Why is this manga SO incredibly similar to Fruits Basket? Did it plagiarize Fruits Basket? That's the main issue here—the fact that it's way too alike. The trio of male characters, their personalities, and even specific scenes like one guy dressing in a girl's outfit—it all mirrors Fruits Basket! I really want to know if Iyo Takarada copied Natsuki Takaya or not. We can't claim Takaya copied Takarada because Fruits Basket was published prior to 2004.
The characters with similarities to Fruits Basket are as follows:
Yuzuki = Kyo (similar temper, though in Fruits Basket, it was Yuki who wore the dress)
Sanai = Shigure (the perverted tendencies)
Shuuichi = Yuki (the calm demeanor)
Of course, there's no curse in this manga, and the ages differ, but the personalities and events feel strikingly familiar. Also, the main female protagonist being an orphan—there has to be some distinction, so they made her father still alive.
I do think the artwork is quite appealing. However, the story loses points because it feels too much like Fruits Basket, which is one of my favorite manga/anime. I wouldn't enjoy a retread, no matter how polished. It just seems like manga plagiarism.
This manga was absolutely delightful. It follows the typical shoujo genre, with a somewhat overused and simplistic plot, yet it was a genuinely enjoyable read. The story is brief and charming, and honestly, it might not have worked as well without the engaging characters. The interactions between the characters are incredibly endearing. The male characters' dynamics resemble those in Ouran High School Host Club, providing plenty of entertaining moments. There's nothing particularly emotional or heart-wrenching here, and unfortunately, there isn't a clearly defined romance. There is a one-sided crush that's acknowledged, but that's the extent of romantic development. If you're looking for something light-hearted, filled with playful banter and flirtation, without any heavy commitments, and that will leave you with a smile on your face, then this manga is worth checking out. <p>
The first thing I came across when I entered the manga site was a thread titled "Most Stupid Ending Ever!" As I continued browsing, I noticed more threads with similar titles. "It can't be THAT bad," I thought to myself. When I was nearing the end of the story and realized it wasn't going anywhere, I began to think it might actually be true... And indeed, it was.
That said, it wasn't entirely without merit. The artwork was quite impressive and suited this type of manga well. Some of the characters were interesting, and I found it somewhat enjoyable since I'm a fan of shoujo.
In summary, it's a straightforward story, one that's been done before, very brief, with some comedy, attempted drama, and an incredibly stupid ending. So, if you enjoy simple shoujo, a bit of reverse harem, have a little free time, and don't expect much, go ahead and read it. Otherwise, look for something else.
(Oh, by the way, I have to admit I really loved the extra story, Watashi no Sugar Baby. I wish it had been a separate work, as it would have earned a higher rating.)
Popular Reviews
The characters with similarities to Fruits Basket are as follows:
Yuzuki = Kyo (similar temper, though in Fruits Basket, it was Yuki who wore the dress)
Sanai = Shigure (the perverted tendencies)
Shuuichi = Yuki (the calm demeanor)
Of course, there's no curse in this manga, and the ages differ, but the personalities and events feel strikingly familiar. Also, the main female protagonist being an orphan—there has to be some distinction, so they made her father still alive.
I do think the artwork is quite appealing. However, the story loses points because it feels too much like Fruits Basket, which is one of my favorite manga/anime. I wouldn't enjoy a retread, no matter how polished. It just seems like manga plagiarism.
That said, it wasn't entirely without merit. The artwork was quite impressive and suited this type of manga well. Some of the characters were interesting, and I found it somewhat enjoyable since I'm a fan of shoujo.
In summary, it's a straightforward story, one that's been done before, very brief, with some comedy, attempted drama, and an incredibly stupid ending. So, if you enjoy simple shoujo, a bit of reverse harem, have a little free time, and don't expect much, go ahead and read it. Otherwise, look for something else.
(Oh, by the way, I have to admit I really loved the extra story, Watashi no Sugar Baby. I wish it had been a separate work, as it would have earned a higher rating.)