Therapy Game: Volume 2

by Meguru Hinohara

TW: Flashbacks of a suicide

Rating: 18+ (NSFW) - NOT censored either

Length: 2 Volumes, this is the final (though this series is continued in the Therapy Game Restart series)

Vibe: Start a Minato fan club stat

Star rating: 5/5 (for vol. 2 only) - I'd give these two volumes overall a 5/5

Official Summary (spoilers to Vol. 1):

Shizuma finds out about Minato’s plan—and subsequent wager—to seduce and then dump him. But when he rushes to Minato's apartment, an unknown man opens the door! Meanwhile, Minato is stuck wavering between his ever-deepening feelings for Shizuma and his deep-seated fear of falling in love. Can these two overcome misunderstandings and suspicion, or are there simply too many obstacles?

Initial Thoughts:

Super refreshing to have a simple romcom love story between these two sweet men (silly that this is still refreshing in 2024). We get to see Minato's growth here as well as the extent of Shizuma's love for him. We also get to see Minato put all on the line for Shizuma and as a result, get better sides of Shizuma's friends (though honestly, Yuka can go kick rocks in my opinion...). Finally, we also get to close the loop from the prequel, Secret XXX, as Minato's brother, Mito, plays a role (dare we call him Cupid?).

Volume 2 is a true progression from the first and in the best way! It sets the scene for the Restart sequel series, as you're left wanting more.

Where to buy (it is so easy to find all over):

• Amazon

• Barnes and Noble

Additional thoughts (with spoilers) after the jump:

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Full thoughts (SPOILERS AHEAD)

Overview:

All and all I love this series and all characters involved. I stand by my initial description that this is a whacky (very manga) premise overshadowed by lovable characters. I found myself cheering these guys on, especially Minato, who I just wanted to get that Shizuma is a serious CATCH. Even though Minato on principle may hate my guts as a woman, I still love him - and it is likely because I feel as though I get him. I know what it means to have a bit of a colorful(?) family background and it can be daunting when you meet people who just grew up in a loving, secure, all-around healthy home. Shizuma has no fear of vulnerability, and that's scary enough to someone like Minato, who has lots of issues to put to bed.

I don't have too much of a deep dive here, other than this second volume gets more into what happens during the "after" in "Happy Ever After". While this series starts out like a fun romcom, it quickly becomes more due to the depth of Shizuma and Minato's relationship. I initially wondered about the title of this series, but it is clear that this relationship is like therapy for these two characters. Now, I am not saying your SO should be your therapist (they def should not be), but I was told once by a therapist that our romantic relationships often help us unravel and deal with our "childhood sh*t", mainly because our insecurities and attachment styles are brought into sharp focus. This is very true for our dear Minato in this volume.

Shizuma:

I'd give him the title of a CLASSIC PRINCE. Charming, serious, and loving, Shizuma is an all-around GOOD GUY. He is one of those people who when he decides to love someone, he loves them, and that's it. Though not without flaws, as he's a bit absent-minded and has trouble reading the emotions of those around him (yes, he sorta unknowingly emotionally neglected Yuta but still, she can kick rocks), and he's gotta explore the need to take care/please others - which I am sure Minato will help in out here in more than one way - lol. His all-around goodness is such a great contrast to his beloved Minato.

Minato:

I love this character mainly because he's just, cool. No other word to describe him. But he's also a mess, and has carried his childhood trauma around with him for the majority of his life, as well as has a total brother-complex (which as far as the world of manga goes, he has a healthy one at least). In this series we see Minato having to let go of his brother as their lives evolve and learn the importance of trust, honesty, and vulnerability in his relationship with Shizuma. While it is clear that Shizuma loves Minato, Minato doesn't truly understand what that means. He's never allowed himself to be loved before romantically, let alone by someone as pure-hearted as Shizuma. For those who grew up in a secure and loving household, this may seem ridiculous but for the rest of us, it can be a hard first. Layer in the insecurity around Shizuma previously only dating women and it becomes clear that this volume is not enough time to smooth out the wrinkles in their relationship.

Wrap-up:

This is one of my favorites to go back and read because it's so silly and endearing, but not entirely detached from reality. The characters are charming and have depth. Lastly, and this will not be the last time I say this, this mangaka knows how to write a LOVE SCENE hunny - and of course, Shizuma and Minato's chemistry is off the charts given the depth of their romance.

See y'all in Therapy Game: Restart!

(By fania98 via DeviantArt)