Gimai Seikatsu

Don't judge a book by its cover, or in this case, don't judge an anime by its title.

The title of this anime can be very misleading to modern anime watchers because, let's be honest, when was the last time you saw an anime with "sister" or "stepsister" in its title that wasn't about a brother trying to fuck his sister, or vice versa? The same goes for me, and boy oh boy, was I surprised.

Right off the bat, one of the first things I noticed was how calm and serene the atmosphere in this anime is. No yelling, no pumpy music, just two characters monologuing ... with a melancholic background song. It really threw me off guard, especially when I went in expecting an Eromanga Sensei-type of story.

They also portray the whole stepsibling situation in a grounded and quite realistic way. None of them suddenly fall in love with each other and gushing genital juices all over but at the same time, they don't actively try to kill each other either. Their interaction is rather awkward, short, and very minimalistic, to say the least cause let's be honest, if you hypothetically got a stepsister in a very sudden way, and she happened to be your age and in the same class as you, you wouldn't be happy or sad but either confused or just "Oh... cool, I guess?",cause when you live your life used to being alone and suddenly you're not alone anymore, you can't just instantly adapt to it. It takes time, sometimes even more than you think.

Another refreshing part is the fact that their parents are actually... THERE. They're not going overseas to work for the whole anime or suddenly dying in a freak accident like in some anime. They’re pretty much normal people. None of them actively try to hook up their children with each other, and none of them act like manbabies. They actually feel like adults. Even better, they contribute to the story instead of just being plot devices or simple fanservice for hag lovers.

As for the animation, I can't say much. It's decent, or better put, average. Nothing special, but it could be better.

The music, on the other hand, is amazing. The scoring and background music are used effectively to emphasize the calming tone of the anime, and the OP song is amazing. Fhána never fails to make an amazing anime song; they just can't fail. Even in this anime, they ate and licked the plate clean.

Overall, if you are into a slow-burn romance with subtle conflict and narrative and dialogue-driven anime, this is a must-watch.

Ah yes, an anime called "Days with my Stepsister" accompanied by the infamous Romance tag. What could possibly go wrong? Let's see if my predictions for this dumpster fire will be correct as usual.
First, we'll have the socially awkward and generally introverted MC, denser than a black hole, with nothing going for him besides being a nice guy! Actually no. He's just a normal teenager with normal teenager issues. Okay... then definitely we'll have the Tsundere or Gyaru or maybe even the rarer Kuudere type stepsister that instantly falls in love with the MC and has no personality of her own! Nope. She's also pretty ... normal and doesn't fit any of the common female character traits. I might be 0 for 2 but I won't be 0 for 3. Surely (fingers crossed) the plot is filled with cliches and weird romance tropes that we get all the time, for instance: the boring supporting cast that adds nothing of value to the plot or that one scene where the girl blushes because the MC is super nice or even the "hyaaa ecchi *slap*"scene in the shower. Nothing. Literally, there isn't even a hint that any of this is going to happen. 

The short paragraph you hopefully read above is a recollection of my thoughts after watching the first 3 episodes of Gimai Seikatsu aka Days with my Stepsister. As you can see, I was deeply confused and pleasantly surprised. The best way to summarize this show is simple, normal with a focus on realism. It covers the day to day life of two high school students, practically strangers to one another, who coincidentally became stepsiblings after their parents remarried. They slowly begin to grow closer to each other, not necessarily romantically as one would guess, but as regular people living in the same space. They have their problems, conflicts, gradually revealing background stories, maybe even some past trauma just like any person would have. The whole plot is built purely on this "realism." That's why there's no tropes to be found. Sure, the "stepsister suddenly moves in" plot has been done countless times, but Days with my Stepsister honestly does it the best. It's a story that takes this "tropy" situation and makes it feel real on a personal level.

As for the production quality, there aren't any big names in the voice acting cast but the atmosphere they created (in combination with the OSTs) fits the story well. Animation wise, Studio Deen has never disappointed anyone in terms of  quality and they seem to be keeping things fairly consistent. Then there's the one and only fhana doing the opening which, as usual, was a banger (though yes I am in fact biased for her music). Overall, nothing stood out as "bad." Production wise everything was mostly average to above average. However, If you're looking for the next animation masterclass it is better to quit while you're ahead because this isn't it.

