Like Ore Monogatari? Watch Net-juu no Susume!

• Episodes: 10
• Aired: October 2017 – December 2017

Three Major Similarities Between Ore Monogatari and Net-juu no Susume

1. “Adulting Is Hard!”

Work, school, extracurriculars, chores, etc. Sometimes, we just want to toss out our responsibilities, escape rigid routines, and put in a little “me” time. Is that too much to ask?! Moriko from Recovery of an MMO Junkie is able to commit to her gaming life for quite some time before she gears up for a date, ultimately, putting aside Hayashi, and begins to spend time with living, breathing beings. We also notice this rationale demonstrated by Makoto and his sister, Ai in Ore Monogatari. The siblings have known Takeo ever since they were children, and even at that age, Takeo always showed everyone kindness. Protective, possessive, and always coming to Takeo’s defense, Makoto and Ai would shield their kind-hearted friend at all costs, protecting him from any harm. In the end, Takeo deserves his shot a love and to some extent, the heartache that follows.

2. We All Come In Different Shapes and Sizes

We are finally seeing a diverse range of body shapes and sizes being represented in anime and that is something we truly appreciate. A realistic portrayal of high school students and young adults is increasing in media, changing the way we view body standards. Too small, too large, normal? There aren’t definite labels, but what sets each character apart from the rest are their exceptional qualities and abilities and we are able to observe this in both Recovery of an MMO Junkie and Ore Monogatari.

3. “Presents For Me? But It’s Not Even My Birthday!”

Who can refuse a gift? Especially when it’s given out of the blue! In Recovery of an MMO Junkie, Lily was extremely gracious in helping out Hayashi as Moriko was building her character. Starting a new character in any game is rough because it takes a lot of time, resources, networking, and real money (sometimes) in order to get your character in the rankings. Veteran gamers who can sympathize are pretty awesome to offer up their time and enterprise to novices. This act of kindness makes the gaming community a pleasant one, with the circle of giving and receiving in constant motion. In Ore Monogatari, we witness the act of giving when Rinko bakes delicious pastries for Takeo to taste. Since Rinko enjoys baking, this gesture reveals her efforts and affection towards Takeo, making each bite better than the last.

Like Ore Monogatari? Watch Just Because!

• Episodes: 10+
• Aired: October 2017 - Ongoing

Three Major Similarities Between Ore Monogatari and Just Because

1. “I Have A Confession To Make”

Have you ever known the feeling of keeping a secret you wanted to let out so bad, holding in an immense pressure that’s ready to burst at any second but were sworn to secrecy not to let out a peep? In particular, the most juiciest secrets are the ones that contain romance and crushes. So when it comes to secrets of the heart, it’s best to let your crush know how you feel in person to avoid any confusion or drama. The torturous weight will be lifted off your chest and results could turn out positive. We see this relief present between Haruto and Hazuki from Just Because!, and Rinko and Takeo from Ore Monogatari.

2. “Get With The Times!”

Gone are the days of dial-up internet, big bulky computers and AOL instant messenger. Today’s trendy kids are conversating with IM apps like Line, where you can convey the most inner parts of your soul with a sticker! The modern human is constantly glued to their phone with such apps as Line, swiftly communicating thoughts to anyone. In Just Because!, Eita, Haruto, Hazuki, Mio, and Ena often connect with one another on last minute plans, whether or not any of them have the time to drop by and hang out. Both with advantages and disadvantages, sometimes this instantaneousness can impulse one to react too quickly without thinking. Just make sure not to leave your phone unattended, like Rinko did at Takeo’s house in Ore Monogatari. Otherwise, unintentional glances could become disclosed!

3. “Thanks For The Advice, Pal!”

“Whatever words we utter should be chosen with care for people will hear them and be influenced by them for good or ill.”
– Buddha

Advice, feedback and criticism are difficult to suggest when the one receiving it fails to take in the knowledge and enrichment the message intends to offer. The quote above fully represents the warmth and fondness good friends have for each other, overall wanting the utmost best for their BFF. Haruto and Eita from Just Because! and Takeo and Makoto have friendships that spanned elementary and junior high. The devotion that exists between these friends is unlikely to fade. So when someone you really care about stops to tell you something on a serious note, take heed of their guidance because they only want to help.