Tales of Wedding Rings Television Show: A Romantic Fantasy Ecchi Adventure
The “Tales of Wedding Rings” television show, also known as “Kekkon Yubiwa Monogatari,” is a romantic fantasy ecchi anime adaptation of the ongoing manga series by Maybe. This isn’t Maybe’s first foray into anime; they’re also the creators behind “Dusk Maiden of Amnesia” and “To the Abandoned Sacred Beasts.” While “Dusk Maiden of Amnesia” remains a beloved classic, “Tales of Wedding Rings,” like “To the Abandoned Sacred Beasts,” struggles to reach the same heights.
A Hero, Five Rings, and a Growing Harem
The story centers on Haruto Satou, a seemingly ordinary young man who spent his childhood caring for Hime. When Hime returns to her home world, Krystal Novaty Nokanatika, Satou follows, discovering she’s a princess. Their reunion is cut short by a demonic attack. In a surprising turn of events, Hime kisses Satou, bestowing upon him the power of her ring, one of five elemental rings. He learns he’s destined to become the Ring King, gather the remaining rings, and defeat the Abyss King. This quest involves marrying the four other Ring Princesses, each possessing a unique elemental ring and personality.
Wishy-Washy Hero and Plot-Driven Princesses
Satou, while tasked with a heroic role, is indecisive and often needs a push to take charge. The prince, Marse, originally betrothed to Hime, supports Satou’s journey as the Ring King. The Ring Princesses, while visually diverse and possessing interesting backstories, primarily serve as plot devices to further Satou’s quest and expand his harem. Each princess, once “conquered,” fades into the background. The primary focus remains on Satou’s desire for Hime, constantly interrupted by new challenges. Hime, in turn, grapples with jealousy toward the other princesses.
Decent Production, Unremarkable Music
Studio Staple Entertainment, known for “Vermeil in Gold,” delivers a decent but not outstanding production. The animation features darker undertones for a fantasy series. The background music is largely forgettable. However, the opening theme, “Lover’s Eye” by Sizuk featuring AYAME from AliA, complements the series well. The ending theme, “Kokoro no Naka” by Sizuk featuring AliA, leans heavily into ecchi aesthetics, showcasing the five princesses.
Manga Versus Anime: Source Material Superiority
While the anime isn’t a bad adaptation, it doesn’t capture the full essence of the manga. The story suffers from pacing issues, and the animation, even in ecchi scenes, doesn’t match the manga’s artistic quality. “Tales of Wedding Rings” falls short of the brilliance of “Dusk Maiden of Amnesia” and is slightly better than “To the Abandoned Sacred Beasts.” For those intrigued, the ongoing manga offers significantly more content and depth. It allows readers to fully experience the story beyond the anime adaptation. “Tales of Wedding Rings” provides a romantic fantasy ecchi adventure, but viewers seeking a truly exceptional series might find themselves wanting more.
