Thursday’s Anime releases had me intrigued. Even though I had a tough deadline with work, which meant I could only finish up writing my impressions today, Saturday, I still enjoyed fitting the anime in yesterday while balancing my workload. We finally had a day full of sunshine and warmth, but as it is getting later in the day, it has gotten cooler. So without further delay, shall we get this started?

The five Thursday seasonal anime I am watching:

Here are five of the seasonal anime that are airing on Thursdays, and I’m watching and reviewing them on Fridays. 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. A Ninja and an Assassin Under One Roof (4/5)
2. NMENEKO (3.5/5)
3. Rock Is a Lady’s Modesty (4/5)
4. The Brilliant Healer’s New Life in the Shadows (3/5)
5. WIND BREAKER Season 2 (5/5)

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!

A Ninja and an Assassin Under One Roof

• Episode 1: A Ninja and an Assassin Meet
• Release date: 10 April 2025
• Crunchyroll
• Episode Score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)
  • Cute chaos with a surprising amount of bloodshed and a wonderfully oddball dynamic.

I really like the colour pop and combination with the opening ninja sequence. Why would you kick a random person who collapses on the ground? Then torment them by making them watch you eat food while they are starving? That is cold. However, I am glad she let the ninja get some food afterwards. Wow, Satoko really is dense – to just go with the flow like that and leave the ninja village behind. This comes across as so cute and lively while some pretty shocking things are happening on screen. Ah yes, the dilemma of being an assassin, where to hide the body. I can see why Konoha instantly decided to pair up with Satoko after she displayed her leaf ability. It would be a very useful skill indeed. Satoko is surprisingly innocent. That is a lot of violence and destruction to come from such cute characters. The marriage proposal made me laugh. Satoko is a delight to watch. The backstory that Konoha comes up with for Satoko is involved on incredibly convoluted – I love it. Orphaned and left with the cannibals that ate her parents, then raised by those cannibals until they were wiped out by another tribe, where she luckily survived. She was then taken in by a childless couple who then went to have their own child, and things became awkward, At that point, Konoha’s parents took her in. I reiterate, too cute and bubbly for what is happening on screen.

Verdict: A strong and quirky premiere with vibrant visuals and character contrasts that work better than expected. Satoko is already a standout, and the humour has bite. Looking forward to seeing how these two navigate domestic life with a body count.

NMENEKO

• Episode 1: Cherry Blossom Viewing is Delicious
• Release date: 3 April 2025
• YouTube
• Episode Score: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (3/5)
  • Cute, peaceful, but very basic, pleasant but not particularly memorable.

Another short-form series of animals doing cute things. In this episode, we follow two cats as they have a picnic while viewing the cherry blossoms. The white kitty is a lot more excitable.

Verdict: A relaxing little watch with charming cat antics and seasonal cherry blossom vibes. Doesn’t leave a strong impression, but it serves its purpose as bite-sized comfort.

• Episode 2: If I Roasted a Marshmallow
• Release date: 10 April 2025
• YouTube
• Episode Score: ⭐⭐⭐½☆ (3.5/5)
  • A fun marshmallow mishap and some sweet visual storytelling.

This time, they are caping and roasting marshmallows. I am tempted to try colouring in with the lighting technique they are using around the fire. The white kitty is so proud for finding a giant marshmallow. Iauged out loud when the marshmallow put the fire out. I, too, would cry. The grey cat is a saint when the white one keeps repeating the same actions.

Verdict: Episode 2 adds a bit more humour and charm, especially with the lighting and the cats’ exaggerated reactions. Still short and sweet, but better paced than the first.

