KimiKiss: Pure Rouge

KimiKiss: Pure Rouge (キミキス pure rouge) is a Japanese anime series produced by J.C.Staff, which aired from October 6, 2007, to March 29, 2008, consisting of 24 regular episodes and one OVA special episode. The anime is an adaptation of the dating simulation game KimiKiss. The story revolves around the romantic lives of high school students, particularly after Mizusawa Mao, a childhood friend of protagonists Sanada Kouichi and Aihara Kazuki, returns from studying in France. Mao's return leads to her staying with Kouichi's family, and the three friends navigate the challenges of high school romance. Throughout the series, Kouichi realizes his feelings for Mao, while Sakino and Futami develop feelings for Kazuki. The anime sensitively portrays the characters' growth and emotional changes during their high school years. Notably, the anime differs from the game by featuring two male protagonists, splitting the game's main character Aihara Kouichi into Sanada Kouichi and Aihara Kazuki, each with their own love interests. It was praised for its detailed character portrayal and realistic depiction of emotions. An OVA episode, titled KimiKiss Pure Rouge: Love Fighter, was later released, focusing on the character Kuryuu Megumi. This anime was a major inspiration for its spiritual successor, Amagami SS, and it remains a classic among many anime fans.