Gag Manga Biyori GO [Season 1 Episode 1]

Gag Manga Biyori GO Season 1 Episode 1: A Surreal Comeback That’s Worth the Wait

After a whopping 15-year hiatus, Gag Manga Biyori is back with a brand-new season, Gag Manga Biyori GO, and let me tell you—it’s just as bizarre, hilarious, and utterly unpredictable as fans remember. Directed by Akitaro Daichi (Fruits Basket, Kodocha) and animated by Studio DEEN, the first episode of this long-awaited revival dives headfirst into the surreal world of creator Kousuke Masuda, where historical figures, anthropomorphic animals, and random gags collide in the most absurd ways possible.

The Premise: What Even Is Happening?

For those unfamiliar with the franchise, Gag Manga Biyori is a sketch comedy anime that thrives on randomness. The show doesn’t follow a traditional plot—instead, it throws a bunch of eccentric characters into bizarre situations, often breaking the fourth wall and defying logic. Episode 1 introduces (or reintroduces) us to the likes of Shotoku Taishi (a historical prince reimagined as a clueless goofball), Matsuo Basho (the famous poet, now a wandering weirdo), and Usami-chan (a rabbit girl with zero chill).

The humor is fast-paced, chaotic, and unapologetically nonsensical. One minute, Shotoku is trying to invent a new religion based on convenience store snacks; the next, Basho is composing haikus about toilet paper. It’s the kind of show where you either laugh uncontrollably or sit there wondering, What did I just watch?

Fan Reactions: Love It or Hate It?

Scouring forums like MyAnimeList, the reactions to Episode 1 are as polarized as the show itself. Some fans are overjoyed, calling it a “glorious return to form” and praising its “unfiltered randomness.” One user wrote, “It’s like the anime version of a fever dream, and I’m here for it.” Others, however, found the humor too disjointed, with one critic saying, “It feels like they threw a bunch of jokes at the wall and kept whatever stuck—except nothing really stuck.”

What’s interesting is how the show’s absurdity seems to be its biggest strength and weakness. Longtime fans appreciate that it hasn’t lost its edge, while newcomers might struggle to find a foothold in its chaotic energy. Still, the consensus is clear: if you’re into surreal, no-holds-barred comedy, Gag Manga Biyori GO delivers.

Animation & Direction: A Nostalgic Yet Fresh Feel

Studio DEEN’s animation is simple but effective, leaning into the show’s sketch-comedy roots with exaggerated expressions and fluid transitions between gags. Akitaro Daichi’s direction keeps the pacing tight, ensuring that no joke overstays its welcome. The art style has a nostalgic early-2000s vibe, but with cleaner lines and brighter colors that give it a modern touch.

Final Verdict: A Must-Watch for Chaos Enthusiasts

Gag Manga Biyori GO isn’t for everyone, but if you’re the type who enjoys anime that doesn’t take itself seriously—like Nichijou or Excel Saga—this is a must-watch. Episode 1 sets the tone for what’s bound to be a wild ride, packed with rapid-fire jokes, bizarre character interactions, and a sense of humor that’s as unpredictable as it is entertaining.

So, grab some popcorn, suspend all expectations, and dive into the madness. Just don’t blame me if you start questioning reality afterward.

Rating: 8/10 (for sheer audacity alone)

What did you think of the episode? Let’s discuss in the comments!