Nanoha is a classic that holds a special place in my heart. In 2004 it was a trailblazer in a new mini lolicon boom, which saw a number of loli-focused fanservice anime come out in the following few years.
The cute and sexy leading duo of Fate and Nanoha quite literally became poster children for loli fans. While the fanservice in the show was very retrained, the producers really pushed the sex appeal in the marketing materials. I’ve got the artbooks and posters to prove it! For that reason, while other loli franchises fell to the wayside, it became an enduring stalwart for fans. Even when they aged-up Nanoha and Fate, there was still a new generation for the old fans.
But more than that, it was also a very entertaining series in its own right, with an engaging stories, characters to root for, plenty of magical girl cuteness, and much more! It was an otaku hit for a reason!
Premise:
Nanoha Takamachi, an ordinary third-grader who enjoys spending time with her family and friends, rescues an injured ferret that she had dreamed about the night before. The next day, the ferret cries out to her telepathically, asking Nanoha to save him. The ferret reveals himself to be Yuuno Scrya, a mage from another world who is trying to collect the dangerous 21 Jewel Seeds that he accidentally scattered across the world. He enlists Nanoha’s help, gifting her the magical wand Raising Heart, and teaches her how to become a powerful mage.
Days later, after reclaiming a few of the Jewel Seeds, another mage appears: Fate Testarossa. Stronger than Nanoha, Fate refuses to divulge her reasons in trying to collect the Jewel Seeds. Nanoha senses a melancholy in her eyes, but Fate refuses to communicate. Directed by Akiyuki Shinbo, Mahou Shoujo Lyrical Nanoha is a story about the clash of emotions when goals collide.
Let’s take a look at the sexy elements of this first season though:
It started small, with a sneaky Nanoha upskirt in the first episode! Interestingly, she’s always depicted wearing pink panties after this first episode.
Then the transformation scene came along and we knew what we were in for. Lingering on the underwear and nudity, it certainly didn’t hide its famservice intent.
It’s one of the most memorable transformation sequences, so here’s the full clip!
This simple scene of Nanoha getting undressed is so cute!
The series actually had an onsen episode, which of course meant plenty of fanservice!
It’s not all about the loli!
Nanoha’s school friend is cute!
Boob grabbing – tick!
Nanoha’s other friend is definitely the most 100% loli of the group, but that didn’t stop her joining in the fun!
The bathing itself was fairly underwhelming, as towels were worn! Shame!
There it is! One of my most memorable panty shots, clearly showing her pink pantsu!
Ah, the classic clone in a tank! Always a good reason for nudity.
