It would be fun to say that episode 6 of Tengoku Daimakyo was a hot springs/beach episode equivalent for the show, but that wouldn’t be fair because this was so much more. This week’s installment of the series showed us just how close Kiruko and Maru have become while steering away from the darker realities of their world that we have been exposed to in the previous episodes. The humor was spot on but we still got some important details about the main storyline.
Kiruko and Maru are developing a true sibling relationship (we’ll ignore how they both treat Kiriko’s body for now). Kiruko is helping Maru navigate his teenage years while trying to keep him safe and encouraging him to work on his strengths. The bear chase in this episode was endearing – we got to see their dynamic, and we got some funny moments complete with beautiful visuals. The off-screen bear chase highlighted just how important good voice acting is – even though we did not see much it was very well conveyed in an entertaining manner.
Maru’s encounter with the future King of Hotels, Totori, was probably the closest thing we will get to actual fanservice in Tengoku Daimakyo anime. Totori was a breath of fresh air. She is headstrong, dedicated, and free – perhaps too much in certain situations. But it seems like she is living her life the way she wants to and in the apocalyptic conditions they are in, this is always a good thing. Meeting her also allowed Maru to realize he can use his Maru-touch on people. Totori was born after the apocalypse so maybe that played a part but there is also a possibility she’s somehow related to the place Maru also originated from.
Speaking of Maru’s origin, the post-credits scene once again delivered. My theory that Tokio and Kona are Maru’s parents is once again looking probable. I keep going back and forth, but this episode confirmed that they are in a relationship – the kind that could result in a baby. Tokio’s nightmare about Asura also showcased a few interesting points. Who is Asura and what is up with the alien-like appearance? What caused their suicide? And is Tokio’s nightmare a sign of what is to come for her now that her footprint has been identified?
Tengoku Daimakyo is proving to be my favorite anime of this season. Each episode leaves me questioning the theories I previously thought of and I really enjoy that whole process. Episodes like this, which offer some lighthearted moments, are very welcome because they stand in contrast with the rest of the story which is turning out to be pretty grim. One more thing I’d like to add: one of my friends pointed out Maru’s jacket. It may be a reference to the game he loves to play or just a way to show off his personal touch on the clothes he chooses to wear but it could also be a message to someone. Or something. It’s also worth noting that the opening sequence has a “game over” screen with “kill” and “continue” options – perhaps something that indicates how to get to Heaven.
Episode 6 of Tengoku Daimakyo is now streaming on Disney+.
© Tengoku Daimakyo Production Committee
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