Ako, Shizuno, and Nodoka were best friends in middle school, often going to Achiga Girls’ School to play mahjong. But as time passed, they saw less and less of each other. That was until Shizuno saw Nodoka won the middle school mahjong Singles tournament. Now, Shuzuno's determined to meet her friend again, at the inter-high mahjong tournament... Achiga-hen Episode of Side A is, you may have guessed, a spin-off from Saki, which you can read about here - although if you're expecting Saki herself to make an appearance, don't get your hopes up, as it's Nodoka who's tied to the girls that feature in this one (and Yuuki makes a brief cameo, too). Friends in primary school, they developed their love of mahjong together before going their separate ways; now, seeing Nodoka playing on TV has re-inspired the friends she left behind, who have decided to meet her again - preferably at the nationals. Let the challange begin. I have very little interest in mahjong itself, and haven't a clue how the game is played - surprisingly, though, that didn't get in the way of enjoying the original Saki series, which was buily as much on the personalities of the girls as on the game itself. Side A seems to follow that 'format', with the 5 girls (well, 4 girls and a teacher) each having distinctive personalities but combining to make an interesting group. THE GOOD: It may be different characters, but the feel of the original series it very much still here, and the new girls are a fun little group as well. THE BAD: I still haven't a clue how mahjong is played. And I suspect I never will. Maybe a little too close to the original, but still fun, and this one being a keeper was never really in doubt. Looking forward to seeing more of it. Saki - Episode of Side A is simulcast by Crunchyroll.
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