Saekano: How to Raise a Boring Girlfriend

Saekano: How to Raise a Boring Girlfriend, known in Japan as Saenai Heroine no Sodatekata, is a Japanese romantic comedy light novel series penned by Fumiaki Maruto, with Kurehito Misaki providing the illustrations. Fujimi Shobo published the series under its Fujimi Fantasia Bunko imprint. The initial volume arrived on July 20, 2012, and the final thirteenth volume concluded the story on October 20, 2017. Two additional short story collections have also been released.

The narrative centers on Tomoya Aki, a high school student and dedicated otaku who harbors ambitions of developing the ultimate visual novel. To realize this dream, he seeks the assistance of several talented young women. Among them are Utaha Kasumigaoka, a well-known light novel author, and Eriri Spencer Sawamura, a gifted member of the art club. His inspiration for the game's protagonist, the heroine, is Megumi Kato, a seemingly unremarkable classmate Tomoya initially overlooks. The series explores the intricate dynamics of their collaborative project, weaving together creative aspirations, personal vulnerabilities, and developing romantic connections within the vibrant context of otaku culture and the visual novel industry.

The series distinguishes itself through its clever fusion of humor, genuine emotional resonance, and meta-commentary on common anime and game tropes. Its thematic scope encompasses romantic comedy, harem elements, comedy, drama, slice of life, and romance. [edit]