The popular romantic comedy manga “I Want to End This Love Game” (Japanese: 愛してるゲームを終わらせたい, Aishiteru Gēmu O Owara Setai) by Yūki Dōmoto is officially getting a TV anime adaptation! The announcement was made on Thursday, June 12, 2025, which is also celebrated as “Lovers’ Day” in Japan.
A Heartwarming Game of Love
“I Want to End This Love Game” revolves around the story of Yukiya Asagi and Miku Sakura, two childhood friends who share a unique bond. Their relationship is defined by a playful game they started in sixth grade: trying to make the other’s heart flutter by saying “I love you.” The first one to get flustered loses.
Years later, now in high school, the game continues. However, the simple phrase “I love you” has begun to carry a deeper meaning as genuine feelings develop between them. Both Yukiya and Miku secretly harbor romantic feelings for each other but fear confessing and potentially ruining their dynamic. They continue the game, caught between the desire to win and the fear of what might happen if the game ends.
From Manga Pages to the Animated Screen
The original manga series, written and illustrated by Yūki Dōmoto, has been serialized on Shogakukan’s online platform, Sunday Webry, since December 24, 2021. The manga has gained a dedicated following for its sweet and relatable portrayal of first love, the challenges of expressing true feelings, and the complexities of childhood friendships evolving into romance.
Shogakukan has compiled the manga into individual tankōbon volumes. As of April 10, 2024, six volumes have been released. The seventh volume is scheduled to be released on June 18, 2025.
Viz Media has licensed the manga for an English release in North America. They began publishing the series in Q2 2024. As of May 13, 2025, Viz Media has released the sixth volume in English.
Story of Yukiya and Miku
Viz Media describes the story of the first volume as follows:
After leaving behind his image as a quiet nerd, Yukiya’s ready to break hearts and take names with the ultimate high school glow-up. Well, he’s really just got one girl in his sights—his best friend, Miku! Using her favorite shojo manga as his weapon, he’s prepared to pin her to the wall and gaze at her with the perfect smolder! Will his advances get her heart racing? Or will Yukiya end up making a fool of himself?
Creator’s Celebration
Yūki Dōmoto, the creator of “I Want to End This Love Game,” posted a special illustration on their X (formerly Twitter) account to commemorate the anime adaptation announcement.
Dōmoto’s message to fans (translated) expresses their gratitude:
“Thanks to all the readers who supported me and to all the people involved, my long-held dream has come true…!!!! Thank you so, so much!!!! Information will be gradually released on Sunday Webry, and by me. So, I hope you will enjoy it together.”
What to Expect from the Anime
While details about the anime adaptation, such as the broadcast schedule, staff, and cast, are yet to be revealed, fans can anticipate a faithful adaptation of the manga’s heartwarming story and charming characters. The anime is expected to capture the essence of Yukiya and Miku’s love game, their internal struggles, and the sweet moments that define their relationship.
More from Yuki Dōmoto
Yūki Dōmoto is also known for drawing the manga adaptation of the Girlish Number project.
Reception
The manga has been generally well-received, with reviewers praising its focus on character development and the relatable awkwardness of first love.
Where to follow the news?
Further details about the anime adaptation are expected to be revealed in the coming days and weeks. Fans can stay updated by following the official announcements on Sunday Webry and Yūki Dōmoto’s social media channels.
