Review and Overview of Didn’t I Say to Make My Abilities Average in the Next Life?! Season 1

Didn’t I Say to Make My Abilities Average in the Next Life?! (Japanese: Watashi, Nōryoku wa Heikinchi de tte Itta yo ne!), often shortened to Average Abilities, is a delightful entry in the crowded isekai anime genre. Based on the light novel series by FUNA and illustrated by Itsuki Akata, Season 1, produced by Project No.9, aired from October 7 to December 23, 2019. This 12-episode series blends adventure, comedy, and fantasy with a unique spin on the overpowered protagonist trope, offering a refreshing take for fans of lighthearted anime. Below is a detailed review and overview of Season 1, exploring its narrative, characters, themes, and reception, while highlighting what makes it stand out.

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Overview: The Premise and World of Average Abilities

The story follows Misato Kurihara, an 18-year-old Japanese high school girl who, despite her genius intellect, struggles with social isolation due to the high expectations placed upon her. After dying in a tragic accident while saving a young girl, Misato is granted a chance to reincarnate in a fantasy world. Her one request to the divine being overseeing her rebirth is simple: she wants to live a normal life with average abilities to avoid standing out. However, the divine being interprets “average” in a peculiar way, calculating it as the midpoint between the strongest and weakest beings in the new world, including mythical creatures like dragons. As a result, Misato, reborn as noblewoman Adele von Ascham, discovers at age ten that her physical and magical abilities are 6,800 times stronger than a typical human’s.

Adopting the alias “Mile” to escape her noble lineage and the political machinations of her scheming father, Adele enrolls at Hunters’ Prep School in a distant kingdom. There, she forms a party called the Crimson Vow with three other girls: Reina, a fiery mage; Mavis, a noble swordswoman; and Pauline, a shy healer and bookkeeper. Together, they embark on adventures as hunters, taking on quests while Mile tries (and often fails) to conceal her overwhelming powers. The series follows their escapades, blending humor, camaraderie, and light action as Mile navigates her desire for an ordinary life in an extraordinary world.

The setting is a medieval-inspired fantasy world influenced by nanomachines from an ancient, advanced civilization, which explains the existence of magic. This sci-fi twist adds a layer of intrigue, hinting at a deeper lore that remains partially unexplored in Season 1. The narrative balances episodic adventures with an overarching story about Mile’s past, her party’s growth, and their encounters with increasingly challenging foes.

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Review: What Makes Season 1 Unique and Engaging

Strengths

1. A Fresh Take on the Isekai Formula
   Average Abilities subverts the typical isekai trope of an overpowered protagonist reveling in their strength. Mile’s earnest desire to be “average” creates a comedic tension, as her attempts to blend in are constantly thwarted by her absurd power level. This self-awareness sets the series apart from other isekai where protagonists embrace their godlike abilities without question. The show’s lighthearted tone and Mile’s relatable struggle to make friends make it accessible to both genre veterans and newcomers.
2. Charming Characters and Team Dynamics
   The Crimson Vow is the heart of the series. Each member brings a distinct personality and skill set, creating a balanced and likable team:

• Mile (Adele von Ascham): Voiced by Azumi Waki (Japanese) and Sarah Wiedenheft (English), Mile is an endearing protagonist whose intelligence and kindness shine through her clumsy attempts to hide her powers. Her love for books, anime, and modern references adds humor, as she often breaks the fourth wall with quips about fantasy tropes.
• Reina: A fiery 15-year-old mage with a tragic backstory, Reina’s hotheadedness and practical knowledge make her the de facto leader of the group. Her signature “Crimson Hellfire” spell and hatred for bandits add depth to her character.
• Mavis von Austien: The 17-year-old swordswoman and nominal leader, Mavis is a noble runaway with dreams of becoming a knight. Her androgynous charm and sensitivity to sappy stories make her a fan favorite.
• Pauline: A 14-year-old healer and merchant’s daughter, Pauline’s shy demeanor hides a cunning side, especially when it comes to money. Her water and healing magic complement the team’s dynamic. The chemistry among the Crimson Vow is a highlight, with their banter and growing friendship providing emotional grounding. Their adventures, from battling bandits to uncovering ancient ruins, showcase their teamwork and individual growth.

1. Humor and Self-Aware Comedy
   The series leans heavily into comedy, using Mile’s overpowered abilities for absurd gags, like effortlessly lifting massive boulders or accidentally intimidating foes. The show pokes fun at isekai clichés, such as the overpowered hero or the “chosen one” narrative, while incorporating Mile’s modern knowledge to create humorous anachronisms (e.g., inventing modern conveniences in a medieval world). The lighthearted tone makes it a relaxing watch, perfect for viewers seeking fun over drama.
2. Solid Animation and Soundtrack
   Project No.9 delivers vibrant animation with colorful character designs and fluid action sequences. The fantasy world is visually appealing, with lush forests, bustling towns, and magical effects that enhance the story. The soundtrack, composed by Yasuhiro Misawa, complements the tone with upbeat tracks and whimsical themes. The opening song, “Smile Skill = Suki Skill!” by the Crimson Vow’s voice actresses, is catchy and encapsulates the show’s playful vibe.

