Turns out that this anime, which barely had any hype around it, might be among the better series this season.
Summary:
- The Weakest Tamer Began a Journey to Pick Up Trash wasn’t initially hyped, but for many it was a pleasant surprise.
- The strongest part of the series is its incredible production values, which weren’t expected from a new studio and a new director.
- Even outside of that, it’s very wholesome, and you shouldn’t skip it.
The Weakest Tamer Began a Journey to Pick Up Trash (Saijaku Tamer wa Gomi Hiroi no Tabi wo Hajimemashita) was definitely not on anyone’s list of potential hits for the season. A seemingly generic premise combined with a very late premiere meant the anime was practically guaranteed to fly under the radar.
In reality, though, most of those who cared to start the show were positively surprised. The Weakest Tamer is praised for solid direction, great visuals and wholesome atmosphere. Many fans seem to be sleeping on it — and they really shouldn’t, as it might be among the better isekai series this season.
What is it about?
The Weakest Tamer focuses on the journey of Ivy, a young girl who is “starless.” In the world where the number of stars determines your skills, starless are outcasts who are not wanted anywhere. With Ivy being just an innocent girl, it is easy to root for her and wish her success in her struggles.
The isekai part is non-intrusive — although many fans actually wish it played a bigger role. Ivy technically had a past life in the real world, and these memories occasionally come to give her advice. It’s not always useful, of course.
Great production values
One thing that surprised pretty much everyone watching was how well-produced the anime was. The soundtrack has some classic fantasy music vibes, which is much appreciated for a slower paced, wholesome series. The opening and ending are also praised for being a good fit for the anime.
Even more important than the music, however, is how well the anime is made. The animation and directing are great. This was a surprise to pretty much everyone: Studio Massket has never made a full-length TV series before, although they have been given minor assistance roles in many series since 2017.
While Shigeyasu Yamauchi (Casshern Sins, multiple Dragon Ball Z movies) is serving as the chief director, the actual director of the series is Naoki Horiuchi, who has never held a directing position before. With such a great debut, fans hope to see more anime from him.
It’s criminally underwatched
The Weakest Tamer might not have any hype action, but it doesn’t mean it’s not worth watching. The anime is incredibly wholesome, and Ivy is very cute.
More people should watch it, especially if they want an isekai that is not just about escapism. And even if you aren’t an isekai fan, the anime is just a very comfy way to pass time.