Review by deanzel
VIP11Cross Game is absolutely one of the best anime shows (not just sports anime) that I've seen. Period. It is another masterpiece written by Mitsuru Adachi (of Touch and H2 fame). From the first episode (which is absolutely heartbreaking and a must-watch), the show just captures the viewer's attention and never lets go. The best part of Cross Game is that it is about more than just baseball. So much more. It is a story about dealing with the death of a loved one (it has a very similar feeling to AnoHana), friendship, and how two people grow and nurture each other through hardships and successes. The story may be a little bit predictable at times, but Cross Game is more about the total journey. Don't be intimidated by the length. Time flies and there really are no filler episodes (except for one recap episode) and by the end, I was wishing that the show would never end. The characters are truly what make this show exceptional and Aoba is one of my favorite female protagonists of all time. She is way more than just a tsundere and has so much depth to her character. Do yourself a favor and watch this masterpiece. It'll have you on the edge of seat the whole time.
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Honestly, it's more like an amazing SOL/romance anime that has an emphasis on sports in it. Still, the baseball action in it is very well done and got me addicted to Adachi's other works (I watched all 101 episodes of Touch right after this). I would 100% recommend that you try it. Just watch the first episode (literally one of the best openings to an anime that I've ever seen) and I guarantee you'll get the feels. There's a reason this is so highly rated on MAL.
This was a fantastic series and Ufotable (of The Garden of Sinners fame) was really able to show off their animation skills to the max here. This prequel to Fast/stay Night (which was made by Studio Deen) was leaps and bounds better than its predecessor in every aspect from story and pacing to animation, art and choreography. I watched Fate/stay Night first as I was told that watching it after Fate/Zero would just make it pale in comparison and I think this may be the best option (of course if you have the time, play the visual novel of Fate/Stay night instead). Even though I knew of some of the events to happen, Fate/Zero still kept me on my toes with unexpected twists and surprises. I also learned a lot more about the Fate universe and things from FSN made A LOT more sense after watching FZ as Ufotable did a much better job of explaining things than Studio Deen.
All the masters and servants get their fair share of back story and development and over time I really started to emphasize with each one of them. The dialogue and writing is fantastic in both the dub and sub versions. I loved the soundtrack too especially the first OP, "oath sign" by LiSA. Everything moved at a great pace and I couldn't wait to watch the next episode. Most importantly, this probably had the best action scenes that I've seen in any TV anime series (the Eva Rebuild and The Garden of Sinners of movies are on similar levels) so try to watch this on a big screen.
This show is definitely a must watch for anyone that enjoys a deep and compelling action-adventure anime. I'm really looking forward to Ufotable's remake of the FSN series (following Illya's arc I believe) that will be released in 2014. And definitely watch The Garden of Sinners movies as ManicB says. You won't regret it.
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@dulneth-p I only really know for the Fate/Stay-Night / Fate-Zero series. I'd probably start with Fate/Zero first since it is chronologically first and a prequel. Then I'd go with the new Fate/Stay-Night Unlimited Blade Works series from 2014. You can watch the Heaven's Feel movies after that. I'd skip the original Fate/Stay-Night from 2006 since it wasn't done very well. If you're feeling completionist, you could watch it but they kind of cover different routes from the Visual Novel.
This is THE anime that we've all been waiting and yearning for. Many of us hardcore Mushoku Tensei fans have been waiting years upon years for an anime adaptation to finally hit, and HIT it has. I was a little skeptical with a brand new studio undertaking this, but all the previews had looked great so I was cautiously optimistic. The source material is my absolute favorite isekai series (which says a lot) and the light/web novel will always hold a special place in my fandom. So how were the first two episodes so far (first has aired officially and the first two were previewed beforehand)?
AMAZING. I really don't know if it's just because the source material is that good, but this has been a SPOT ON adaptation so far. Right when I heard "Gintoki" as the NEET narrator, I knew shit was gonna be good. The sense of humor and pervertedness of Rudy is really well incorporated throughout the first two episodes, and makes this more than just a "another OP isekai". But even with that sense of humor, the anime has taken great depths to give solid (but not overwhelming) background info on the characters and highlighting particularly serious moments. This was especially evident in the second episode where the handling of Rudy's "fall into NEETness" and past trauma was interweaved perfectly into his current situation and setting.
