I Want to End This Love Game by Shuusuke Shun is a unique rom-com series that combines elements of psychological games and romance, centering on two high school students who are locked in a “love game” where the first one to confess their feelings loses. In this cat-and-mouse game, Ayumi and Shizuka constantly try to outsmart each other, concealing their true emotions behind clever strategies, bluffs, and misdirections. What starts as a playful rivalry slowly evolves into something more complicated as their feelings grow deeper. Volume 4 raises the stakes, bringing new twists to their love game and teasing the possibility of a confession.

Story Overview

In Vol. 4, Ayumi and Shizuka’s love game becomes more intense as both characters are forced to confront their own emotions and question the purpose of their game. Their playful strategies and banter continue, but moments of vulnerability begin to surface, hinting that their “game” may be transforming into a genuine romance. This volume also introduces new challenges and side characters who unintentionally complicate their rivalry, further blurring the lines between love and competition.

The volume focuses on Ayumi and Shizuka’s attempts to hide their growing affection, all while trying to maintain their advantage in the game. However, as their classmates begin to notice their chemistry, rumors start spreading, which only adds pressure to their love game. Both characters start questioning whether winning is truly as important as they once thought, especially when they realize how much they genuinely care for each other.

Key Themes

• Love vs. Pride: Ayumi and Shizuka’s game is built on the foundation of pride, as neither wants to admit defeat by confessing first. This volume explores the internal conflict between love and the fear of vulnerability.
• Self-Reflection and Honesty: Both characters grapple with honesty, realizing that their mind games might be preventing them from experiencing a real connection.
• The Complexity of Emotions: The series explores the idea that feelings aren’t always black and white, and Ayumi and Shizuka must face the fact that love can be both exciting and terrifying.

Art and Atmosphere

Shuusuke Shun’s art style captures both the humorous and intense aspects of Ayumi and Shizuka’s “love game.” The expressive character designs highlight each strategy, blush, and over-the-top reaction, amplifying the series’ comedic tone. Shun’s use of visual metaphors and exaggerated reactions adds to the tension and excitement of their game, while quieter, subtler panels depict the softer moments where their true feelings surface. The art effectively portrays both the internal conflicts and the humor of the story, making the game feel dynamic and relatable.

Highlights of Volume 4

Volume 4 is a pivotal point in the series, as both Ayumi and Shizuka begin to struggle with their commitment to the game. One of the highlights is a scene where Ayumi, for the first time, genuinely considers confessing but hesitates, torn between her desire to “win” and her real feelings. This moment showcases her growth and adds emotional depth, showing that her feelings for Shizuka may outweigh her competitive pride.

Shizuka also faces his own doubts in this volume. Known for his calm and calculated approach, he finds himself increasingly distracted by Ayumi, and his internal monologue reveals hints of insecurity and affection. The volume cleverly shifts between the two characters’ perspectives, allowing readers to see the vulnerability and doubt behind each move they make. These moments deepen the characters and give readers a sense of anticipation for what’s to come.

Additionally, a new character—a friendly classmate—begins to show interest in Ayumi, which sparks jealousy in Shizuka and puts pressure on both sides of the game. This new dynamic brings out previously hidden emotions, making Ayumi and Shizuka question how much longer they can keep up the pretense of rivalry.

Initial Reception

Fans of I Want to End This Love Game have praised Volume 4 for its mix of humor and character development. Readers appreciate the deeper emotional stakes introduced in this volume and enjoy seeing both Ayumi and Shizuka become more self-aware about their feelings. The new challenges and added romantic tension have been especially well-received, with fans eagerly awaiting how their relationship will progress in the next installment.

Conclusion

I Want to End This Love Game, Vol. 4 is an exciting, humorous, and heartfelt continuation that pushes Ayumi and Shizuka closer to a tipping point in their love game. As they navigate jealousy, vulnerability, and the weight of their own pride, readers are treated to a fun yet emotionally resonant story that captures the complexities of young love. This volume offers a satisfying blend of comedy, tension, and character growth, making it a must-read for fans of rom-com manga with a psychological twist. As the game heats up and confessions seem closer than ever, readers are left eagerly anticipating what’s next for Ayumi and Shizuka in their battle of love and pride.