Danmachi – Is It Wrong to Try to Pick Up Girls in a Dungeon? Anime Review

DanMachi – Is It Wrong to Try to Pick Up Girls in a Dungeon? is a popular anime that merges action, fantasy, and a dash of romance. Set in the fictional city of Orario, the story follows Bell Cranel, a young adventurer who dreams of becoming a hero. Guided by his goddess Hestia, Bell embarks on quests in the dungeon, a labyrinth filled with monsters and unimaginable treasures. The anime’s appeal lies not only in its captivating storyline and action-packed sequences but also in its diverse array of waifu characters, each with distinct personalities, abilities, and appeal.

This review covers the anime’s world, storyline, and key waifu characters who have captured fans’ hearts worldwide. It highlights the personalities, special abilities, and what makes these waifus stand out.

Overview of DanMachi

DanMachi excels in combining action and fantasy with character-driven storytelling. The dungeon exploration aspect, along with the unique relationship dynamics between mortals and gods, creates an immersive experience. The anime introduces a variety of waifu characters who embody different qualities and ideals, making them appealing to a wide range of fans.

Main Waifu Characters in DanMachi

One of DanMachi‘s key attractions is its diverse range of female characters, each with their own personalities, backstories, and abilities. Below, we explore the main waifus, highlighting what makes each character unique and appealing.

Hestia

Description: Hestia is the goddess of the Hestia Familia and the main female lead of DanMachi. Known for her iconic blue ribbon and petite stature, Hestia is fiercely devoted to Bell, whom she sees as her family and her greatest hope for success. Her personality is cheerful and playful, often showing a mix of jealousy and protectiveness when it comes to Bell.

Characteristics: Hestia’s devotion to Bell makes her stand out. She is determined to support him in any way possible, even though she’s not as powerful as other gods. Her loyalty, resilience, and dedication create a charming character that resonates with fans who value supportive and devoted waifus.

Special Abilities: As a goddess, Hestia has the power to bestow blessings on her followers, enhancing their physical and magical abilities. Though she does not directly fight, her support allows Bell to develop into a formidable adventurer.

What Makes Her a Waifu: Hestia embodies the “Devoted Goddess” archetype, always prioritizing Bell’s happiness and success. Her unconditional support and caring nature make her an ideal waifu for fans who appreciate loyalty and affection in their favorite characters.

The Japanese term for the “Devoted Goddess” archetype, as embodied by Hestia, is often referred to as:

献身的な女神 (Kenshin-teki na Megami)

• 献身的 (Kenshin-teki) means “devoted” or “dedicated.”
• 女神 (Megami) means “goddess.”

So, 献身的な女神 (Kenshin-teki na Megami) translates directly to “Devoted Goddess” and captures the essence of a goddess character who is deeply devoted to the protagonist or to supporting others. This archetype is common in anime and manga where goddesses show unwavering loyalty, care, and affection toward someone special to them.

Ais Wallenstein

Description: Ais Wallenstein, also known as the “Sword Princess,” is a renowned adventurer belonging to the Loki Familia. She is highly skilled in combat and is considered one of the strongest adventurers in Orario. Ais initially appears stoic and reserved but shows a softer side, especially in her interactions with Bell.

Characteristics: Ais’s dedication to her craft and her quiet, strong-willed demeanor make her an intriguing character. She is admired for her strength, both physical and emotional, as well as her independence. Though she does not outwardly show her emotions, her gradual connection with Bell reveals a tender side.

Special Abilities: Ais possesses exceptional swordsmanship and wind-based magic abilities, allowing her to maneuver quickly in battle and unleash devastating attacks on her enemies. Her combat skills make her an invaluable asset to the Loki Familia.

What Makes Her a Waifu: Ais’s appeal lies in her “Strong Silent Waifu” archetype. Her bravery and strength resonate with fans who admire powerful, focused female characters. Despite her reserved nature, her gentle interactions with Bell reveal a hidden warmth, making her a beloved waifu. In DanMachi, Ais Wallenstein embodies the kuudere archetype with her reserved, strong, and focused personality, as well as her hidden warmth and protective nature.

Liliruca Arde

Description: Liliruca, or “Lili,” is initially a member of the Soma Familia who later becomes a crucial ally to Bell. She begins as a mistrustful and cautious character due to her troubled past, but over time, she grows loyal and protective of Bell, ultimately joining the Hestia Familia.

