Note: There will be some spoilers as this review comprises of an analysis of specific plot points As odd it may be I am here writing a review of an anime released around 10years ago now with little reception in recent days. Compared to the main series this episode was not flashy neither was the mystery intricately woven to warrant massive praise. So why have I decided to write one not for the 2cour anime but for this OVA? Firstly this is my first rewatch and I have came to better appreciate it. Secondly I am truly baffled at the interpretation and perspective of this additional episode. I decided to do it justice by providing context for the reader that stumbles upon this review so that more will come to recognize its value much as I have. Before transiting into the overview I would like everyone to keep in mind that this OVA is actually an original anime. It never originated from the KotenBu novels by Honobu Yonezawa the author of the Classics Club Series better known as Hyouka. The Hyouka OVA: What Should be Had is a greatly misunderstood piece of work. Many simply disregard this as a fan service episode and while I may agree to such a statement on an outward front I would argue that there is much more processing psychologically and emotionally. This episode follows the previous 2nd arc which left Oreki Houtarou dejected from his failure to solve the mystery. We begin with Houtarou being offered a job at the pool. We know Houtarou to an extent and theres no reason for him to take it upeven if its for money If I dont have to do it I wont he has no financial struggles yet he does not react or even slide a snarky remark in his inevitable acceptance. 400https://i.ur.com/tlXs5ib.jpg Throughout this episode Houtarou was emotionless and rather bland in all his actionssimilar to what Satoshi once said this represents a colourless personality. Chitanda while not being as sensitive as the other two deduced from her conversation with Houtarou that he had certain self doubt because of his abilitiesdue to his recent failure and encourages him with reassuring words. His talentcrisis made him doubtful about helping his friends but Chitanda reassures Houtarou throughout all their conversations what he does is special and he very much is special too. Additionally Mayaka and Satoshi realizes his blandness. Satoshi points out to Houtarou his lack of emotion while Mayaka notes his lack of spirit. Regardless how lazy Houtarou is he is still human and characterized by these qualities. Without them was the bland personality we witnesseda colourless personality. At least give me some reaction even if its gripping. Youre being a bore. The episode reaches its turning point when Houtarou decided to present his theory on the mystery. He lets out a sigh conveying to us that there was selfdoubt. It reminds us of the burden from his failure and psychological aftermath on Houtarou. He was concerned about another failure yet he takes this step. He was becoming like himself again. As the episode draws to a close Satoshi intends to grab himself a nice treat: an ice cream. What a coincidence as that not only reminds Mayaka but serves as our reminder and a transition to the subsequent 3rd arc where Hyouka becomes relevant again. Subsequently Houtarou had a final interaction with Chitanda and now displays his emotions that portrays his cynicism and laziness. He is finally himself again. And as a nice touch his final remarkto the job is the response he should have givento his sister from the very beginning. 400https://i.ur.com/TXbumSv.jpg What Should be Had showed us how much Houtarous friends value him and despite the disappointment they expressed at him in the previous arc it did not change their respect and appreciation for him as a friend. The value of being needed by someone is an idea many propose to be essential in life. While the title is subjected to interpretation it is undeniable that this episode acts as an important reconciliation for the group and bridges the unanswered gap in Honobu Yonezawas novels. In this respect the producers and director did an excellent job in presenting us a meaningful and worthwhile episode.