Should You Continue Oregairu After Season 1?

After watching all of season 1 and a few episodes of season 2, many viewers find themselves at a decision point. The series, known as Oregairu or My Teen Romantic Comedy SNAFU, involves Hikigaya’s journey and his cynicism, which originally drew you to the series. Many are now questioning whether to continue watching as Hikigaya’s character seems to shift towards a more typical adolescent persona.

Character Development and Cynicism

If you enjoyed Hikigaya’s character and his cynical perspective in season 1, there’s still a lot to explore as the series progresses. In season 2, Hikigaya does undergo some significant development, moving away from his initial cynicism. This transformation may feel like a shift for some, but it’s integral to the overall narrative, as Oregairu delves into the complexities of social relationships and personal growth. The show balances humor and poignant moments, maintaining Hikigaya’s cynicism as a central element throughout.

Fans’ Perspective and Critique

Many fans have voiced their disappointment with how the series has evolved, particularly in season 3, where the story takes a more conventional romantic comedy route. Some argue that the series has strayed from its original premise of exploring the down-to-earth story of a pessimistic character. The name Oregairu, which means “cunning,” was a clever play on words. However, the conclusion may not have done justice to the deeper themes the series aimed to explore.

Character Arc and Loose Ends

Shipping and Audience Demands: Many fans have engaged in shipping, hoping for one of the characters to win the heart of Hachiman. This often leads to a desire for a typical romcom ending, with Hachiman choosing one of the characters in the end. However, the original concept of Oregairu was about Hachiman not choosing anyone, and the resolution felt forced. Character Development vs. Cynicism: Some fans feel that the development of characters like Yuki and Haruno, and the superficial handling of events, detract from the original premise. For example, Haruno’s claim of a codependent relationship and Yuki’s invincible ability to be a machine were ignored in the final season. Loose Ends: There are several unresolved issues, such as Yuki’s emotional state after her confessions, and the overall nature of their relationship. Some feel that the series should have ended with Hachiman acknowledging the complexity of his feelings, rather than rushing to a happy ending.

Decision Time

Ultimately, whether to continue watching Oregairu depends on your preference. If you value character growth and are willing to see how Hikigaya navigates his relationships and personal challenges, it might be worth continuing. However, if you feel strongly that his cynicism is what makes the series enjoyable for you, you might find the changes less appealing. The series’ success in terms of merchandise and fan engagement suggests that it has struck a chord with many, but your individual enjoyment is what matters most.

Key Points to Consider:

The evolution of Hikigaya’s character and its significance to the overall narrative. The handling of shipping and fan expectations. The importance of character development and its impact on the series.

Whichever decision you make, the discussion around Oregairu and its characters remains a rich and engaging topic for fans to explore.