It’s a double bill this time as we delve into the two pillars of Mitsuru Adachi’s iconic career: Touch and Cross Game (with a bit of Mix in the mix). These two series represent a bookend (more on less) on Adachi's catalog, and are the product of a writer at two very different stages of his life and career. Do you prefer a young and vibrant wine that practically jumps out of the glass, or a mature and subtle one full of bittersweetness that demands contemplation?

Timestamps:

0:00 Introduction - Mitsuru Adachi, a giant in the industry, our feelings on him in general

7:56 Touch vs Cross Game

12:50 Do people expect a big twist in an Adachi series?

14:02 Touch - Why did it become a cultural phenomenon?

19:38 Touch spoiler discussion begins

20:10 The big ‘moment’ - its impact and effect on the series’ popularity

25:19 Cross Game - modern take on familiar tropes

28:00 Cross Game spoiler discussion begins

28:18 How do the twists in both series compare to one another?

32:04 Adachi’s minimalist artwork and smart way of panelling in those dramatic moments

34:34 Mix, Touch’s sequel - its own late moment and his restraint with returning characters

38:22 Which series is most focused on baseball? Comparing the Touch vs Cross Game

41:50 Aoba’s character - annoying or understandable?

49:19 Enzo’s love for Kou Kitamura as a protagonist

50:45 Supporting cast, Adachi’s fanservice critique, breaking the fourth wall

54:00 Comparing the endings

55:36 Samu’s Recommendation: Straighten Up! Welcome to Shika High's Competitive Dance Club by Takuma Yokota

59:15 Enzo’s Recommendation: Anohana: The Flower We Saw That Day by Chou Heiwa Busters and Izumi Mitsu

1:02:58 Touch - overview and final score

1:04:39 Cross Game - overview and final score

1:07:00 Mix - overview and final score