Title: Inari, Konkon, Koi Iroha

Genre: Comedy / Romance / Supernatural / School

Aired: January 2014 – March 2014

Review Score: 6

Review: (By: Dash)

Fushimi, Inari has always viisted and prayed at her local shrine. She is your “average” girl who has a crush on a classmate and wishes he would notice her. One day she asks “Uka-sama” (Ukanomitama-no-kami) for help to be able to relay her feelings across. Uka-sama has always watched over Inari and decides to help the young girl, but things go slightly different than planned. Inari inherits some of Uka-sama’s powers, the primary allowing her to transform into the “form” of any other person. At first the power is used playfully, however there are many things Irari will learn during this process and no wish comes without a cost.

The animation is clean and solid. The characters sit well for me in all aspects (VA and plot wise). The overall concept is not the most “out of the world”, but solid story none the less. With all of this said, I only got a “good” impression as a whole.

The anime is worth one watch is you like the “Kami / Human Slice of Life” concept. There is nothing wrong with the story as a whole, argueable to the fact I enjoyed exchanges between Uka and Inari’s brother more than what was happening with Inari. I felt they did a good job of relating issues younger teens deal with when it comes to early love, friendship, and classmates. They even did a good job of pointing out the issues Uka-sama has and the final concept of “Can a human and a god be friends…”

With all of that… the anime only held moderate interest for me. I can’t quite put my finger on why I wasn’t pulled in hard like I am usually am for similar story types (like Kannagi or Gingitsune).  In one direction I would say it has to many “themes or plots” for a short anime… At the same token I would say the anime moved a bit to “slow” or “jumpy” at times for me.

I don’t feel this was a waste of my time. I enjoyed Inari, Konkon, Koi Iroha about the same as I enjoyed Gingitsune. I would rate it as a one shot deal that I feel if your looking for something “not so serious, with a dash of heartwarming” you may want to pick up. Again, I generally don’t take on many action and this is far from it. There is some nice hints and dashes of the supernatural, but it sticks to more a slice of life / friendship / over coming “X” type of show. If you like none ecchi Kannagi or Gingitsune I would say give this one a try as well.

 

Title: Gin no Saji Season 2 (Silver Spoon)

Genre: Slice of Life / School / Farm / Romance / Comedy

Aired: January 2014 – March 2014

Review Score: 7

Review: (By: Dash)

Gin no Saji follows Hachiken, Yugo who has technicaly “run away” to live on his own at a new school without the pressures of his father. He has come to a “farm school” in hopes of learning new skills and in the process learning a lot about himself. The big push on this anime is the “City Boy trying to make it in a Country School”.

You do need to watch the first season of Gin no Saji to really grasp the current ongoings of the anime. This one was a hit or miss for most people, as the genre itself can be a little offing and it doesn’t really move at “high speed”. I really enjoy the pace of the anime as it progresses along his first year and a half at school. You get to watch Yugo grow and can really look at Gin no Saji as a coming of age tale (much like the story of the Silver Spoon).

The second season dives a bit more into the personal lives and struggles of his classmates. It takes the “Slice of Life” part and coverts it more into “Coming of Age” and reality. Yugo comes to see that not every problem is something he can solve or fix.  I would define the second season a more potent than the first, albiet a bit more dramatic as a result. The overall tone stays pretty easy flow, however Gin no Saji does go over some of the basic worries and issues farmers do face.

Aside from the serious, he does continue to grow as a person when it comes to understanding farm work and the horses he takes care of in the Equestian Club. A big push in the second season is Yugo confronting his father and family on what in essense drove him away. I was happy this issue was finally taking shape and addressed, at the same time pointing out something that many kids don’t realize until they are adults (how much some partents give up to care for their kids and not every kid is born with a Silver Spoon).

