1. Introduction
Saekano: How to Raise a Boring Girlfriend (Saekano) is a beloved romantic comedy series that centers on the story of a high school otaku who embarks on the journey of creating a gal game with his friends.
The anime is based on the light novel by Fumiaki Maruto, with an adaptation that spans three key parts: the first season in 2015, the second season Saekano: How to Raise a Boring Girlfriend Flat in 2017, and the final chapter in the 2019 movie Saekano: Fine.
In this guide, we’ll break down the ideal viewing order for the series and highlight the key points of each part so that you can fully enjoy the storyline from beginning to end, whether you’re a new fan or a longtime follower.
2. Overview of the ‘Saekano’ Series
The story follows Tomoya Aki, an otaku high school student who decides to create his own gal game after a fateful encounter with a girl, Megumi Kato, on a hill.
Inspired by her, he gathers his childhood friend and talented illustrator Eriri Spencer Sawamura, and the top student and sharp-tongued light novel author Utaha Kasumigaoka, to form a creative team called Blessing Software.
Together, they set out to create a compelling game, though things are not always smooth between them.
The anime explores both their journey in game development and the complex emotional relationships between these characters.
Their mix of friendship, romance, and creative ambition drives the heart of the story.
3. The Correct Viewing Order
a. Season 1: Saekano: How to Raise a Boring Girlfriend
Start with the first season, which sets the stage for the entire series. Here, we are introduced to Tomoya, Megumi, and the other main characters, and the formation of the Blessing Software circle.
The plot centers on their efforts to create a gal game, highlighting each character’s unique contributions and quirks.
The charm of this season lies in how Megumi’s quiet presence slowly begins to stand out, challenging the traditional concept of a “heroine” in a gal game.
Additionally, the complicated dynamic between Tomoya and Eriri, who has known him since childhood, adds emotional depth to the narrative.
Meanwhile, Utaha’s intellectual sharpness and playful sarcasm bring tension and wit to the group.
b. Season 2: Saekano: How to Raise a Boring Girlfriend Flat
Next, move on to the second season, Flat, where the relationships between the characters become more intense, especially the growing bond between Tomoya and Megumi.
In this season, Megumi begins to take on a more prominent role, evolving from a background character into someone pivotal to the team’s success.
This season dives deeper into the characters’ personal struggles and the challenges within Blessing Software.
The romantic tension intensifies, especially between Tomoya, Eriri, and Utaha, as their creative and emotional conflicts come to the forefront.
The stakes are higher as the characters navigate their feelings and responsibilities, making this season particularly compelling.
c. Movie: Saekano: Fine
Finally, the story concludes with the movie Fine, which serves as the emotional climax of the series.
The movie ties together all the unresolved threads, offering closure to the relationships and creative journeys that have been building throughout the series.
In Fine, the viewer sees how Tomoya’s relationship with Megumi evolves and the ultimate fate of Blessing Software.
The movie is a satisfying conclusion for fans, providing an emotionally resonant and heartfelt ending.
You won’t want to miss this part of the story, as it wraps up all of the series’ main storylines with a touching and mature resolution.
4. Key Points to Focus on in Each Season
Season 1: Saekano: How to Raise a Boring Girlfriend
- Character Introductions: This season is crucial for understanding the main characters and their personalities. Tomoya’s dream of creating a gal game begins here, and you see how he recruits his team, starting with Megumi, who initially goes unnoticed by everyone due to her “ordinary” nature.
- The Complexity of Eriri’s and Utaha’s Roles: Eriri and Utaha each have long-standing but complicated relationships with Tomoya, leading to both creative collaboration and emotional conflict. Their personal stakes in both the game and their feelings for Tomoya shape much of the plot.
Season 2: Saekano: How to Raise a Boring Girlfriend Flat
- Megumi’s Growth: In Flat, Megumi moves to the forefront, becoming much more than the “boring” girl she first seemed to be. Her character development is a highlight, as she becomes both emotionally and creatively central to Tomoya and the game.
- Tensions Rise: As Eriri and Utaha become more aware of Tomoya’s growing closeness to Megumi, the romantic and creative tension escalates. The internal dynamics of Blessing Software become increasingly strained, and this conflict drives much of the season’s drama.
Movie: Saekano: Fine
- Resolution of Relationships: The film provides closure to the romantic tensions and answers the long-standing question of who Tomoya ultimately chooses. Each character’s personal arc is resolved, with a focus on how Megumi and Tomoya’s relationship has evolved.
- Creative Fulfillment: The movie is not just about romance—it’s also about the characters reaching a point of creative fulfillment. How they reconcile their ambitions and friendships in the end makes this a satisfying conclusion.
5. Tips for Enjoying ‘Saekano’ to the Fullest
To fully enjoy Saekano, don’t just stop at watching the anime. Here are some other ways to dive deeper into this universe:
- Read the Light Novels: For those interested in even more detail about the characters and story, the original light novels are a must-read. They offer additional insights and expand on the anime’s storyline.
- Play the Games: There’s also a PlayStation Vita game, Saekano -blessing flowers-, which gives fans a chance to experience new scenarios and further develop relationships with the characters.
- Collect the Merchandise: Saekano has a wide range of merchandise, from figures to art books. Fans can extend their experience by collecting items that capture their favorite characters and moments.
- Attend Events and Follow Updates: Keep an eye out for special events, Blu-ray releases, or online screenings, as these often include exclusive content or interviews with the voice actors.
6. Conclusion
The best way to enjoy Saekano is by watching it in its intended order: start with the first season, continue with the second season Flat, and finish with the movie Fine.
This allows you to fully appreciate the growth of the characters and the intricate storyline that ties everything together.
As the characters develop, especially Megumi, the story becomes more engaging, ultimately leading to an emotionally satisfying conclusion.
Don’t forget to explore the broader Saekano universe through its novels, games, and merchandise to get the full experience!
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