“Madge and Lilika are fledgling C-rank witches who can only afford to share a measly 99-square foot apartment in the big city. They scrape by doing bottom-of-the-barrel jobs and eating just cabbage for dinner. But the two girls are serious about improving their lives so that they can get a pet, buy a bunch of grimoires, and eat some meat! All they need is some elbow grease!” (Yen Press)
As outlined in the closing notes from creator Akitaka, having worked on a magic-heavy series with a lot of action, they wanted to reel it back and deliver more of a slice-of-life experience. This description becomes apt in more than just defining the book's flow, as the series feels like there are always more fantastic battles landing outside the periphery of the protagonists, Madge and Lilika. Notably, the odd duo is forced to the sidelines doing menial tasks while other witches find glory among the public.
This background creates a sense of whimsy and silliness that nicely fits the slice-of-life structure. It allows the characters to move at a relaxed pace through their own story in an inherently absurd world that interjects comedy. In addition, Madge and Lilika make an ideal pairing, leaning into familiar tropes but offering enough variety to make them distinguishable from the slew of characters you will find in the genre. Madge, in particular, makes a strong impact in the inaugural volume with a head-strong persona brought on by a traditional home in a small village that embued her with certain ideals about becoming a witch. Comparatively, Lilika feels slightly subdued and plays the role of a lazy roommate, though this feels likely to change in subsequent volumes.
Beyond the growth of the two main characters, the series relies on hitting those comedic beats. While the scenarios that do pop up in volume one, hunting wild boors, fixing a magical pot, and a play displaying their skills, all have the potential to go over the top, and Akitaka keeps the comedy perfectly subdued. Consequently, the book retains that light comedy and drama mix, which is essential for a successful slice-of-life.
Visually, “Witch Life in a Micro Room” is not overly impressive but fits the genre well. The character designs are rather simplistic but distinct enough not to confuse, and the displays of magic are more whimsical than stunning. Aesthetically focused on ‘cute,' the vital element of empowering the leads Madge and Lilika with abundant persona is met, with their reactions to different events providing abundant humor.
“Witch Life in a Micro Room” is not looking to do anything drastically different. Still, its magical-oriented slice-of-life approach feels slightly fresh and is undeniably a well-constructed and written entry into the genre. Suppose you want a series with light dramatic elements that prioritizes capturing good vibes and is a casual read. In that case, Akitaka proves herself more than capable of delivering just that.
