Unnamed Memory [Season 1 Episode 01 – 24]

Unnamed Memory Season 1: A Promising Start with a Dash of Controversy

If you’re a fan of fantasy anime with a mix of romance, intrigue, and a sprinkle of moral ambiguity, Unnamed Memory might just be your next binge-worthy obsession. The first episode of this 24-episode season, produced by Studio ENGI, introduces us to a world where curses, witches, and political machinations collide—and it’s already sparking heated discussions among fans.

The Premise: A Curse, a Witch, and a Prince’s Desperation

The story kicks off with Prince Oscar Lyeth Increatos Loz Farsas, who’s been cursed since childhood by the Witch of Silence, rendering him unable to father an heir. After 15 years of failed attempts to break the curse, he turns to Tinasha, the continent’s most powerful witch, who resides in an imposing tower. The catch? Only those who reach the top of her tower are granted a single wish.

The first episode wastes no time throwing us into Oscar’s journey as he scales the tower, facing deadly trials alongside his loyal aide, Lazar. The dynamic between the trio—Oscar, Lazar, and Tinasha—is already shaping up to be the heart of the series.

Fan Reactions: Love, Skepticism, and a Few Raised Eyebrows

The MyAnimeList forums are buzzing with mixed reactions. Some fans are enamored with the chemistry between Oscar and Tinasha, praising the mature tone of their interactions. One user gushed, “Tinasha is adorable, and Oscar’s no-nonsense attitude is refreshing compared to the usual clueless protagonists.”

However, not everyone is sold. A recurring point of contention is Oscar’s approach to convincing Tinasha to help him—specifically, his blunt proposal for her to become his wife and bear his child. Some viewers found this negotiation uncomfortably forceful, with one commenter calling it “a rapey conquering trope.” Others defended it as a product of the medieval fantasy setting, arguing that Oscar’s desperation justifies his abrasive demeanor.

The animation and pacing also drew mixed reviews. While some praised the faithful adaptation of the light novel’s opening scenes, others felt the episode rushed through key moments. “It’s a decent start, but I hope they slow down and flesh out the world-building,” wrote one fan.

Highlights and Potential Pitfalls

• Tinasha’s Charm: The witch’s dual nature—mysterious yet compassionate—has won over many viewers. Her design, with striking two-toned hair, adds to her allure.
• Oscar’s Complexity: Unlike typical fantasy heroes, Oscar is pragmatic and morally gray. Whether this makes him compelling or off-putting seems to depend on personal taste.
• The Magic System: The lore surrounding curses and blessings hints at deeper mysteries, leaving fans eager for more.

On the flip side, some worry that the series might fall into predictable fantasy tropes or mishandle its darker themes. As one skeptic put it, “If the next few episodes don’t add depth, I’m dropping this faster than Lazar fell off that tower.”

Final Verdict: Worth the Watch?

Unnamed Memory has all the ingredients of a standout fantasy anime: a unique premise, strong leads, and enough intrigue to keep viewers hooked. While the first episode isn’t flawless, it’s a solid foundation for what could be a memorable series—assuming it navigates its controversial elements with care.

For now, I’m cautiously optimistic. If you’re into mature fantasy with a side of romantic tension, give it a shot. Just be prepared for some heated debates in the comment sections along the way.

Rating: 7.5/10 (for now—let’s see where the tower leads us).