Rock Is a Lady’s Modesty

• Episode 1: Lady Version: “Good Day to You ♡” / “Rock Version: “Quit Playing the Guitar!!!”
• Release date: 3 April 2025
• HIDIVE
• Episode Score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)
  • A poised premiere with a little chaos under the surface

Those are some intense twin tails there, Lilisa. They’re intense, perhaps a bit too intense, although they definitely make an impression. More than that, however, are her facial expressions: exaggerated and emotionally raw with a way of hinting at how much she’s holding in under her poised facade. I really loved the tension between her poised, mannered persona and the unvarnished, frequently unapologetic thoughts in her inner monologue. It’s clear she’s moulded by her family’s expectations into something she isn’t, and even her mother treats her more like a duty than a human. When she meets Otoha, there’s a sense of relief—a sense that she’d been holding her breath and could breathe freely. There’s chemistry between them right away, and I’m really excited to see what their dynamic will be. The music was a pleasant bonus, too, providing just the right flare without overwhelming the episode. The duel scene was particularly fun, an almost theatrical production of identity and rebellion that remained stylish without tipping over into parody. And then there’s the mysterious black-haired girl, oozing old-school oujosama vibes with a twist I wasn’t entirely expecting. The reveal of her secret by Suzonomiya was a standout, and I liked that their interaction didn’t feel tiring That said, the pacing felt unbalanced in spots; while I get that they’re setting up for a comparison between the strict high-society environment and the emotional freedom of music, some of the time that felt like they were dragging their heels. Lilisa’s growing on me. Her fight to establish herself in such a structured environment is moving, and the episode makes me optimistic about her progress, both as an individual and as a musician.

Verdict: A strong start with a lot of emotional potential, though a bit held back by uneven pacing. The central duo has great chemistry, and the music has promise. I’m hoping future episodes keep the charm while deepening the emotional stakes. Definitely one to keep an eye on, especially if it continues leaning into the tension between personal freedom and societal expectations.

• Episode 2: “Lady Version: “Let’s Collaborate! ♡” / “Rock Version: “I Will NEVER Admit to That!”
• Release date: 10 April 2025
• Episode Score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)
  • Character tension and emotional growth blend with musical flair and just the right touch of self-aware humour.

The character dynamics between Lilisa and Otoha continue to be a highlight. Their clashing personalities still feel like watching an emotional duel disguised as banter, and it works so well. I love how they’re portrayed as polar opposites, yet their chemistry is undeniable. Lilisa picking up the guitar again felt like a quiet turning point for her, a sign that she’s starting to question the expectations that have shaped her life. The more time we spend at this school, the more it feels like Lilisa and Otoha could spark a larger ripple—there’s this unspoken sense that a lot of the girls are living out roles forced on them by their families, quietly looking for a way out too. If Lilisa and Otoha let themselves be a little more open, I could definitely see this going down the personal liberation route (which I love). Otoha’s persistence is exactly what Lilisa needs—someone who doesn’t judge her or tiptoe around her, just boldly charges in, red flags and all. Lilisa running from her, torn between guilt, anger, and wanting to be “proper” for her mother’s sake, gave us a lot of insight into her inner conflict, and the stepsister tension added more depth to that. I’m hopeful they’ll connect at some point. The whole episode was essentially Otoha chasing Lilisa, and Lilisa chasing the version of herself she thinks she has to be. Of course, there was no doubt she’d show up after school again—I was just waiting to see it. The teasing between them is sharp and delightful, with just the right hint of self-aware yuri bait (which is handled with a wink and a grin). I also loved the little band references—Linkin Park, Red Hot Chili Peppers, and even Phantom of the Opera thrown in for good measure. It was a fun blend of musical nods and emotional stakes, and the way the music carries the unspoken feelings between them is honestly really well done. I’m definitely looking forward to their next “collaboration.”

Verdict: The emotional push and pull between Lilisa and Otoha continues to shine, deepening their contrast while hinting at shared struggles. If the show keeps this momentum, it could turn into something genuinely uplifting and character-driven.

The Brilliant Healer’s New Life in the Shadows

• Episode 1: An Equal Price
• Release date: 3 April 2025
• Crunchyroll
• Episode Score: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (3/5)
  • A clunky, out-of-order start with a likeable, overpowered main character and potential for fun world-building.