I can't wait for the rest of the anime to air. It seems that a second cour has already been green-lighted so let's hope this can turn into one of those long-running anime series. If they can make it to the school arcs, I'll have lived a complete life...
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@maniacb It'll continue a bit with the pervyness, but the ecchi scenes will definitely decrease for a while. There might be one more scene featuring Eris (it's not that extreme or anything), but after that it goes into a more traditional fantasy setup (albeit an extremely great one). There wouldn't be a return to the "hentai" levels unless this series gets to like a 3rd season at least imo. By then, you'll be hook line and sinkered ;)
The Nastume Yuujinchou series is a powerful and heartwarming fantasy masterpiece among the anime world. I absolutely loved the series and couldn't stop watching till the very end. The quality through all 4 seasons was just superb without a hint of drop-off. The range of emotions and themes covered in Nastume Yuujinchou is beyond impressive. It would have me ROFL with Nyanko-sensei's antics in one minute to within Clannad-esque tears in the very next. However, what truly struck me was how N.Y. was able to find a duality/struggling conflict within all of these different themes and truly challenge the feelings and emotions of the viewer. This was done by creating such spectacular characters from Natsume and his family/friends down to the individual youkai that we meet for only a single episode. The creators do a magnificent job getting us emotionally invested in this world via these relatable and lovable characters. It's an amazing ride (and I hope we get another season) as we join Natsume on his journey as he learns to accept and understand his ever changing world, the people/youkai around him, and, ultimately, himself. This is right at the top of my list of must watch anime. Don't think. Just watch.
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Season 5 coming this FALL!!!!! REJOICE!!!! (Of course, I have forgotten everything that has happened in this series...)
http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2016-03-20/natsume-book-of-friends-tv-anime-gets-season-5-this-fall/.100011
A brilliant anime with a very different art style and presentation. The story, as it were, is narrated to us by the nameless protagonist, as he agonises over how to pursue his "ideal campus life". Along the way he meets several other unusual characters, including his demonic-looking partner-in-crime Ozu and the mysterious Akashi, both of whom he seems to share a strange link with.
One complaint some people have with the series is that the narration from the protagonist is very fast and it's very difficult to read the subtitles in time. Whilst the dialogue is indeed quick, it is possible to keep up if you concentrate enough. Even if you find yourself needing to pause occasionally to digest a particularly verbose line, I would still absolutely recommend everyone give this series a go. Amongst a myriad of other, more "standard" anime, this one definitely stands out.
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I just started watching this awesome show and the space bar on my computer is already getting worn out (infinite pausing). This is like Bakemonogatari Super Saiyan 3.
This is THE anime that we've all been waiting and yearning for. Many of us hardcore Mushoku Tensei fans have been waiting years upon years for an anime adaptation to finally hit, and HIT it has. I was a little skeptical with a brand new studio undertaking this, but all the previews had looked great so I was cautiously optimistic. The source material is my absolute favorite isekai series (which says a lot) and the light/web novel will always hold a special place in my fandom. So how were the first two episodes so far (first has aired officially and the first two were previewed beforehand)?
AMAZING. I really don't know if it's just because the source material is that good, but this has been a SPOT ON adaptation so far. Right when I heard "Gintoki" as the NEET narrator, I knew shit was gonna be good. The sense of humor and pervertedness of Rudy is really well incorporated throughout the first two episodes, and makes this more than just a "another OP isekai". But even with that sense of humor, the anime has taken great depths to give solid (but not overwhelming) background info on the characters and highlighting particularly serious moments. This was especially evident in the second episode where the handling of Rudy's "fall into NEETness" and past trauma was interweaved perfectly into his current situation and setting.
I can't wait for the rest of the anime to air. It seems that a second cour has already been green-lighted so let's hope this can turn into one of those long-running anime series. If they can make it to the school arcs, I'll have lived a complete life...
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@maniacb Yeah I understand. As I said in my initial post, this is BY FAR my favorite isekai series out there (anime, light/web novel, manga). It is probably my favorite light novel series as well (or right at the top). The source material is just absolutely amazing and it's been around for a while. It's just taken a while to get an anime adaptation, so I would definitely not consider it like a regular "isekai". Also, the anime adaptation seems fantastic so far (especially for a new studio), so I'm pretty optimistic given my love of the original material.
This series is a beautiful duwang.