Characteristics: Lili’s resourcefulness and resilience are her standout qualities. She is street-smart and skilled at planning, which makes her an excellent strategist. Lili’s loyalty to Bell deepens as she learns to trust him, evolving from a reserved character to a dedicated supporter.

Special Abilities: Lili has transformation magic that allows her to change her appearance, which she uses for both combat and stealth purposes. She’s also skilled in tactics and planning, providing crucial support to Bell and the group.

What Makes Her a Waifu: Lili’s “Underdog Waifu” appeal lies in her growth from a struggling, distrustful character to a loyal and resourceful ally. Fans are drawn to her dedication and determination to protect those she cares about, making her a relatable and endearing waifu.

The Japanese term that best fits the concept of an “Underdog Waifu” like Lili would be “影の薄いヒロイン” (Kage no Usui Hiroin), which translates to “Shadowed Heroine” or “Underappreciated Heroine.” This term is often used to describe characters who may not start off as the strongest or most prominent but gradually earn admiration and loyalty through their growth, resilience, and loyalty.

Another way to describe an “Underdog Waifu” is by using “成り上がり” (Nariagari), which means “Rising Up” or “Overcoming the Odds.” This term captures the essence of a character who rises from a disadvantaged position or background to become strong and respected.

Ryuu Lion

Description: Ryuu Lion is a former adventurer from the Astraea Familia who now works at the Hostess of Fertility pub. She has a calm and composed personality, often serving as a source of wisdom and guidance for others. Though she appears quiet and gentle, she has a strong sense of justice and a history of bravery.

Characteristics: Ryuu’s noble and honorable demeanor defines her character. She values justice above all and is willing to risk her life to protect others. Despite her tragic past, she maintains her composure and chooses to live a quieter life, though she’s always ready to stand up when her friends are in danger.

Special Abilities: Ryuu is skilled in both swordsmanship and magic, with a variety of powerful spells at her disposal. Her combat abilities are on par with the best adventurers, making her a formidable ally in times of crisis.

What Makes Her a Waifu: As a “Noble Warrior” waifu, Ryuu’s combination of honor, strength, and protective instincts appeals to fans who value courage and integrity in their waifus. Her calm, wise demeanor and hidden strength make her a memorable character.

The Japanese term that closely aligns with the concept of a “Noble Warrior” waifu, particularly one who embodies honor, strength, and a sense of duty, is 武士道の乙女 (Bushidou no Otome).

• Bushidou (武士道): This term translates to “the way of the warrior,” referring to the traditional samurai code of honor, discipline, and moral principles.
• Otome (乙女): This word means “maiden” or “young woman” and is often used to convey feminine elegance or purity, making it a fitting term for a “waifu.”

So, Bushidou no Otome refers to a female character who embodies the ideals of the noble warrior code, making it suitable for a waifu like Ryuu, who upholds honor, integrity, and strength.

Freya

Description: Freya is the goddess of the Freya Familia and is known for her beauty, charisma, and ambition. Unlike Hestia, who genuinely cares for Bell, Freya is intensely interested in him and watches over him from afar, fascinated by his growth and potential. Her allure and mysterious personality make her a captivating figure.

Characteristics: Freya is captivating and enigmatic, using her charm and influence to achieve her goals. Her intense attraction to Bell drives much of her actions, and she’s willing to manipulate events in Orario to test his abilities and resilience.

Special Abilities: Freya possesses powerful charm magic that can sway the minds of others. Her divine abilities give her influence and power over others, making her a powerful and sometimes dangerous figure in the city.

What Makes Her a Waifu: As an “Enigmatic Goddess” waifu, Freya’s beauty, mystery, and ambition create a powerful allure. Fans are drawn to her seductive, intense personality and her fascination with Bell, making her one of the most complex waifus in DanMachi.

The Japanese term for an “Enigmatic Goddess” waifu, particularly one like Freya who embodies beauty, mystery, and allure, is often referred to as a “Mysterious Beauty” or “Yūgen no Megami” (幽玄の女神).

Here’s a breakdown of each part of the term:

• Yūgen (幽玄): A term that captures a sense of profound mystery, subtle beauty, and a feeling of the unseen or unknowable. It often represents an elegant and elusive beauty.
• Megami (女神): Goddess. This word is often used to describe divine or goddess-like characters who possess a powerful, captivating aura.

