Villainess Level 99 Episode 5/Akuyaku Reijō Reberu 99 Episode 5 premiered on February 6, 2024. In the new episode, Yumiella finds a companion and a friend which drastically changes her perspective on things. The episode is approximately 23 minutes long.
Villainess Level 99: I May Be the Hidden Boss but I’m Not the Demon Lord or Akuyaku Reijō Reberu 99: Watashi wa Ura Bosudesuga Maō de wa Arimasen (悪役令嬢レベル99 ～私は裏ボスですが魔王ではありません～) is a new anime series based on the Japanese light novel series with the same name written by Satori Tanabata with illustrations by Tea. Directed by Minoru Yamaoka, the script of the show is written by Fumihiko Shimo and character designs handled by Hitomi Kaiho and Lo Ho Kim.
Mayu Maeshima lends her voice to the opening theme song, Love or Hate?, while Fairouz Ai and Rina Hidaka, embodying their respective characters, perform the ending theme song titled Suki ga Rebechi (好きがレベチ, Love on a Different Level). The series has been officially licensed by Crunchyroll, and Plus Media Networks Asia holds the licensing rights for the Southeast Asian region.
The story follows Yumiella Dolkness, who finds herself thrust into the world of Light Magic and the Hero, an otome RPG where she takes on the role of the undercover boss. Determined to secure her survival, she dedicates her childhood to relentless level grinding. However, a twist of fate reveals an unintended consequence: Yumiella surpasses expectations, reaching the formidable Level 99 instead of the anticipated Level 10 for students. This overachievement not only attracts undue attention but also deviates from the meticulously crafted script of the game, setting the stage for unforeseen challenges in her reincarnated journey.
-Villainess Level 99 Episode 5 Review Contains No Spoilers-
Yumiella, who is characterised by a stoic demeanour, is gradually showing the emotional side of her. Throughout her life, she is forced to remain strong and fight off the demons all by herself. Burdened by the knowledge of the future, she decides to change her fate which is met with many roadblocks. However, her resilience never let her back down from any challenge.
Throughout her life, she worked hard, due to which, she could not make any friends. Moreover, she also lacks the social skills to make people like her but that never bothered her or she hid it very well. But she finally meets someone who can see through her tough exterior and make her feel human. Patrick does not make her feel small for her erratic behaviour but rather understands the true intentions behind her actions.
Most probably it is due to Patrick’s kindness that allows him not to judge Yumiella on preconceived notions. But we learn that even he has been through a similar phase that helps him relate to her. Surprisingly, growing up, even he was insecure about the colour of his hair because it appeared to be of a darker shade. When he notices that people have formed assumptions about Yumiella just because of her black hair, he cannot help but connect with her plight.
Eventually, after spending some time together, they both quickly become fond of each other. When Yumiella seems to be in trouble with Price Edwin yet again, Patrick quickly comes to her rescue. Yumiella notices these gestures and appreciates him for standing up to him. Although both of them have a huge difference in their physical and social power dynamic, they both do not let it come in the way of forming a relationship.
Also Read: 10 Anime Villains We Cannot Help but Root For: Dabi, Sukuna, Akaza and Others
Villainess Level 99 Episode 5 Review: Final Thoughts
After many episodes of Yumiella being tormented by Prince Edwin and his gang, someone finally arrives in her life in the form of a friend. Patrick’s arrival in the story drastically changes the dynamics between the characters. The Prince’s status and class often helped him to get away with accusing Yumiella of heinous crimes but with Patrick on her side, the uneven power balance has changed. Moreover, Yumiella has also started to see herself as a person more, rather than just a character from a video game.
The animation continues to maintain the quality of the episode and elevates the storytelling process. The use of CGI often throws off the flow of the episode and its heavy use does not bring out a good combination. Nevertheless, the intricate character design is the hero element of the show and keeps the viewers waiting for more.
Villainess Level 99 Episode 5 is now streaming on Crunchyroll in select regions.