TL;DR - Personally I really enjoyed watching the first few episodes of Days with my stepsister and would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a character drama with a realistic and serious side to it. There hasn't too much focus on the romance yet but that will likely change later on. All in all, I picked this up expecting to watch one episode, count the tropes, boost my fragile ego and leave without looking back. Thankfully though I sticked around long enough to prove myself wrong. I hope you make the same choice!

Thank you very much for reading.

This anime is realistic. Maybe a bit too realistic. The pacing, the camera angles, the dialogues, everything about it is non-standard. Typically, romance anime is just a full on try not to blush challenge featuring the main cast, but this anime casts that aside and delves indirectly deep into the psychological statuses of the characters. From the way its going right now, I don’t even know if it’s actually a romance anime or if its a psychological anime that expresses the irl troupes of just suddenly having a step brother/sister. The main theme these past episodes is that they are “strangers”, but they grow closer ... to feel somewhat related, and yet so distant. The pacing in this is so slow, but steady; and that’s probably the main reason that im calling it the most realistic anime i’ve watched.

The art and animation in this anime beats 99% of all the other anime in this genre out of the water. The lighting, the fluidity of motion; everything about it is triple A.

As for all i’ve said, i’ve marked this as mixed feelings as I wouldn’t be recommending this to everyone that’s asking for a romance anime. Usually, when people ask for romance anime, they would want something that would make them hyper blush or cringe out of excitement. This anime is not that, in fact it’s kinda giving the opposite. The first few episodes kind of give the feeling of black and white. It gives off a vibe of uncertainty, but at the same tine the anime portrays happiness some sides. The “comedy” in this anime is almost non-existent; there is almost nothing to smile about in this anime. However, this is still an enjoyable watch as it’s a breath of fresh air from all the romcoms i’ve watched so far.

I feel that I harbored thoughts that were similar to most people that read the title of this anime. I was a bit apprehensive when considering giving it a chance due to the typical brother/sister romantic trope that we see time and time again. Gimai Seikatsu seems to have a different feel about it.

There is an overall serious tone throughout the story. I feel that the sense of seriousness coupled with the lack of lightheartedness and humor allows the viewer to appreciate the characters on a deeper level and makes for an interesting and thought-provoking story. This tone also provides a more mature feel ... to the anime, so this may not be for everyone.

The creativity that was invested in Gimai Seikatsu is also very apparent. The color choice in certain situations of the story as well as the fact that each frame looks like it takes place on a canvas is very interesting and adds to the uniqueness of the anime. I enjoy the melancholic/ambient choice of music that can be heard throughout each episode. I also feel that the lack of music that sometimes accompanies dialogue between the main characters is an aspect that should be acknowledged as it places more emphasis on these conversations.

The main characters both seem to be very well-written. Each episode provides the POV of both Saki and Yuuta, which allows us to gain a better understanding of their logic/morality. The anime also seems to focus mostly on the relationship between the main characters, so we seldom see interactions between other characters.

This was honestly a pleasant surprise.

Do NOT let the title fool you. Don't let this become a hidden gem!

What shocked me the most about this anime is the presentation; very subdued, atmospheric, full of abstract and emotive imagery. The music is absolutely gorgeous and the sound design is incredibly intimate. Personally, I think it's brave to direct a show to be so slow-burning and spacious, I think it might put a lot of people off. But for me, this somber and ambient energy is really quite stirring.

The drama is very simple, the circumstances are very simple, the stakes are very low. It's essentially two strangers, who are slightly broken ... and cold, becoming closer. However, the mature writing and excellent directing makes it compelling, somehow. I'm very excited to see it continue.

8/10

Considering the slop that usually comes with any anime that even includes the word "step" in the title, a viewer would usually be apprehensive towards even watching an episode of this anime. Likely a garbage, slice of life, co-habitation, rom-com (with a fair amount of fanservice) as two step-siblings journey together, exploring the 'spark' of romance in their highly muddled, and confusing relationship (which is borderline incest).