So, “Yūgen no Megami” (幽玄の女神) could be a fitting way to describe Freya as an “Enigmatic Goddess” in Japanese.

Haruhime Sanjouno

Description: Haruhime is a fox demi-human who joins the Hestia Familia after being rescued from a tragic life in the Ishtar Familia. She is gentle, soft-spoken, and deeply compassionate, with a pure heart and unwavering loyalty to her friends.

Characteristics: Haruhime embodies the dandere waifu type, which refers to characters who are shy and reserved but become affectionate and devoted once they open up. Dandere waifus may appear quiet but are incredibly loyal and kind-hearted, making them beloved by fans for their sweetness.

Special Abilities: Haruhime’s primary ability is her power-boosting magic, which she uses to enhance the strength and abilities of her allies. This magic proves invaluable to Bell and his companions in challenging battles.

What Makes Her a Waifu: Haruhime’s gentle, shy, and compassionate nature, along with her dandere qualities, makes her an appealing waifu. Her selflessness and pure-hearted devotion resonate with fans who admire nurturing and soft-spoken characters.

Hephaestus

Description: Hephaestus is the goddess of the Hephaestus Familia and a master blacksmith known for her craftsmanship. Despite her scarred eye, she exudes confidence and strength. Her unwavering determination and skill make her one of the most respected figures in Orario.

Characteristics: Hephaestus embodies the ane-sama waifu type, which represents a “big sister” archetype in Japanese culture. Ane-sama waifus are usually confident, responsible, and protective, often serving as role models. Hephaestus’s confidence, skill, and leadership make her a fitting ane-sama figure.

Special Abilities: Hephaestus is a legendary blacksmith who can forge powerful weapons and artifacts. Her creations are highly sought after, and her skill enables her to craft items that greatly enhance the abilities of their wielders.

What Makes Her a Waifu: Hephaestus’s confidence, strength, and nurturing qualities appeal to fans who admire skilled, responsible waifus. Her ane-sama presence and artisan skill make her a beloved waifu for those drawn to strong, mature characters.

Tiona Hiryute

Description: Tiona Hiryute is one of the Amazon twins in the Loki Familia and is known for her boundless energy and straightforward personality. She is a skilled warrior who specializes in hand-to-hand combat and is often seen as a cheerful, playful member of her Familia.

Characteristics: Tiona represents the genki girl waifu type. Genki (meaning “energetic” or “lively” in Japanese) waifus are known for their cheerful, optimistic, and energetic nature, often bringing joy and enthusiasm to any situation. Tiona’s lively spirit and relentless optimism make her a classic genki girl.

Special Abilities: Tiona has immense physical strength and excels in unarmed combat, making her a force to be reckoned with in battle. Her combat style relies on agility and power, which suits her dynamic personality.

What Makes Her a Waifu: Tiona’s genki qualities, playfulness, and straightforwardness appeal to fans who enjoy fun-loving, adventurous waifus. Her joy for life and confidence in her skills make her a charming character who adds energy to the series.

Tione Hiryute

Description: Tione Hiryute is Tiona’s older twin sister and a prominent member of the Loki Familia. Unlike her sister, Tione is more focused, determined, and passionate, especially when it comes to her unrequited love for her captain, Finn Deimne.

Characteristics: Tione fits the tsundere waifu type. Tsundere waifus are characterized by their alternating “tsun” (cold or harsh) and “dere” (loving or warm) sides. Tione can be fierce and intense, but she has a softer, affectionate side that she reveals only to those close to her.

Special Abilities: Tione is highly skilled in using weapons, particularly in close combat. Her Amazonian strength and combat skills make her a powerful fighter, and her determination enhances her capabilities.

What Makes Her a Waifu: Tione’s tsundere traits and fierce loyalty make her a fan-favorite waifu. Her passion and dedication, especially toward her loved ones, add depth to her character, appealing to fans who enjoy strong yet complex waifus.

Lefiya Viridis

Description: Lefiya is an elven mage in the Loki Familia who greatly admires Ais Wallenstein and aspires to become as strong as her idol. Despite her insecurities, she is a talented magic user and strives to improve.

Characteristics: Lefiya is a dandere waifu, meaning she is shy and reserved but deeply caring and devoted once she feels comfortable. Dandere characters often exhibit nervousness or insecurity but reveal a loving, warm side as they grow more confident.

