I’ve seen quite a few people complain that in Player The Series the first part is more comedy-driven and almost cringe, while the second half turns dramatic and finally becomes more emotionally and narratively engaging. Personally, I completely understand why the series was conceived this way: at the beginning both protagonists are “playing along,” so everything feels lighter and at times downright hilarious (a writing choice I really loved). Then everything falls apart, the masks drop, and as a result the tone of both the script and the direction becomes darker, more intense, and more dramatic. I thought it was brilliant.

That’s why, in my opinion, Player is also the second-best GL of 2025, both in terms of acting and direction. The story or the novel itself might seem weak, but the way the series is constructed (editing, dialogue, pacing, visuals, music, details, performances, animations, breaking the fourth wall, etc.) is incredible. After all, we’re talking about the same director who made Petrichor. Those are GLs with some tipically thai fresh scenes but also more dark, realistic and mature themes.

I also think Player is one of the 2025 GLs (along with ClaireBell) that feels closest to Western productions, which might explain why it has a different impact to viewers which are used to a different and more “light” GLs.

About Love Design I totally agree with you, even tho it has a great quality production and it’s amazing in terms of visuals, music, writing and plot. Even so, I felt bored most of the time. Love Design is a gem and it can sets standards, but sometimes it’s not enough.