The Shiunji Family Children [Season 1 Episode 1]

The Shiunji Family Children – Episode 1: A Wild Ride of Drama, Romance, and… Wait, They’re Not Siblings?!

If you thought family dramas couldn’t get any messier, The Shiunji Family Children is here to prove you wrong. The first episode of this anime, produced by Doga Kobo and based on Reiji Miyajima’s manga, dropped in April 2025, and it’s already stirring up a storm. With a mix of romance, comedy, and a bombshell revelation, this show is either a guilty pleasure or a train wreck—depending on who you ask.

The Premise: A Family Like No Other

The Shiunji family is wealthy, talented, and… well, complicated. The seven siblings—Arata, Shion, Banri, Ouka, Minami, Kotono, and Yuzuki—are the talk of their town, each excelling in their own way. But beneath the surface, there’s tension, especially between Arata (the eldest son and heir) and his sisters.

The episode wastes no time throwing us into their chaotic dynamic. From sibling bickering to awkward bath scenes (because, of course), it’s clear this isn’t your average wholesome family anime. And then—boom—the dad drops the ultimate plot twist: none of them are blood-related.

Cue the collective gasp from viewers.

Fan Reactions: Love It or Hate It?

The internet is divided. Some fans are hooked, while others are side-eyeing the premise hard. Here’s what people are saying:

The Good:

• “The chemistry between the siblings is hilarious!” Fans loved the banter, especially Ouka’s bold personality and Kotono’s timid yet heartfelt confession to Arata.
• “The animation is chef’s kiss.” Doga Kobo delivered crisp visuals, and the opening theme by NACHERRY is already a bop.
• “It’s better than Rent-A-Girlfriend… which isn’t saying much, but still!” Some viewers appreciate that Arata isn’t as cringe as Kazuya (thank goodness).

The Bad:

• “Oh great, another ‘we’re not actually siblings’ trope.” Many rolled their eyes at the recycled plot device, calling it lazy writing.
• “Why does Japan love pseudo-incest so much?” Critics argue that the premise is just an excuse for harem shenanigans.
• “The dad is the worst.” Dropping this bombshell on Kotono’s birthday? Cold.

The Ugly (But Entertaining):

• “This is peak trash, and I’m here for it.” Some admitted they’ll keep watching just to see how wild it gets.
• “Rieri’s voice acting as Ouka is carrying this show.” Rie Takahashi’s performance is a highlight.

What Works (And What Doesn’t)

Strengths:

1. Character Dynamics – The siblings’ interactions feel lively, and each has a distinct personality. Ouka’s teasing, Kotono’s shyness, and Arata’s exasperation make for fun chemistry.
2. Production Quality – Doga Kobo’s animation is smooth, and the character designs are eye-catching.
3. Pacing – The episode moves quickly, balancing humor and drama without dragging.

Weaknesses:

1. The ‘Adopted Siblings’ Trope – It’s been done to death, and some viewers are tired of it.
2. Predictability – If you’ve seen Domestic Girlfriend or Rent-A-Girlfriend, you know where this might be heading.
3. Moral Ambiguity – Even if they’re not blood-related, the idea of siblings-turned-love-interests is still… questionable.

Final Verdict: Should You Watch?

If you’re into messy, dramatic romances with a side of absurdity, The Shiunji Family Children might be your next guilty pleasure. It’s not groundbreaking, but it’s entertaining—especially if you enjoy over-the-top family drama.

Rating: 7/10 (for now—let’s see if it crashes and burns or becomes a cult favorite).

What do you think? Are you tuning in for the chaos, or is this a hard pass? Drop your thoughts in the comments!

P.S. That dog in the episode? Best character. No contest. 🐕