Series Recommendation: Ryousangata Riko – Saigo no Plamo Joshi no Jinsei Kumitateki

If you have a problem, just build a model kit!

Our lovely protagonist Komukai Riko returns for another season of “Mass-Production Riko” – where she uses her newfound hobby of model kit building to solve real life problem through their inspiration – and in the process show the viewers some pretty neat modeling technique as well as the marvel of Japan’s modelling culture. Just like previous seasons, this “Riko” is dropped into an entirely different scenario – where she has to face a slew of problems with the trusty duo model shop owner and staff, but this time, the issue lies in Riko’s own family!

Season 3 Opening song

+ PLOT: Different from the previous 2 season, this one is set in the countryside – Riko’s hometown. And instead of Riko and her colleagues navigating the corporate world of the busy city, Riko has to deal with the intricate relationship between family members. With the passing of her grandpa, the entire family once again gathered in their hometown – including Riko’s older sister, who works far away; her younger sister – who is still studying high school; and her parents. Each person of the Komukai family has their own personal problems that Riko is entrusted with. And she would be lost without accidentally discovering a model kit shop in town – where an eccentric storeowner and a kind staff helps her choose the episodic product placement.

The plot is actually much more chillax compared to the previous season. The personal issue introduced in this season isn’t as serious as the corporate environment. It’s definitely got more of a “family bonding” vibe. Although it is both hilarious and impressive to see how building a model kit can resolve a person’s struggle of the mind.

+ Featured Kits: When you mention model kit, you have to mention Bandai – the King of mokei. Naturally, most of the kits featured in this season is also Bandai’s, but we also get the rare Aoshima W. Of course, not all of the featured kits will be Gunpla, but also kits from other series, such as Idolmaster and Kaijuu No.8. But as one can guess, the ultimate kit will always be Bandai’s Gunpla – and since this is Riko’s final season, they bring out the biggest boy – the HG Dendrobium.

The series isn’t just about building – as shown in previous shows as well – but also feature customization, painting, and even weathering. The series show that those aren’t “advanced” techniques that are out of reach from normal builders, and that sometimes, a little bit of improvisation can bring about great results. Modeling…is truly freedom.

+ Music: As usual, the opening and ending songs are quite energetic and cute – reflecting Riko’s personality. The ending sequence still features the cast playing with the finished kit in that episode in various ways, which keeps audience attention until the end.

+ Conclusion: This 3rd season of Riko introduces us to a new settings and some more creative way to “use” model kits to solve real life issues. Of course, it won’t be THAT easy in real life, but still, it is heartwarming to see how the hobby can potentially bring people together. Now it is a bit sad that Riko won’t be joining us in anymore journey for the Ryousangata series, but the 3 seasons with her has been super great. Yuki Koda’s cute and endearing mannerism has really captured the hearts of viewers – showing people that even person who knows nothing about the series itself can still enjoy the model kits – a lesson I think is well taught by the series.

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