Overall, the music is simple. The animation is anything “stand out”, but not “bad” by any means. The characters are well built and I had no issues with the voice talent behind them. I enjoyed Gin no Saji enough to have gone through it twice, but beyond that the re-watch value is mood based. Seeing “7” is about as high as I rate a one/two shot anime, it does get my seal approval. If you like coming of age / slice of life type anime, you may dig this one. Aside from that.. all you ecchi / mecha / action fans should avoid.

 

Title: Buddy Complex

Genre: Action, Mecha

Aired: January 6, 2014 – March 31, 2014

Review Score: 6 – (Average, enjoyed it a bit more. You have to like the genre.)

Review: (By: Blue)

(Story) Besides watching Suisei Gargantia where time travel was involved in a Mech Anime, this was kind of new to me. Aoba was sent 70 years into the future, and is now fighting alongside Dio in a Mech. It was kind of hard to figure out where the story was heading, I couldn’t tell if Aoba just accepted the fact that he was stuck in the future and is now part of the Confederation, or if the Anime will end with him going back to his own time line. At the end of episode 13, I was happy with the results.

(Art) The art for Buddy Complex was very well done. The music during the battles fit very well, and it didn’t look like they reused the same scenes. All the battles were nicely done, I enjoyed every one of them and actually wish there was more. From the details of the cockpit to the body of the main Mechs, and when they went into coupling mode, you could tell that they did not get too lazy.

(Characters) The characters in Buddy Complex are actually likable. I really did enjoy the main characters background. They are not your average, I must avenge my fallen country/ family/must defeat all the enemies that you find in most Mech Animes. If it wasn’t for Aoba not being your typical emotionless main character, I would of not enjoyed it was much as I did.

(Overall) Mech Animes are not high up on my list of Animes I enjoy mainly because it’s the same plot/story over and over. Which is, you have two fractions fighting each other and whoever has the most upgraded

Mech/Gundam wins.

Buddy Complex really did catch my attention, the coupling system was something new and original to me. The battles were decent to really good and the time traveling was a nice add-on. Besides that, this Anime is your basic Mech Anime that is just like every other Mech/Gundam Anime. Sometimes it just feels like Ctrl C, Ctrl V with little stuff added in.

 

Title: Wake Up, Girls!

Genre: Idol / Comedy

Aired: January 2014 – March 2014

Review Score: 8

Review (By Storm):

Green Leaves is a talent agency that used to be home to some decent names in the entertainment industry. With their last view clients jumping ship to move to bigger and better things, president Tange comes up with a last ditch effort to save the company. To brink the company back from the brink she decides to go with what is popular and start an Idol group. So her and the manager, Matsuda, go out to search for talent. They find 6 girls that are ready to give it their all to become stars. When the 7th girl, a former center idol for the popular group I-1 Club, comes to them, they realize that they may just be ablle to pull this off.

This show took me in from the prequel movie, I was just in absolute love with it. The  way the show tried to deter from having one main character, and focus on the group as a whole was excuted very well. Not to mention the story arcs behind certain character just give you the perfect amount of detail to fall in love with each member, and their own particular personalities. This show also managed to have very good Idol music to back it as well, which for me is a huge plus. With all this as well as a great story and gripping way it is told, it is hard to think many people would not really love this one.

Now for the biggest reason I enjoyed this anime. I am personally a major fan of popular Idol group AKB48. This show had a group which was clearly meant to be the AKB48 of the universe. The I-1 Club was this group, also the group that Mayu of Wake Up, Girls! was previously a part of. This show went into detail of this group a lot, and were even going as far as to show how cruel and unruly the president of the group could be. He would kick people out of he group for the tiniest thing, and would not bat an eyes. The group was also mentioned briefly in terms of scandals, which has been a hot topic in actual group AKB48 a lot in the past few years. However besides from them the group Wake Up, Girls! is where I really loved the Idol vibe, The show went above and beyond showing the struggle it takes to get popular in a world with so many other people already in it. It is a painful process and not always to rewarding either, but with great skill and perseverance they can make anything happen!

