English Dub Review: Liar Game “Downsizing Game”
Overview (Spoilers Below):
Leronira explains what this game will entail, and the players begin making their first plans.
Our Take:
It didn’t take Nao long enough to get herself back into the Liar Game Tournament. She could’ve gone back to her normal life with the money she won, but her generosity and concern for Akiyama pulled her right back into the competition. This time, she’s seeking to return to the actual tournament by competing in the Loser’s Revival, which is revealed to be the “Downsizing Game”. Here, players would have to use their M-Tickets to buy items they brought with them, and their L-Tickets to vote for those they want to win. Of course, the player who is downsized is the loser. While it may seem straightforward, similar to the Minority Rule, it’s also pretty stressful, as the anticipation and strategy continue to create psychological tension among competing players. Additionally, the only person standing in Nao’s way of victory is Fuji, who is determined to ensure she loses the game for good by pitting everyone against her.
You would think that Fuji would learn his lesson after the karma he received from Akiyama in the Minority Rule round. Alas, that isn’t the case, as she once again took advantage of the tournament’s concept by lying to Nao’s face about her voting strategy. Not to mention, Fuji’s eagerness to win may have put her close to the edge following her humiliation, especially after what she did to Player 11, whose real name is Miura. I get that lying is the name of the game, with Nao getting the “fool me twice, shame on me” treatment, but I can’t help but feel that Fuji is another asshole who deserves to go broke. “Downsizing Game” switches gears on the tournament’s manipulation concept by highlighting strategy as a key aspect of survival, notably Fuji’s dangerous manipulation tactics. More importantly, it showcases that Nao would have to refuse to let her naivety get the better of her if she wants to help Akiyama and take Fuji down.