The first episode felt more like an OVA special episode rather than the proper start of the series, almost like something you’d expect to find bundled with a manga volume. It had this slightly disconnected, one-off energy that didn’t quite line up with the tone I was expecting. That said, I still enjoyed myself. The protagonist is definitely overpowered, but in a way that doesn’t feel too obnoxious, which I appreciate. I like the underground healer direction he’s going in, and while the visuals aren’t particularly standout, they’re clean and easy on the eyes. This feels like the setup for one of those classic redemption arcs, cast aside early on, but clearly set to make a big comeback. Zenos caught my attention right away (I guess I really do have a type), and the waifus are cute without being too over-the-top, which is a nice balance. The pacing did feel a bit rushed, like they were hurrying to get through the exposition just to reach the “real” story, which I suspect starts with the next episode. Honestly, I wouldn’t have minded if they’d just begun with that instead. Still, I’m curious enough to see where it goes. Not exactly the start I had in mind, but I’m willing to stick with it.

Verdict: While the premiere felt more like an OVA and stumbled in its pacing, it laid enough groundwork to pique interest. It’s not the strongest hook, but I’m willing to give it more time.

• Episode 2: The Underground Healer in the Abandoned Part of Town
• Release date: 10 April 2025
• Episode Score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)
  • Feels like the “real” first episode, character introductions, world-building, and emotional beats all land better here.

Honestly, I think episode two would’ve made a much stronger opener. It has that laid-back, slightly adventurous energy that feels more like the natural starting point. The pacing felt smoother, and it was nice to see that not every female character is positioned as a love interest right away, which is a refreshing change. Zenos continues to be an overpowered protagonist done right—calm, competent, and not the least bit showy about it. His dynamic with Lily was sweet; her story added just the right mix of heart and levity. She’s been treated terribly, but now there’s this quiet hope that things might turn around for her. Zenos strikes me as the kind of person who helps those he genuinely believes deserve better, and it’s already creating some great character moments. The episode did feel like a bit of a narrative shuffle as if they aired things out of order, but even so, the writing holds together well, and I’m enjoying the mix of deadpan humour with sudden bursts of tension that quickly dissolve into a more relaxed tone. Zenos setting up his clinic and becoming this underground healer of the slums is a cool setup, and I liked how his run-ins with the big names, Zonde’s lizardmen, Zophia the Tornado, Lynga and her werewolves, quickly escalated and then resolved thanks to how absurdly strong he is. It’s fun, self-aware, and never takes itself too seriously. I wouldn’t call it groundbreaking, but it’s the kind of solid popcorn show that’s easy to keep watching. The anime knows exactly what it wants to be, and so far, I’m on board.

Verdict: A much stronger outing that sets the tone and stakes nicely. Zenos feels more defined, the pacing works, and the story’s mix of sincerity and absurdity is starting to gel. Enjoyable and easy to keep watching.

WIND BREAKER Season 2

• Episode 1: RAGE
• Release date: 3 April 2025
• Crunchyroll
• Episode Score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)
  • Explosive opening full of raw energy, brawls, and strong character beats—it’s back and doesn’t miss a step.

The boys are back, and we’re straight into the chaos—no recap, no warm-up, just pure Bofurin brawling from the jump. Sakura’s return is just as fiery as I hoped, and while his usual cool aura is a bit shaken early on, we see more emotional depth from him this time, especially after Kaji snaps him back to focus. I loved seeing him step into a proper leadership role now that his reputation has weight, and the gang dynamics are already heating up fast. That said, the arrival of the second years was everything I wanted. Kaji’s entrance was thunderous, he practically stole the entire episode, and his interactions with Sakura hit all the right notes. I was really glad to see how the show managed to spread the attention, letting us check in on all the major players, from Nirei’s fear and vulnerability to the sheer rage and resolve from Kaji. The action choreography looked good, with great movement and camera angles, though the background animation did lose a bit of its polish in places. Still, I was just happy to see my favourite boys back, throwing punches and doing their best to protect what matters. The OP and ED are solid again, and the tone is exactly what I wanted: over-the-top, emotional, just a bit corny, and packed with heart. Keel is absolutely vile, so I can’t wait to see them get what’s coming. It’s shaping up to be a strong season opener, full of momentum and character set-up, and I’m already looking forward to episode 2’s fight.

Verdict: A high-octane re-entry with great pacing and focus. Sakura’s leadership role adds welcome depth, and the setup for the season is gripping right away.

