Stretch in English: Why We Cut the Beach Gags — and Found Something Deeper

Did you know the Japanese version of Stretch features a few extra scenes — like beachside comedy skits and a somewhat chaotic bathhouse segment?

These weren’t just fanservice; they were quirky, character-driven moments full of jokes and friendship energy. But for the English release, we made a tough decision: to cut some of them.

Why? Well, part of it was cultural. Humor doesn’t always translate cleanly. And some scenes — like bathing in only a towel under the moonlight — might’ve raised more eyebrows than laughs.

But the bigger reason? Focus. Without the extra chaos, the emotional beats shine more clearly. Juri’s loneliness. Nurihei’s growth. That tension between everyday boredom and coming-of-age beauty. It all hits harder now.

If you ever play the Japanese version, you’ll get those extra layers. But for the English version, we think we’ve landed on something tighter, and maybe even more heartfelt.