“That entire scene with Yatora and Ryuji drawing their nude portraits while laying themselves bare emotionally was fantastic.” Reddit · r/anime
Reviews for , titled "The Deep Blue Ocean," highlight it as a powerful, emotional turning point for both Yatora and Ryuji (Yuka) . Critics and fans alike praise the episode for its "bare-it-all" vulnerability, particularly during the seaside trip where the characters confront their deepest insecurities through art. Key Review Highlights
: Reviewers from CBR point out the irony of Yatora's growth; as he becomes a better friend and artist, his physical health begins to fail him at the worst possible time—right before the second TUA exam.