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@mrcloud_ No doubt. I always get a feeling so complicated whenever I watch it.
I am wood.
"Beautiful". That is how one would describe both a seven-colored rainbow and the anime Rainbow: Nisha Rokubou no Shichinin. How corny was that opening? But, honestly, it is the only word that I can think of to describe this breathtaking show about the beauty of true and everlasting bonds of friendship even during the darkest of times. This show is about the way seven teenagers (the "seven-colored Rainbow") condemned to the living hell of Shio Reformatory can withstand and survive horrors and pain that were beyond my wildest imaginations. Madhouse (god do I love them) created a masterpiece with this one and it got me addicted right from the start.
Both the story and characters are the main crux of the show, and they drive this emotional piece right through to the end and never let go of the viewer (no matter how hard we want to look away at times). And this is one dark and grim show. This is 10 years post-WWII Japan where the country is in shambles with starvation, crime and corruption rampant everywhere. The seven main boys are literally the lowest on the totem poll of society and are thrown into Shio to be used and almost disposed of, and the situations and events that are presented in this show represent those very thoughts. Rape, murder, betrayal, torture. You name it.
There were so many times that I wanted to just rage or was cringing during this show because of how unfair, despicable and disturbing things were at times. However, good things do eventually happen!! Rainbow gives us the light at the end of the tunnel at just the right times and the strength of the friendship and bond between the seven boys powers the viewer through all the despair. It connects us to the characters even more and you truly end up sympathizing and rooting for these guys throughout the show. It truly is awe-inspiring how the guys kept a positive outlook even in the worst of circumstances.
Rainbow: Nisha Rokubou no Shichinin is brutal to watch at times due to its highly graphic nature and mature themes, but the payoff in story and character development is unlike any other that I've seen in anime. More people need to see this show!! Madhouse created a masterpiece and if you have the stomach for it, I highly suggest that you watch this ASAP. It will not disappoint. Do it for An-chan.
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@sp1ti Rainbow definitely goes to some really dark places (completely cringeworthy) but the way the MCs persevere through everything is truly inspiring. I hate to sound corny like that but it's the best way to explain it. As I said, the show really does give us the good and heartwarming moments at the right times amidst all the intense suffering (that you will certainly enjoy).
And the show does end at a very good spot. No ending cliffhanger or anything with a good sense of progress. The 2nd half is about following along with the lives of the boys as adults and what they go through. It is essentially divided up into individual arcs that focus on one of the MCs at a time, so there will always be more stories in a sense. I really wanted to continue the manga as well because the story and characters were just so amazing but scanlations are way behind unfortunately. I've bookmarked it to come back to maybe in a couple years when it is hopefully completed. I think that you'd really enjoy the show and I was surprised by how little activity there is on trakt for it. It is highly regarded on MAL though (take that as you will).
Space Battleship Yamato 2199 is a remake of an now almost 30 year old show that got a quite the unusual release. Multiple episodes a-piece were first shown in the cinema with physical releases and a TV broadcast later on. In addition to that they also marketed to the english market themselves which they hardly ever do (and releasing awkward videos like this http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uR71MSl3vIs).
The show itself is a straight space opera. Almost all episodes are self-contained and play out on their travels to a remote galaxy where they hope to save planet earth with the help of an alien race. Except for three episodes I enjoyed them all quite a bit and there are some great space battles to be seen. It might all have been a touch too romantic for my taste but it's oldschool in that regard.
The presentation itself is good throughout and the show carries retro sound-design and music (with the intro recreated by Hideaki Anno).
The original aired in the US under the title Star Blazers which gives it that now quite "uncool" name but if you havn't seen it then you now have the chance to do so with the updated version.Thanks @ManiacB for the rec. I would never have looked into it otherwise.
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I saw the thing about that on MAL but I still have no idea what the movie exactly is... Like a recap with added scenes or like a different ending? Regardless, I am watching it when it comes out.
Space Battleship Yamato 2199 is a remake of an now almost 30 year old show that got a quite the unusual release. Multiple episodes a-piece were first shown in the cinema with physical releases and a TV broadcast later on. In addition to that they also marketed to the english market themselves which they hardly ever do (and releasing awkward videos like this http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uR71MSl3vIs).
