I have a quick correction to make concerning my watch list for Spring 2024. I picked ten series to watch, and one of them was going to be Unnamed Memory. However, I decided to drop that one off my list and add Tadaima, Okaeri in its place. The reason for this change is that, while bored, I happened to watch the first episode. At the same time, my online friends were explaining the omegaverse to me. This article contains a brief explanation of the Omegaverse as well as my general reaction to the first episode of Tadaima, Okaeri.

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About the Omegaverse

Although I had heard the word “Omegaverse” thrown around online, and knew it was important to the world of fanfiction, I had no understanding of it. When my online friend explained the basics to me, I was surprised to find that I liked the concept. It’s obvious that there’s a lot of “cringe” associated with Omegaverse writers and their works, but I don’t mind as long as there are genuinely good stories thrown into the mix, too. I’m already technically a furry, so cringe doesn’t scare me, haha.

In case you’re like me a few days ago and don’t know what Omegaverse is, I will give a simple explanation. Since I’m new to this world myself, it might not be completely accurate. The Omegaverse describes a world where people are divided into categories similar to what we think of as sexes or perhaps genders: the main categories are Alpha, Beta, and Omega, but there are also Deltas and Gammas. (And potentially more that I haven’t learned yet.) These categories are the basis of social and sexual hierarchy in the Omegaverse.

The biology of people in this universe as pertains to sexuality is very different from that of humans. There are secondary sex characteristics such as knots on Alphas or scent glands on the wrists and shoulders for all the types. Perhaps the biggest difference, though, is who can get pregnant. The general rule of thumb is that Alphas impregnate Omegas – regardless of traditional male or female roles or appearances. An Omega will always have the ability to carry a child, whether they are male or female. Similarly, an Alpha will always be able to give sperm, even if they are female.

The best way to think of it is that there are males and females who at some point awaken to an additional sex: Alpha, Omega, or whatever. Also, it’s important to note that in many Omegaverse works, Alpha and Omega essentially replace the categories of male and female from a traditional standpoint – i.e., the Alpha is the masculine and protective one, while the omega is the feminine, nurturing caretaker. This does depend somewhat on the particular work, but as a general rule, society will treat Omegas as women and Alphas as men.

I like the Omegaverse concept because of the way it forces you to think about ideas like sex and gender. Although it can be used in less than savory ways, Omegaverse works also have great potential for stories that challenge traditional concepts. For example, it’s a good way to introduce a same-sex relationship in an anime. That’s where we get to Tadaima, Okaeri. Though it’s set in the Omegaverse, this anime is more broadly classified as BL (Boy’s Love). Now, this genre is often hit or miss for me, so I approached with caution.

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Tadaima, Okaeri: Episode 1 Response

I wanted to try this Omegaverse anime, so I came prepared for something that could be very poorly written, excessively sexual, or otherwise problematic. But I found the opposite. This anime is about the main couple – Masaki and Hiromu – and their baby Hikari, as they live a peaceful life. The first episode was heavenly. It was so wholesome and family-oriented. The gentle romance elements were so sweet. Of course, there will be hardships and drama, but if the first episode is anything to do by, it won’t be too intense or dark.

The serious side of the first episode showed us that people like Masaki can experience discrimination on the basis of being Omegas. Masaki is clearly dealing with a lot as the homemaker in a relationship that might be socially frowned upon. To be honest, though, I don’t understand this aspect of the episode. If Alphas want children, the best thing is to marry and reproduce with an Omega, right? So why would the Omegas be treated badly for partnering up in this obvious way?

I may not understand the nature of the discrimination yet, but the interesting thing is that it’s clearly not homophobia. Depending on the BL anime, characters usually have to deal with the fact that they live in a homophobic country. But with Tadaima, Okaeri, nobody bats an eye when a man is the homemaker and spouse of another man. I don’t always like settings so far removed from reality, but in this case, it’s a refreshing change. Of course, I’m sure Masaki and Hiromu still face different types of trouble related to social acceptance.

Masaki and Hiromu’s baby, Hikari, was a welcome addition to the wholesome pilot episode. Without a baby, the show would become a little too focused on just the romance aspect. Plus, we wouldn’t be able to see adorable shots of an anime baby. My only complaint about Hikari is that his age or development stage makes no sense. He is animated as a baby, 1-2 years old, but he talks like he’s 4 years old. Babies don’t talk the way Hikari does, so that threw me off a bit.

While we’re on the subject, Baby Hikari is voiced by Atsumi Tanezaki. It’s easy to tell she’s the same actress who plays Anya in Spy x Family. But it’s a bit more surprising that her other main roles have been serious and thoughtful – including Chise Hatori from Ancient Magus Bride and Frieren from Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End. Anyway, it’s always great to hear Tanezaki’s talent once again.

The other voice-acting in Tadaima, Okaeri is on-point, but I don’t recognize either of the voice actors playing the main couple, so I can’t comment. The OST music is alright but not great, and I’m undecided on whether I like the opening song or not. As for the art and animation, it looks nice and modern – simple but easy on the eyes. Overall, I loved the first episode. Here’s hoping for more adorable, wholesome moments in the future.

Note: Don’t expect an entire episode review article like this in the future. After this post, brief episode notes for Tadaima, Okaeri will be included in my Spring 2024 weekly wrap-ups. These will contain notes for nine other Spring anime shows, as well. On a final note, I appreciate you reading or just stopping by Anime Rants. Thanks!

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