Ep 1. Round 1

In Hi Score Girl season 1 episode 1 "Round 1," viewers are introduced to a world of retro gaming and arcade culture set in the 1990s. The episode follows the story of Haruo Yaguchi, a middle school student who has a knack for video games and spends most of his days at the local arcade. He's known to be the top player of the latest fighting game at the arcade, Guilty Gear X, but his dominance is put to the test when Akira Oono, a wealthy and popular classmate at his school, suddenly shows up and challenges him to a game of Street Fighter II.

Haruo is initially intimidated by Akira, as he's never seen her around the arcade before and he's aware of her status and social circle at school. However, he quickly learns that she is a formidable opponent and has an impressive skillset when it comes to gaming. Despite Akira's quiet demeanor and lack of outward enthusiasm about video games, she easily defeats Haruo and leaves him feeling frustrated and intrigued.

Throughout the episode, viewers get a sense of the competitive atmosphere present in the arcade scene during the '90s, as well as the personal connections that develop between regular players. Haruo is shown to have a tight-knit group of arcade friends who admire his skills and share his love for gaming, including his best friend Koharu Hidaka and rival gamer Hidaka Shirou. The episode also offers a glimpse into Haruo's personal life and family, including his relationship with his mother and issues with his grades at school.

As Haruo begins to reflect on his loss to Akira, he becomes increasingly determined to beat her at Street Fighter II. He returns to the arcade every day, practicing and honing his skills in the hopes of one day defeating her. Meanwhile, Akira continues to watch him from afar, seemingly unconcerned about their initial interaction but also displaying slight curiosity and intrigue towards Haruo's dedication to the game.

Overall, Hi Score Girl season 1 episode 1 "Round 1" sets the stage for the rest of the series by introducing viewers to its main characters and the world of competitive gaming during the '90s. The episode balances lighthearted moments of friendship and humor with the more serious and competitive aspects of the arcade scene, offering a well-rounded and engaging narrative that hooks viewers from the start.