The show itself is a straight space opera. Almost all episodes are self-contained and play out on their travels to a remote galaxy where they hope to save planet earth with the help of an alien race. Except for three episodes I enjoyed them all quite a bit and there are some great space battles to be seen. It might all have been a touch too romantic for my taste but it's oldschool in that regard.
The presentation itself is good throughout and the show carries retro sound-design and music (with the intro recreated by Hideaki Anno).
The original aired in the US under the title Star Blazers which gives it that now quite "uncool" name but if you havn't seen it then you now have the chance to do so with the updated version.Thanks @ManiacB for the rec. I would never have looked into it otherwise.
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I loved this show. There were great characters, drama and action all around and it was an EPIC journey to say the least. I'm glad that I picked this one up because it seemed like you and MB really enjoyed it. Now, I'll wait a few years for a remake of this remake to watch this whole story all over again.
This was a fantastic series and Ufotable (of The Garden of Sinners fame) was really able to show off their animation skills to the max here. This prequel to Fast/stay Night (which was made by Studio Deen) was leaps and bounds better than its predecessor in every aspect from story and pacing to animation, art and choreography. I watched Fate/stay Night first as I was told that watching it after Fate/Zero would just make it pale in comparison and I think this may be the best option (of course if you have the time, play the visual novel of Fate/Stay night instead). Even though I knew of some of the events to happen, Fate/Zero still kept me on my toes with unexpected twists and surprises. I also learned a lot more about the Fate universe and things from FSN made A LOT more sense after watching FZ as Ufotable did a much better job of explaining things than Studio Deen.
All the masters and servants get their fair share of back story and development and over time I really started to emphasize with each one of them. The dialogue and writing is fantastic in both the dub and sub versions. I loved the soundtrack too especially the first OP, "oath sign" by LiSA. Everything moved at a great pace and I couldn't wait to watch the next episode. Most importantly, this probably had the best action scenes that I've seen in any TV anime series (the Eva Rebuild and The Garden of Sinners of movies are on similar levels) so try to watch this on a big screen.
This show is definitely a must watch for anyone that enjoys a deep and compelling action-adventure anime. I'm really looking forward to Ufotable's remake of the FSN series (following Illya's arc I believe) that will be released in 2014. And definitely watch The Garden of Sinners movies as ManicB says. You won't regret it.
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http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2014-01-28/new-fate/stay-night-anime-by-ufotable-premieres-fall-2014
Fate/Stay Night remake by ufotable is confirmed to be premiering this fall. Sick.
This is the most emotional anime that I've ever seen in my life. Probably my favorite anime ever so do what ever you can to watch this ASAP.
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Stalk much. Haha. Clannad was actually one of the first SOL and earlier anime series that I watched so I obviously chose to start with one of the best. I just have watched it a billion times so it looks like I watched it later. Tastes change but It's still right near the top for me. I just couldn't go with "favorite anime ever" anymore (although Clannad After Story may be in a class of its own). Also, it's got some fierce competition from anohana, Toradora, Haruhi Suzumiya and Cross Game in my book too on the SOL front.
And MB, I have heard great things about the VN. Not only about the Kyou goodness but some more Tomoyo! I haven't gotten into VN's yet, but it will be on my list when I do although Fate-Stay Night is at the top. I can't wait for Ufotable to release their remake next year.
Just a spectacular, beautiful and mesmerizing anime. I was initially hesitant to start this because it seemed like it wouldn't be too exciting and able to hold my interest well but I instantly became addicted. It's a very easy show to watch as each episode is a story contained within itself, has its own theme, and you really don't encounter the same thing twice. Also, not all the stories end up happily and some are just heartbreaking which lend to keeping everything fresh. The creators masterfully created this world filled and thriving with mushi that just immerses you completely. Ginko is the perfect MC for the tone and themes of Mushi-shi with his calm, gentle and understanding nature. The only complaint I had was that literally every main male and female character looks the same (I honestly couldn't tell anyone apart between 75% of the different episodes). This is definitely up there on my list and a very relaxing and magical journey that is a very easy watch.
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Yeah this is definitely a good series to just have on the back burner because there's no overarching main story to remember. And Natsume is/has been definitely on my to watchlist forever also as I've heard great things about it too. Unfortunately, so are a hundred other animes but I'll definitely get to it eventually.
This is the most emotional anime that I've ever seen in my life. Probably my favorite anime ever so do what ever you can to watch this ASAP.
