Pretty solid first volume. Nao Kanzaki is very naive, to say the least. She really feels like the typical girl who believes honesty is the best policy. Between getting fooled by her former teacher, Fujisawa, she comes across as useless. Though the Liar Game in many ways sets itself off closer to a scam. Essentially, once you enter, you have to keep the money safe.
It is through this we can see that Nao also suffers from anxiety. As looking for a safe way to handle that money is what she wants. While the volume does an outstanding job with her characterization, it comes across as her being very useless. Hopefully she gets character development as the series progresses.
Most of the shine comes from Shinichi Akiyama who Nao goes to for help when Fujisawa tricks her into stealing the money. The series has many strengths as a psychological and strategic series, as he can get Fujisawa to make the mistake that ends the game over 1 hour sooner. It does show the psychological effects of being home for too long, as you can become unfamiliar with the world around you. It is how he was able to steal the money for Nao.
Admittedly, the conclusion of the game is frustrating when both Nao and Akiyama give their earnings to Fujisawa. Granted, Nao was unaware the game was continuing, and it shows Akiyama has good character deep inside. Still, it begs the concern for how Nao’s character will continue, and her being naive to go to the 2nd round by herself after being warned by Akiyama leads to more frustration.
The Liar Game more so showcases itself as a scam because the lawyer that Nao talked to at first was part of the Liar Game. Kind of really shows that when you get caught up in a scam, sometimes it can feel impossible to get away. I also liked that in the 2nd round, people were less looking forward to winning 2.1 billion yen but rather worried about the responsibility of their 100 million yen. Not to mention the item is so small. It is even clearer that being part of the Liar Game is dangerous. As the game starts and Akiyama seems to be a 2nd participant, how much can she trust his help again?
