REVIEW: ‘Sasaki and Peeps’ Episode 1 — “Real Life and Fantasy”

Sasaki and Peeps Episode 1, “Real Life and Fantasy” delivers a compelling introduction. Based on a Japanese light novel series, the story weaves together elements of fantasy, corporate life, and intrigue. Authored by Buncololi and illustrated by Kantoku, the series began as a web novel. It has now made its way onto multiple platforms, including manga and most recently, an anime adaptation by Silver Link.

The story follows Sasaki (Tomokazu Sugita), a middle-aged office worker in Japan who is worn out by the corporate grind. His life changes after he discovers an unexpected companion in the form of Peeps, an adorable bird with extraordinary magical abilities. As Sasaki unknowingly forms a magical contract with Peeps, their partnership sets the stage for an enchanting adventure filled with spells, swords, and sorcery. Sasaki and Peeps Episode 1 wastes no time in showing Sasaki’s mundane corporate life and his yearning for companionship. Sasaki’s envy of his coworkers who have pets becomes palpable, providing a relatable foundation for the audience.

The introduction of Peeps (Aoi Yūki), along with his monologue urging individuals, especially Sasaki himself, to pursue happiness, adds depth to the story. Like Sasaki, Peeps dreams of returns of more and begins the series’s themes of emphasizing breaking free from societal norms. As Sasaki discovers his newfound ability to channel Peeps’ magical powers, the narrative takes an exciting turn. The incorporation of various spells, from elemental manipulation to healing, adds a layer of discovery and wonder. Sasaki and Peeps’s dynamic is humorous, with Sasaki surprisingly unfazed by the magical revelation.

Sasaki and Peeps Episode 1 continues its balancing act as it juggles the fantasy elements with Sasaki’s corporate life, introducing a coworker’s plan to quit for a new startup and Sasaki’s reluctance due to his newfound magical responsibilities. The duo’s decision to capitalize on Peeps’ teleportation abilities for interdimensional trade injects a refreshing entrepreneurial angle into the storyline. This leads to a transdimensional business venture that showcases the potential for growth and exploration in future episodes as well as Sasaki’s business savivness.

As Sasaki’s life in the magical world improves, the series explores the contrast between his two lives. Introducing other magic wielders and the threat they pose adds a layer of suspense, expanding the narrative. Now, Sasaki looks to balance his life in Japan and in the land of Herz.  This intersection of magical and mundane elements draws parallels to classics like Yu Yu Hakusho and contemporary themes akin to Aggretsuko. Despite the revelations, Sasaki’s reaction and roll with punches mentality makes it easy for the viewers to take the world for what is it is.

The pacing of the Sasaki and Peeps Episode is near perfect. The series utilizes its 48-minute run time effectively to establish characters, magical mechanics, and hints of intrigue. For a non-light novel reader, the anticipation lies in the direction the series will take in terms of genre. The blend of various anime themes, including magical girl, isekai, and fantasy, offers a diverse palette of possibilities. The potential for Sasaki and Peeps seems boundless making the series a no brainer to return to for episode 2.

Ultimately, Sasaki and Peeps Episode 1 impressively introduces audiences to a harmonious blend of everyday life, magic, and entrepreneurial endeavors. With charismatic protagonists in Sasaki and Peeps, the narrative navigates the mundane and the fantastical, creating an engaging story. The episode’s meticulous pacing, charming character dynamics, and hints of larger intrigue promise a diverse and exciting series ahead. The thematic exploration of happiness and societal norms adds depth to the series. The potential for genre exploration keeps the anticipation high for future episodes with the premiere establishing Sasaki and Peeps as a must-watch. The viewers are left looking forward to the boundless possibilities the series holds.

Sasaki and Peeps Episode 1 is out now exclusively on Crunchyroll with new episodes every Friday.