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I will now correct this statement to "probably my favorite romance/slice-of-life anime ever". It's still in my top 5 overall (especially Clannad After Story/2nd season). I always come back and watch a few episodes from time to time when I am going through Kyou and Ushio withdrawal :)
I am cautiously hopeful for this one. I like feel and the art style shown in the PV (http://youtu.be/Sk39zsayK_0) and being in the noitaminA block will hopefully mean something a little bit different. The plot doesn't sound massively original but it has the potential to do some interesting things.
I'm just hoping A-1 Pictures don't screw this one up like they have with a lot of other series recently.
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I'm praying for something amazing like Nodame Cantabile. I love me my classical music although not as much as house :)
Through 4 episodes, I think that this is the best show that is airing this season so far. It is an amazing combination of wit, comedy, epic "battles" and, of course, fanservice (Shiro = moe). The brother-sister MC combo of Sora and Shiro have vibed perfectly so far and I can't wait for the new episode to air each Wednesday. It reminds me of the setup in Mondaiji-tachi ga Isekai kara Kuru Sou Desu yo? but has many more interesting premises and brings more intellectual charm and humor imo. The art/colors take a little getting used to in the beginning but I don't mind it now. Madhouse is really showing off their stuff with this and I hope that a second season is in the works soon. Definitely give this a shot and watch a few episodes for the action to really heat up.
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http://i3.kym-cdn.com/photos/images/newsfeed/000/615/056/23c.gif
After completing the first season, I can answer your question, Maximus: "Yes, I was entertained."
I thoroughly enjoyed this show the whole way through from start to finish. Madhouse delivered as they usually do (minus Mahouka but I don't think anyone could have saved that mess). A very solid 8/10 for me although I am a sucker for fanservice and otaku references. It's score on MAL and some other places is pretty egregious right now but whatever. At least I got on the bandwagon from the first episode! Enjoy it for what it is people. Season 2 please because I need mo' Jibril.
Through 4 episodes, I think that this is the best show that is airing this season so far. It is an amazing combination of wit, comedy, epic "battles" and, of course, fanservice (Shiro = moe). The brother-sister MC combo of Sora and Shiro have vibed perfectly so far and I can't wait for the new episode to air each Wednesday. It reminds me of the setup in Mondaiji-tachi ga Isekai kara Kuru Sou Desu yo? but has many more interesting premises and brings more intellectual charm and humor imo. The art/colors take a little getting used to in the beginning but I don't mind it now. Madhouse is really showing off their stuff with this and I hope that a second season is in the works soon. Definitely give this a shot and watch a few episodes for the action to really heat up.
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Best "new" show that is. JoJo's Bizarre Adventure: Stardust Crusaders and Mushishi Zoku are sequels so they don't count!
Through 4 episodes, I think that this is the best show that is airing this season so far. It is an amazing combination of wit, comedy, epic "battles" and, of course, fanservice (Shiro = moe). The brother-sister MC combo of Sora and Shiro have vibed perfectly so far and I can't wait for the new episode to air each Wednesday. It reminds me of the setup in Mondaiji-tachi ga Isekai kara Kuru Sou Desu yo? but has many more interesting premises and brings more intellectual charm and humor imo. The art/colors take a little getting used to in the beginning but I don't mind it now. Madhouse is really showing off their stuff with this and I hope that a second season is in the works soon. Definitely give this a shot and watch a few episodes for the action to really heat up.
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I knew that you'd enjoy it (in your face sp1ti). I know that we share a similar love for fanservice and lolis that sp1ti sometimes just doesn't appreciate :) The 4th episode is even better and really sets things up for what is to come. The main thing that I was surprised with was the quality and quantity of the humor. I was expecting something a lot more serious but this is definitely more up my alley. I just wish that there were more episodes for this season but you can't have everything. I've got it around a 7-7.5 for now but I think things will only get more interesting from here on out.
Through 4 episodes, I think that this is the best show that is airing this season so far. It is an amazing combination of wit, comedy, epic "battles" and, of course, fanservice (Shiro = moe). The brother-sister MC combo of Sora and Shiro have vibed perfectly so far and I can't wait for the new episode to air each Wednesday. It reminds me of the setup in Mondaiji-tachi ga Isekai kara Kuru Sou Desu yo? but has many more interesting premises and brings more intellectual charm and humor imo. The art/colors take a little getting used to in the beginning but I don't mind it now. Madhouse is really showing off their stuff with this and I hope that a second season is in the works soon. Definitely give this a shot and watch a few episodes for the action to really heat up.
