Anime

English Dub Review: Cultural Exchange with a Game Centre Girl “Homecoming”

By David King

October 06, 2025

OverviewLily, Karin, and Hotaru join Renji and Aoi on a trip to visit their grandma’s home up north in rural Tohoku.Our Take This time around, we get a refreshing and heartfelt change of scenery, taking Renji, Lily, Aoi, and their friends out of the familiar game center and into the peaceful countryside. The shift allowed the story to focus on family, friendship, and nostalgia, with Renji’s grandmother and cousin adding warmth and humor to the mix. Lily’s reactions, especially her jealousy and awe at the rural setting, made for some of the most charming character moments yet. What stood out most was how naturally the episode balanced gentle comedy with emotional resonance. Lily’s parents, Sheryl and Oliver, shared some endearing moments of their own, adding a mature touch to the story’s otherwise youthful tone. Aoi’s playful energy, Renji’s easygoing nature, and the cozy interactions among the cast made the episode feel like a genuine slice of life. The visuals of the countryside, paired with the characters’ natural chemistry, gave everything a warm, lived-in feeling—like a memory you could step into.Overall, this was one of the most heartfelt and endearing episodes of the series, effortlessly blending charm, humor, and tenderness while gently setting up the upcoming festival finale with warmth and sincerity. It deepened the bonds between the characters and celebrated friendship, family, and quiet moments of love without leaning on heavy drama or excessive fan service. The countryside atmosphere, with its tranquil beauty and old-fashioned candy shop full of retro games, perfectly captured a sense of innocence and nostalgia. The question now is, how will it end next week?