Kokoro Connect Episodes

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Availability Information. Read the original Kokoro Connect manga, available from Seven Seas Entertainment! About the Show. Five members of the school culture club - Taichi Yaegashi, Iori Nagase.

Kokoro Connect
ココロコネクト
(Kokoro Konekuto)
GenreRomantic comedy,[1]supernatural[2]
Light novel
Written bySadanatsu Anda
Illustrated byShiromizakana
Published byEnterbrain
English publisher
DemographicMale
ImprintFamitsu Bunko
Original runJanuary 30, 2010September 30, 2013
Volumes11 (List of volumes)
Manga
Written bySadanatsu Anda
Illustrated byCuteg
Published byEnterbrain
English publisher
DemographicSeinen
MagazineFamitsu Comic Clear
Original runOctober 22, 2010August 23, 2013
Volumes5
Anime television series
Directed byShin Ōnuma
Shin'ya Kawatsura
Produced byMasako Takayama
Takahiro Yamanaka
Written byFumihiko Shimo
Music byYasuhiro Misawa
StudioSilver Link
Licensed by
Hanabee
Original networkTokyo MX, Tvk, Chiba TV, TV Saitama, MBS, AT-X, BS11
Original run July 8, 2012 December 30, 2012
Episodes17 (List of episodes)
Manga
Kokoro Connect On Air
Written bySadanatsu Anda
Illustrated byNa!
Published byKadokawa Shoten
DemographicShōnen
MagazineNyantype
Original runAugust 2012April 2013
Volumes1
Game
Kokoro Connect Yochi Random
DeveloperBanpresto
PublisherNamco Bandai Games
GenreVisual novel
PlatformPlayStation Portable
ReleasedNovember 22, 2012

Kokoro Connect (ココロコネクトKokoro Konekuto, lit., 'Hearts Connect') is a Japanese light novel series written by Sadanatsu Anda, with illustrations by Shiromizakana. The series includes 11 volumes published by Enterbrain between January 2010 and March 2013. Two manga adaptations have been published by Enterbrain and Kadokawa Shoten. A 13-episode anime adaptation directed by Shin'ya Kawatsura, written by Fumihiko Shimo, and produced by Silver Link aired in Japan between July and September 2012. Four additional episodes aired on December 30, 2012.

Connect
  • 2Characters
  • 3Media
    • 3.4Anime

Plot[edit]

The story involves five high school students—Taichi, Iori, Himeko, Yoshifumi, and Yui—who are all members of the Student Cultural Research Club. One day, they begin experiencing a phenomenon in which they randomly swap bodies amongst themselves. As these five friends face many different phenomena at the whims of a mysterious being known as 'Heartseed', their friendship is put to the ultimate test.

Characters[edit]

Main characters[edit]

Taichi Yaegashi (八重樫 太一Yaegashi Taichi)
Voiced by: Takahiro Mizushima (Japanese); Greg Ayres (English)
Taichi is the main protagonist and a big professional wrestling fan. He and four others formed the cultural club because their school did not have the club they wanted to join. He is generally selfless and will usually try to help others in need. He confesses his love to Iori in the Hito Random arc, however he gets rejected since it was believed she was going to 'die.' They do start a relationship but break up very shortly after because Iori believed Taichi did not know the real 'her'. During the events of Michi Random, his feelings began to change and he confesses to Himeko by the end of the series.
Iori Nagase (永瀬 伊織Nagase Iori)
Voiced by: Aki Toyosaki (Japanese); Monica Rial (English)
Iori is the easy going president of the cultural club. She lives alone with her mother who is seldom at home. Having previously had a violent stepfather, she had learned to alter her personality to fit the expectations of others to the point where she is unsure who she was originally supposed to be. She is in love with Taichi, but decides to postpone their relationship until the phenomena was over. In Kizu Random, she finds out that Himeko has feelings for Taichi, too; Iori confronts her and later encourages her to confess to him. By the end of the Kako Random arc, she starts to question whether or not she has feelings for Taichi and if people really know the real her; throughout the course of the series, their feelings toward each other change back into friendship and they do not date again, though they remain happy that they fell in love with each other. She is controlled several times by Heartseed when a phenomenon is about to end.
Himeko Inaba (稲葉 姫子Inaba Himeko)
Voiced by: Miyuki Sawashiro (Japanese); Luci Christian (English)
Himeko is the vice president of the cultural club, who has a contrasting personality with Iori. She often reacts violently to Taichi or Yoshifumi's jokes, and is nicknamed 'Inaban' by Iori. She was a computer club member but quit after having an argument with the president of that club, and then joined the cultural club. She is generally distrustful of others and worries a lot, even more so when they begin swapping bodies. Between them, she is the most calm and rational when dealing with unexpected situations. During Kizu Random, Heartseed confronts her in coming to the realization that she has feelings for Taichi when she was pretending she did not know. She confesses to him after the class trip by the encouragement of Iori, declaring that she would make him fall for her even if he was in love with Iori. Over the course of the series, she gets more and more attached to the group, especially Taichi, and softens her sharp and rational personality. In the end of the Michi Random arc, she starts dating Taichi and at the end of the light novels, they are still a couple.
Yui Kiriyama (桐山 唯Kiriyama Yui)
Voiced by: Hisako Kanemoto (Japanese); Emily Neves (English)
Yui is a close friend of Himeko, who initially applied to be a member of the Fancy Club before finding out that it was defunct, joining the cultural club as a last resort. She is skilled in karate but developed an extreme androphobia after she was almost raped in junior high school. She starts having a different opinion of boys after Taichi helps her, and as the series progresses, she grows to trust him and Yoshifumi as they help her combat her greatest fears. She has rejected Yoshifumi numerous times, but she later admits that she is just not yet ready to have a relationship. She overcomes her androphobia after Yoshifumi reaffirms his love for her, and the two start dating near the end of the series.
Yoshifumi Aoki (青木 義文Aoki Yoshifumi)
Voiced by: Takuma Terashima (Japanese); Clint Bickham (English)
Yoshifumi is Taichi's best friend with whom he often shares adult videos with. His perverted attitude led him to believe that there was a real 'Player's Club' at the school, dedicated to taking lewd photos of the school's female population. While having a non-serious attitude, he loves Yui and does not hesitate to show it seriously. As a kid, he vowed to live life to the fullest after a student he knew died; however, this also leads to difficulties in communicating with others as he isolated himself for a long time after. Throughout the series, his communication improves as he opens up more and more to Yui. He is considered as the weakest of the five by Heartseed, but generally has the clearest head on his shoulders of any member of the group; this, however, also causes him to overreact and make foolish mistakes while trying too hard to help people.
Chihiro Uwa (宇和 千尋Uwa Chihiro)
Voiced by: Toshiyuki Toyonaga
Chihiro is one of two freshmen that joins the cultural club. He was given a power by Heartseed called Illusory Projection, which allows him to transform into anyone by having the same physical traits of the person including their scent and voice.
Shino Enjōji (円城寺 紫乃Enjōji Shino)
Voiced by: Nao Tōyama
Shino is one of two freshmen that joins the cultural club. She is in love with Chihiro.
Heartseed (ふうせんかずらFūsen Kazura)
A supernatural being who is the cause of the phenomena surrounding the cultural club. It communicates with the group by possessing other humans, most often Mr. Gotō, and often speaks in a tired monotone voice. Its name comes from the balloon plant, whose seeds have heart-shaped patterns. There are actually two Heartseeds, the first who refers to itself with 'boku' while another who uses 'watashi', which possibly means that the first is a male and second is a female.

