Reader’s Question:
I’m looking for an anime that features college drinking parties. What stands out to me is that麦茶 is treated like beer, water like vodka, and烏龍茶 like a mix of whiskey and vodka. The club is shown drinking a lot, and they were using a large amount of alcohol for
a game called オトーリ, including spirits like スピリタス. At one point, the main character tried to fill up with water and got really yelled at. When the main character demonstrated how to do オトーリ, they just kept pouring more alcohol.

Finding the Perfect Anime for College Drinking Parties: A Dive into “Grand Blue”

If you’ve ever had a college experience filled with laughter, camaraderie, and, let’s be honest, a bit too much drinking, then you probably know what I’m talking about when I say that anime has captured that essence beautifully. Recently, someone asked for recommendations about anime that features college drinking parties, and I couldn’t help but think of one title that perfectly encapsulates those wild, carefree days—”Grand Blue” (ぐらんぶる).

What’s “Grand Blue” All About?

Now, let me take a moment to set the scene for you. Picture this: a laid-back beach town in Japan, a university known for its gorgeous diving spots, and a group of college students who seem to have one goal in mind—having the wildest parties possible. That’s right; “Grand Blue” is all about the adventures of college students in a diving club, but it often feels less about diving and more about the drinking and the outrageous antics that ensue. You see, the main character, Iori Kitahara, finds himself in a rental house near the ocean, and what follows is a whirlwind of absurd comedy and chaotic drinking games. From the very first episode, I knew I was in for a treat. It had that blend of humor that made me think, “Wow, I can totally relate to this!”

The Drinking Culture Depicted

Now, let’s talk about the drinking culture portrayed in the series—it’s both hilarious and somewhat eye-opening. I mean, they treat麦茶 (mugicha, or barley tea) like beer, and they use water as if it were vodka! If you’ve ever been to a drinking party, you know how absurd and funny the dynamics can get. The show takes this idea and amplifies it to a comedic level that reflects those ridiculous moments we’ve all been a part of. And then there’s the game calledオトーリ (otorii). Oh boy, it’s like a rite of passage in the series. Imagine a bunch of friends gathering around, and there’s this tradition where they keep pouring alcohol into each other’s cups, almost like a friendly competition to see who can handle the most. Iori’s initial struggle with this game—and the shouting he received when he tried to fill up with water instead—really brought me back to some of my own college days. You know, those moments when you think, “Maybe I should just sit this one out,” but your friends are having way too much fun for you to bail. In one of the episodes, they even use spirits likeスピリタス (spirits) to ramp up the intensity. Honestly, I was watching it thinking, “Are they really going to drink that?” It’s a wild ride, and you can’t help but laugh at the sheer absurdity of it all.

The Humor That Hits Home

What I love most about “Grand Blue” is its humor. It’s a combination of slapstick, situational comedy, and those relatable, cringe-worthy moments we often experience in our youth. The characters are a bunch of goofballs, and the way they bounce off each other is just delightful. There are moments where you can’t help but laugh out loud, whether it’s Iori’s awkward encounters, or the club members getting into ridiculous shenanigans. And let’s not forget the animation! The character designs and expressions are exaggerated in a way that perfectly complements the humor. I found myself pausing to appreciate the over-the-top reactions, which really made the comedic moments shine.

Why You Should Watch It

Now, you might be asking yourself, “Is this anime really for me?” If you’ve ever had a night out with friends that ended in laughter, questionable decisions, and maybe a hangover or two, then yes, “Grand Blue” is definitely for you. It’s not just about the drinking, though. At its core, it’s also about friendship, the bonds formed during the crazy times, and the sense of freedom that comes with being young and carefree. It captures the essence of those fleeting moments in life when everything feels lighthearted and fun, and we’re reminded of the importance of enjoying the ride, no matter how wild it gets. Plus, with its second season airing right now, it’s the perfect time to dive in (pun intended) and catch up! You’ll find yourself laughing, reminiscing, and maybe even shaking your head at the ridiculousness of it all—just like those college drinking parties we all remember.

A Personal Connection

Reflecting on my own experiences, I can’t help but draw parallels between Iori’s adventures and my college days. I remember those late-night gatherings filled with laughter, games, and the occasional ridiculous challenge that had us all in stitches. Sure, we didn’t have quite the same level of alcohol antics as depicted in the show, but the essence of friendship and shared experiences remains the same. Sometimes, I catch myself thinking about those carefree days, and watching “Grand Blue” gives me a nostalgic kick. It’s a reminder that despite the responsibilities of adulthood creeping in, there’s still a part of me that longs for those silly, carefree moments.

Final Thoughts

So, if you’re looking for an anime that captures the hilarity and chaos of college drinking parties while weaving in themes of friendship and the joys of youth, “Grand Blue” is your go-to. It’s a wild ride filled with laughter, a bit of drinking culture, and a whole lot of heart. Just be prepared; you might find yourself reminiscing about your own adventures and laughing at the sheer absurdity of it all. Grab a drink (non-alcoholic, if you prefer!), sit back, and enjoy the dive into this comedic gem. You won’t regret it! Cheers!