Special Abilities: Lefiya is exceptionally skilled in magic, with abilities focused on elemental and powerful offensive spells. Her magic proficiency allows her to support her team from a distance and take down enemies with precision.

What Makes Her a Waifu: Lefiya’s dandere qualities, along with her kindness and dedication to her friends, make her an adorable waifu. Her devotion to learning and her growth over the series resonate with fans who appreciate supportive, endearing characters.

Aisha Belka

Description: Aisha is a former member of the Ishtar Familia who later allies with Bell and the Hestia Familia. She is fiercely protective of those she cares about and takes on a mentor-like role, especially for Haruhime.

Characteristics: Aisha embodies the onee-san (big sister) waifu archetype. Onee-san waifus are protective, mature, and nurturing, often guiding or watching over younger characters. Aisha’s strength, confidence, and sense of responsibility make her a classic onee-san.

Special Abilities: Aisha is highly skilled in combat, particularly with her scimitar, and has strong leadership abilities. She uses her battle expertise to protect her allies and takes charge when needed.

What Makes Her a Waifu: Aisha’s onee-san traits, strength, and protective nature appeal to fans who admire mature, responsible waifus. Her nurturing yet fierce personality, especially in her role as a guardian, makes her a memorable character.

Daphne Lauros

Description: Daphne is a disciplined and practical member of the Apollo Familia. She takes on the role of strategist, making calm, rational decisions even in tense situations, and values teamwork and efficiency.

Characteristics: Daphne is a cool beauty waifu, an archetype describing characters who are calm, collected, and often somewhat aloof. Cool beauty waifus are admired for their composure and elegance, and they often show a caring side beneath their stoic exteriors.

Special Abilities: Daphne excels in strategic planning and is skilled in supporting her team in battle. Her clear-headedness allows her to assess situations accurately and make effective combat decisions.

What Makes Her a Waifu: Daphne’s cool beauty traits—her calm, rational demeanor and strategic thinking—make her appealing to fans who appreciate level-headed, reliable waifus. Her understated loyalty and elegance make her a sophisticated and captivating character.

Summary Table of Waifu Characters

List of Seasons, Episodes, and Details for DanMachi (Is It Wrong to Try to Pick Up Girls in a Dungeon?)

Season 1: DanMachi (2015)

• Total Episodes: 13
• Original Air Date: April 4, 2015 – June 27, 2015
• Plot Summary: Season 1 introduces Bell Cranel, a young adventurer in the city of Orario, and his journey to become stronger under the guidance of his goddess, Hestia. Bell dreams of becoming a hero and quickly begins to grow in strength, especially after meeting Ais Wallenstein, a powerful swordswoman who inspires him.

Episode List:

1. Adventurer (Bell Cranel)
2. Monster Festival (Monsterphilia)
3. Hestia Knife (The Blade of a God)
4. Supporter (The Weak)
5. Magic (Firebolt)
6. Reason (Liliruca Arde)
7. A Request (First Quest)
8. Grimoire (Magic Book)
9. Welf Crozzo (The Smith)
10. Procession of Monsters (Pass Parade)
11. Labyrinth Utopia (Under Resort)
12. Showdown (The War Game)
13. Familia Myth (A Song of Familia)

Season 2: DanMachi II (2019)

• Total Episodes: 12
• Original Air Date: July 13, 2019 – September 28, 2019
• Plot Summary: Season 2 focuses on Bell’s continued growth and the increasing challenges he faces from other Familias. Major arcs include the War Game with the Apollo Familia, where Bell’s skills are put to the test, and the Ishtar Familia arc, which delves into the darker aspects of Orario.

Episode List:

1. Party (Banquet of the Gods)
2. Apollo (Sun God)
3. Conversion (Gathering)
4. War Game (War Game)
5. Home (The Hearthfire Mansion)
6. Ishtar Familia (City of Lust)
7. Renard (Fox Person)
8. Killing Stone (Ephemeral Dreams)
9. Berbera (War Prostitutes)
10. Argana (Queen of the Amazon)
11. Rakia (Army’s Advance)
12. Song of Love (God’s Andante)

OVA 1: Is It Wrong to Expect a Hot Spring in a Dungeon? (2016)

• Total Episodes: 1
• Original Release Date: December 7, 2016
• Plot Summary: Bell and his friends go on a hot spring vacation. The episode is lighthearted and provides fan service, focusing on comedy and character interactions outside of the main storyline.