Yamaboshi High School[edit]

Maiko Fujishima (藤島 麻衣子Fujishima Maiko)
Voiced by: Shizuka Itō (Japanese); Carli Mosier (English)
Class 1-3's representative who has romantic feelings for Iori. She considers Taichi a rival but will occasionally support him.
Ryūzen Gotō (後藤 龍善Gotō Ryūzen)
Voiced by: Keiji Fujiwara (Japanese); David Matranga (English)
Class 1-3's homeroom teacher and cultural club advisor, who is often possessed by Heartseed. He also moderates the jazz club. He occasionally gives advice to the club in the form of moral teaching.
Shingo Watase (渡瀬 伸吾Watase Shingo)
Voiced by: Yūki Ono (Japanese); Connor Leach (English)
Taichi, Iori, and Himeko's classmate. He has a crush on Maiko.
Shōto Shiroyama (城山 翔斗Shiroyama Shōto)
Voiced by: Mitsuhiro Ichiki (Japanese); Johnny De La Cerda (English)
Taichi, Iori, and Himeko's classmate who is nicknamed 'Prince' in his class and his jazz club. He had a crush on Iori, but was quickly declined, mostly due to him asking during the period when Iori was isolated from the class.
Kaoru Setouchi (瀬戸内 薫Setouchi Kaoru)
Voiced by: Sumire Uesaka (Japanese); Shannon Emerick (English)
Class 2-2's representative in the second year of the story. In Michi Random, she has a crush on Shōto. When Iori rejected Shōto, she got angry and made several rumors about Iori, and hired some miscreants from other schools to ruin the cultural club's presentation. Ironically, while being blamed by the miscreants for the kidnapping of Inaban, she ends up becoming friends with Iori, changing her appearance, physical and mental, to be more tame and nice.
Mihara (三原) and Mikitani (三木谷)
Voiced by: Yukiyo Fujii (Mihara) and Kanako Nomura (Mikitani)
Two friends of Kaoru. They egg her on to tear up and ruin the cultural club's presentation, and are responsible for misguiding the thoughts of Kaoru but are not seen after Michi Random.
Mariko Nakayama (中山 真理子Nakayama Mariko)
Voiced by: Chinatsu Akasaki (Japanese); Juliet Simmons (English)
Iori's best friend who is a calligraphy club member.
Yukina Kurihara (栗原 雪菜Kurihara Yukina)
Voiced by: Kaori Ishihara (Japanese); Hayley Adams (English)
Yui's friend.
Misaki Ōsawa (大沢 美咲Ōsawa Misaki)
Voiced by: Yuka Iguchi

Kokoro Connect Baka

Others[edit]

Chinatsu Mihashi (三橋 千夏Mihashi Chinatsu)
Voiced by: Maaya Uchida (Japanese); Shannon Emerick (English)
An old karate rival of Yui's who appears to be hung up over a certain promise Yui apparently made.
Nana Nishino (西野 菜々Nishino Nana)
Voiced by: Haruka Tomatsu (Japanese); Hayley Adams (English)
Yoshifumi's old girlfriend whom he dated in middle school before she moved to Sendai. Her appearance is similar to that of Yui's when Yoshifumi was in middle school, but she cut her hair after moving away.
Anzu Kiriyama (桐山 杏Kiriyama Anzu)
Voiced by: Ayane Sakura (Japanese); Tiffany Terrell (English)
Yui's younger sister.
Rina Yaegashi (八重樫 莉奈Yaegashi Rina)
Voiced by: Asuka Ōgame (Japanese); Brittney Karbowski (English)
Taichi's elementary school age younger sister. She often gives advice to her brother about love. Like Ryūzen and Iori, she is sometimes controlled by Heartseed, but a different one from the Heartseed the cultural club members know of.
Reika Nagase (永瀬 玲佳Nagase Reika)
Voiced by: Atsuko Tanaka (Japanese); Molly Searcy (English)
Iori's single parent. She has dated five different men, but has only been married to three out of the five.

Media[edit]

Light novels[edit]

Kokoro Connect began as a light novel series written by Sadanatsu Anda, with illustrations by Yukiko Horiguchi under the pen name Shiromizakana. Anda entered the first novel in the series, originally titled Hito Tsunagari Te, Doko e Yuku (ヒトツナガリテ、ドコへユク), into Enterbrain's 11th Entertainment Awards in 2009 and the novel won the Special Prize.[3] The first volume, renamed Kokoro Connect Hito Random, was published on January 30, 2010 under Enterbrain's Famitsu Bunko imprint.[4] The main series ended with the tenth release of the novels on March 30, 2013,[5] and a side-story collection was released on September 30, 2013.[6] During their panel at Anime Expo 2018, J-Novel Club announced that they have licensed the light novel.[7]

No.TitleRelease date ISBN
1Kokoro Connect Hito Random
Heart Connect Random People (ココロコネクト ヒトランダム)
January 30, 2010[4]ISBN978-4-04-726290-4
  • Chapter 1: By the Time We Realized It, It Had Already Begun (気づいた時には始まっていたという話)
  • Chapter 2: That 'Thing' that Starts with 'b' (「お」から始まる『アレ』)
  • Chapter 3: That Guy Who Was Interested (そいつ曰く、なかなか面白い人間達)
  • Chapter 4: The Week of Fostering Relationships and Detonating Bombs (人と繋がって、爆弾を抱えて、一週間が経って)
  • Chapter 5: Jobber's Reflection (ジョバーはなにを思う)
  • Chapter 6: Low Blow's Most Powerful Theory (ローブロー最強説)
  • Chapter 7: Finale and Another Starting Point (終わる。始まる。変わる。)
  • Chapter 8: She Was Born with That (そういう風に生まれた人間)
  • Chapter 9: A Confession and the Arrival of Death (ある告白、そして死は)
  • Epilogue
The life of Yamaboshi High Cultural Club's members: Taichi Yaegashi, Iori Nagase, Himeko Inaba, Yoshifumi Aoki, and Yui Kiriyama starts to change when all of a sudden, their bodies began to swap. A being known as 'Heartseed' possess their teacher Ryuuzen Gotō and states that he is responsible for this phenomenon where their bodies swap randomly. The phenomenon name is 'changing personalities' (人格入れ替わり).
2Kokoro Connect Kizu Random
Heart Connect Random Wound (ココロコネクト キズランダム)
May 29, 2010[8]ISBN978-4-04-726537-0
  • Chapter 1: Can't Stop It, Can't Stop It, Can't Stop It! (止まらない、止まらない、止まらない)
  • Chapter 2: By the Time We Realized It, It Had Already Begun (II) (気づいた時には始まっていたという話 その二)
  • Chapter 3: Have Our Usual Lives Changed? (変わりましたか、日常は)
  • Chapter 4: The Collapse and Detachment of Their Bonds (バラバラと崩れる)
  • Chapter 5: Working Together to Help the Collapsed (ひきこもりにはカを合わせて)
  • Chapter 6: Found Out By Accident (気づいてしまって)
  • Chapter 7: Hiking Turned Out to Be a Battlefield (遠足は戦場だった)
  • Chapter 8: To Act Out What Has Been Said (それを言葉にするということ)
  • Epilogue: Inaba Himeko Strikes Back (稲葉姫子の逆襲)
Three weeks after the first phenomenon ended, 'Heartseed' returns and gives the Cultural Club's members another phenomenon that makes their desires unleashed. As the phenomenon begins, it starts to cause cracks in the relationship between the club members. The phenomenon name is 'liberation of desire' (欲望解放).
3Kokoro Connect Kako Random
Heart Connect Random Past (ココロコネクト カコランダム)
September 30, 2010[9]ISBN978-4-04-726775-6
As winter vacation rolls in, a different Heartseed than before instigates a new phenomenon in which, during certain times of the day, members besides Taichi will randomly revert to a younger age, regaining some of their childhood memories upon returning. The phenomenon name is 'time to retrograde' (時間退行).
4Kokoro Connect Michi Random
Heart Connect Random Track (ココロコネクト ミチランダム)
January 29, 2011[10]ISBN978-4-04-727030-5
As Iori begins to question if Taichi really understands the real her and if she's really in love with Taichi, each of the members' conscience can be heard by one or more other members. The phenomenon name is 'sentiments to transmit' (感情伝導).
5Kokoro Connect Clip Time
Heart Connect Clip Time (ココロコネクト クリップタイム)
May 30, 2011[11]ISBN978-4-04-727280-4
6Kokoro Connect Nise Random
Heart Connect Random Fake (ココロコネクト ニセランダム)
October 29, 2011[12]ISBN978-4-04-727585-0
The phenomenon name is 'fantasy projection' (幻想投影).
7Kokoro Connect Yume Random
Heart Connect Random Dream (ココロコネクト ユメランダム)
February 29, 2012[13]ISBN978-4-04-727839-4
The phenomenon name is 'perspective dreamland' (夢中透視).
8Kokoro Connect Step Time
Heart Connect Step Time (ココロコネクト ステップタイム)
June 30, 2012[14]ISBN978-4-04-728122-6
9Kokoro Connect Asu Random (volume 1)
Heart Connect Random Tomorrow (volume 1) (ココロコネクト アスランダム 上)
September 29, 2012[15]ISBN978-4-04-728350-3
10Kokoro Connect Asu Random (volume 2)
Heart Connect Random Tomorrow (volume 2) (ココロコネクト アスランダム 下)
March 30, 2013[5]ISBN978-4-04-728736-5
11Kokoro Connect Precious Time
Heart Connect Precious Time (ココロコネクト プレシャスタイム)
September 30, 2013[6]ISBN978-4-04-729150-8

