The most ridiculous isekai story of all time is getting its own adaptation this summer from hit anime streaming service Crunchyroll. Some of the most famous anime belong to the Isekai, or trapped in another world, genre with the most notable being Rumiko Takahashi's Inuyasha. However, fans have also taken notice of these stories creating some of the silliest concepts. Just last year, Reincarnated as a Sword was released. While it would eventually find a fanbase and earn a second season, first reactions were primarily from people making fun of how silly the idea was. Now, a new isekai anime is on the horizon and could take the crown for the most ridiculous concept.
Announced by Crunchyroll, Reborn as a Vending Machine, I Now Wander the Dungeon is an anime that will follow an unnamed protagonist as they are reincarnated as a vending machine named Hakkon, voiced by Jun Fukuyama who played Joker in the anime adaptation of Persona 5. In the official plot description told from Hakkon's point of view, they state "it's impossible to move by myself, and there's no way for me to have a meaningful conversation." They're unable to speak because their speech is limited to pre-recorded vending machine audio like "Get one free with a winner." However, this won't stop them from developing a connection with a mysterious woman named Lammis, played by Kaede Hondo, best known as the lead singer Sakura Minamoto in Zombie Land Saga.
Vending Machine's Concept is Ridiculous...But It Could Work
They very idea of an isekai following someone reborn into a vending machine is an outlandish one. Isekai is known for having ridiculous ideas of how to get everyday heroes into fantasy worlds, but this may take the cake for the silliest. However, this doesn't necessarily mean that it can't work. In fact, the original light novel by Hirukama was a parody that received praise from critics and audiences for its writing and how it gave the isekai genre the refresh it needed. Given that Hakkon's speech is limited, this could make for some interesting interactions between them and Lammis as she carries him around their new RPG reality.
The First Teaser Trailer Hints at a Story of Human Connection
What's fascinating is the teaser trailer that accompanies Crunchyroll's official announcement, which does a great job showing just what the series is going to be about. Since Hakkon can't exactly fend for themself or speak, the trailer shows that this will be a story about interpersonal relationships as Lammis takes them on the adventure of a lifetime. Not only will the two of them learn more about each other, but they'll solve various problems along the way with the help of soda from Hakkon's inventory. This will certainly be different from other fantasy isekai that use the isekai reincarnation trope as it likely won't be as action-heavy, but throwing a lot of its soul into the relationships of the characters could set it up for success.
Reborn as a Vending Machine, I Now Wander the Dungeon is expected to premiere on Crunchyroll in July 2023. With an impressive cast lineup and a promising first look, this could be an enjoyable and funny take on a popular story type. Vending Machine is undoubtedly the most ridiculous isekai story idea of all time, but if the anime plays its cards right and breaks all the rules, it could be the next big Crunchyroll hit with clever writing and endearing characters.
Watch Reborn as a Vending Machine, I Now Wander the Dungeon this July on Crunchyroll!
Source: Crunchyroll