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A good light novel story doesn't mean it would be a good anime. The New Gate is a prime example of this unfortunate reality. They butchered the story so badly that I had to drop it initially and only picked it up again after a couple of months. When I finally finished it, I was left in despair, feeling as though I was watching a mere shadow of the original narrative. It was clear that they were trying to squeeze the story into just 12 episodes, which resulted in many crucial plot points being glossed over or completely ignored.

The pacing was rushed, and character development ... suffered immensely; key relationships and motivations were either omitted or poorly conveyed. It felt as if the studio prioritized flashy action scenes over the intricate storytelling that made the light novel so compelling. This adaptation missed the essence of what made the original work resonate with its audience.

Shame on you, the studio that picked this up. It’s disheartening to see such potential wasted, leaving fans disappointed and longing for the depth and richness of the source material. If you're considering watching this adaptation, I would recommend reading the light novel first to truly appreciate the story's nuances and avoid the frustration that comes with such a lackluster adaptation.

THIS CONTAINS SPOILER;DON'T READ IF YOU DON'T WANT TO GET SPOILED!!!

This manga is like eating a banana split: some enjoy it for the combination of the different elements, while others appreciate it as a full dessert. Hajimete no Gal started off strong with a unique storyline. A virgin (doutei) protagonist is pressured by his friends to confess his feelings to a gyaru in his class. Surprisingly, she accepts his confession on a whim, and the two begin dating. The central focus is on the protagonist's quest to lose his virginity to the gyaru, while she gradually starts to show genuine interest in him.

The series introduces ... multiple arcs, but most feel like filler or playful teasing from the author. The fact that the protagonist's classmates graduate from high school while he remains stuck in the same situation for almost three years feels like a joke. When the high school arc "concluded," as the author put it, fans were upset, because while the protagonist graduated, he was still a virgin.

Post-high school, the story adds new characters, but it loses direction. The protagonist keeps finding himself in advantageous situations without any clear sign of when, or if, he'll ever graduate in the way the story set up.

In my opinion, the manga loses its charm after the high school arc. It becomes frustrating to follow, and it feels like the only resolution will come when the protagonist finally loses his virginity—or worse, if they break up and other heroines swoop in to help him “graduate.” I’d recommend dropping it after high school; the rest is just nonsense.

My rating? originally high 8, but after the high school arc finished, it got lowered to 6.

This manga truly stands out in numerous ways. Personally, I find the character development to be exceptional—kudos to the creators for that! The narrative is so engaging that if I were to visualise it as a graph, it would show a thrilling pattern of ups and downs, which adds to the overall appeal of the story.

The manga features three heroines, each with distinct characteristics and meanings that resonate with me in different ways. Their individuality enriches the story and adds layers to the overall experience. The side characters in this manga play a pivotal role in elevating the story from good to great. Each one ... brings a unique perspective and depth, enriching the main narrative and contributing to the overall themes. Their interactions with the protagonists often give away motivations and emotions, adding sweetness to the plot. These characters not only provide essential support and conflict but also highlight the strengths and vulnerabilities of the main characters, making the story even more engaging and relatable.

While there are a few elements that didn't resonate with me as much, I remind myself that it’s fiction. Sometimes, it's perfectly fine to let our imaginations roam free and explore unconventional ideas.

My rating is 8.9

I decided to pick up this manga because it falls into the 'isekai' genre, which is one of my favorites. The premise initially follows the familiar trope where the main character gets reincarnated into another world and becomes powerful enough but not yet overpowered. However, what really sets this story apart is the way the protagonist evolves. Instead of being the typical righteous hero, the MC starts off with more of an anti-hero vibe. As the plot progresses, you can see how external factors, betrayals, and the harsh realities of the new world push him further into a morally gray area, eventually turning him into ... a semi-villain. His transformation is gradual, and the way it’s handled adds complexity to the character, making his journey all the more compelling.

While there is a sparkle of romance, I wouldn't suggest getting your hopes too high since it remains a secondary element. What really shines here is the amazing artwork. The illustrations are stunning, with a level of detail that makes every scene visually captivating. The story itself is superb, especially when it comes to character development. The growth of the protagonist, particularly his shift from anti-hero to a more villainous figure, adds layers of depth to the narrative. Overall, it's more than just a typical isekai—it’s a visually impressive and thought-provoking story with rich character arcs and a darker edge.

I initially picked this up because I have a serious addiction to 'isekai'-style manga. At first, I didn’t expect much, thinking it would just be another series with an overpowered main character effortlessly defeating everyone, paired with a shallow, predictable plot. However, I couldn't have been more wrong. The storyline turned out to be incredibly engaging, far exceeding my expectations. Each twist and turn drew me in, keeping me hooked with its complexity and depth. On top of that, the artwork is simply breathtaking, with a level of detail and style that enhances the entire reading experience. It’s more than just a typical isekai—it’s a ... masterpiece in both narrative and visuals.