In the past, there are many shows that feature animal ears (獣耳) such as Dog Days. Kemono Friends takes this to another level with animal girls set in a zoo that is long abandoned by humans. While this show is a sequel for the now defunct mobile game, it became surprisingly popular. With that, does this show live up to the hype? Let’s find out.
The story focuses on an unnamed girl who wakes up in a savanna. Shortly after, a Serval cat girl hunts her down. She reveals that they are in the savanna region in Japari Park. Animal ear girls called friends lives in the park. A mysterious substance called Sandstar creates the friends. Since the girl does not know her name, Serval calls her “Kaban” since the girl is wearing a backpack. With that, they set off on an adventure to find out what kind of friend she is.
I have to admit the story is very light hearted despite the non-existence of humans thanks to the Ceruleans creating a disaster. It’s understandable that aside from Serval and Kaban along with Fennec and the Raccoon, the side characters don’t get much development. It’s because they live in different areas where Kaban and Several visits. Each friend has a unique personality, which make them enjoyable. Of course, the show also shares information on the animals featured in each episode.
For the most part, they come to a new area, meet new friends, hear their problem, and work together to solve them. This is while the girls have fun. Afterwards, Kaban and Serval receive the information they need to move on. While I won’t spoil much, the friends in each episode are very enjoyable to watch. Of course, the side story with Fennec and Racoon looking for Kaban and Serval is also enjoyable.
In short, Kemono Friends is a very enjoyable. Sure, the animation is not the best due to the limited budget. If you look past the short comings, most will find this show very enjoyable to watch for the comedy and heartwarming moments. Hopefully, given the show’s popularity, the second season will receive better animation. ¶
Personally the show’s low-budget animation is part of its charm but if it gets better quality in the sequel then I won’t complain.
The “chillaxed” atmosphere with a dark secret that slowly unraveled was part of what it must watch TV during its broadcast. Everything else you mentioned is also worth keeping in mind. Lastly let’s not forget the yuri power.
True. There is more to a story than just the production values.
I do agree that not knowing the dark secrets with the Ceruleans make the show interesting to watch. Yes, there is also the probably romantic feelings with Kaban and Serval… and probably the racoon and fennec fox.
Exactly.
Don’t forget Lion and Moose along with Beaver and Prairie Dog. There may be others but those four were the most noticeable.
Completely forgot those pairings as well, but yes… there are a lot of notable pairings that I forgot to mention.