Yurumates 3D

Yurumates 3D is a delightful little comedy about the realities of being a broke young student out in the world for the first time, and learning that what you lack in funds you more than make up for with priceless memories. Of course, the anime doesn't take it that seriously, as they get drunk all the time and try to find increasingly goofy ways to entertain themselves in their shoddy apartment complex called the Maison du Wish. Still, that feeling of togetherness, friendship, and camaraderie is front-and-center throughout, even as they steal each other's food, pull pranks on one another, and dodge responsibilities. Yurume isa newcomer to the building, and despite that, she is pretty much instantly welcomed by Sae, Kumi, and Matsukichi, and it's like they've all been friends forever. That chemistry is instant, and elevates the comedy to another level. Furthermore, the writing is quick, witty, and has an utterly unique sense of humor, putting forward a comedic identity all its own. Even at only a few minutes per episode, the quality of the writing comes through with every single-serving slice-of-life episode. There is much less to say of the art, however. While it's a simple chibi style, it's still a perfect fit for this anime, and shares the snappy, energetic character of the animation. In its own right, such a laid-back and simple style allows it to enhance the comedy via absurdity, and also emphasizes this moe element which is a nice pairing to the comedy. The sound is solid, with fun, characteristic voice work, and music which is carefully applied, only drawing attention to itself where needed. The characters are fantastic, and come out on top as the strongest aspect of this anime. As I said before, their energetic, aimless, sardonic-yet-sincere relationship towards each other feels so potently authentic, like it's speaking to the truth of something everyone's lived through at one time or another, even through its many layers of parody. Everybody in the cast is phenomenal, so it's hard to pick favorites, but my picks would have to be Sae and Matsukichi. Sae feels especially witty and like a driving active force in their conversations, unlike the somewhat airheaded Yurume and the absurdist Kumi. Also, Sae's sister is adorable, and her relationship to her is an added dimension that puts her over the edge. As for Matsukichi, I like him because, as a man, he feels relatable. A young dude living alone, early in his college career, with a living space that's pretty disheveled- that was basically my own life for a time. Plus, his addition adds a unique element to what would otherwise be pretty standard CGDCT faire. Overall, Yurumates is a funny, fast-paced romp about the joys of being young and the silver linings of being broke. It is a nice, lighthearted watch that takes no time at all to finish, even for both seasons, and as a result it is easy for me to recommend.