SHOSHIMIN How to become Ordinary [Season 2 Episode 2]

SHOSHIMIN: How to Become Ordinary – Season 2, Episode 2 Review

A Cinematic Dive into the Mundane

If there’s one thing SHOSHIMIN: How to Become Ordinary excels at, it’s turning the most ordinary moments into something oddly captivating. Season 2’s second episode, released on April 13, 2025, takes this concept to new heights—or perhaps new depths—by dedicating its entire runtime to solving the mystery of how Kengo made his hot cocoa. Yes, you read that right. A full episode about hot chocolate. And somehow, it works.

The Plot: A Cocoa Conundrum

The episode opens with Kobato, our ever-curious protagonist, and his friends gathered around a table, sipping on what appears to be perfectly made hot cocoa. The twist? Kengo, the resident lazy genius, claims he made it in the most efficient way possible—without ever heating individual cups. What follows is a 20-minute breakdown of how he might have pulled it off, complete with detective-style deductions, flashbacks, and even a dramatic reenactment.

Fans on MyAnimeList had mixed reactions. Some called it “absolute cinema,” praising the show’s ability to make something so mundane feel engaging. Others, however, weren’t as impressed, with one user lamenting, “I fast-forwarded almost the whole episode because there was nothing in it.” But love it or hate it, the episode undeniably left an impression.

The Characters: Quirks and Chemistry

Kobato’s analytical mind shines here, as he methodically dissects Kengo’s cocoa-making process. His interactions with Kengo and Yuki feel natural, and the episode subtly hints at their past dynamics—something fans are eager to explore further. Kengo, meanwhile, continues to be a polarizing figure. One fan raged, “THE REASON THERE’S NO ROMANTIC PROGRESSION IS BECAUSE FUCKING KENGO KEEPS GETTING IN THE DAMN WAY.”

The introduction of Kengo’s sister, Chisato, was a highlight for many. Her playful banter and goofy personality added a fresh dynamic, with one viewer noting, “Chisato-san is cute and amusing—need more of her!”

The Animation: A Feast for the Eyes

Visually, the episode is stunning. The studio’s attention to detail is impeccable, from the way the cocoa swirls in the mugs to the subtle expressions on the characters’ faces. One fan gushed, “The animation is beautiful. Props to the studio because I was noticing a lot of very subtle details.” Even the mundane act of microwaving milk was given a cinematic flair, proving that with enough budget, anything can look impressive.

The Mystery: Simple Yet Satisfying

The “case” itself is ridiculously simple—how did Kengo make three cups of cocoa without heating each one individually? The answer? He microwaved the entire milk carton, poured it into the cups, and then added cocoa powder. It’s lazy, it’s chaotic, and it’s so Kengo.

Some fans figured it out immediately (“Solution was my first guess!”), while others were baffled by the absurdity (“Bro is a psycho for microwaving an entire box of milk”). Regardless, the episode’s charm lies in its execution. The slow, deliberate pacing and the characters’ over-the-top reactions make it feel like a high-stakes investigation—even if the stakes are just a warm drink.

The Verdict: Love It or Hate It

This episode is a perfect example of SHOSHIMIN’s unique appeal. It’s not for everyone—some will find it painfully slow, while others will appreciate its quiet, introspective vibe. As one fan put it, “This show, like Days with My Stepsister, has an odd perspective. These slice-of-life stories are told with an analytical viewpoint, as though they’re case studies of various psychologies. It’s unusual and, for me, refreshing.”

If you’re looking for action or deep plot progression, this isn’t the episode for you. But if you enjoy character-driven narratives with a touch of whimsy, SHOSHIMIN delivers in spades.

Final Thoughts

Season 2, Episode 2 of SHOSHIMIN: How to Become Ordinary is a love letter to the mundane. It’s an episode that revels in the small details, turning something as simple as hot cocoa into a mini-mystery. Whether you find it boring or brilliant likely depends on your tolerance for slow-burn storytelling.

As for me? I’m with the fans who called it “peak.” Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’m off to microwave a carton of milk. For science.