Weaknesses

1. Pacing and Narrative Depth
   While the episodic structure is entertaining, the overarching plot about Mile’s past and the nanomachine-driven world is underdeveloped in Season 1. The series hints at larger mysteries—like the advanced civilization and Mile’s family drama—but doesn’t fully explore them, leaving some viewers wanting more substance. Episode 10, which focuses on a slower, character-driven story, is often cited as a low point, though the final episodes (11 and 12) ramp up the action and stakes.
2. Clichéd Elements
   Despite its self-awareness, the show occasionally leans into familiar isekai tropes, such as the overpowered protagonist solving problems effortlessly or the formation of a standard adventuring party. Some viewers may find the lack of a complex narrative or high-stakes drama limiting, especially compared to more ambitious isekai like Re:Zero or Mushoku Tensei.
3. Limited Appeal for Non-Isekai Fans
   The series caters heavily to isekai enthusiasts, with its reliance on genre conventions and humor. Viewers unfamiliar with or uninterested in isekai may find the story predictable or lacking depth, as the comedy and character interactions are the primary draw.

Standout Episodes

• Episode 1: Introduces Mile’s backstory and her hilarious realization that “average” means overpowered in this world. The episode sets the tone with humor and charm.
• Episode 6: The Crimson Vow’s first major quest showcases their teamwork and Mile’s struggle to stay low-key, with plenty of comedic moments.
• Episodes 11-12: The season’s climax pits the Crimson Vow against a powerful enemy, blending action, humor, and hints of the world’s deeper lore. These episodes leave viewers hopeful for a second season, though one has not been announced as of July 2025.

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Themes and Messages

Average Abilities explores themes of friendship, self-acceptance, and the desire for belonging. Mile’s journey reflects a universal longing to fit in, as her past life as a lonely genius mirrors her efforts to forge connections in her new world. The series subtly critiques societal expectations, showing how Mile’s exceptional abilities, while a blessing, complicate her quest for a “normal” life. The Crimson Vow’s bond emphasizes the importance of found family, as each member overcomes personal insecurities through their shared adventures.

The show also touches on the idea of power and responsibility. Mile’s attempts to hide her abilities stem from her fear of being ostracized, but her willingness to use them to protect her friends highlights her growth. The nanomachine backstory adds a layer of commentary on technology’s impact on society, though this is more implied than explored in Season 1.

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Reception and Impact

Season 1 of Average Abilities received generally positive reviews for its fun, lighthearted approach, though it’s not considered a standout in the isekai genre. On MyAnimeList, it holds a score of 6.5/10, reflecting its appeal as a “fun but not groundbreaking” series. Critics and fans praise the likable characters and comedic moments, with Penn Badgley’s performance often highlighted in unrelated reviews of You, but here, the voice acting (especially Azumi Waki as Mile) is a consistent strength. Some reviewers note that the show’s simplicity and lack of a complex plot make it a relaxing watch, ideal for casual viewers.

However, some fans and critics found the story “average” in a less flattering sense, citing its reliance on clichés and lack of narrative depth. The open-ended finale has sparked ongoing discussions about a potential Season 2, but as of July 2025, no continuation has been confirmed. The series’ source material, including the light novels and manga, remains popular, with Seven Seas Entertainment licensing both for English audiences.

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Why It’s Unique

What sets Average Abilities apart is its blend of self-aware humor, heartfelt character moments, and a protagonist who actively resists the “overpowered hero” archetype. Mile’s desire for normalcy, combined with her absurd strength, creates a comedic dynamic that keeps the series fresh. The Crimson Vow’s chemistry elevates the show beyond its simple premise, making it a feel-good watch for fans of slice-of-life and isekai. The subtle sci-fi elements, like the nanomachine-driven magic system, hint at untapped potential for future seasons or deeper exploration in the source material.

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Should You Watch It?

Didn’t I Say to Make My Abilities Average in the Next Life?! Season 1 is a must-watch for isekai fans who enjoy lighthearted comedy and strong character dynamics. If you’re looking for a relaxing, fun anime with a quirky protagonist and a focus on friendship, this series delivers. However, if you prefer intricate plots or high-stakes drama, you might find it too simplistic. It’s best enjoyed as a breezy escape, perfect for unwinding after a long day.

Rating: 7.5/10

• Pros: Fun characters, self-aware humor, vibrant animation, and a unique spin on isekai tropes.
• Cons: Underdeveloped overarching plot, reliance on genre clichés, and limited appeal for non-isekai fans.
• Where to Watch: Available on Crunchyroll and other streaming platforms with English subtitles or dubs.

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Final Thoughts

Average Abilities Season 1 is a charming, if not revolutionary, addition to the isekai genre. Its blend of comedy, adventure, and heartfelt moments makes it a delightful watch for those seeking a light, character-driven story. While it doesn’t push the boundaries of anime storytelling, it succeeds in delivering exactly what it promises: a fun, “average” adventure with a not-so-average heroine. Whether you’re a seasoned isekai fan or just looking for a feel-good series, Didn’t I Say to Make My Abilities Average in the Next Life?! is worth a try.

For more information on the series, check out MyAnimeList or IMDb for community reviews and updates on potential future seasons.