But please, please, please, give this a chance.

This is not the average romance, with tropes and gimmicks. This is a fresh, realistic approach on the step-sibling 'genre'. The main characters actually feel real. Instead of male leads with density ... levels about as equal as the sun's core, and female leads as interesting as drywall; we have teenagers who realistically express themselves, and interact with each other emotionally without it feeling like an exchange between elementary school children. The romance between the characters, also being based in reality, proves that it doesn't have to be like two emotionally unintelligent people that are trying not to tread around spikes near each other.

This anime is slow. Most shots are still and even then very slow at the most. The length of most shots linger for longer than most slice of life, and it takes it at a pace that is uncommon in most slice of life. There will be times where there will be silence, except for perhaps some background noise and an OST in the back. The OST itself being mostly calming and sometimes slightly upbeat in various interactions. It takes an unconventional, though seen before, approach to slice of life and it doesn't feel awkward or strange.

This anime could be a diamond in the rough, and it has a chance of being one of the best anime of this season.

A different romance, finally something different away from the usual with a deep, slow and steady narrative.

Honestly given the direction and the way the show progresses I had high expectations on it, it seems to be one of those shows that speak for themselves and you have to give them time to get involved in their story, the main characters are the best of the show obviously and with a realistic perspective they manage to communicate and form a relationship first as step-siblings, although the idea may seem strange, after the last episode and the way they delve into the protagonists, you come to the ... conclusion that they are very similar people and gradually you can feel that genuine bond, possibly raise my score but I have to say that I was quite impressed and exceeded my expectations with only 3 episodes, I will have to see how it will develop from now on and how the protagonists will overcome their adversities, I must say that the direction of the program is majestic although I would like your animation or character design was better, even so it is very enjoyable thanks to being one of those works that depend more on its narrative and characters than its animation itself, very surprised with the program and I hope it continues to improve.

I considered giving it a 9 but I think it's too early, if things continue as well as they have so far I will raise my rating, highly recommended if you want a different romance with a realistic perspective and narrative that promises to be interesting and deep.

No , there are people there in this world , this is how their life is being , taking everything in their life step by step , slowly
yeah , it's realistic for me and for the people like me and for the people who just take everything in their life slowly because they don't want to be failures , they fear about sad , they care about everything so they take slow steps to make sure , everything is going to be okay , just okay , for you isn't realistic . so your life is just a ... roller coaster
and advise , don't underestimate other life's people, there are people there feel like this , lives like this , fear like this , feel like this , talk like this, so don't underestimate this
if you want to watch it or not. it's your choice
but I promise you. you will lose new experience if you didn't watch this anime , mark my word
This anime , realistic, calm , drama , romantic, story I have ever read or see in animation show , yeah it's the dark horse of this season , with great atmosphere, direction, music, animation , and drawing
Great job studio Dean in this show, we appreciate you , and we encourage you to continue this perfection in this show , with another seasons too for this show , with the same music studio citoca, great job too on the music, best beginning and ending music this season, And best soundtracks too
, the show is great , and I love the slow building in their sequence relationship
Sometimes love comes from first sight, and other times love is taking time to progress
This show and this story are taking the second option. So where is no realistic? If you didn't see , don't rush and judge before you see , I don't speak about the show only , I'm speaking in general about life .
My rating for Days with my step sister
is 10/10

Gimai Seikatsu.

I hesitated to watch this, as the typical step-sister romance trope is overplayed.

However, the first thing that struck me—and I don't think I've mentioned this before in a review—is that the music and sound design are phenomenal, and the art direction is exceptionally well done. It has been a long time since I really noticed the audio setting tones for conversations and just immersing all your senses into a show.

The premise revolves around two people brought together by their parents' marriage, forced to live together. Both are socially reserved and have goals, such as striving for self-sufficiency, but they find themselves drawn ... to each other.

This is a serious toned anime that digs deep into their thoughts and motivations, with a strong focus on character development,

If you want a slapstick comedy, this is not for you, but if you want a romance that is a little different from the rest, you will enjoy this one.

