Is It Wrong to Try to Pick Up Girls in a Dungeon [Season 5 Episode 1 to Episode 15]

Review: Is It Wrong to Try to Pick Up Girls in a Dungeon? Season 5 – A Rollercoaster of Emotions and Chaos

Is It Wrong to Try to Pick Up Girls in a Dungeon? (or DanMachi for short) has always been a fan-favorite for its mix of action, adventure, and harem shenanigans. Season 5, produced by J.C.Staff and directed by Hideki Tachibana, dives headfirst into the “Goddess of Fertility” arc, and boy, does it deliver—though not always in the ways fans expected. With 15 episodes planned, the season has already sparked heated discussions among viewers, especially with its controversial twists and delays.

The Plot: Freya’s Obsession Takes Center Stage

The season kicks off with Bell Cranel, our ever-dense but lovable protagonist, navigating the aftermath of his harrowing dungeon expedition. But things quickly take a turn when Syr, the tavern waitress, makes her feelings for Bell known—only for the story to reveal that Syr is none other than Freya in disguise. Yep, the goddess Freya has been masquerading as a mortal, and her obsession with Bell reaches terrifying new heights.

Freya’s arc is the highlight (and lowlight, depending on who you ask) of this season. She brainwashes the entire city of Orario into believing Bell is part of her Familia, erasing his true identity from everyone’s memories—except for Bell himself, Hestia, and a few others who escape her influence. It’s a dark, almost psychological horror twist that divides fans. Some love the intensity, while others call it an “ass-pull” for giving Freya such an overpowered ability without proper setup.

Fan Reactions: Love It or Hate It?

Scouring forums like MyAnimeList, the reactions are a mixed bag. Here’s what fans are saying:

• The Good:
• “Freya’s arc is finally giving her character depth beyond just being the ‘hot goddess.’ Her desperation is terrifying but fascinating.”
• “Bell’s growth is subtle but noticeable. He’s not just a naive kid anymore—he’s learning to stand his ground.”

• “The animation and fight scenes are top-notch, especially the battle royale in Episode 6.”

• The Bad:

• “Freya’s brainwashing feels cheap. If she could do this all along, why wait until now?”
• “Bell’s ‘chastity shield’ is getting ridiculous. How many girls have to throw themselves at him before he reacts?”
• “The pacing is all over the place. Some episodes drag, while others rush through major reveals.”

One particularly spicy debate revolves around Bell’s romantic indecisiveness. Fans are split: some argue his loyalty to Ais is endearing, while others groan at his inability to notice (or reject) the harem forming around him. The Syr/Freya reveal also sparked theories—like whether Horn (another waitress) is also a disguised goddess. The show loves its twists, but not everyone’s buying them.

Standout Moments

• Episode 3: Bell and Syr’s “kidnapping” date is equal parts hilarious and tense, especially when the Freya Familia crashes their riverboat dinner.
• Episode 5: Freya’s city-wide brainwashing is chilling, especially when even Bell’s closest allies turn against him.
• Episode 7: Ryu’s return and Freya’s offer of a threesome (yes, really) had fans losing their minds.

Production Woes

Unfortunately, the season hasn’t been smooth sailing. Delays pushed Episode 12 into 2025, leaving fans frustrated. Some speculate the studio is struggling with the workload, especially with the intricate animation required for Freya’s arc.

Final Verdict

DanMachi Season 5 is bold, messy, and unapologetically dramatic. It takes risks—some pay off, others fall flat. If you’re here for Bell’s adventures and don’t mind a darker tone, you’ll find plenty to enjoy. But if you’re tired of harem tropes and plot conveniences, this might not be the season for you.

Rating: 7.5/10 – Flawed but fascinating. Here’s hoping the finale sticks the landing!

What do you think of Season 5 so far? Let’s debate in the comments!