soulreader2015

The drama is following the novel very closely so far though. You might enjoy Deliraba's performance more because Jing Jing is more expressive right now and I do agree that she has improved as an actress over the last few years.
That being said, I believe it's too early to judge Yang Yang's performance. Like in the novel, Yu Tu only breaks out of his shell after the competition. He is described as a thinker and introvert and with a bit of a pokerface which you should remember if you read it. So you need to take into account that, as an actor, Yang Yang can only express the character he has been given by the writer and producer. He can't show a wide range of emotions and be the bubbly mood maker when his character's concept is different. It would feel unnatural. Therefore I believe we should wait and see how Yang Yang handles the second half of the drama. If he's still stiff and unemotional by then, then I agree that he needs to improve. So far he's fitting the novel Yu Tu pretty well though.

I can only agree with you. So far, Yang Yang portrays Yu Tu very much like he is described in the novel. Soon we'll see him get more emotional as his inner conflict comes to a climax. We'll also see him step out of his shell to make up with JJ (in a while). If people want to judge Yang Yang's "emotional" acting, they should at least wait until then... I mean, this drama runs for 30-something episodes and we've only seen 10 so far. Give the character some time to develop!

The original is finished as far as I know (the normal novel + 35 bonus chapters). The English translation is not finished yet.

The first season was good as it was. However, I do believe that there still is a story to be told after it, allowing for a second season or at least a special. The original aim of the team was the world cup so they could feature the international competition (like in the novel). Also, a second season would allow to show more about how the relationship of the couple deepens as they seriously discuss marriage etc. If there would be a second season, I believe it's okay as long as they don't try to fill 30 episodes. They should keep the plot tight like they did in the first season.

If you're looking for a passionate romance without noble idiocy break ups, a fun storyline and don't mind the gaming-concept, this is for you. (Or in other words: If you enjoyed Gank Your Heart or Love O2O you'll love this as the chemistry between the cast members is even better.)
The storyline and character development are well done and there is no need for skipping. Almost all of the characters are very likable (no over the top or idiot characters) and the chemistry, especially between the two main couples, is awesome.
Especially the bickering romance between Tong Yao and Cheng had me laughing quite a few times but this totally changes whenever they get close to one another. (There are SO MANY well executed KISS SCENES!) It's a good mix between romance and comedy.
I'd say the production team has done a great job at creating a youthful yet somewhat mature gaming-romance drama. Overall, it's a feel-good drama that manages to address heavier topics in a serious but not overly heavy way. I'm gonna miss the characters and I'm craving for a second season - not because the ending wasn't satisfying but rather because I'm not ready to let go of the cast.

If anyone can tell me what cardigan brand Tong Yao is wearing in episode 12, I'd be super happy! It'm talking about the grey one with the white writing on it.