Manga[edit]

A manga adaptation illustrated by Cuteg was serialized in Enterbrain's Famitsu Comic Clear online manga magazine between October 22, 2010 and August 23, 2013. Enterbrain published five tankōbon volumes between May 14, 2011 and September 14, 2013.[16][17]Seven Seas Entertainment began releasing the series in North America in August 2014.[18] A second manga based on the anime adaptation, illustrated by Na! and titled Kokoro Connect On Air, was serialized between the August 2012 and April 2013 issues of Kadokawa Shoten's Nyantype magazine. A single volume was released on March 30, 2013.[19] Enterbrain published two volumes of an anthology titled Magi-Cu 4-koma Kokoro Connect on July 25 and September 25, 2012.[20][21]

Drama CDs[edit]

Enterbrain released a drama CD titled Kokoro Connect Natsu to Mizugi to Bōfūu (ココロコネクト 夏と水着と暴風雨Heart Connect Summer, Swimsuits, and a Storm) on February 16, 2011.[22] A second drama CD titled Kokoro Connect Haru to Date to Imōto Gokko (ココロコネクト 春とデートと妹ごっこHeart Connect Spring, a Date, and Playing a Little Sister) was released on January 6, 2012.[23]

Anime[edit]

An anime adaptation[24] was directed by Shin'ya Kawatsura and produced by Silver Link. The anime's screenplay is written by Fumihiko Shimo, the character designs are by Toshifumi Akai, and the sound director is Toshiki Kameyama. The cast is the same with the drama CD cast.[25] Of the 17 episodes,[26] the first 13 were aired in Japan between July 8 and September 30, 2012 and were also simulcast by Crunchyroll. The four remaining episodes aired on AT-X on December 30, 2012.[27] The anime was released on seven Blu-ray Disc (BD)/DVD compilation volumes between October 24, 2012 and April 24, 2013. Sentai Filmworks licensed the series in North America and released the first 13 episodes on BD/DVD on October 22, 2013,[28] and the remaining four on December 10, 2013.[29] Hanabee has licensed the series in Australia.[30][31]

The anime has seven pieces of theme music: three opening themes and four ending themes. The first opening theme is 'Paradigm' (パラダイムParadaimu) by Eufonius and is used for the first ten episodes. The episodes released on BD and DVD replace 'Paradigm'[32] with 'Kimochi Signal' (キモチシグナルKimochi Shigunaru) by Sayuri Horishita. Beginning with episode 12, the opening theme is 'Kimi Rhythm' (キミリズムKimi Rizumu) by Masaki Imai. The first ending theme is 'Kokoro no Kara' (ココロノカラ) by Team Nekokan feat. Junca Amaoto for the first five episodes. The second ending theme is 'Cry Out' by Team Nekokan feat. Atsuko for episodes six through ten. The third ending theme is 'Salvage' by Team Nekokan feat. Rekka Katakiri for episodes 11 through 13. The fourth ending theme is 'I Scream Chocolate' by Team Nekokan feat. Lia for episodes 14 through 17. An insert song titled 'Milkshake' (ミルクセーキMiruku Sēki) sung by Sayuri Horishita was used in episode 17.

At an advance screening of the anime series on June 24, 2012, voice actor Mitsuhiro Ichiki had supposedly auditioned for a character role and was invited to the event to allegedly be announced as a surprise cast member. It was then revealed at the event that Ichiki was to in fact be chosen as Head of Public Relations, with his audition revealed to be a candid-camera style fake. While Ichiki accepted the role as head of PR, criticism of the event led to a flow of criticism directed towards the staff and voice actors involved on blog websites and Twitter accounts, as well as people not directly involved.[33] The staff of the show posted an official statement on September 2, 2012 apologizing for 'insufficient consideration regarding performers' leading to 'widespread discomfort and misunderstanding,' promising to seriously reflect on the incident in the future. They had also cancelled the Internet radio program Kokoro Connect Bunken Shinbun as a result. Ichiki also posted a statement the same day, mentioning how he felt no ill will towards the staff as a result of the incident and denies any bullying or harassment taking place.[34]

Episode list[edit]

