From 'Takagi-san' Creator: 'When Will Ayumu Make His Move?' Delivers Charming Shogi-Inspired Romance

Dive into the charming world of When Will Ayumu Make His Move? (Sore Demo Ayumu wa Yosetekuru), the latest romantic comedy sensation from Sōichirō Yamamoto, the acclaimed creator of Teasing Master Takagi-san. This series masterfully blends strategic shogi battles with a heartwarming slow-burn romance, offering a refreshing twist on familiar tropes. Yamamoto ingeniously flips the script, featuring a surprisingly direct male protagonist and a delightfully flustered female lead, creating a unique dynamic that sets it apart in the rom-com genre.

The Unique Premise

The narrative centers on Ayumu Tanaka, a determined first-year high school student with a singular objective: to defeat his senior, Urushi Yaotome, in a game of shogi. Driven by his unwavering vow not to confess his feelings until he achieves this victory, Ayumu leaves his kendo club to join the Shogi Club, solely to be closer to Urushi. This simple yet profound premise sets the stage for a captivating dance of wit, strategy, and burgeoning affection, all punctuated by the gentle clack of shogi pieces, building a delightful sense of anticipation for viewers.

Character Dynamics and Humor

Ayumu's character is a study in understated charm; his stoic demeanor and monotone delivery often mask shockingly direct expressions of affection that consistently catch Urushi off guard. These deadpan declarations are a major source of the series' unique humor. Urushi, conversely, embodies the quintessential flustered senpai. Despite her confidence and skill in shogi, she is easily embarrassed by Ayumu’s subtle advances and unwavering attention. Her internal monologues, a humorous mix of exasperation and growing fondness, provide a perfect counterpoint to his calm persistence, reversing the typical teasing dynamic and highlighting Yamamoto's distinctive storytelling.

Shogi as a Backdrop

While shogi provides the backdrop, When Will Ayumu Make His Move? is fundamentally a romantic comedy. The matches serve primarily as a charming obstacle to Ayumu's confession and a metaphor for their evolving relationship. Viewers unfamiliar with shogi will find the rules simplified, ensuring the focus remains squarely on the endearing bond between Ayumu and Urushi. SILVER LINK., the animation studio behind the first season of Teasing Master Takagi-san, excels in adapting Yamamoto's work, beautifully capturing the manga's gentle aesthetic, nuanced emotions, and comedic timing, bringing Urushi's flustered reactions and Ayumu's steadfast determination vividly to life.

Pacing and Appeal

The series thrives on its deliberate, unhurried pacing, allowing viewers to savor each interaction and witness the gradual deepening of feelings. This approach, focusing on small victories and shared moments, is a testament to Yamamoto's ability to sustain interest through consistent, endearing character development and understated humor. The appeal lies in the delightful suspense of the 'will he or won't he' of both the shogi match and the eventual confession.

Conclusion

In conclusion, When Will Ayumu Make His Move? is a highly recommended watch for fans of wholesome, character-driven romantic comedies. It stands as a masterclass in subtle humor and slow-burn romance, elevated by Sōichirō Yamamoto's unique vision and SILVER LINK.'s faithful adaptation, reminding us that the most captivating love stories often unfold in quiet moments of unwavering determination.