English Dub Review: Akiba Maid War: “To Die For Love: Tears Fall on Electric Town”

Overview: Ranko (Chaney Moore) goes on a date with one of her masters with various shocking discoveries coming to light from her past. 

Our Take: One of the best talents of this series is how it balances its various tones. The episode juggles the wholehearted nature of Suehiro and Ranko’s romance with other integral story elements amazingly. 

The two are adorable with how much of a straightforward and wholesome pair they make. While sparks fly, doubts surrounding Suehiro’s intentions with her are woven in, leaving the audience guessing with his actions conflicting with the mystery surrounding his job. 

Okamachi’s fears about Suehiro are seeded, setting up a huge, unexpected reveal in the bear being Michiyo, the maid who killed Ranko’s previous master. Suehiro is an assassin who, years ago, attempted to kill her, tying up any loose ends. Michiyo’s past with him, along with the heartfelt moments she’s shared with the girls, establishes her affection and connections for Oinky Doink. With that said, the development creates heavy tension as to how Ranko will deal with her. 

Levity also remains ever-present with the silliness of Michiyo’s silent panda persona. What’s the reason? Because, it seemed nice. And that’s what’s great. The goofy charm the show does not shy away from, instead falling back on for the less necessary details.

Ranko’s mercy for Michiyo creates a fateful ending for Suehiro. With all the bloodshed Michiyo’s caused, what her ultimate fate is will be interesting. Suehiro’s love taking precedence over his objective to kill Ranko is a welcome albeit bittersweet development in his untimely demise. Nagi’s order to kill Suehiro, along with her and Ranko’s master, sets up a climatic endgame for the maids as well as the series overall.