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@ManiacB I'm surprised that you didn't pick this up sooner. It seems like something that'd be right up your alley... ahem... closet otaku... ahem :) While the premise sounds generic in the beginning, you really have to watch the show (give it a few episodes) to really see that it is all about No Game No Life's unique style, presentation and comedy. I think that is what has set this show apart from other anime with a similar basic premise. Plus, it's from Madhouse. You can't go wrong... usually.
Katanagatari is one very unique and beautiful piece of art and I highly emphasize the word "art". It may not be for everyone but if you give it a chance, you may see what truly makes it spectacular. In that sense, it reminds me a lot of the Bakemonogatari series. On the surface this may seem like a simple fetch quest story about collecting these demon swords with childish character designs. However, there is so much more than what meets the eye in this series. The art and designs may seem simplistic at first but look deeper and you'll see a masterfully animated world full of tiny intricate details that just reeks of style. And hidden within are darker and thought-provoking themes of revenge, purpose, self and death.
The defining strength of this anime is the relationship and romance between Togame and Shichika in particular the witty and masterfully scripted dialogue between the two MCs. But be prepared. There is a LOT of dialogue and it very rarely stops. But as I said, the dialogue is top-notch and what drives the character development. The banter between Togame and Shichika almost never gets old whether they are piling on jokes or delving into deep philosophies. And the action (when it finally does come around between all the talking) is excellently done although it can be short at times. Each episode is 45 mins in length and this is both good and bad in a sense. It's good in that each episode's story gets fully developed and it helps drive the character development. However, it makes each episode a bit more of a challenge and a chore to go through along with the simplicity and predictability of the story, amount of talking and overly episodic nature of the series.
Still, this is a unique gem that should be watched and appreciated by all anime lovers. Katanagatari may not be for everyone but if you liked Bakemonogatari or want to try something that is a bit different, definitely give it a shot. "Cheeeeeeerioooo!"
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You can't go wrong with Nisio Isin LNs. But Bakemono is my anime crack. I can never get enough and I'm itching for more. Plus, you can't beat the Senjougahara and Shinobu tsundoli combo.
This is another masterpiece done by Kyoto Animation. Can they do no wrong? It's a great slice-of-life school anime with a good mix of mystery, drama and a bit of romance (wish there was a bit more personally). I really loved how this series was very realistic in its scenarios, drama and character development which really helped me fall in love with the charming characters even more. Obviously, the art, animation and music are off the charts too. I just pray that there is a second season or movie to tie up the ending (beautifully done but I need my romantic conclusions!!).
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Gosick is definitely on my watchlist and I watched the first episode. Unfortunately, so are like 50 other animes. It will be seen in due time for sure.
Hi! You might not know me but I'm Adlet Mayer. The strongest man in the world.
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The DANKEST man in the world. Science.
I'm absolutely loving this show so far. A great Rom-Com with a premise that does actually deliver imo. It may be slightly rushed compared to the manga but it still works well. Plus, Shiraishi = love.
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Just finished the show and love it but I hate Shiraishi. #TeamNENE for life. Beautiful ending nonetheless.
I'm a bit torn on what to rate it as the last quarter of the show was sooooooooo rushed but I loved the adaptation of the manga before then and the changes that they made up to that point. I'm amazed that they were able to cram 90 chapters into this. If I hadn't read the manga, I'd give this a very solid 7/10 (which is quite high for me). Knowing how much things were rushed at the end, I may have to knock it down slightly.
Anyway, I'm still enjoying the manga and it looks to be finally getting back into shape recently. Also, if you haven't seen the OVAs yet, I'd definitely give them a watch. It is new OVA-original material and the Second Festival arc was absolutely hilarious.
The second season of Noragami has just finished and it surpassed the first in every way. I remember really enjoying the first season but finding the final few episodes and confrontation a bit underwhelming. Well, the second season doesn't have that problem. It hits the ground running and remains consistently good throughout. Deciding to animate two arcs back-to-back with little-to-no filler in between was definitely a wise decision by Bones.
