"When Will Ayumu Make His Move?" centers on Ayumu Tanaka, a first-year high school student and member of the school’s shogi club. Despite his reserved demeanor, Ayumu harbors feelings for Urushi Yaotome, the club’s president and a skilled shogi player. However, Ayumu imposes a personal rule: he will not confess his feelings until he defeats Urushi in a game of shogi. This self-imposed challenge becomes the driving force of the narrative, as Ayumu strives to improve his shogi skills while navigating the complexities of his growing emotions.

Urushi, on the other hand, is unaware of Ayumu’s feelings but enjoys their time together in the shogi club. She is confident, competitive, and occasionally teases Ayumu, creating a dynamic that balances humor and subtle romantic tension. The series explores their interactions within the club, as well as their daily school life, highlighting the slow progression of their relationship. Supporting characters, such as Takeru Kakiyama and Rin Kashima, add depth to the story, providing comedic moments and additional perspectives on Ayumu and Urushi’s evolving bond.

The narrative unfolds in a slice-of-life format, emphasizing the quiet, everyday moments that define Ayumu and Urushi’s connection. Shogi serves as both a narrative device and a metaphor for their relationship, with each game symbolizing Ayumu’s determination and the emotional stakes of his unspoken feelings. The series maintains a lighthearted tone, blending humor, school life, and the gradual development of romance, all while keeping the central question of when Ayumu will finally make his move at the forefront.