If for some reason you've not had enough of my articles on Crunchyroll, Otaku USA, or Boss Rush Network, it's time to grab some off the newsstand! The Otaku USA Magazine Winter 2025 issue is now on sale, and I have four contributions in this one. Best of all, they're all for shows I really loved in recent seasons.

My one entry in the review section is Pseudo Harem, a dark horse favorite from recent seasons. What could have been a fanservice/wish-fulfillment series is actually both an adorable rom-com and a showcase of Saori Hayami's amazing voice acting ability.

Speaking of shows I wasn't expecting to love, my first feature is on Makeine: Too Many Losing Heroines! This coming-of-age series follows a light novel loving boy and three real-life "losing heroines": the third point of the love triangle who doesn't get the guy. In my feature, I talk about how well this series explores what actually happens to these seemingly disposable characters.

Next is a feature on my fave of the season: No Longer Allowed in Another World. This "anti-isekai" reincarnates legendary author Osamu Dazai in a fantasy world where other isekai heroes have turned their cheat powers to evil. It's a great look at what (much of) the isekai genre has become, why it's become that way, and what it could be. Also, I get to talk about classic literature, so you know I'm happy.

Finally, at least for me, is a review of Dahlia in Bloom: Crafting a Fresh Start with Magical Tools. In terms of isekai, my tastes tend to run toward "protagonist just wants to have a nice time" stories and "reincarnated as the villainess" stories (which have some overlap, admittedly). Dahlia in Bloom falls into the former category, but there are also some really lovely themes of being true to yourself and receiving appreciation for your work.

The new issue is on newsstands now. And if you want more articles like these on a regular basis, keep an eye on the Otaku USA website!