No.TitleOriginal airdate
1'A Story That Had Already Begun Before Anyone Realized It'
Transcription: 'Kizuita Toki ni wa Hajimatteita toiu Hanashi' (Japanese: 気づいた時には始まっていたという話)
July 8, 2012
Taichi Yaegashi, Iori Nagase, Himeko Inaba, Yui Kiriyama, and Yoshifumi Aoki are first-year high school classmates and members of the Student Cultural Society. As Taichi, Iori, and Himeko try to brainstorm about a new topic for a news article, Yoshifumi and Yui later arrive in the clubroom and claim to have temporarily switched bodies the previous night. Taichi, Iori, and Himeko are pretty skeptical of this, but when Iori goes to a classroom to retrieve a notebook, it is soon proven to be real when Taichi suddenly switches bodies with Iori and briefly gets hit on by the class president, Maiko Fujishima. After spending the rest of the afternoon convincing Himeko what had happened is real, Taichi and Iori eventually switch back to their original bodies, before the five of them leave school to return to their homes.
2'Some Fascinating Humans'
Transcription: 'Nakanaka Omoshiroi Ningen-tachi' (Japanese: なかなか面白い人間達)
July 15, 2012
The next morning, Himeko, Yoshifumi, and Yui all switch bodies together, though soon revert to normal. After the gang are excused from absence in class, Taichi briefly ends up switching places with Yui before getting grilled by Iori over what happened the previous day while he was in her body. Just then, the gang is approached by someone who had swapped bodies with their homeroom teacher Ryūzen Gotō, calling himself Heartseed, who is revealed to be responsible for the body swapping, vaguely explaining the situation before leaving. A week later, the group discuss how best to handle the situation without making anyone else suspicious. As Iori later swaps bodies with Yoshifumi, she talks with Taichi about how the switching may affect their individuality before she switches back. The next day, as Taichi and Himeko switch and end up volunteering for off-campus cleaning duty with Maiko, Himeko decides to get revenge against Taichi and declare to Maiko that Iori is hers while in Taichi's body.
3'Jobber and Low Blow'
Transcription: 'Jobā to Rōburō' (Japanese: ジョバーとローブロー)
July 22, 2012
As Taichi questions Himeko about what she said in front of Maiko, she implies to Taichi that he has feelings for Iori while also worrying about how the body swapping could eventually break them. Later, Taichi and Yoshifumi learn that Yui has androphobia, the fear of men. That night, as Taichi switches with Yui, they meet up in a park, where she reveals she gained that fear after almost being raped in middle school, believing there was no way she could beat a man in a fight. Wanting to help her get over her fear, Taichi teaches Yui that the crotch is the one weakness that all men possess. The next day, as Yui becomes a bit more confident and decides to take up martial arts again, Himeko suddenly collapses before Taichi.
4'Twin Feelings'
Transcription: 'Futatsu no Omoi' (Japanese: 二つの想い)
July 29, 2012
As Taichi and Iori escort Himeko home, Taichi is forced to spill the beans about what happened last night with Yui, leaving Iori a bit shocked as she was unaware of Yui's androphobia. After dropping Himeko off, Iori tells Taichi about the troubles she faced due to her mother Reika Nagase constantly getting remarried, having to keep changing her persona to fit the tastes of others while eventually forgetting who she originally was, and she feels that the body swapping would cause her to just fade away. The next day, Taichi confronts Himeko, who eventually reveals that she cannot trust them to use another's body for evil deeds, hating herself for feeling that way. As Taichi tells Himeko she does not need to change who she is to be accepted by others, he tells her a secret that he has lustfully thought of her and the other girls in the past. Moved by his confession, Himeko decides to share her issues with the others and finds the others accept her.
5'A Confession and a Death...'
Transcription: 'Aru Kokuhaku, Soshite Shi wa...' (Japanese: ある告白、そして死は...)
August 5, 2012
Yoshifumi once again confesses to Yui, but she declines since she is not ready to date anyone just yet. Iori pretends to have swapped places with Himeko to find out how Taichi feels about her. After he says that he likes their current relationship, Himeko walks in on them, causing Iori to run off in embarrassment. Taichi realizes his folly and chases after her, finding her on a bridge over the river. Taichi expresses his admiration for her and confesses to her, but Heartseed suddenly possesses Iori and forces her to jump off into the river, which results in her being hospitalized for intensive care. Heartseed, who then possesses Gotō, tells the others that Iori will soon die, allotting them thirty minutes to decide amongst themselves whose soul will die with her and giving them the ability to switch bodies on verbal request. As Iori swaps with Yoshifumi and learns of the situation, she offers to die with her own body, not willing to sacrifice anyone else. As she spends time talking to everyone individually, she confesses to Taichi and kisses him while in Himeko's body. It turns out that Iori managed to survive and that Heartseed planned out this whole ordeal. As Iori recovers from her injuries and returns to school, the gang assume that the body swapping has stopped, while Himeko gets revenge on Taichi for stealing her first kiss.
6'A Story That Continued Before Anyone Realized It'
Transcription: 'Kizuita Toki ni wa Mata Hajimatteita toiu Hanashi' (Japanese: 気づいた時にはまた始まっていたという話)
August 12, 2012
Three weeks following the body swapping incident, Taichi and Iori have yet to have a chance to talk alone since the club has been busy writing a paper. One day, as Taichi and Himeko are alone in the clubroom, Himeko suddenly starts stripping and making advances on Taichi before they are interrupted by Yui, who suddenly smashes the table without realizing it. Later that night, both Taichi and Iori end up doing things unconsciously, though it does give them a chance to finally talk about the confession. The next day, Taichi, Iori, and Himeko learn from Maiko that Yui and Yoshifumi had been taken into police custody after Yui had beaten up some guys hitting on some girls, while Yoshifumi was trying to protect her from being taken away. As Taichi, Iori and Himeko discuss the voices they had been hearing in their heads, Heartseed appears again, explaining that they are being put through a new phenomenon in which their bodies will impulsively act on their deepest desires. As Taichi, Iori, Himeko, and Yoshifumi discuss how they need to be more careful to try and not get innocent people involved, Himeko hides her doubt from the others. Later, Iori calls Taichi to tell him they should put off dating until the phenomenon is over.
7'Falling Apart'
Transcription: 'Barabara to Kuzureru' (Japanese: バラバラと崩れる)
August 19, 2012
As the others grow concerned about Yui, who has not shown up at school since the incident, Himeko tells Taichi he could be in danger if his desire to help others is unleashed. As the others visit Yui the next day, she reveals her worries that she might end up hurting others again, but Himeko ends up unleashing her desire to scold her, stating her belief that they could all be in danger if they do not satisfy Heartseed's desire for entertainment. As Himeko tries to keep herself out of situations, Taichi's desires cause him to argue with her and reprimand her for being a coward.
8'And Then There Were None'
Transcription: 'Soshite Dare mo Inakunatta' (Japanese: そして誰もいなくなった)
August 26, 2012
As Himeko distances herself from the others, concerns over Yui cause Taichi and Yoshifumi to argue with each other. When Iori tries to stop them from fighting, Taichi's desires cause him to inadvertently injure her. The next day, as Maiko makes plans with the class for a field trip, Iori becomes worried as both Himeko and Taichi are becoming more distant from her. As Gotō asks Taichi to help him carry some school equipment, Gotō suggests that Taichi should turn to his friends for advice, while Maiko later suggests that Taichi should consider what is most important to him.
9'Can't Stop, Can't Stop, Can't Stop'
Transcription: 'Tomaranai Tomaranai Tomaranai' (Japanese: 止まらない止まらない止まらない)
September 2, 2012
Taichi apologizes to Iori and tells her that he would rather stay with his friends and risk hurting them than distance himself from them. After making up with Iori, Taichi also manages to make up with Yoshifumi, but Himeko is still avoiding them. Recalling how the body swapping allowed Taichi to help Yui with her androphobia, he and Yoshifumi assure Yui that their desires can be controlled with enough will and convince her to attend school again. Meanwhile, Heartseed appears at Himeko's house at night, bringing to light her withheld feelings that she fears could tear apart the group if revealed.
10'Putting Into Words'
Transcription: 'Sore o Kotoba ni Suru toiu Koto' (Japanese: それを言葉にするということ)
September 9, 2012
As the school goes on the field trip to the mountains, Himeko remains concerned over what Heartseed had told her. Iori takes notice and learns that Himeko also has romantic feelings for Taichi. Iori confronts Himeko, who reveals that she never acted on her feelings as she did not want the group to fall apart, believing no one would want a weakling such as herself. Iori tells Himeko to stop putting herself down and reassures her their friendship will always remain despite her flaws and their shared love of Taichi. Just as they make up, Heartseed possesses Iori and tells Himeko that Taichi had been in an accident, causing Himeko to panic, believing he had fallen down a cliff. Upon discovering had simply fallen off a tree while rescuing a kitten, remaining relatively unscathed, Himeko breaks down in tears out of relief. With the desire unleashing phenomenon declared over, Himeko decides to confess to Taichi and, despite getting rejected, remains confident in the fact she may one day win against Iori and then gives him a kiss.
