I'll admit I wasn't expecting much more than shiny lights and panty shots out of this series, but what I ended up with was a surprisingly interesting story. Sure, it's cliche but with enough spin to keep things fresh.

What I liked: the storyline was good and the characters progressed throughout the series, animation was excellent as was the dialog and voice acting, the OP and ED were good but not keepers, it had decent amounts of 'romance' that mostly focused on Konoe and Jirou that led to plenty of comedic situations and 'misunderstandings', and it did all this without needing a lot of 'shiny lights'. That's probably what surprised me the most. No this series isn't for kids at all but it really didn't show anything - it was done through implication which to me is even more powerful.

What I didn't like: like other reviewers, I agree the series really ended at episode 12. It felt like episode 13 was tacked on and perhaps they were contractually obligated to give the VA for Nakura more air time or something! In any case,


*potential spoiler*
















the ending was the fairly stereotypical non-conclusive wrap up that leaves you wondering where things will go in the future. But it was positive for the most part so I really can't complain since it's to be expected by now in these short series.

Regardless I was pleasantly surprised that this series held my attention so well... it would be good to see a 2nd series but I somehow don't see that happening.

In any case, Mayo Chiki was a fun watch that leaves you wanting more! (show less)

"Mayo Chiki!" is an enjoyable anime but it wouldn't be my first recommendation.
Fans of the genre should check this one out though. The whole secret thing reminded me a bit of "Nogizaka Haruka no Himitsu".

The story is relatively original.You would expect there to be a lot of gender bender stuff but it doesn't really bother me and is actually pretty funny because you as viewer also know Konoe's secret.
One strong point of this show is that the romance actually develops and the protagonists are honest to themselves and others.

The conversations are good. The personalities aren't completely inovational but they're each unique and often absurd in their own way.

The animations are modern quality.

I think I liked "Mayo Chiki!" better than most romance comedies but I wouldn't say it's one of the best. Watch it if you like this kind of series and don't have any other anime you really want to see. (show less)