Araiguma Calcal-dan [Season 1 Episode 1]

Araiguma Calcal-dan Season 1 Episode 1: A Quirky Spin-Off with a Nostalgic Twist

If you’re a fan of classic anime like Rascal the Raccoon (1977), the 2025 spin-off Araiguma Calcal-dan might just be the quirky, modern twist you didn’t know you needed. Produced by Nippon Animation and directed by Henry Hirakawa, this short anime series introduces us to the lesser-known Tama branch of the Calcal Group—a secret society with ambitions of world domination. But don’t expect dark, brooding villains here; instead, Episode 1 serves up a delightful mix of absurd humor, workplace shenanigans, and a nostalgic nod to its predecessor.

The Premise: A Secret Society… in the Suburbs?

The first episode wastes no time throwing us into the chaotic world of the Calcal Group’s Tama branch. Unlike the high-stakes espionage you might expect from a “world domination” plot, this branch is hilariously mundane. The five employees—each with their own eccentricities—are more concerned with office politics and petty rivalries than global conquest. It’s a refreshing take on the “evil organization” trope, turning it into a workplace comedy with a dash of surrealism.

Fans of Rascal the Raccoon will appreciate the subtle callbacks, but Araiguma Calcal-dan stands on its own with a unique tone. The animation style, designed by Ayano Yoshioka, blends modern aesthetics with a retro charm, while Arisa Okehazama’s music adds a playful, almost whimsical energy to the absurdity unfolding on screen.

What Fans Are Saying

After scouring discussions on MyAnimeList, it’s clear that Episode 1 has sparked a mix of reactions. Here’s what the community is buzzing about:

1. “Nostalgia Meets Absurdity”
   Many viewers praised the show’s ability to balance nostalgia for Rascal the Raccoon with its own brand of humor. One fan noted, “It’s like someone took the wholesome vibes of the original and cranked up the weirdness to 11. I’m here for it.”

2. “The Characters Steal the Show”
   The five employees of the Tama branch are already fan favorites. From the overly serious leader to the slacker who somehow always gets away with doing nothing, their dynamics are a highlight. A commenter joked, “I’ve worked in offices like this. The only difference is these guys think they’re taking over the world.”

3. “Is This Really a Spin-Off?”
   Some fans were initially skeptical about how Araiguma Calcal-dan connects to Rascal the Raccoon. While the link is loose, the absurd premise seems to be winning people over. As one user put it, “I came for the raccoon, stayed for the chaos.”

4. “Short but Sweet”
   As a short-form anime, the episode moves at a brisk pace. Some viewers wished for more depth, but others appreciated the bite-sized format. “It’s the perfect length for a quick laugh,” wrote one fan.

Final Thoughts: A Promising Start

Araiguma Calcal-dan doesn’t take itself too seriously, and that’s its biggest strength. Episode 1 sets up a world that’s equal parts ridiculous and endearing, with characters who feel like they’ve stepped out of a workplace sitcom—if that sitcom was about a secret society failing at world domination. Whether you’re here for the nostalgia, the humor, or just the sheer absurdity, this spin-off is off to a solid start.

If you’re looking for something lighthearted with a twist, give Araiguma Calcal-dan a shot. Just don’t expect the Tama branch to conquer the world anytime soon—unless by accident.

Rating: 7.5/10 – A fun, quirky debut that leaves room to grow.

What did you think of Episode 1? Drop your thoughts in the comments!