The anime adaptation of Kei Sazane’s light novel, “Why Does Nobody Remember Me in This World?” (Naze Boku no Sekai wo Daremo Oboeteinai no ka?), presents a compelling premise yet falls short in execution. While the story offers a unique twist on the fantasy genre, the anime’s production quality and character development leave much to be desired. This article delves into the strengths and weaknesses of the anime, exploring why it fails to capitalize on its intriguing narrative.
A Forgotten Hero in an Alternate World: The Story’s Potential
“Why Does Nobody Remember Me in This World?” centers around Kai Sakura-Vento, a soldier living in a world where humanity triumphed in the Great War of the Five Races, thanks to the heroic Prophet Sid. Suddenly, Kai finds himself thrust into an alternate reality where humanity never existed in the war, and nobody remembers him or Sid. Armed with Sid’s sword, Code Holder, and accompanied by the mysterious demon Rinne, Kai must unravel the mystery behind this distorted world and restore the timeline. The concept of a forgotten hero struggling to reclaim his existence in a rewritten world is undoubtedly intriguing, offering a fresh take on the isekai and fantasy tropes. The introduction of the Last Riser, an entity that erases anyone who mentions Sid’s name, further complicates the conflict and adds a layer of suspense.
Lost in Translation: Weaknesses in Execution
Despite its promising story, the anime suffers from several significant flaws. The animation quality is noticeably subpar, with mediocre visuals and often jarring movements. This “low-budget” feel detracts from the immersive experience that a fantasy world demands. Character development is another major weakness. Kai and Rinne, the central protagonists, lack agency and depth. They often feel like passive participants in the plot, relying on other characters to propel their journey forward. This lack of proactive engagement diminishes their impact and prevents them from fully realizing their potential as compelling heroes. Compared to other Kei Sazane works, such as “KimiSen” (Kimi to Boku no Saigo no Senjou) and “Kami wa Game” (Kami wa Game ni Ueteiru), the protagonists in “Why Does Nobody Remember Me in This World?” are significantly less engaging. They lack the drive and distinct personalities that make characters memorable.
A Missed Opportunity: The Verdict
“Why Does Nobody Remember Me in This World?” represents a missed opportunity. The story’s unique premise and intricate world-building could have been the foundation for a truly exceptional anime. However, the poor animation quality and underdeveloped characters ultimately hold it back. While the source material (the light novel) reportedly ended on a stronger note in August 2020, the anime adaptation fails to capture its essence. Even the music, provided by Unlucky Morpheus, although fitting thematically, doesn’t elevate the overall experience. Fans of Kei Sazane’s work might find some enjoyment in the familiar themes and concepts. However, for those seeking a visually stunning and character-driven fantasy anime, the manga adaptation of “Why Does Nobody Remember Me in This World?” might offer a more satisfying experience.
