In his quest for belonging, college freshman Kanji Sasahara stumbles upon the Genshiken club, dedicated to all things otaku. Initially deterred by a humiliating encounter with senior Madarame, who challenges his otaku identity, Sasahara finds solace in befriending the unexpectedly hardcore otaku Kousaka. As he delves into the club's activities of anime worship, doujinshi exploration, and convention visits, Sasahara also crosses paths with Kousaka's anti-otaku girlfriend Saki. Through Saki's comedic attempts to 'normalize' Kousaka, Sasahara undergoes a transformation, embracing his otaku side and fully embracing the Genshiken lifestyle.