonna lie, but the vibe is fun, the comedy hits, and I’m curious where this is headed, just please, someone limit her spellcasting before she levels the school.

Verdict: Absolutely unhinged in all the right ways. The Nico-Moi dynamic remains golden, and the side characters are just as entertaining.

Yandere Dark Elf: She Chased Me All the Way From Another World!

• Episode 1: A Girl I Met in Another World
• Release date:  April 2025
• Prime Video
• Episode Score: ⭐⭐⭐☆ (3.5/5)
  • Unshamelessly ecchi, but self-aware and surprisingly funny.

At least the name of this anime lets us know what type of female character we are getting. It must be difficult to adjust back to the ordinary after journeying and defeating a Demon Lord and having made friends in a fantasy world. Especially if part of that ordinary is going back to school. It must, at times, seem dull. Then to have one of your party companions follow you to your world must be stressful. The show knows exactly what it is. It’s absurd, self-aware, and not taking itself seriously in the slightest. There are a few decent gags sprinkled in, and while the animation isn’t stellar, it’s competent enough to carry the chaotic energy. One standout moment was the bath scene; it caught me off guard.

Verdict: It’s chaotic, fanservice-heavy nonsense, but it knows that. You’re either on board for the madness or you’re not.

• Episode 2: Academy Life
• Release date: 13 April 2025
• Episode Score:  ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)
  • Red flag behaviour = yandere, accidental wholesomeness, and a small dose of plot.

Going into this episode, I was genuinely curious how Mariabelle was going to deal with those very obvious elf ears in the real world… but I guess not hiding them at all and letting everyone assume she’s a hardcore cosplayer is one way to go. Surprisingly effective. What’s nice is that the show isn’t just leaning entirely on fanservice this episode; there’s actually a bit of story progression, too. The ecchi is still very much present (of course), but now it’s balanced with a few plot beats that give us a better idea of where things might be heading. Mariabelle herself? Definitely a walking red flag. Her obsession with Hinata hits new highs or lows, depending on how you see it. Spying on him and keeping that laser-focus intensity? Yeah, it’s a lot. But there’s also a strangely wholesome moment in there. Mariabelle makes a friend! It’s brief, but it adds a nice little touch of character development that makes her feel slightly more than just a yandere bombshell.

Verdict: Somehow manages to mix yandere intensity with genuine character growth. Mariabelle’s terrifying and lovable all at once.

Final Thoughts on this week’s Sunday releases

This was a solid start to the season overall. A good mix of chaos, comedy, and surprising emotional moments across the board. Koupen-chan continues to be the warm hug of the lineup, just one minute of that penguin is enough to reset my entire mood. On the opposite end of the spectrum, Yandere Dark Elf is a full-blown fever dream wrapped in fanservice, and while I’m not sure how long it can keep up the energy without losing steam, it’s impossible to look away. I feel slightly attacked by how invested I’ve become already.

Witch Watch is probably my favourite in terms of sheer entertainment. The Nico-Morihito dynamic is unhinged perfection, and the number of anime references packed into a single episode was borderline criminal (but also hilarious). Lazarus is shaping up well, too, tons of personality in the cast, slick pacing, and just enough intrigue to keep me locked in without feeling like I need a flowchart. TO BE HERO X came in swinging with a heavy blend of stylised action and emotional weight, and it’s already proving to be something special. Definitely keeping my eye on that one.

I’m cautiously optimistic about Maebashi Witches. It’s visually lovely and thematically wholesome, but Azu’s attitude is skating on thin ice, I’m hoping for a redemption arc. The Gorilla God’s Go-To Girl is sitting in that comfy, fun zone. And One Piece? Always an experience. Watching weekly feels both exciting and exhausting, but for now, I’m enjoying being back in the thick of the chaos.

Every show still has room to surprise or disappoint, and that’s part of what I enjoy about seasonal watching. Some might fall off; others might sneak up and become favourites; I love not knowing yet. Sundays are officially stacked, and I’m excited to see how these stories unfold in the coming weeks.

Anime I Am Most Looking Forward to Next Week Sunday:

Other than One Piece, honestly, I’m really curious how TO BE HERO X is going to handle its heavier themes while keeping that wild energy. Koupen-chan, of course, is my emotional support penguin now, no notes, only praise.

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

I actually caught up with One Piece last week, and honestly, I have a complicated relationship with watching it weekly. I’ve done it before, but I tend to prefer bingeing a bunch of episodes in one go. So, I purposefully let myself fall behind, but at the same time, I do want to be part of the weekly loop and enjoy the fandom discourse as it drops. We’ll see how long I last before the binge temptation takes over again. Otherwise, the Gorilla God’s Go-To Girl is a strong contender for a chill binge-watch later on.

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

If you’re watching any of the same shows or totally different ones airing on Sundays, drop your thoughts in the comments! Let me know which anime is hitting the mark for you so far and which one already has you side-eyeing the “drop” list. Sundays are looking stacked this season, and I’m looking forward to seeing how this lineup evolves over the next few weeks.

Thanks for reading, and see you next week! 🌸

Follow along with Sunday’s anime releases here: