Acchi Kocchi Episode 10 Thoughts

They told me I could be anything…

1 week hiatus, not that I’m complaining! As we approach the finale of Acchi Kocchi, the identities behind the bag-head and bear are finally revealed; as expected, it was Sakaki and Mayoi. I wasn’t that surprised, but I was shocked that Mayoi was once again without her trademark lab coat. I know she’s a crazy mechanical genius and all, but now she’s taking tips from Iron Man? Her bear costume is amazing, especially when her mask comes out in a slick, robotic fashion. THAT is awesome. Now, for which outfit is scarier – Mayoi Bear or Sakaki’s paper bag mask – is pretty hard to say. I guess I’ll let Kikue-sensei’s blood-curling scream decide.

TSUMIKI IS DISPLEASED.

For a character respected for her mad intelligence, Mayoi forgets that Io and Tsumiki are as impressionable as a box of crackers. Can’t blame her for going after gullible Hime, and Kikue-sensei is like a grown-up version of Hime. But just what is running “like a man” anyways? I pretty sure girls with large busts can’t run like that – THAT’S RIGHT. I NEVER FORGET MY MAMMIES. NOT MAMI’S, NOT AMI’S, NOT MAYOI’S. Right episode 5?

TSUMIKI IS DIS-DISPLEASED.

Part B is Christmas, and things turn a complete 180 from hilarious to sweet and adorable, with a touch of jealously. If the misconception that Io was going out with Hime wasn’t an obvious jab at the shipping fanbase, I don’t know what is. Either way, I imagine they weren’t too pleased. Luckily, all the looming gloom drifted off when Io decided to include Tsumiki and Mayoi for a Christmas Eve Hotch Potch work day! Of course, it’s standard issue for anime to have Santa outfits, although they’re surprisingly moderate compared to the usual kinky stuff. Good thing too, otherwise I’d nosebleed to death. And then there’s Io (that lucky bishounen). Plus, Saki and Kana finally made another appearance!

With all things considered, I loved this Christmas episode; others may say that it’s boring, but isn’t this what Acchi Kocchi’s all about? Cute yet funny moments mended together by endearing slice-of-life elements – from cute Santa outfits to Tsumiki overheating from Io’s charm, I love it all. There is never a dull moment.

Naturally, the best moments are between Io and Tsumiki, although the former’s still as clueless as a brick. He refuses to see that Tsumiki’s feelings are written all over her face. What does it take? Next thing y’know, she’s flying those “I LUV U!!” banners across the sky. Sheesh, it must be frustrating; even with all the silly games and ridiculous moments, Io’s inability to realize Tsumiki’s feelings is still a blow to my heart. But Tsumiki keeps trying, and at least Io’s responding to her inner desires. The way I see it, the two are making progress; above all that tsundere-ness and head-patting, their relationship is working and that’s all that really matters this moment. I really can’t ask for anything more in this sweet romantic-comedy.

Now, if only they stop trolling us with scenes like this!

2 more episodes left, everyone! Will they convey their feelings for each other by the end, or will it be left open-ended? Guess we’ll find out! Thanks for reading!