• Episode 2: CONCLUSION
• Release date: 10 April 2025
• Episode Score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
  • Massive payoff in every way, emotional, cathartic, and visually impressive.

Sometimes, the right words at the right time really do make a difference. Sakura needed that encouragement going into this fight. It felt like everything was stacked against him, and yet, he still stepped up as the leader Bofurin needed. Even though we’re only two episodes in, this one played out like a season finale, high emotions, explosive action, and a real sense of payoff. CloverWorks absolutely nailed it. The Nagato retrieval arc wrapped up beautifully, and everyone got a moment to shine. The animation was intense, the soundtrack carried the emotion perfectly, and Sakura’s first real test as a leader was handled so well. His growth has been quiet but steady, and it really hit me when he kept Suo in check, made sure the team didn’t go too far, and still held his own in the middle of everything. Bofurin went in outnumbered, but what set them apart was their cause, it wasn’t about territory or pride, but loyalty and friendship. Watching them go through all this just to help one of their own, even when there was nothing in it for them personally, was genuinely touching. The reunion between Anzai and Nagato was short, but it got me a little emotional. I think it meant even more to Sakura than he let on, seeing that bond come back together is exactly the kind of connection he’s been craving himself. Suo letting his usual calm crack for a second was a great moment too. Mitsuki’s jab about the Keel guy not having any luck with girls made me laugh harder than I expected. There was just the right balance between heart and humour, and while we don’t know who the next enemy gang will be, I’m already looking forward to what’s next. This episode was satisfying in so many ways, it gave us progression, catharsis, and a clearer view of who Sakura is becoming. He’s learning what it really means to lead, and I’m definitely rooting for him.

Verdict: Felt like a finale disguised as an early episode. Stellar execution is emotionally rich, and is a perfect close to the Nagato arc. Sakura’s development really shines, and the team dynamic is stronger than ever.

Final Thoughts on this week’s Thursday releases

Thursday’s lineup gave me a lot to enjoy, even if I had to squeeze episodes in between work deadlines and the occasional tea break. There’s a strong sense of variety this day, action, music, healing, and adorable cats. It’s quickly becoming one of the more emotionally layered days of the week for me.

WIND BREAKER absolutely stole the show with its second episode. It hit all the right notes for me, emotional payoff, character growth, satisfying action, and it gave me that season-finale-level high that’s rare this early on. The way Sakura’s stepping into leadership is shaping up to be the core of the season, and I’m fully here for it.

Rock is a Lady’s Modesty continues to charm me with its expressive character work and surprisingly heartfelt undercurrents. Lilisa and Otoha’s dynamic is already developing in meaningful ways, and I love how the show balances its musical flair with personal struggles.

The Brilliant Healer’s New Life in the Shadows had a slightly rocky premiere, but episode two course-corrected nicely. I’m more invested now that the story has found its footing. It doesn’t reinvent anything, but it knows what it wants to be, and it delivers with enough heart and humour to keep me watching.

A Ninja and an Assassin Under One Roof was a fun surprise. I wasn’t sure what to expect going in, but the episode delivered a great balance between absurd comedy and surprisingly dark undertones, all wrapped in a cute aesthetic. I can’t wait to see more of Konoha’s ridiculous backstories for Satoko.

NMENEKO remains a simple, soft series. It’s probably not going to wow me, but I appreciate what it offers, a little moment of peace and whimsy. Episode two had more personality, and that lighting around the campfire scene was a nice touch.

Overall, Thursday’s anime gave me lots of reasons to feel optimistic going forward. Most of the premieres (or second episodes) are settling into their rhythm, and I’m already starting to connect with the characters across the board.

Anime I Am Most Looking Forward to Next Week Thursday:

After that intense second episode, I’m itching to see what direction WIND BREAKER takes next. The gang dynamics are evolving, and now that the Nagato arc has wrapped, I’m curious to see who the next major threat or emotional hurdle will be. And more Kaji, please.

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

No drop contenders just yet. Everything this week either held my attention or improved from where it started. The Brilliant Healer’s New Life in the Shadows could become a binge candidate if the pacing slows down too much again, but I’m not feeling that urge just yet. As always, I’ll stick to my five-episode rule and reassess later.

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