Watari-kun’s ****** Is About to Collapse [Season 1 Episode 24]

Watari-kun’s ** Is About to Collapse Episode 24: The Quiet Storm of Growing Up

Let’s cut to the chase: if you thought this anime was just about Naoto’s overprotective sibling vibes or Satsuki’s chaotic energy, Episode 24 slaps a neon “THINK AGAIN” sign on that idea. This week, the spotlight swerves to Tokui—you know, that quiet guy who’s always hanging around the main crew like a chill sidekick? Turns out, he’s got layers thicker than a matcha parfait, and this episode digs into them like it’s uncovering buried treasure.

First off, let’s get the basics straight for anyone who might’ve skipped a week (no shade, but catch up): Naoto’s life has been all about his little sister Suzu since their parents died. Then Satsuki, his childhood friend who’s basically a human tornado, blew back into town and turned his “safe” routine into a rollercoaster. But Episode 24? It’s not about their drama. It’s about Tokui’s past—and wow, does it hit different.

The episode starts with Tokui skipping class to visit an old bookstore downtown. At first, I thought, “Oh, he’s just a book nerd”—but nope. We flash back to his middle school days, where he was this shy kid who got bullied for being “too quiet.” The only person who stuck up for him? A girl named Aoi, who loved the same obscure sci-fi novels he did. They’d meet at that bookstore every Saturday, talking about stories where characters found courage in the weirdest places. But then Aoi moved away suddenly, and Tokui shut himself off—until he met Naoto and the gang.

What makes this work so well? It’s not just the sad backstory (though that’s definitely there). It’s how the show ties Tokui’s past to the present. When Naoto finds him at the bookstore, he doesn’t pressure Tokui to spill everything. Instead, he says, “You don’t have to talk about it… but I’m here if you want to.” That line? Chef’s kiss. It’s the kind of quiet support that feels real—no big speeches, no over-the-top gestures, just a friend being there.

And let’s talk about the animation here. The flashbacks use softer, warmer colors—think golden hour sunlight filtering through bookstore windows—while the present-day scenes have that crisp, modern anime look. The contrast makes Tokui’s memories feel like a dream he’s holding onto, and it’s visually stunning. The music, too? A gentle piano score that swells when Tokui finds an old note from Aoi in a book. It’s not loud or dramatic; it’s the kind of music that tugs at your heartstrings without making you feel like you’re being manipulated.

Now, let’s get to the good stuff: the character growth. Satsuki, who’s usually all jokes and chaos, actually has a moment where she’s serious. When Tokui finally opens up about Aoi, she doesn’t tease him. She just says, “That’s tough… but hey, you’re not alone now.” It’s a small moment, but it shows how much she’s changed since the first episode. She’s still the same Satsuki, but she’s learning to read the room—and that’s cool to see.

Naoto, too, gets a win here. He’s always been so focused on Suzu that he sometimes forgets his friends have their own problems. But in this episode, he puts Suzu’s needs aside for a second (don’t worry, she’s hanging out with her friends) to be there for Tokui. It’s a reminder that being a good brother doesn’t mean ignoring everyone else—it means balancing care with connection.

And can we talk about the ending? Tokui writes a letter to Aoi, even though he doesn’t know where she is. He says, “I’m not that shy kid anymore. I have friends who make me laugh, and I’m learning to be brave. Thank you for starting that for me.” Then he leaves the letter at the bookstore, hoping someone might find it. It’s not a “happy ending” where they reunite—it’s a real ending, where Tokui finds closure in his own way. That’s the kind of storytelling that sticks with you.

Now, let’s check what the fans are saying (because, let’s be real, we all care about the vibe): over on MyAnimeList, one user called Tokui “the dark horse of the season,” and I couldn’t agree more. Another fan pointed out that the episode’s strength is in its quiet moments—“no big fights, no plot twists, just people being people.” That’s exactly it. In a world where anime is often all about flashy action or over-the-top romance, this episode is a breath of fresh air. It’s about the messy, beautiful process of growing up—about realizing that everyone has their own battles, and that being there for each other is enough.

Is there anything I didn’t love? Maybe the fact that Suzu’s role is super small this week—but honestly, it’s okay. The show needed to give Tokui his moment, and it does it justice. Plus, Suzu’s scene with her friends is cute (they’re baking cookies, and she’s covered in flour—relatable).

Overall, Episode 24 is a masterclass in character-driven storytelling. It’s not about saving the world or defeating a villain. It’s about a quiet guy finding his voice, his friends being there for him, and the messy, wonderful journey of becoming who you are. If you’re tired of anime that’s all noise and no heart, this episode is for you. It’s the kind of episode that makes you pause after watching, grab a snack, and think, “Wow… that was nice.”

So, to wrap it up: Watari-kun’s ** Is About to Collapse Episode 24 isn’t just another filler episode. It’s a reminder that the best stories aren’t always about the main characters—it’s about the people standing beside them. And in this case, Tokui’s story is one worth telling.

Final Verdict: 9/10. It’s quiet, it’s heartfelt, and it’s exactly what this anime needed. Don’t sleep on Tokui—he’s just getting started.

Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’m going to rewatch that bookstore scene and maybe shed a tiny tear. No shame.

P.S. The art in this episode? Chef’s kiss. The way the sunlight hits the books? I want that as my lock screen.