Season 3: DanMachi III (2020)

• Total Episodes: 12
• Original Air Date: October 3, 2020 – December 19, 2020
• Plot Summary: Season 3 introduces the Xenos, intelligent monsters who can speak and have emotions. Bell’s encounter with these creatures challenges his views on monsters and adventurers, leading to conflicts within Orario as he tries to protect them.

Episode List:

1. Wiene (A Dragon Girl)
2. Monster (One Wing)
3. Xenos (Outliers)
4. Aspiration (Distant Dream)
5. Ikelos Familia (King of Atrocity)
6. Knossos (Man-Made Labyrinth)
7. Dianneze (Asterius)
8. Bell Cranel (The Fool)
9. Stigma (Downfall)
10. Invisible (Forced Breakthrough)
11. Ultra Soul (Decisive Battle)
12. Argonaut (Hero’s Return)

OVA 2: Is It Wrong to Go Searching for Herbs on a Deserted Island? (2021)

• Total Episodes: 1
• Original Release Date: January 29, 2021
• Plot Summary: The characters head to a deserted island for a new adventure. Similar to the previous OVA, this episode has a light-hearted, comedic tone with minimal plot relevance to the main story.

Season 4 Part 1: DanMachi IV (2022)

• Total Episodes: 11
• Original Air Date: July 22, 2022 – September 30, 2022
• Plot Summary: Season 4 begins with Bell and the Hestia Familia descending deeper into the dungeon than ever before. The stakes are higher, and Bell’s journey is filled with deadly encounters as he seeks to prove his strength and protect those he cares about.

Episode List:

1. Play Back (Reminisce)
2. The Great Falls (The Great Falls)
3. Parasite (Viscum Album)
4. Mermaid (The Girl of Water City)
5. Argo Vesta (Heroic Slash of Holy Flame)
6. Rabbit’s Foot (Rabbit’s Foot)
7. Cassandra Ilion (Dream Seer)
8. Mirabilis (Chaos)
9. Barbaric Rite (Ceremony)
10. Juggernaut (The Destroyer)
11. Endless (Brutal Tyrant)

Season 4 Part 2: DanMachi IV: Deep Chapter – Calamity Arc (2023)

• Total Episodes: 11
• Original Air Date: January 6, 2023 – March 16, 2023
• Plot Summary: Part 2 of Season 4 focuses on the “Calamity Arc,” as Bell and his companions face even greater challenges and threats in the deep levels of the dungeon. This part delves into intense battles and further character development, particularly for Bell and Ryu Lion.

Episode List:

1. The Dungeon’s Crisis
2. White Palace (White Labyrinth)
3. Colosseum (Combat Arena)
4. Mermaid (A Sad Farewell)
5. Astraea Familia (The Final Battle)
6. Endless Hunger (Abyssal Black)
7. Suffering and Despair
8. Bond (Heroic Resolve)
9. Infinite Labyrinth (No Escape)
10. Arrival (The Depths)
11. [Final episode name to be confirmed]

OVA 3: DanMachi IV OVA (2024)

• Total Episodes: 1 (Expected)
• Expected Release Date: Early 2024
• Plot Summary: Not much is currently known, but it will likely follow the previous OVAs’ tradition of presenting a lighter, comedic, or fan-service-oriented story featuring Bell and his companions on a new side adventure.

Summary Table of Seasons and Episodes

Conclusion

DanMachi – Is It Wrong to Try to Pick Up Girls in a Dungeon? has successfully captivated its audience with a blend of action, romance, and character-driven narratives across multiple seasons. As of 2024, the anime spans four main seasons and several OVAs, each exploring different aspects of Bell’s journey, the relationships with his companions, and the dangerous allure of the dungeon.

Season 4 marked a shift toward darker themes and higher-stakes battles, as Bell and his friends faced unimaginable perils in the dungeon’s lower levels. Fans continue to be drawn to the intricate world-building, character growth, and emotional bonds between the characters.

With each new season and OVA, DanMachi remains a beloved fantasy anime series that explores heroism, loyalty, and the journey of self-discovery. As the series develops, fans eagerly anticipate more adventures, deeper story arcs, and of course, further development of Bell’s relationships with the beloved waifu characters.