Astarotte's Toy

Astarotte's Toy, also known as Lotte no Omocha! is a charming 2011 anime series from Kadokawa Pictures Inc. that blends elements of fantasy, comedy, and slice-of-life to create a show packed full of laughter, adventure, and heartwarming moments.

The main character of the series is Astarotte Ygvar, a princess who is also a succubus. Astarotte hails from the mystical realm of Alfheimr, a world populated by mythical creatures such as werewolves, witches, and mermaids. In this world, succubi are required to maintain their health and magic by engaging in intimate relations with individuals of the opposite sex, a fact that adds a bit of hilarity to the series as Astarotte wants nothing to do with men, stemming from her age and her misandry.

Despite her reluctance to adhere to succubus traditions, Astarotte's health begins to wane, forcing her to establish a harem for her well-being. However, she insists she would only do so if a human male joins, thinking it to be impossible as humans are considered mythical creatures in Alfheimr. Surprise befalls her when a human male named Naoya is brought to the realm, setting the premise for the series.

Naoya is a doting single father from Earth, caring for Asuha, his lively and adventurous daughter. A series of events involving a magical tree in Alfheimr and a lost toy of Asuha's lead to Naoya accidentally being transported to Astarotte's world. Astarotte’s Toy takes a comedic and lighthearted approach when it comes to showcasing how Naoya and Asuha adjust to their new, fantastical surroundings, while assisting Astarotte in rethinking her prejudice against men.

What makes Astarotte's Toy stand out is its focus on character dynamics and relationships. The unique cast each bring with them their own quirks, and watching them interact provides much of the show's entertainment. Astarotte's interactions with Naoya and Asuha are heartwarming to watch as she slowly opens up to them, shedding her initial impressions of men and starting to trust and care for the human duo.

Simultaneously, Asuha's innocent curiosity and naiveté as she explores this new world filled with mythical creatures and strange customs adds an extra layer of amusement to the show. Naoya's paternal instincts and protective nature also add depth and diversity to his character. The series does a fantastic job at showcasing Naoya's balance between being a loving father, a responsible guardian for Astarotte, and a male member of the princess's harem.

Despite having a unique premise, Astarotte's Toy does not rely heavily on fanservice to drive its story. Instead, the series uses humour and slice-of-life elements combined with a tinge of romance to convey its narrative. The show may revolve around a succubus and a harem, but it does not fall into the common trap of gratuitous or objectifying content. The characters, their backstories, and their interactions drive the plot forward, ensuring that Astarotte’s Toy remains a light-hearted and enjoyable watch throughout.

Being a fantasy show, Astarotte's Toy employed vibrant and diverse backgrounds and character designs to reflect the mythical world of Alfheimr. The animation quality is smooth, and every character – main leads and supports – has a distinct design that makes them easily identifiable. The musical score aptly complements the varying moods in the series – be it comedic, adventurous, or emotional.

In conclusion, Astarotte's Toy is a delightful series that takes a unique premise and transforms it into a compelling story about acceptance, friendship, and overcoming prejudices. It delivers a delightful balance of comedy, fantasy, and heart, blending a colourful cast of characters with a vibrant world that draws viewers in right from the first episode. Whether you're a fan of comedy, fantasy, or just want a heartwarming and entertaining series to watch, Astarotte’s Toy proves itself as a great pick.