Mitani watches from the shadows, struggling with his feelings about the game and his former friend. He eventually discovers game recordings of the members—including his own—which serves as a poignant reminder of their shared passion for Go.
The episode centers on the aftermath of Hikaru’s departure and the resulting tension among his former teammates.
In Episode 27 of Hikaru no Go , titled , the story shifts focus back to the roots of Hikaru's journey: the Haze Middle School Go Club . After Hikaru leaves the club to pursue the rigorous life of an insei (professional student), the club he helped build faces an emotional and structural crisis. Episode 27 Summary: The Struggles of the Haze Go Club
By the end of the episode, Mitani is convinced to return to the club, reuniting the core group even as Hikaru moves further into the professional sphere. Key Themes & Analysis