CONCEPTION

Conception

Characters

Itsuki Yuge

MAIN

Narcisstes

SUPPORTING

Shangrila

SUPPORTING

Mahiru Konatsuki

SUPPORTING

Archie

SUPPORTING

Yuzuha

SUPPORTING

Leone

SUPPORTING

Collet

SUPPORTING

Ruka

SUPPORTING

Arie

SUPPORTING

Suu

SUPPORTING

Mana

SUPPORTING

Talua

SUPPORTING

Lirus and Lirie

SUPPORTING

Mirei

SUPPORTING

Femiruna

SUPPORTING

Farun

SUPPORTING

Conception Season 1: A Dive into Fantasy, Romance, and Adventure

Conception, the 2018 anime adaptation of Spike Chunsoft’s role-playing game Conception: Please Give Birth to My Child!, is a unique blend of fantasy, harem, and adventure that left viewers with a mix of intrigue and polarized reactions. Season 1, which aired from October 10 to December 26, 2018, consists of 12 episodes and follows a quirky premise that merges magical battles with the unconventional task of creating “Star Children” to save a fantastical world. Directed by Keitaro Motonaga and produced by Gonzo, the anime dives headfirst into its eccentric narrative, delivering a mix of humor, romance, and action that’s as polarizing as it is memorable.

Plot Overview

The story centers on Itsuki Yuge, a high school student who, on the day of his graduation, is unexpectedly summoned to the magical world of Granvania alongside his childhood friend and cousin, Mahiru Konatsuki. They learn that Granvania is under threat from impurities—monstrous entities born from a corrupting force—and that Itsuki is one of the prophesied “Visitors from Another World” destined to save it. The catch? To fight these impurities, Itsuki must bond with the twelve “Maidens of the Star Signs” (each representing a zodiac sign) and produce “Star Children” through a ritual called the “Love Ritual.” These children, imbued with unique powers, are essential for battling the impurities in magical labyrinths.

Mahiru, revealed to be one of the Maidens (Virgo), joins Itsuki in this bizarre mission, alongside other Maidens like Arie (Aries), Ruka (Aquarius), and Falun (Sagittarius). The narrative follows Itsuki’s efforts to deepen his bonds with the Maidens, navigate the romantic and comedic dynamics of a harem setup, and uncover the mysteries of Granvania, including the truth about Mahiru’s sudden pregnancy and the sinister forces at play.

Themes and Style

Conception leans heavily into its harem and fantasy roots, blending lighthearted comedy with moments of drama and action. The central theme revolves around relationships and trust, as Itsuki must earn the affection and cooperation of the Maidens to create Star Children. Each Maiden, tied to a zodiac sign, has a distinct personality—ranging from the fiery Arie to the tsundere Ruka—adding variety to the romantic and comedic interactions. The show doesn’t shy away from fanservice, with the Love Ritual scenes often teetering on the edge of ecchi territory, though they remain relatively tame compared to other genre staples.

The fantasy elements, including labyrinth battles and the creation of Star Children, draw heavily from the game’s mechanics, giving the anime a distinct RPG flavor. However, the anime prioritizes character relationships over deep world-building, which can leave some plot points—like the origins of the impurities or Granvania’s history—feeling underdeveloped.

Characters

The strength of Conception lies in its colorful cast:

• Itsuki Yuge: The everyman protagonist, kind-hearted and dependable, who adapts to his bizarre role with surprising ease.
• Mahiru Konatsuki: Itsuki’s cousin and love interest, whose pregnancy sparks the story’s central mystery.
• The Maidens: Each Maiden, from the gentle Arie to the mischievous Liris (Gemini), brings a unique dynamic to the harem, though some receive more screen time than others.
• Manebos: A talking ferret-like creature who serves as Itsuki’s guide, adding comic relief with his snarky commentary.

The ensemble cast keeps the show lively, though the large number of Maidens means some, like Yuzuha (Pisces), get less development than others.

Reception and Impact

Conception Season 1 received mixed reviews. Fans of harem and fantasy anime appreciated its playful tone, vibrant animation, and the chemistry between characters. The show’s premise—creating children to fight monsters—was seen as a bold, if bizarre, twist on the genre. However, critics noted its rushed pacing, as the 12-episode run struggledto fully explore its large cast and complex world. The adaptation also diverged from the game, disappointing some fans with changes to character backstories and simplified mechanics.

The animation, handled by Gonzo, was a highlight, with colorful designs and fluid battle scenes. The soundtrack, including the opening theme “Desire” by Manami Numakura, captured the show’s adventurous spirit. Yet, the reliance on fanservice and the controversial premise (especially the implication of Itsuki’s relationships with multiple Maidens) sparked debate among viewers, with some finding it off-putting.

Cultural Context and Legacy

Airing in a crowded 2018 anime season, Conception carved out a niche among fans of harem and isekai genres. Its ties to the Conception game series gave it a built-in audience, but the anime struggled to expand beyond that due to its niche premise. The show’s blend of romance, comedy, and action echoed popular series like The Asterisk War or Is This a Zombie?, but its focus on creating Star Children set it apart as a curiosity in the genre.

As of 2025, Conception has not received a second season, and discussions on platforms like X suggest little demand for one, with fans divided over the first season’s execution. The anime remains a cult favorite for some, appreciated for its unapologetic weirdness, but it’s often cited as a missed opportunity to fully adapt the game’s richer lore.

Where to Watch

Conception Season 1 is available on streaming platforms like Crunchyroll and Funimation (subject to regional availability). For the latest details on access, check services like JustWatch or official streaming sites.

Final Thoughts

Conception Season 1 is a wild, flawed ride that embraces its absurdity with open arms. It’s a show that thrives on its quirky premise and charming characters but stumbles with uneven pacing and underdeveloped subplots. For fans of harem anime or those curious about a fantasy twist on the isekai formula, it’s worth a watch for its sheer audacity. However, those seeking deep storytelling or nuanced world-building may find it lacking. Whether you view it as a guilty pleasure or a fascinating misstep, Conception is an anime that’s hard to forget.