With a name like Hi Score Girl, you would expect the main character to be female. Nope. This is the story of Haruo, a schoolboy with no particular talents outside of being a master of the video game arcade. There is literally no other interest in his life, until. . . .
Hi Score Girl is a coming of age story following Haruo from grade school up into high school. One day he finds a schoolmate, Akira, in an arcade. This is sort of odd, considering the silent Akira (she doesn’t talk at all in the series) is not thought of as the type to waste her time playing games. She comes from a wealthy family, makes the best grades, and always seems proper. But her skill is enough for Haruo to see her as a rival. But Akira’s life is not a happy one. Her family has set demanding standards for her, which explains why she usually has such a sad face. Before he realizes it, Haruo befriends Akira.
As the years past, the relationship becomes a triangle. In comes Koharu, a girl with no interests who Haruo introduces to the world of fighting games. Koharu seems a natural, and soon becomes a formable video fighter herself. And she falls in love with the clueless Haruo, who doesn’t even realize his importance in two girls’ lives.
There is some all too obvious product placements in this anime. But that is easily overlooked. As a guy it is hard for me to say this, but this is a sweet story. No word on season two, but season one does end with a romantic cliffhanger.
Good artwork. Good animation. The recreation of older video game screens even has less than clear images when compared to the screens of newer games. It adds a touch of authenticity.
Hi Score Girl is available through Netflix Streaming only. It is worth a looksee.
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