Tasokare Hotel [Season 1 Episodes 1-12]

Tasokare Hotel: Where Twilight Meets Mystery in the Afterlife

Imagine waking up in a hotel where the sun never fully rises, the manager has a flaming head, and the guests are lost souls stuck between life and death. That’s the world of Tasokare Hotel, a new anime that’s been blowing up on MyAnimeList forums since its January 2025 debut. Produced by PRA and directed by Kōsuke Koremizu, this series dives into the eerie yet captivating premise of a twilight hotel where forgotten souls rediscover their purpose. Let’s unpack why fans are calling it “Death Parade meets Idolmaster” and whether it lives up to the hype.

First Impressions: A Hotel Like No Other

The pilot episode introduces us to Neko Tsukahara, an amnesiac idol fan who stumbles into Tasokare Hotel with no memory of her past. The hotel’s staff is as quirky as its guests: Haruto, a former human who’s been there two weeks, and the enigmatic manager with a fiery mane (think Ghost Rider meets hospitality). Fans immediately noted the show’s “mystery vibe” and “Death Parade vibes,” though some pointed out the hotel’s surprisingly ordinary decor—until you spot the locked door that hints at darker secrets.

One user raved, “The first episode left its mark, and now I want to see more of it.” Another compared it to Haibane Renmei but “less depressing,” praising the episodic structure where each guest’s story unfolds like a puzzle. Neko’s character, described as “adorable” and “a bit of a weirdo,” quickly won hearts, even if her lack of curiosity about her own past raised eyebrows. “She’s more interested in helping others than finding herself,” one fan observed, “and that’s what makes her relatable.”

The Game Adaptation Debate

Tasokare Hotel is based on a mobile game, and this has sparked mixed reactions. Some viewers, like one who played the Android version, noted the anime’s “different start” but called it a “flavorful” addition. Others, however, felt the adaptation “feels like a game” with its item-searching mechanics. “I’d rather play than watch someone else play,” a critic grumbled. But defenders argued, “The story is still good—give it until episode 3 when the pace picks up.”

Idols, Amnesia, and Bisexual Representation

Neko’s backstory as an idol fan adds a layer of nostalgia, especially when she mentions a 365-member idol group (yes, 365—fans did a double-take). Her bisexuality, confirmed by a user, is a refreshing touch in a genre often lacking LGBTQ+ representation. “Finally, a lead who’s not just straight!” one fan cheered. The show’s focus on self-discovery resonates deeply, with guests confronting their pasts through room items that trigger memories.

The Verdict: A Slow Burn with Potential

Critics have mixed feelings about the pacing. “It’s a slow burn,” admitted one reviewer, “but the art style and animation are solid.” The flaming-headed manager, while campy, “burns with passion,” as a fan joked, and the episodic format keeps viewers hooked. Some predict a 7-8/10 rating, while others warn it might “run out of ideas.” But for now, Tasokare Hotel is a must-watch for mystery lovers and anyone craving a unique take on the afterlife.

In the words of a dedicated fan: “This is my new favorite anime this season. The plot is well-written, the characters are interesting, and the intersections between life and death are so thought-provoking.” Whether you’re here for the supernatural intrigue or the adorable Neko, Tasokare Hotel is a twilight tale worth checking into.

Final Score: 7.5/10
Tasokare Hotel isn’t perfect, but its charm lies in its quirks. Give it a chance—you might just find your new obsession in the twilight. 🌙🏨

Note: This review is based on fan discussions and episode 1-12 content. Spoilers ahead for those who haven’t watched!