11'A Story That Began As We Realized It'
Transcription: 'Kizuki o Ataerarete Hajimatta toiu Hanashi' (Japanese: 気づきを与えられて始まったという話)
September 16, 2012
On the day before winter break, following a brief period of peace after the desire unleashing incident, a new phenomenon takes place in which Iori and Yui temporarily revert to children from noon to five o'clock in the afternoon that day. After returning to normal, they lose memory of what happened, but remember things from when they were that age. Later that night, a second Heartseed appears before Taichi through his younger sister, Rina Yaegashi, tasking him to watch over the others and warning him not to tell the others about his existence. The next day, Taichi stumbles upon Yui, who is argued at by an old karate rival, Chinatsu Mihashi, over breaking a certain promise which she cannot remember. As the gang meets up at an abandoned building, this time Himeko and Yoshifumi shrink, with the now ten-year-old Yoshifumi likening Yui to a girl named Nana Nishino. After reverting to his normal age, Yoshifumi explains that Nana was a girl he went out with once before she moved, leading him to be conflicted over how his feelings stand for both her and Yui. The next day, as Taichi and Himeko watch over a fourteen-year-old Iori, Himeko voices her worries.
12'Into a Snowy City'
Transcription: 'Yuki Furu Machi e' (Japanese: 雪降る街へ)
September 23, 2012
As the gang have to look after Iori who winds up as a baby, Yui is confronted by Chinatsu, who challenges her to a karate match and defeats her. Meanwhile, Yoshifumi ponders if his feelings for Yui are because of her similar appearance to Nana. On the second day of the New Year, Yui reverts to right after she was assaulted and, upon returning to normal, remembers vividly about that age. As Yui refuses to talk things out with Chinatsu, Yoshifumi tells her to stop running away from her problems. Talking with Taichi, Yui reveals her promise with Chinatsu was to meet each other at the national karate tournament, which she was unable to keep after contracting her androphobia, and laments how weak and reliant she has become. After sending Yui home, the others speak with Yoshifumi, who remembers his personal vow to live carefree and decides to go visit Nana to tell her about his love for Yui. Afterwards, Yoshifumi reconfirms to Yui that he loves her for who she is. This encourages Yui to face her own problems, embracing Yoshifumi and overcoming her androphobia. Afterwards, Himeko becomes suspicious of Taichi hiding something from everyone.
13'As Long as the Five of Us Are Together'
Transcription: 'Kono Gonin ga Ireba' (Japanese: この五人がいれば)
September 30, 2012
As Taichi is forced to tell the others what he had been hiding, the second Heartseed reminds them of the consequences, making the age revert phenomenon happen at random times and including Taichi in the phenomenon, which forces them to stay at the building to avoid others discovering themselves. Iori becomes stressed from believing that Reika is in danger from her violent second husband, who wants to get back together with her. Iori, briefly turning younger for a short period and regaining memories of that age, is stopped by the others when she tries to head off on her own. As Taichi, Iori and Himeko reach the house and hear violent noises, they are forced to retreat after Iori turns into a baby. Just then, the first Heartseed approaches them, ending the age revert phenomenon and offering Iori the opportunity to go back in time and rectify some of the bad decisions she made in her youth. After some encouragement by Taichi and Himeko, Iori declines his offer, saying that her past mistakes have allowed her to become the person she is now. Afterwards, everyone goes with Iori to see Reika, where they both realize they had both made mistakes trying to make the other happy. After Reika gains the encouragement to turn her second husband away, Iori gives thanks to everyone who made her who she is. Yui apologizes to Chinatsu, promising to meet her at the next karate tournament. As winter break comes to an end, Iori starts to question if she truly loves Taichi.
14'The Days Fall Apart'
Transcription: 'Kowareteyuku Hibi' (Japanese: 壊れてゆく日々)
December 30, 2012
Heartseed puts the gang through another phenomenon, in which their true emotions will be randomly transmitted to each other, shown when Iori turns Taichi down when he asks to start dating her three days later. As Valentine's Day comes and Maiko suggests Taichi turn his attention towards Himeko, the gang grows concerned when they learn Gotō will only be able to be an advisor for one club, meaning they will have to outdo the Jazz Band Club in a presentation in order to keep him. While the discussion turns to Valentine's Day, both Himeko's feelings for Taichi and Taichi's rejection by Iori gets transmitted to the others. As Himeko tries to get Iori to speak her reasons, Iori's selfish thoughts end up getting transmitted to everyone, which in turn leads Iori to hear everyone's concerned thoughts about her, including a harsh one from Himeko. When Himeko asks Iori about it privately, Iori responds that the experiences with Heartseed has affected her decision making, which makes her uncertain about if she actually loves Taichi or not. Afterwards, Taichi and Himeko have a talk, listing the things he likes about Himeko, although still pointing out he is in love with Iori. As the gang decides what to do for their presentation, Yoshifumi hears Iori's thoughts about how everyone has their own idea of her personality. Later, Heartseed approaches Yoshifumi and notices how useless he is, which urges Yoshifumi to strengthen his resolve with thoughts of Yui, who also hears his thoughts.
15'You Don't See It, You Don't Get It'
Transcription: 'Nanimo Mietenai Nanimo Wakattenai' (Japanese: なにも見えてない なにもわかってない)
December 30, 2012
As Iori struggles with her identity, she ends up being cold and distancing herself from everyone around her, first shown when she turns down Shōto Shiroyama, a boy from the Jazz Band Club. When Taichi hears Himeko thinking about disbanding the Student Cultural Society, she explains it as a possible method to stop Heartseed from interfering with them, though Taichi easily tells that she does not want it to come to that. Concerned about Iori, Yui later tries to reason with her, but Iori just responds that her changing personality means that she can no longer be friends with Yui. As Yui is approached by Heartseed that evening, she resolves to stop relying on others so much, later giving Taichi some encouragement to help save Iori. The next day, Himeko tries to get Iori to say what she truly feels, in which Iori responds by saying that it is Himeko's selfishness concerning Taichi that is to blame.
16'Determination and Resolution'
Transcription: 'Kakugo to Hyōkai' (Japanese: 覚悟と氷解)
December 30, 2012
As the gang continues on their presentation without Iori, Taichi makes a bold statement in class in order to quell the rumors surrounding Iori. However, Kaoru Setouchi, a girl who Iori infuriated the other day, is not fooled by this and plots to scheme something as payback. Later, the gang returns to the clubroom to find their presentation has been torn to shreds. Despite the others putting it aside and deciding to remake the project from scratch, Iori becomes infuriated at Kaoru for supposedly getting others involved, forcing Taichi and Himeko to stop Iori in her tracks. After calming her down, Himeko tries to talk to Iori again by sharing an embarrassing dream about Taichi. Iori eventually breaks down, and due to all the stress and suffering the Heartseed incidents have caused her, she reveals how she cannot stand to keep up her fake, cheerful personality anymore. Himeko responds that she should just live the way she wants to, whilst Taichi mentions that he still loves her even if it was not her true personality. As Iori asks to think about it, Himeko encounters the group of boys who were responsible for messing up the clubroom, and when she tries to confront them, she ends up being kidnapped.
17'Connecting Hearts'
Transcription: 'Kokoro o Tsunaide' (Japanese: 心をつないで)
December 30, 2012
As Taichi, Yui and Yoshifumi learn of Himeko's kidnapping via the emotion transmission and rush to save her, Iori remains conflicted over what she should do, but inevitably decides to follow Taichi and Himeko's advice and live for herself. As the others start fighting against the boys who kidnapped Himeko, one of them puts a knife towards her. Just then, Iori arrives and manages to use the emotion transmission to get Himeko to safety. Kaoru, who showed resentment towards Iori for turning down Shōto in the past, apologizes for taking her actions too far. Noticing that Kaoru also changed personalities to be accepted by others, Iori gives Kaoru the same advice that she was once given before and soon befriends Kaoru. As the gang makes their way home, one of the kidnappers comes at them with a metal pipe, hitting Taichi as he protects Himeko. After Taichi and Iori have a mental discussion via the emotion transmission, where they decide to start their relationship from scratch, Taichi awakens and decides to ask Himeko out, to which she agrees. As the phenomenon comes to its conclusion, Gotō is impressed by the gang's presentation and decides to continue moderating both clubs. With Taichi and Himeko now dating and Iori making friends again, the gang enter the new school year with their paths ahead of them.

