Haganai Boku wa Tomodachi ga Sukunai [Episode 0 OVA]

Haganai: Boku wa Tomodachi ga Sukunai – Episode 0 OVA Review

If you’re a fan of quirky, slice-of-life anime with a dash of awkward humor, Haganai: Boku wa Tomodachi ga Sukunai (or Haganai for short) is probably already on your radar. But what about its Episode 0 OVA? This pilot episode, bundled with the limited edition of Light Novel Volume 7, serves as a fun, if slightly chaotic, introduction to the series. Let’s dive into what makes this episode stand out—or stumble—based on what fans are saying.

A Quick Introduction

For those unfamiliar, Haganai follows Kodaka Hasegawa, a transfer student with a delinquent-like appearance (thanks to his blonde hair) but a surprisingly gentle personality. His social life is nonexistent until he stumbles upon Yozora Mikazuki, a loner who spends her lunch breaks talking to an imaginary friend. Together, they form the “Neighbor’s Club,” a group for misfits who struggle to make friends.

The Episode 0 OVA is a prelude to the main series, offering a glimpse into the dynamics of the club members—Yozora, the sharp-tongued strategist; Sena Kashiwazaki, the popular but socially inept gamer; and the eccentric Rika Shiguma, among others.

What Works: The Humor and Chaos

Fans on MyAnimeList and other forums seem to agree that the OVA nails the show’s signature humor. The episode kicks off with a bizarre but hilarious premise: the club members playing a game of “black hotpot” (a variation of the Japanese yaminabe), where they blindly eat mystery ingredients. The result? A mix of disgust, confusion, and absurdity that perfectly captures the show’s tone.

One fan pointed out:

“The black hotpot scene is peak Haganai. It’s gross, ridiculous, and somehow endearing. You either love it or hate it, but it’s unforgettable.”

The OVA also introduces the club’s dynamic in a way that feels organic. Yozora’s deadpan sarcasm clashes with Sena’s tsundere tendencies, while Kodaka plays the straight man to their antics. It’s a formula that works, and the OVA leans into it hard.

What Doesn’t: Pacing and Purpose

While the humor lands, some fans argue that the OVA feels more like a collection of random skits than a cohesive story. Unlike later episodes, which balance comedy with character development, Episode 0 is purely for laughs.

A Reddit user noted:

“It’s fun, but it doesn’t add much to the overall plot. If you’re new to Haganai, you might wonder what the point is. Still, it’s a decent intro to the characters.”

Another common complaint is the lack of depth. The OVA doesn’t explore the emotional undercurrents that make the main series compelling—like Kodaka’s loneliness or Yozora’s insecurities. Instead, it’s a lighthearted romp that prioritizes gags over substance.

Fan Reactions: Love It or Skip It?

The discussions around Episode 0 are split. Some fans adore its chaotic energy, calling it a “must-watch” for the sheer absurdity. Others argue it’s skippable, especially if you’re looking for plot progression.

One MyAnimeList user summed it up:

“If you’re here for the characters and their weird interactions, you’ll enjoy it. If you want story, just jump to the main series.”

Interestingly, the OVA also sparked debates about the series’ ending—or lack thereof. Many fans expressed frustration with how Haganai concluded (or didn’t) in the light novels and anime. Some wished the OVA had set up more foreshadowing, while others were just happy to see the gang together.

Final Verdict: A Fun, Flawed Prelude

Haganai: Episode 0 OVA is a mixed bag. It’s hilarious, chaotic, and a great showcase of the series’ humor, but it lacks the depth and narrative drive of later episodes. If you’re a die-hard fan, it’s worth watching for the laughs. If you’re new to Haganai, you might want to start with the main series and circle back to this later.

Either way, it’s a reminder of why Haganai remains a cult favorite: its characters are weird, flawed, and endlessly entertaining. And isn’t that what anime is all about?

Rating: 7/10 – A fun but non-essential addition to the Haganai universe.

What do you think? Did you love the OVA, or did it leave you scratching your head? Drop your thoughts in the comments!