It's the dark horse anime of the season :P

Anime mid-season update:

This has to be one of my favorite animes this season. They avoid the Ecchi fan service or the typical troupes and really hit home on an emotional, character-building series, and I LOVE IT.

Gimai Seikatsu offers a fresh perspective on the relationship between step-siblings Yuta and Saki, who are not blood-related. Unlike typical anime that rely on upbeat, conventional tropes, this series employs artistic techniques often seen in art films.

The use of meticulous cinematography, wide shots, and panning shots effectively captures the realistic and grounded nature of human interactions within a household. It avoids fan service, respecting the intelligence of viewers who appreciate this storytelling style.

The plot seamlessly intertwines with slice-of-life scenarios, exploring the psychological dynamics between the protagonists as they navigate their new relationship. This unique and thoughtful approach to a rom-com may not appeal ... to everyone, but for those seeking a distinctive experience amidst the usual rom-com fare, Gimai Seikatsu is a must-watch.

Finally a anime that offers realist characters. (Don’t be turned of by the title)

The characters are honesty extremely refreshing when compared to every romance anime ever as they are not hyperactive and most importantly feel human, there are some annoying side characters but the main characters are spotless in my opinion.

Characters 9/10

Like the characters the story doesn’t move at a million miles and hour and feels as if it could be real I will admit it is more of a slice of life with romance elements , this should however not be a turn of as it is not boring as some slice of ... life anime tend to be.

Story 9/10

The art style compliments this anime perfectly as it’s very soft and not flashy, which helps with the calm environment of the anime.

Art 9/10

Overall this anime is an amazing anime with room for improvement that stands out of all current anime by finally offering some uniqueness even if it’s just in small places it’s a good start and something I hope spreads into the larger anime industry as everything just feels very bland at the moment.

Most relaxing show I ever watched. I already read the LN which also is a great read (still ongoing) and wasnt hoping for much since the LN is 90% inner monolog and I couldnt imagine how to imply this into a Anime. While the animation is good enough the voice acting (at least of the two leads) and music is excellent and makes a zen like atmosphere. Overall maybe more a 9 as the score but the average rating is so bad that I want to boost the show a bit. Its just sad that so many trash isekais have a higher rating than this ... show. A 7.4 rating is just unfair for such a great show.

Indeed, at first I wasn't particularly interested in step-sibling stories, but the story presented here is really good and captivating. It has become one of those anime that soothes weary days, providing a sense of calmness through its atmosphere and dialogue. The interactions between characters are simple yet meaningful, making this anime one that I've fallen in love with, all the characters included. The dynamics between them feel very realistic in everyday life; each character has their own charm, they are not selfish towards each other but instead help one another.

This anime is indeed different from others the camera angles, slightly muted colors, facial expressions, ... and tones of speech all make it special for me. I'm not sure why, but I like it. Despite its flaws, among the many anime I've watched, I have a strong liking for this one.

In essence, this anime succeeds in bringing back happiness and tranquility to those who are weary of the world, providing the solitude needed by people who are already tired, like myself.

This show I get Hyouka vibes mixed with Bunny Senpai with a sprinkle of what's been shoved in every season as of late (Gyaru). BUT the characters in the story enforce every episode that it's the show that you think you wanted when you picked it up but it's always reminding you that at the same time it's not really the show that you think it is? The MC was told to act more casual around his sister but then he still acts like a suttering fool while sometimes acting like Sakuta from Bunny senpai when he's given the chance to display his brotherly wisdom. ... But when he's around his college senpai he acts like Houtarou from Hyouka. And the sister dresses like a Gyaru but she's totally not a Gyaru. Like you want a typical incest story but NO dear watcher, a step sister is not actually what you think it is!! But something happens, which is what you're here for..but not really!

Like, what even is this? I hate anime that tries to fix itself like this with these annoying character types. The mellowed out scenes with long pauses are nice and enjoyable to watch. I'm just saying, I want this anime to be more direct. If it's an incest story don't beat around the bush.

Whenever a show starts with the stepsister, it’s kind of expected that that will be a siscon ultimately. But in this case, “Days with my stepsister,” from judging from the premise or the character's point of view about their surroundings, I thought this might be something new, like there won't be any siscon, which there isn’t. 