Visual novel[edit]

A visual novel developed by Banpresto and published by Namco Bandai Games under the title Kokoro Connect Yochi Random (ココロコネクト ヨチランダムHeart Connect Random Prediction) was released on the PlayStation Portable on November 22, 2012.[35][36]

Kokoro Connect Full Episodes

References[edit]

  1. ^Loveridge, Lynzee (June 24, 2012). 'Kokoro Connect Anime & Game Promos Streamed'. Anime News Network. Retrieved December 14, 2018.
  2. ^'Kokoro Connect'. Sentai Filmworks. Retrieved December 14, 2018.
  3. ^第11回 小説部門 [11th Novel Division] (in Japanese). Enterbrain. Archived from the original on January 18, 2013. Retrieved October 13, 2011.
  4. ^ abココロコネクト ヒトランダム [Kokoro Connect Hito Random] (in Japanese). Enterbrain. Retrieved October 13, 2011.
  5. ^ abココロコネクト アスランダム 下 [Kokoro Connect Asu Random 2] (in Japanese). Enterbrain. Retrieved March 22, 2013.
  6. ^ abココロコネクト プレシャスタイム [Kokoro Connect Precious Time] (in Japanese). Enterbrain. Retrieved September 14, 2013.
  7. ^Loveridge, Lynzee; Pineda, Rafael Antonio (July 5, 2018). 'J-Novel Club Licenses Amagi Brilliant Park, Kokoro Connect, Sorcerous Stabber Orphen Novels'. Anime News Network. Retrieved July 5, 2018.
  8. ^ココロコネクト キズランダム [Kokoro Connect Kizu Random] (in Japanese). Enterbrain. Retrieved December 1, 2011.
  9. ^ココロコネクト カコランダム [Kokoro Connect Kako Random] (in Japanese). Enterbrain. Retrieved December 1, 2011.
  10. ^ココロコネクト ミチランダム [Kokoro Connect Michi Random] (in Japanese). Enterbrain. Retrieved December 1, 2011.
  11. ^ココロコネクト クリップタイム [Kokoro Connect Clip Time] (in Japanese). Enterbrain. Retrieved December 1, 2011.
  12. ^ココロコネクト ニセランダム [Kokoro Connect Nise Random] (in Japanese). Enterbrain. Retrieved October 13, 2011.
  13. ^ココロコネクト ユメランダム [Kokoro Connect Yume Random] (in Japanese). Enterbrain. Retrieved February 29, 2012.
  14. ^ココロコネクト ステップタイム [Kokoro Connect Step Time] (in Japanese). Enterbrain. Retrieved June 15, 2012.
  15. ^ココロコネクト アスランダム 上 [Kokoro Connect Asu Random 1] (in Japanese). Enterbrain. Retrieved September 12, 2012.
  16. ^ココロコネクト (1) [Kokoro Connect (1)] (in Japanese). Enterbrain. Retrieved October 13, 2011.
  17. ^ココロコネクト (5) [Kokoro Connect (5)] (in Japanese). Enterbrain. Retrieved September 14, 2013.
  18. ^'Seven Seas Adds Kokoro Connect Manga'. Anime News Network. January 29, 2014. Retrieved January 29, 2014.
  19. ^'ココロコネクト ON AIR' [Kokoro Connect On Air] (in Japanese). Kadokawa Shoten. Retrieved March 21, 2013.
  20. ^マジキュー4コマ ココロコネクト(1) [Magi-Cu 4-koma Kokoro Connect (1)] (in Japanese). Enterbrain. Retrieved September 30, 2012.
  21. ^マジキュー4コマ ココロコネクト(2) [Magi-Cu 4-koma Kokoro Connect (2)] (in Japanese). Enterbrain. Retrieved September 30, 2012.
  22. ^'FB CollectDrama03『ココロコネクト 夏と水着と暴風雨』' [FB Collect Drama 03 Kokoro Connect Natsu to Mizugi to Bōfūu] (in Japanese). Enterbrain. Retrieved October 13, 2011.
  23. ^ココロコネクト 春とデートと妹ごっこ [Kokoro Connect Haru to Date to Imōto Gokko] (in Japanese). Enterbrain. Retrieved September 30, 2012.
  24. ^'Kokoro Connect Light Novels Get Anime Adaptation'. Anime News Network. October 13, 2011. Retrieved October 13, 2011.
  25. ^'Aki Toyosaki, Miyuki Sawashiro Lead Kokoro Connect Anime Cast'. Anime News Network. March 1, 2012. Retrieved March 3, 2012.
  26. ^'Kokoro Connect Anime Listed With 17 Episodes'. Anime News Network. August 15, 2012. Retrieved August 15, 2012.
  27. ^'Kokoro Connect #14-17 Slated for December 30'. Anime News Network. December 22, 2012. Retrieved December 22, 2012.
  28. ^'Kokoro Connect's English Dub Cast Announced'. Anime News Network. September 20, 2013. Retrieved September 22, 2013.
  29. ^'Kokoro Connect OVA Blu-ray Complete Collection (Hyb)'. Sentai Filmworks. Archived from the original on September 23, 2013. Retrieved September 22, 2013.
  30. ^'Sentai Filmworks Licenses Kokoro Connect TV Anime'. Anime News Network. July 2, 2012. Retrieved July 2, 2012.
  31. ^'Hanabee Announces Kokoro Connect for December'. Anime News Network. September 17, 2013. Retrieved September 17, 2013.
  32. ^'Kokoro Connect BDs/DVDs to Use Different Opening Theme'. Anime News Network. October 1, 2012. Retrieved October 1, 2012.
  33. ^'Anime Practical Joke Goes Over The Line And Incites Mass Flaming'. Kotaku. August 30, 2012. Retrieved September 4, 2012.
  34. ^'Kokoro Connect Staff Issues Statements on Performer's Treatment'. Anime News Network. September 4, 2012. Retrieved September 4, 2012.
  35. ^'Kokoro Connect Yochi Random Game Delayed Until November'. Anime News Network. September 25, 2012. Retrieved September 26, 2012.
  36. ^'異常現象その1.5 未来予知'を描く『ココロコネクト ヨチランダム』の発売日が11月22日に決定 ['Strange Phenomenon 1.5 Future Prediction' Depicted in Kokoro Connect Yochi Random to be Sold on November 22] (in Japanese). ASCII Media Works. October 24, 2012. Retrieved October 24, 2012.

