Anime

English Dub Review: Gachiakuta “Memories of a Mediocrity”

By David King

November 17, 2025

OverviewZanka reflects on the turning point in his past that brought him to where he is today.Our Take Picking up from the previous episode, this chapter shifts its focus to Zanka, using a hallucinatory dive into his past to explore the insecurities and frustrations that shaped him. His memories trace the journey from a hardworking student of the Nijiku Clan to a trainee constantly overshadowed by Hyo’s natural talent, whose effortless skill forces him to question whether recognition earned through perception rather than substance has any real meaning. Small choices—like selecting a plain, overlooked weapon in hopes of redefining himself and underlining how deeply he struggles with mediocrity, pride, and the fear of being forgotten. These glimpses into his past give context to his present-day desperation, even as his current situation grows more disturbing and surreal.Much of the proceedings pairs Zanka’s earnest, conflicted mindset with the unpredictable presence of Jabber, whose chaotic behavior keeps the tone tense without ever revealing too much. Their dynamic adds contrast to the episode’s emotional core, showing how Zanka’s desire to be seen and understood can clash with the unsettling forces around him. Despite the darker edge, there are thankfully moments of levity and grounded character moments that help make the emotional beats feel natural rather than heavy-handed.Overall, this episode delivers a darker and more introspective detour that deepens the audience’s understanding of Zanka while carefully expanding the story’s broader mysteries, weaving together character study, eerie tension, and subtle world-building into a seamless emotional thread. By highlighting Zanka’s vulnerabilities while also strengthening the cast and keeping the narrative engaging, the story allows viewers to connect with his inner struggles even as the story quietly hints at more dangerous developments ahead.