“Aharen-san wa Hakarenai” Season 2 Episode 4, titled “An Idol, Huh?” delivers another hilarious and heartwarming installment in the series. The episode explores themes of transformation, support, and the fleeting nature of online games, all wrapped in the show’s signature brand of deadpan humor and exaggerated imagination.
Gyaru Aharen and Supportive Raido
The episode kicks off with Aharen sporting a gyaru-style outfit, inspired by Tamanaha’s fashion. This sudden change throws Raido for a loop, triggering a cascade of his signature over-the-top imaginings. Raido, being the supportive friend (and perhaps more) that he is, decides to embrace Aharen’s new style by transforming himself into a “gyaruo”.
Raido’s Gyaruo Transformation
Raido’s interpretation of a gyaruo is particularly amusing. It involves a wig, shades, and a misguided attempt at hip-hop slang, culminating in him doing community service with grade-schoolers. This segment perfectly encapsulates Raido’s earnestness and his tendency to take things to an extreme, even when his understanding of the situation is completely off-base.
Aharen’s Fleeting Transformation
The next day, Aharen reverts to her usual style, and Raido immediately follows suit. This quick turnaround highlights the temporary nature of trends and the characters’ willingness to embrace change, even if only for a brief period.
Idol Obsession and PriPara
The episode then takes a sharp turn into the world of idols and online games. Aharen becomes engrossed in “PriPla,” an idol-themed arcade game, and invites Raido to join her.
Raido’s Descent into “PriGachi”
As expected, Raido dives headfirst into the game, becoming a “PriGachi” (a hardcore PriPara player). He spends all his money on in-game items and customizations, showcasing the addictive nature of gacha games and the pain of getting invested in a game only for its service to be cut.
The End of Service
The episode poignantly captures the disappointment and frustration that comes with the end of an online game’s service. Raido’s heartbreak is relatable to anyone who has experienced the loss of a beloved virtual world.
The Aharen Sisters: An Idol Group
In a surprising twist, Raido’s younger sister and Aharen’s siblings form an idol group called “The Aharen Sisters.” Raido’s initial disbelief and subsequent realization that his imagination was actually correct for once add another layer of humor to the episode.
Ren’s Mysterious Talents
Aharen’s younger brother, Ren, is portrayed as a multi-talented individual with skills in virtual city design and idol group management. His enigmatic nature and pro-level abilities make him a fascinating and humorous character.
A Touching Performance
The Aharen Sisters’ idol performance is a highlight of the episode, featuring adorable costumes and a catchy tune. While some viewers wished for a new song specifically for this scene, the inclusion of “Aharen Heart” from Season 1 adds a nostalgic touch.
Raido: The Ultimate Supporter
Throughout the episode, Raido’s unwavering support for Aharen is a constant theme. Whether she’s dressing up as a gyaru, getting into idol games, or forming an idol group with her siblings, Raido is always there to cheer her on and participate in her endeavors.
A True Mensch
Raido’s willingness to embrace Aharen’s interests, even when they are strange or fleeting, solidifies his status as one of anime’s best boyfriends. His earnestness and dedication to Aharen are both heartwarming and hilarious.
Community Reactions
Episode 4 has been well-received by fans, with many praising the humor, the characters, and the unexpected twists.
Highlights
- Aharen’s gyaru transformation and Raido’s gyaruo interpretation
- The “PriPla” segment and Raido’s descent into idol game addiction
- The Aharen Sisters’ idol performance
- Raido’s unwavering support for Aharen
Criticisms
- Some viewers felt that the idol segment was a bit too long.
- Others wished for a new song for the Aharen Sisters’ performance.
Overall
“Aharen-san wa Hakarenai” Season 2 Episode 4 is a strong entry in the series, showcasing its unique blend of humor, heart, and imagination. The episode explores themes of transformation, support, and the fleeting nature of online games, all while delivering plenty of laughs and heartwarming moments. Raido’s unwavering support for Aharen and the unexpected twists make this episode a must-watch for fans of the series. The episode cleverly uses Raido’s wild imagination and Aharen’s quirky personality to create a fun and engaging viewing experience. The PriPla segment is particularly well-executed, capturing the highs and lows of online gaming culture.
