English Dub Review: Akiba Maid War: “Battles Without Moe”

Overview: Ranko (Chaney Moore), Nagomi (Alyssa Marek) and the rest of Oinky Doink take the fight to Creatureland head, Nagi, in hopes of ending their feud. 

Our Take: With all the newfound success Oinky Doink has, Ranko’s fractured relationship with Nagi sends it all tumbling. A climatic standoff soon starts to come into focus. 

The rest of the gang struggling to join Ranko is an inconsequential formality that pads out their eventual resolve. Nonetheless, it is sweet in their united front, standing with her. 

The gang’s bargaining chip in Dazzlion’s head is an enjoyable albeit short-lived rebellion. Anytime manager Yasuko looks more like an idiot, it’s always a good time. Although, her stepping up is a welcome development, showing when the going gets tough, she can rise to the occasion for her crew. 

Ranko’s relationship with Nagi highlights how brutal the Creatureland head has become. At the end of the day, there is an attempt to communicate a warmth to their relationship. The biggest downside is there wasn’t much showcased throughout the season to drive that home. Besides them, Ranko’s friendship with Oinky Doink is a heartfelt staple and development through their experiences. There’s also ridiculous tongue-in-cheek humor the show is known for to nicely balance her confrontation with Nagi. 

Their battle makes Ranko’s fatal stabbing from an unknown maid even more shocking. It is also equal parts heartbreaking, sweeping the happy ending she fought so hard for, right out from under her.