Anime fans are in for a treat with the announcement of When Will Ayumu Make His Move?, a charming and strategic anime that brings together the intense world of shogi (Japanese chess) with a heartwarming story of love and personal growth. Created by the acclaimed manga artist Suu Morishita, this anime is set to take viewers on a journey that combines the precision of strategic games with the unpredictability of romance.
The story revolves around Ayumu Tanaka, a talented young shogi player who has yet to confess his feelings for the girl he admires. The series not only explores Ayumu’s emotional development but also presents the challenges of being a rising star in competitive shogi. Fans of romance and sports anime alike will find themselves fascinated by Ayumu’s determination, both in the game and in matters of the heart.
But what makes When Will Ayumu Make His Move? Stand out from other shogi-themed shows? Is it the tension-filled games, the slow-burn romance, or perhaps the unique blend of humor and strategy that drives the plot? In this, we’ll go into the key details about the series, including its release date, cast, and what fans can expect from this exciting new addition to the anime lineup.
What can you expect when Ayumu makes his move?
The anime follows Ayumu Tanaka, a first-year student who joins his school’s shogi club. Although he’s a shogi prodigy, his true passion lies in the girl he admires, Urushi Yaotome. Urushi is the president of the shogi club, and Ayumu finds himself caught between his love for her and his fierce desire to improve his skills in the game.
While the anime features plenty of intense shogi matches, the heart of the series lies in Ayumu’s growing affection for Urushi. Ayumu is determined to confess his feelings, but there’s just one problem: he’s not sure when to make his move. This dilemma serves as a central theme throughout the series, blending romantic tension with shogi-themed drama.
Romantic Tension and Strategy
The dynamic between Ayumu and Urushi is filled with playful competition, lighthearted teasing, and occasional miscommunication, all of which add depth to their budding relationship. Urushi, who has been keeping an eye on Ayumu’s progress, also faces her own inner turmoil about her feelings toward him. Will Ayumu manage to find the courage to confess? Or will his love remain unspoken while he continues to master his shogi skills?
What makes this anime stand out from others in the genre is its ability to merge two seemingly unrelated elements: romance and strategy. As Ayumu faces increasingly difficult opponents on the shogi board, viewers are also treated to moments of personal reflection, as he contemplates the delicate nature of love and the importance of timing. Just like in shogi, every move he makes—whether on the board or in his personal life—carries weight.
The Cast and Characters: A Perfect Blend
When Will Ayumu Make His Move? introduces a cast of characters that are both lovable and relatable.
Ayumu Tanaka: The protagonist and a rising shogi star. Though talented, his lack of confidence when it comes to matters of the heart makes him a sympathetic and endearing character. His internal struggle between competing in shogi and confessing to Urushi drives much of the plot.
Urushi Yaotome: The school’s shogi club president, Urushi is a strong, intelligent, and competitive young woman. Her playful nature and hidden affection for Ayumu add layers of complexity to her character. She also grapples with the balance between supporting Ayumu in his shogi ambitions and facing her growing feelings for him.
Supporting Characters: The series also features a variety of supporting characters who add both comedic relief and critical insight into Ayumu’s journey. Each character contributes to the atmosphere of the anime, making it a light-hearted yet meaningful exploration of youth, love, and ambition.
What Sets When Will Ayumu Make His Move? Apart from Other Romance Anime?
Shogi as the Core Theme: Many anime series center around sports or games, but shogi is a lesser-explored theme in anime. The strategic nature of shogi brings an intellectual edge to the series, making it a refreshing departure from more traditional romance anime.
Slow-Burn Romance: While many romance anime rush into relationships, When Will Ayumu Make His Move? takes its time, allowing the relationship between Ayumu and Urushi to develop naturally. This slow-burn approach creates an engaging tension that will keep viewers hooked.
Character Growth: Ayumu’s character arc is one of the most compelling aspects of the series. As he navigates the challenges of shogi, he also learns valuable life lessons about courage, honesty, and timing.
Release Date and What Fans Can Expect
Fans of When Will Ayumu Make His Move? can look forward to its premiere in the summer of 2025. The anime is expected to cover several volumes of the manga, which currently has a strong following in Japan. The first season will introduce viewers to the main characters, the dynamics within the shogi club, and the blossoming relationship between Ayumu and Urushi.
While specific plot details remain under wraps at this time, early promotional material suggests that the upcoming anime will be both heartwarming and entertaining for viewers of all ages. With a perfect balance of romance, strategic battles, and humorous moments, this series is poised to be one of the standout shows of the summer season, fascinating audiences with its unique charm and engaging storytelling.
A Must-Watch for Romance and Strategy Fans
“When Will Ayumu Make His Move?” offers a unique and refreshing take on the romance genre, cleverly blending the intellectual challenges and strategic intricacies of shogi with the relatable struggles and triumphs of young love. Whether you’re a passionate fan of the traditional game of shogi or simply seeking an engaging romance anime that stands out from the crowd, this series promises to deliver an enjoyable and heartfelt viewing experience. With its compelling characters, slow-burn romance, and intricate gameplay dynamics, this anime is definitely one to watch when it premieres in 2025, offering both entertainment and emotional depth.
[Updated: 04/19/2025]