Kokoro Connect Episode List

External links[edit]

  • Light novel official website(in Japanese)
  • Anime official website(in Japanese)
  • Manga official website(in Japanese)
  • Visual novel official website(in Japanese)
  • Kokoro Connect (light novel) at Anime News Network's encyclopedia
Retrieved from 'https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Kokoro_Connect&oldid=917128020'

Kokoro Connect Episode 1

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Alternative Titles

English: Kokoro Connect
Japanese: ココロコネクト

Information

Episodes: 13
Aired: Jul 8, 2012 to Sep 30, 2012
Broadcast: Sundays at 00:30 (JST)
Licensors:Sentai Filmworks
Source: Light novel
Genres:Slice of Life, Comedy, Supernatural, Drama, Romance, School
Rating: PG-13 - Teens 13 or older

Statistics

Ranked: #7042
2 based on the top anime page. Please note that 'Not yet aired' and 'R18+' titles are excluded.
Members: 482,441
Ranked #704Popularity #133Members 482,441
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Synopsis

When five students at Yamaboshi Academy realize that there are no clubs where they fit in, they band together to form the Student Cultural Society, or 'StuCS' for short. The club consists of: Taichi Yaegashi, a hardcore wrestling fan; Iori Nagase, an indecisive optimist; Himeko Inaba, a calm computer genius; Yui Kiriyama, a petite karate practitioner; and Yoshifumi Aoki, the class clown.
One day, Aoki and Yui experience a strange incident when, without warning, they switch bodies for a short period of time. As this supernatural phenomenon continues to occur randomly amongst the five friends, they begin to realize that it is not just fun and games. Now forced to become closer than ever, they soon discover each other's hidden secrets and emotional scars, which could end up tearing the StuCS and their friendship apart.
[Written by MAL Rewrite]

Background

The cast from the Kokoro Connect drama CD reprised their roles in the anime.
The anime uses locations in Yokohama as reference, with cooperation from the Yokohama Film Commission and the Yokohama Gakuen high school.

Related Anime

Adaptation:Kokoro Connect, Kokoro Connect: On Air
Sequel:Kokoro Connect: Michi Random

Characters & Voice Actors

Inaba, Himeko
Main
Sawashiro, Miyuki
Japanese
Nagase, Iori
Toyosaki, Aki
Japanese
Yaegashi, Taichi
Main
Mizushima, Takahiro
Japanese
Kiriyama, Yui
Kanemoto, Hisako
Japanese
Aoki, Yoshifumi
Main
Terashima, Takuma
Japanese
Fuusenkazura
Supporting
Fujiwara, Keiji
Japanese
Yaegashi, Rina
Oogame, Asuka
Japanese
Fujishima, Maiko
Supporting
Itou, Shizuka
Japanese
Gotou, Ryuuzen
Fujiwara, Keiji
Japanese
Inaba, Brother
Supporting
Okano, Kousuke
Japanese

Staff

Kawatsura, Shinya
Director
Kameyama, Toshiki
Sound Director

Edit Opening Theme

#1: 'Paradigm (パラダイム)' by eufonius (eps 1-10)
#2: 'Kimi Rhythm (キミリズム)' by Masaki Imai (eps 12-13)
#BD: 'Kimochi Signal (キモチシグナル)' by Sayuri Horishita (eps 1-10)

Edit Ending Theme

#1: 'Kokoro no Kara (ココロノカラ)' by Team.Nekokan [Neko] featuring. Junca Amaoto (eps 1-5)
#2: 'Cry out' by Team.Nekokan [Neko] featuring. atsuko (eps 6-10)
#3: 'Salvage' by Team.Nekokan [Neko] featuring. Rekka Katakiri (eps 11-13)