As others have already said, this series really does stand out from other more generic action/comedy shows, thanks to a likable and well-developed cast, good quality animation and of course a godly soundtrack by Iwasaki Taku (also responsible for the soundtrack in Katanagatari).
All in all I have really enjoyed Noragami thus far and I hope we get more in the future.
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Nice. I gotta finish up the second half of the first season and get to the good stuff!!
An enjoyable 13 episode romp through a silly theme park with fantasy elements thrown in.
The series looks great and holds up to KyoAni's usual high quality of animation for the most part, although a couple of episodes do seem to suffer some "still frame" budget issues (which they may or may not fix in the BD releases). The comedy usually works well and the plot never gets too serious to not retain the light hearted enjoyment factor. Most of the characters are likeable and play off each other well.
This is probably KyoAni's most "fanservicey" show in recent years, although still very tame compared to some out there. Whilst it's obviously aiming primarily for the male demographic, I don't see why others couldn't enjoy it too. And hey, if you are a hetero male, all the better, as there are lots of cute girls to gawk at (Sento best).
A fun experience overall with all but a couple of episodes hitting their mark and hitting it well. Definitely one of KyoAni's best shows in recent memory.
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What am I going to do without my MEMES/SENTO?!?!
I've added my two cents about the show previously and I'm happy to say it hasimproved (even my wish of a better OP was granted). Where as most anime play it save in an detached setting, Silver Spoon keeps it's Slice of Life grounded and has characters dealing with real-life issues. The start was a bit slow imho but Hachiken keeps on growing throughout the show. If we're lucky another season will be made but this would still be an ending I could live with. It's not selling that well but the manga is still ranked highly.
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I was definitely surprised by how much I enjoyed this show. It was a very relaxing watch and a SOL that had real issues to deal with. I'm praying for a third season but I won't get my hopes up.
Season 2 confirmed! Prepare for more "will they, won't they" teasing and probably nothing resembling a resolution in sight :D
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I can tell you one thing as a manga reader, "You ain't seen nothing yet".
I liked the films and thought it was a cool nice take on a bit more realistic mecha war action. You really got to see how war changed people. The characters were well done and the action wasn't over-the-top with ridiculous powerups or abilities by the MC. But man... that ending was brutal. Anti-climatic and incomplete = essentially begging for a sequel (I can dream). But I guess that's what you get with an anime original ending at movie 6 when the manga material ran out. I could read the manga (and am considering it) but I'm not interested unless I know for a fact that Rygart and Sigyn end up together!!!
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After watching the TV series, this was an egregiously blatant cash grab. There were virtually no differences between the movies and the TV series except for parts of episode 10. And they kept the same anime original ending which just pales in comparison to the manga version and does not leave things as open for a sequel/continuation of the series. If you were watching this for the first time, I'd watch the movies in BD quality (along with a pretty nice dub for people who enjoy that) and just see episode 10 to see the added battle/scenes. It's still a very enjoyable show but I'm disappointed with what the creators did with this "reboot".
I really enjoyed this series. It reminds me of Sakurasou (http://trakt.tv/show/the-pet-girl-of-sakurasou) but I enjoyed this one more. Visually it reminds me of a Makoto Shinkai film (http://trakt.tv/movie/5-centimeters-per-second-2007) and that's a good thing!
In terms of the humour and the characters, I really enjoyed both. Kawai is adorable and Mayumi/Sayaka make for some very funny and likeable support characters.
It's a shame this was only 12 episodes long. The final episode isn't terrible but it could easily have continued for another cour. Hopefully we'll get a second season at some point!
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Agree completely. Kawai had a very similar feeling and setup like Sakurasou (weird cast of characters living in a house/dorm). Although, Maison Ikkoku could be considered the precursor to all this in the first place! In terms of pure entertainment, I may have enjoyed Kawai a bit more also. The humor just hit home about 90% of the time. All the characters were just full of win although my personal favorite was Mayumi but maybe because I could sympathize with her a bit :(
It definitely sucks that it was only 12 episodes as I was interested to see if the same formula would work for another cour or not. It is difficult with the format to keep things fresh but the characters are so strong that I think they could have pulled it off. Anyway, I'll add this to my already egregiously long list of shows that I hope will get a second season.
Season 2 has been confirmed as per last episode. That is good news!
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"CG nipples" you say? SOLD!!!
