Miss Kobayashi's Dragon Maid: Valentines and Hot Springs! (Please Don't Get Your Hopes Up)

This special OVA, titled Miss Kobayashi's Dragon Maid: Valentines and Hot Springs! (Please Don't Get Your Hopes Up), functions as a delightful interlude set shortly following the conclusion of the main narrative arc of the first season. The episode is structured around two key slice-of-life events: the celebration of Valentine's Day and a subsequent relaxing trip to a traditional hot springs resort. The initial segment focuses heavily on the dragon maid Tohru, whose attempts to manufacture an earnest yet magically enhanced display of affection for her host, Kobayashi, drive the core conflict and comedy. Tohru crafts handmade chocolates intended to contain a love potion, a gesture that Kobayashi immediately recognizes and handles with her characteristic dry pragmatism, leading to a blend of humorous miscommunication and genuine emotional bonding that subtly advances their unique relationship. The narrative also explores how the other members of the fantastical ensemble —including Kanna, Elma, and Lucoa —prepare their own distinctive gifts, reflecting their individual personalities and deepening the sense of community within the household. The setting then transitions dramatically to a serene hot spring retreat organized by Takiya, offering a picturesque backdrop for character interactions outside their urban environment. Here, the focus shifts to playful camaraderie, featuring spirited ping-pong matches and quiet, intimate nighttime conversations that underscore themes of chosen family and mutual trust. Animated with Kyoto Animation’s signature detailed aesthetic and warm color palette, this episode successfully captures the whimsical fantasy and grounded emotional resonance that define the Miss Kobayashi’s Dragon Maid franchise, reinforcing the strong bonds among the human and dragon characters.

This OVA serves as an exemplary demonstration of Kyoto Animation’s mastery of the slice-of-life genre, effectively utilizing the special format to deepen character relationships rather than focusing on plot advancement. The animation quality is consistently outstanding, featuring highly fluid character movements, meticulous background design —particularly noticeable in the picturesque hot springs sequences —and a vibrant color scheme that enhances the overall cozy atmosphere. Character development, while subtle, is effectively reinforced; the central dynamic between Tohru and Kobayashi receives thoughtful attention, showcasing their evolving trust and affection through understated actions and dialogue, successfully avoiding overly sentimental or cliché resolutions. The pacing is deliberately relaxed, mimicking the rhythm of a holiday retreat, which allows ample time for secondary characters like Riko Saikawa and Takiya to contribute meaningful, humorous interactions that never feel disruptive. Voice acting across the board is highly professional; the performances capture the essential personality traits of the diverse cast, from Kobayashi’s reserved exhaustion (voiced by Miyu Matsuki) to Tohru’s enthusiastic devotion (voiced by Yukari Tamura). Thematically, the episode strongly emphasizes the concept of found family and the acceptance of the unconventional. It manages to integrate fantastical elements —like dragon magic —seamlessly into mundane settings, reinforcing the core premise of the series. The episode functions successfully both as a fan service piece and a high-quality standalone narrative vignette.