I personally avoid this kind of (siscon-related) anime because of its very genre and traumatic experience of Domestic Girlfriend, yet I started this show; the reason was already mentioned. Generic characters, plots, but only I expected that they don’t do any siscon what they pretend really well. From the starting, ... the female doesn’t see any kind of affection toward the male lead, and in episode 3, when they got their viewers, it simply turned out to be siscon promax. Degenerating as hell. 

Finally in the mal, people are questioning that if it’s a flop? I mean, to be honest, is there anything to flop? First of all, it’s a normal anime that has had any high hopes whatsoever. Secondly, it’s not made to be hit. I don’t know what people want from a degenerating siscon. 

About animation and production, it’s unique and satisfying if Studio Deen used this in other shows; I hope they would get a good response out of that. Also, Studio Deen completed the production before the half, which is appreciating where other studios keep delaying and postponing a show. 

Overall, some praises and etc., this is the most pretentious siscon, to be honest. 

What happens when you take Domestic Girlfriend but take out all of its plot, character interactions and spice and proceed to give it to AI to stretch and fluff it to an actual show? You get Gimai Seikatsu.

A relatively promising anime with an interesting premise and interesting character chemistry but quickly it all fades away as you realize that practically nothing happens. Episodes are full of meaningless dialogue and are fluffed up by random things that are stretched over courses of entire episodes and do nothing to move the non existent plot forward.

I wish I had more to write about it, but I just can't.

Dropped, ... 3/10

If you ever are suffering of insomnia and sleepless nights, boy do I have an anime for you.

Me going into this anime ignoring the strange title and hoping to be proven wrong about the low expectations I've set, would've never expected the slumberfest awaiting me. I'm truly perplexed as to how I've ended up disappointed while not expecting more than a far below average show.

This is truly one of the most boring pieces of media I've ever come across. Nothing really interesting happens in the first 3 episodes of the show.

It feels like they could've put the plot of the entire show in ... a 15 minute short film but had to make some filler shit up to reach the required episode count. You will see the main character of this show, Yuta Asamura and Saki Ayase, mainly just talking about useless stuff to the interest of nobody and having you wait for something interesting to happen.
I can't believe that I wasted over one precious hour of my life just to watch this lullaby of an anime.

Truly an anime deserving of an abhorrent rating. While it may not be a bad anime in terms of animation and the story may pick up one day, it surely is too boring for me to handle. That is why I've chosen to write my first ever review and give this anime a 2/10.
I really do believe that this is a deserving rating, even if it may be contrary to the rating on MAL and the perception of the average reviewer.

The best I can do for you, dear reader, is to, from the bottom of my heart, ask you to not watch this show, if you value your own time. You are truly better off watching something else, for the anime empire has much, much better shows for you to see, especially since the romance category is stacked to the brim with great series.
That concludes my first review.

Thanks for reading.

as long as i watch anime i have never seen worse and bigger garbage anime,


anime doesnt progress, i went to toilet and didnt even have to turn back anime since it was still the same scene. they took 18 chapter manga which is aired 1 chapter per half of year and try to make a 'aesthetic' peaceful vibe anime, they draw one image and animate it for 1 min with many editing tricks to extend screen time lmao

THEY CONFUSE PEOPLE WITH FAKE BRAND NAME 'ITS SO CHILL ANIME' while they struggle to make it 20 min long episode because there is no ... plot for more LOL!?


there are many manga to be aired WITH WAY WAY BIGGER POTENTIAL than 18 chapters that only have beggining of THE STORY... in manga there is no middle of the story, there is only introduction to the world lol?! ALL THIS MANGA WOULD BE PUT IN 3 EPISODES

never seen a BIGGER SLAP for audience like this FAKE AND UNAUTHENTIC ANIME UNDER THE MASK OF 'aesthetic chill out, peaceful vibe romance'

it only shows that anime idustry didnt change at all, they need romace for summer season and sacrificed manga, should wait for 40 episedesat least and make proper anime, they really think people will eat quantity over quality...