English Dub Season Review: Dragon Goes House-Hunting Season One

Overview: Perhaps the biggest wuss of all dragons, Letty (Michael Kovach) leaves his home as he strives to make his way in the world. A proper first step would most definitely be getting a house which leads him to the supreme demon lord/relator/ architect, Dearia (Steven Kelly). They’ll embark on the adventure of a lifetime as they search for Letty’s perfect dream home while meeting new and intriguing faces along the way. 

Our Take: Despite its original premise, Dragon Goes House-Hunting was not a series that I had any interest in when I first started watching it. Non-human or human-esque characters always make me worry that I will be incapable of getting attached to them and/or unable to relate to them. But this show and it’s cast are so dang funny and charming that all those fears just melt away within the first two episodes or so.

What makes this humorous play on the fantasy genre so inviting is how it is a parody and a surreal take on not only the tropes of it but the stereotypes generally associated with them. From the illogical and puzzling placement of valuables in chests spread randomly across dungeons to monsters and creatures being paid to be trials and tribulations for heroes in dungeons, there is plenty. This show wears its influence on it’s sleeve because there are a plethora to the videogame medium as a whole too. Whether it’s The Legend of Zelda quotes, old-school JRPG UI layout meant for a funny nod and an “intense” battle or an even deeper cut in that of nonsensical advice from a voice giving tips and tricks to players in need of help, there is no shortage of gamer gags that left me smirking.

Of course, Letty himself is the biggest ironic joke of all in him being a big ol’ cry baby dragon, shattering what most may think when the scaly beast comes to mind. And the image of Letty will definitely be burned into your brain with just how cowardly and whiny he can be. That can be frustrating to watch at times, especially with moments that rely on him. However, those little moments when he does overcome his fears, even if it is not how you would imagine, are that much more satisfying because of his scaredy cat demeanor. The series makes the most of this comedic juxtaposition of those two elements in how that general misunderstanding being the catalyst that gets him and his companions, Dearia, Pip and, later in the series, Nell, into trouble. However, this strength also works against it to a certain extent in how it relies on that one gag just a bit too much, especially towards the end of the season and during the finale. 

Speaking of, Letty’s companions are as equally as enjoyable to watch as him. His realtor, architect, and best bud who also happens to be the demon lord, Dearia, is dignified and apathetic and that lends itself to their great chemistry throughout the series. Dearia’s dry wit bounces off of Letty well especially during scenes when he’s frantic and scared about one thing or another making them an excellent comedic duo. More than that though, their tender moments are founded on both of their Letty’s coming-of-age developments and Dearia’s ability to relate, making those few instances some of the most heartwarming.  

Pip, an adorable arctic baby bird, is Letty’s adopted son. He’s cute if for nothing else than his absolute confidence in his father even if Letty has none to speak of whatsoever not to mention the hilarious embarrassment for him that comes out of it. 

Later down the road, the three boys eventually befriend a princess known as Nell. She is almost never not a stuck-up brat, with insults that really cut deep along with a spoiled disposition that makes her idea of simple, hilariously brutal and mind-bogglingly wacky and fun, respectively. But the keyword there is of course, almost, in how her and Letty begin developing feelings for one another when they begin to see how brave he is when necessary as well as kind. Their budding romance is definitely funny and charming, especially considering how Tsunderes are a weakness of mine. However, while enjoyable, I’d be remiss if I didn’t say that it isn’t anything especially unique in terms of how they play off each other. Although, a relationship between a dragon and a human princess has potential to be even better down the line if they go into their differing species, in terms of both the real world drama and humor of it. 

There are also an incredibly varied and different lineup of fun side characters that will be met along the way. So many interesting personalities each that always seem to be more than what’s on the surface. And that beautifully ties into the theme and ideals of the story as a whole in exploring the world around you and learning what it’s truly about and how many aspects may be more than meets the eye. Also, across the board the entire English VA cast is incredible with each bringing out the character’s unique idiosyncratic comedy and personality  phenomenally.  

Dragon Goes House-Hunting is a delightfully witty series with exceptionally charming, funny and down-to-earth characters that will leave your day better than when you found it with every episode. While some of the humor gets retread one time too many and there are a few clichés throughout, nothing can take away from the true-to-life development of Letty and his new family along with laughs that can be had, as a result of the inventive humor.