Watch Girls Beyond the Wasteland

"Girls Beyond the Wasteland" is a 12-episode anime series that aired in early 2016 on Tokyo MX. The show centers around a group of high school students who decide to create a visual novel together, with the goal of submitting it to a major game development company.

The main character, Buntarou Hojo (voiced by Seiichiro Yamashita), is a high school student who is unhappy with his life and unsure of what he wants to do with his future. When he meets Sayuki Kuroda (voiced by Haruka Chisuga), a fellow student who is passionate about creating visual novels, he decides to join her and a few other classmates in developing a game.

The group faces many challenges as they work on the game, including creative differences, technical difficulties, and personal issues. Along the way, they receive guidance and support from various mentors, including an experienced game designer named Setsuna (voiced by Kana Hanazawa).

Despite the obstacles they face, the group is determined to see their project through to the end. As they work on the game, they each discover things about themselves and each other, forming close friendships and gaining new perspectives on life and creativity.

One of the strengths of "Girls Beyond the Wasteland" is its relatable characters. Each of the main characters has a distinct personality and backstory, and viewers are able to see them grow and develop over the course of the series. Buntarou, for example, starts off as a disinterested and somewhat cynical student, but his involvement in the game project helps him find a sense of purpose and passion. Sayuki, meanwhile, struggles with anxiety and self-doubt, but her leadership and commitment inspire the rest of the group to keep going.

Another standout element of "Girls Beyond the Wasteland" is its portrayal of the creative process. The show gives viewers a glimpse into what it's like to work on a visual novel, showcasing the brainstorming, writing, and design phases of game development. This adds a layer of realism to the show that is often missing in other anime about creative endeavors.

Though the series is primarily a drama, there are also some lighthearted and comedic moments sprinkled throughout. The characters' interactions with each other are often amusing, and there are several scenes that are sure to make viewers smile.

Overall, "Girls Beyond the Wasteland" is a well-crafted and enjoyable anime series that will appeal to fans of drama, coming-of-age stories, and visual novels. Its engaging characters, realistic portrayal of creative work, and mix of humor and drama make it a standout in the genre.