Yamada-kun and the Seven Witches [Season 1 Episodes 1-12]

Yamada-kun and the Seven Witches: A Chaotic Blend of Magic, Friendship, and Teenage Drama

If you’re scrolling through your anime queue looking for something that’s equal parts hilarious, heartwarming, and just a little bit chaotic, Yamada-kun and the Seven Witches (Season 1, Episodes 1-12) might be your next obsession. Produced by Liden Films and airing from April to June 2015, this 12-episode series takes a wild premise—body-swapping via accidental kisses—and turns it into a rollercoaster of magical hijinks, growing friendships, and awkward teenage romance that feels surprisingly genuine.

The story kicks off with Ryuu Yamada, a former delinquent trying to turn over a new leaf at Suzaku High School. Spoiler: He fails miserably, slipping back into his lazy, hot-tempered ways until a fateful tumble down the stairs leads to an accidental kiss with Urara Shiraishi, the school’s top honor student. Cue the body swap. Suddenly, Yamada is stuck in Shiraishi’s prim-and-proper life, and she’s navigating his rough, rebellious world. What starts as a curse quickly becomes a discovery: their kiss isn’t just a fluke—it’s the first clue to a bigger mystery involving seven witches at their school, each with unique powers activated by kissing.

What makes this show stand out is how it balances its absurdity with real emotion. As Yamada and Shiraishi team up to find the other witches, they’re joined by a ragtag crew of classmates, each with their own quirks. Take Odagiri, for example—her running gag with “dense boobs” and perpetual lateness has fans cracking up, but beneath the humor, she’s a loyal friend who adds warmth to the group. Comments on MyAnimeList gush about her “precious” moments, like how her boobs seem to have a mind of their own, always popping up in the most unexpected (and hilarious) ways.

Then there’s the slow-burn chemistry between Yamada and Shiraishi. Their body-swapping mishaps force them to see each other beyond their stereotypes—Yamada learns Shiraishi isn’t just a stuck-up student, and she discovers his hidden kindness. Fans can’t get enough of their “little moments,” like when Yamada defends Shiraishi from blame or when they share a quiet exchange that hints at deeper feelings. One commenter sums it up perfectly: “Their relation is really getting better and better. And that’s true for everyone else too, friendship theme here just works.”

The magic system is another highlight. Each witch’s power—from memory erasure to telepathy—adds a new layer of chaos, but the show never takes itself too seriously. Even the “serious” moments, like when the club grows to include new members like Tsubaki, are laced with humor. As one fan notes, “Their club is ever growing! Bring on the next witch!” It’s this sense of adventure and camaraderie that keeps viewers hooked.

Of course, no anime is without its flaws. Some might find the “kiss to activate powers” trope overused, but Yamada-kun leans into it with self-awareness, turning it into a source of comedy rather than cringe. The pacing can feel rushed at times, especially as the series tries to introduce all seven witches in 12 episodes, but the tight-knit group dynamic and snappy dialogue make up for it.

At its core, Yamada-kun and the Seven Witches is about growing up and finding your place. Yamada starts as a delinquent who doesn’t care about anyone, but through his interactions with Shiraishi and the others, he learns the value of friendship and responsibility. Shiraishi, once isolated by her academic success, opens up and finds joy in being part of a team. It’s these character arcs that give the show its heart, making it more than just a silly magic anime.

For 20-year-olds and younger, this series hits all the right notes: relatable high school struggles, laugh-out-loud humor, and just enough romance to keep you invested. Whether you’re here for the body-swapping chaos, the growing friendships, or the slow-burn love story, Yamada-kun and the Seven Witches delivers. As one fan puts it, “That smile oohhh Yowza!!! xD”—it’s the kind of show that leaves you grinning long after the credits roll.

So, if you’re in the mood for something light, fun, and full of heart, give Yamada-kun and the Seven Witches a watch. Just be prepared to laugh, gasp, and maybe even ship a few characters along the way. After all, who can resist a show where magic, friendship, and a little bit of chaos collide?

Final Verdict: 8/10. A chaotic, charming ride that proves the best magic is the kind that brings people together.