More reviewsReviews

13 of 13 episodes seen
Trollbrotherno1(All reviews)
426 people found this review helpful
Overall9
Story8
Animation9
Sound9
Character10
Enjoyment8
Disclaimer- this review takes into account the 4 episode 'sequel' to the show
With the massive rise in access to entertainment and media/pop culture, we have gotten to the point where our options on what to watch are so stratified that we have the privilege of not liking something because its not our particular taste. In the world of anime and manga this leads many to disregard shows that simply don't fit the criteria of what we find entertaining. However, this does not mean that certain shows are objectively good or bad, it sometimes means that a show is an excellent version of whatever style or genre it is supposed to be.
Kokoro Connect is a perfect example of this concept. I am relatively new to Anime, and (despite my actual list) my tastes range from the classic DBZ (im old) to my new favorite Spice and Wolf (season 3 please!). I try to watch each show objectively recognizing how it is supposed to fulfill its role in its particular genre. Aside from Toradora (the show that made me pay attention to slice of life shows) i cannot think of too many shows that do such a great job of showcasing compelling drama, laughs, and heart warming romance. For what it is supposed to be, Kokoro Connect is almost perfect.
Story- 8
The story of Kokoro Connect (KC) revolves around a supernatural conceit that drives the drama of the story. Simply put, a group teenagers (already known for not having the best sense of control) are put in a position where they no longer truly control their own bodies. Over the course of the story this takes on several different forms (some more compelling than others), but the awesome thing about it is that the writers were clearly creatively inspired by this seemingly silly premise. A show that could have easily went on an ecchi, slapstick, 'accidental pervert' fest, decided to use this as a way for the characters to learn more about themselves and each other, and we as the audience end up doing the same. Toward the end the show does wander into some of the inane melodrama that plagues a lot of animes, but understanding that this is an inherent characteristic of the medium, such things cannot be helped. To put it in perspective, this is the first anime i was able to get my completely uninterested wife to watch (most of it at least).
Art/sound-9
As a relatively new serious fan of anime (i had been a casual fan for decades) I really can't speak from confidence on sound and art. I have not developed a discerning eye for these things. Ill just say that i personally enjoy clean, smooth, and crisp visuals/sound in my anime. I have seen my fair share of shows in the past few months, and with many, i just cant get past the visuals. Whether it be an awkward and uninteresting art style, (Bokura Ga Ita) bland sound (Kimi No Todoke) or dated visuals (Peach Girl). Kokoro Connect is great in all categories, its just not anything spectacular (Love, Chunibyo & Other Delusions).
Character-10
I am an English teacher by trade (writer by fantasy). I know what good character development is and how it is supposed to be done. Although the techniques are gimmicky, and there are a few one note main characters (Aoki) i was still very impressed with the amount of depth delivered by the characters in this story. More significantly, this was not the typical anime that made me roll my eyes at their behavior (most of the time). When the inevitable love triangle presents itself, it makes sense. When the guy starts choosing, it makes sense, when people get hurt- it makes sense. When the drama and tension rises- it makes sense. All of the characters motivations are not fully developed, but they are developed enough to make you care and not swoon over how contrived they are. Again, for the genre and medium, this was an amazing job of characterization.
Enjoyment- 8
I have a short attention span when it comes to anime. So when i actually watch all the episodes of a show (instead of wikipedia searching the plot til it gets to the good parts) i have to give that show high marks. My favorite thing about this show is that it is an almost perfect length. They dont draw out the inevitable sooooo long (I love you Toradora but im talking to you) and they dont end it anticlimactically (every 3rd SOL romance does this). The second to last arc was a little weak and less compelling and funny than the first two, but it was short and still entertaining. Again, if you are looking for a SOL/romance/comedy anime that doesnt make you embarrassed to be a fan with ridiculous characters, gratuitous fan service, and a blah ending. You cant do much better than this.
Overall-9
13 of 13 episodes seen
SeitenSoushi(All reviews)
326 people found this review helpful
Overall10
Story10
Animation10
Sound9
Character10
Enjoyment10
Is it just me, or do I only review shows beginning with the letter K?
Anyway, just so you know, I'm also including the Michi Random specials in this review.
Story: 10
What would you do if you and your friends started randomly switching between each other's bodies? Or if your deepest darkest desires were suddenly brought to the surface, out of your control?
Here we have a series that takes a supernatural storyline, adds some well-written high-school romance and plenty of compelling drama, and pulls it all together into one amazing package. Although some of the ideas may have been done many times before, Kokoro Connect manages to make it fresh and funny, whilst also being surprisingly realistic with how it portrays the effects of each of the phenomena. I felt the drama wasn't overdone at all and every arc introduced interesting new aspects of the story and allowed many sides of the characters to be shown.
Ultimately, Kokoro Connect succeeds in blending its comedic school life shenanigans with more serious emotional moments, a testament to the quality of the writing and the great direction.
Art/Animation: 10
I really liked the art for this series - everything is crisp and smoothly animated. The characters instantly reminded me of K-On!, though upon checking, I was surprised to find that these two series don't actually have the same character designer.
The settings are fairly detailed and we have some beautiful backgrounds and lush scenery. As far as I could tell, there were no off-models or problems with animation.
The characters are all very expressive when they need to be. Whether they are happy, angry, embarrassed or otherwise, their on-screen demeanours fit very well with the excellent voice acting.
Whilst I enjoyed the colourful and upbeat opening animation, it was the endings that really shone in my opinion.
Overall, Kokoro Connect is a very attractive looking show - Silver Link doing a commendable job here.
Sound: 9
The background music is great to hear; they fit the scenes nicely and add to the drama and emotion.
The ending song also fades in before the ending animation, which I always find to be a nice touch when executed well like this.
My personal favourites were the 2nd OP (Kimi Rhythm by Imai Masaki) and the 3rd ED (Salvage by Team.Nekokan [Neko] feat. Katakiri Rekka), though they are all really decent.
In terms of voice acting, I think it was a job well done by all the seiyuu. Even Heartseed with his tired, monotone voice I found to be sufficiently entertaining. Throughout the series, a wide range of character traits and personalities were portrayed.
Characters: 10
The characters are what really make Kokoro Connect. Unlike some other school-based romantic comedies, Kokoro Connect features fully fleshed out, three-dimensional people, each with very real pasts and flaws, which was what made me really care about them as I watched their story unfold. They are apparently all somewhat misfits, so they form a Culture Club of sorts.
Without going into too much detail, we have:
Taichi, an altruistic pro-wrestling fan who has a selfless urge to help others;
Iori, a friendly energetic girl who is popular and loved by all;
Himeko, the cool and responsible one of the group, with considerable skill in information gathering and analysis;
Yui, an expressive karate practitioner, who loves cute things;
and Yoshifumi - their casual friend, who is attracted to Yui (though she resists his advances).
I also have to mention one of the cutest imouto in anime - Yaegashi Rina - who is a caring sister that looks out for Taichi and, despite being younger, seems to give him advice about his relationships.
Enjoyment: 10
Kokoro Connect was really one of if not the best show of its season. Watching the characters mature and develop was very compelling. Over the course of the series, their pasts are revealed, along with their own shortcomings and how they overcome them. The highlight is the character drama, and all in all, the series was practically perfect for me.
Overall: 10
I have to say, Kokoro Connect is a must watch and I recommend it to everyone. It was fully entertaining throughout. As the supernatural phenomena start to take their toll on the five main characters - will their friendship be able to survive? Join them on an emotional rollercoaster as you see them handle various unusual situations, all the while learning more about themselves and each other.
Thanks for reading! Please give feedback if you found it helpful (^ω^)
13 of 13 episodes seen
Yume_to_Tsubasa(All reviews)
264 people found this review helpful
Overall9
Story9
Animation6
Sound9
Character10
Enjoyment9
Yet ANOTHER update on this review. This is one tricky anime to write a review on- Here goes.
In a school where extracurricular activities are mandatory, there exist five 'outlaws'.
Yaegashi Taichi, the pro-wrestling maniac
Nagase Iori, your typical spunky, bubbly, lovely character type
Inaba Himeko, the intelligent, cool computer expert... who is maybe just a tad bit too cool at times
Kiriyama Yui, lover of all things that are cute
Aoki Yoshifumi, frequently subject to rough treatment by the girls around him.
These five students form their own club, the 'Bunkenbu' (Bunka Kenkyuu-bu)- and each day spent together is as ordinary as can be.
Until.
Kokoro Connect is best described as unique. It does not follow the plot of traditional romance anime, but instead, adds its own splash of color to what could have been considered 'trite and overused'. The first arc -Hito Random- sets the story off with the odd-at-the-very-least phenomenon of body-switching among the five main characters. Subsequent arcs deal with various phenomena (including a release of all desire and a manifestation of one's past self)- all quite intriguing and entertaining... but not limited to 'fun'/
While the events in Kokoro Connect are obviously not realistic, the audience is lead to think 'What if?'. Imagine suddenly being thrown into a mess of body-switching. Everyone has his or her own darkest secrets, desires, painful memories, and insecurities. Now, throw in the condition that four other people have access to all of the above at any given time. These people are close friends... but can they really be trusted? Would you want them to know about your past? Your thoughts? Your secrets? The answer is probably 'Some things are better left untouched'.
In addition to a superb cast that really brings life to the characters, Kokoro Connect very realistically displays how a person would react when facing situations such as the ones listed above. It takes a concept that may sound lighthearted and shapes it into something deeper- even deeper and more complex than love ties that exist elsewhere in anime (which is saying quite a bit).
13 of 13 episodes seen
wikikiwi(All reviews)
70 people found this review helpful
Overall9
Story10
Animation6
Sound6
Character8
Enjoyment9
Kokoro Connect is a series I decided to watch on a whim after spotting it in CrunchyRoll one day, and I'm certainly glad that I did.
I felt like the story was, by far, the stongest point of the series and what made it stand out from your average high school romance/drama anime. While the audience is never given a full and proper explanation of why the main cast suddenly find themselves swapping bodies with each other, reading the others' thoughts or acting on their supressed desires, among other things, all these events are handled really skillfully to flesh the series' themes out.
All the apparently bizarre happenings have something in common: They force the main cast to lay their innermost emotions and struggles bare for their friends to see, no matter how much they might try to normally hide that side of them away, which is what prompts the others to try their best to help.
The way each character's problems were addressed was nice, and the characters felt relatable at most times. There were a couple of overly dramatic moments here and there, but I still felt like they worked well as set-ups for some really cathartic moments at the end of each arc.
I've also got to commend the series on how it managed to ease the tension with comedic scenes that didn't amount to pandering to the audience. While there were a couple of scenes that stuck out as weird to me, I liked how the show was serious whenever it was addressing somebody's problems rather than just laughing them off with trope-ridden scenes.
About whether I'd recommend this series or not, I'd say it depends on how much you care about series focused on character drama, since Kokoro Connect leans heavily on that. It felt like it didn't care all that much about explaining the bizarre happenings as much as it waned them to be there in order to explore each character and the bonds they make with their friends as a result of these trials they're put through.

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