I couldn't get past how incredible Nao was...incredibly stupid that is! Out of all the female leads I've seen in dramas, Nao wins as the most dumb, gullible, and annoying character ever. Quite a feat! Seriously, she never learns from her mistakes and constantly needs saving. You would think after her former teacher deceived her she would have wised up and get that the world is not cotton candy and rainbows and humans aren't all sugar plum fairies. I wanted to throw my device everytime she came on screen with her wide eyed, mouth gaped open stare. There's innocence and honesty and then theres just good ol plain stupidy. It's actually offensive how much of a ditz Nao is, and it's her character alone that makes me lower this show's rating from a 10 to a 7.5. What a pity.
Now on to what still makes this drama a good classic show...
In one word Akiyama. Yes, the male lead. He not only saved Nao again and again, but he saved the show. He's a genius but not boastful. Very cool and collected. It's fascinating to watch how he will get out of a jam (which Nao put him in), outwit contestants and win in Liar game. Speaking of games, that's another highlight of this show. The games are intellectual and take strategy to figure out. Great stuff! Side characters are all purposely exaggerated like the Austin Powers wannabe mushroom haired villian. It works though and helps keep the story light and not too heavy. However, If you don't like dramatic anime style characters, then I would steer clear of this show. So without giving too much more away I will say this, Liar game keeps you on your toes. It's exciting and fast paced, making this drama one fun ride.