Please, please go try this show out. If not for the story, at least for the great music that I know many people will love. This show is one of the rare gems that captures a subject so well that it really makes you feel for the girls, as well as real life Idols. This show will come to an end and I can almosty guarantee you will be wanting more. Over all loved this show, not since AKB0048 have I really been this invested in characters and stories. This show will make you happy and give you a huge understanding of the Idol world. So please enjoy you are definitely in for a treat.

Title: Super Sonico

Genre: Slice of Life / Music / Fan Service

Aired: January 2014 – March 2014

Review Score: 5

Review (By: Storm)

Super Sonico, is a college student who loves to sleep in late and spend time with her cats.  She also is a gravure model, with an agent that always makes sure she gets the best treatment. To top it off she is in her own rockband. When life get crazy or scary events occur, her friends always are there for her and make sure she keeps doing her best.  Super Soinco is always giving 110% no matter what she is doing to be the best rockstar, student, model she can be.

Okay have to say it was hard to really write a decent summary of this show because overall there really was no linear story in anyway shape or form. A good few of the episodes were random, and brought in new characters for no reason, other then to show they could add more people it seems. This show is a little hard to keep with since it has no story and really does not do much to appeal besides the occassional inevitable fan service. Even that is not really enough to keep you focused on the show honestly. This show does not really seem like fan service, but more like a show for fans of the idol icon Super Sonico. I mean that is what you got, you take Nitroplus’s icon and throw her into a show and bam you get this. I have definitely seen worse but this is still not great. They do not even explain the headphones she always has on for some reason, which may sound odd but it bugged the crap out of me.

Overall I would say avoid this show unless you really love the character Super Sonico. While it can have cute moments and such, a lot of the show is padding that is just not needed, and can make the show a strain to watch at times. So give it a watch if you want to see a hot icon in skimpy clothes playing somewhat decent music, while trying to accomplish nothing. Yeah I feel like that is the best summary. Anyway have a good day and hope you enjoyed the review.

 

Title: D-Frag

Genre: Comedy / School

Aired: January 2014 – March 2014

Review Score: 6.5

Review (By: Dash)

D-Frag follows the so called delinquent Kazama Kenji into his brand new high school life. Instead of walking in and ruling the school, he finds himself sucked into the “Unofficial Game Creation Club” which currently only 3 standing members and looking for more to stay active. Kazama now finds himself in the goofy and sometimes disturbing antics of the Game Creation Club and their antics.

Start to finish, I enjoyed D-Frag. There is a light comical plot at times, but for the most part the show takes an “each episode” approach. Initially (I didn’t read up on D-Frag) I didn’t know what to expect, partially going in thinking “Not another yankee protagonist..”, I came away pleased with this easy to pick up comedy.

There is very little plot to break into, as the story is more episode by episode than a moving plot through out the series. Each “story” will carry no more than one or two episodes using comedy as a main tool (even if there is a slightly straight plot line) to progress and distract you from what is really going on. I felt this was well done as it aids you into relating the situation (and sometimes peril) Kazama finds himself in. The comedy is pretty slap stick and has a solid appeal to the otaku community without having to use too much parody.

I find myself having a hard time putting my finger on why I loved this show beyond it being funny. The cast is quarky and surprisingly easy to relate to at times due to their random personalities. I won’t lie, I did find myself thanking the creators for creating a female cast that I would not to “hang around with” possibly due to fear of my calm life being thrown into pure chaos. All in all D-Frag is fun and easy to watch. If you’ve gotten through once, it makes great background noise as you go about your daily gaming or chores (as I have found myself doing).
*Some Side Notes*

Right off the bat you should recognize Shibasaki, Roka being voiced by Hanazawa, Kana (Tenchi – Angelbeats, Mato – Black Rock Shooter, Ren – Magi, and many more) being paried up with Kazama (VA: Katsuyuki, Konoishi – Kamina – Tengen Toppa, Usui, Kenta – Karin, America – Hetalia) which worked as a great combo. Note that this was a pretty new combo for me as Katsuyuki has not done many Love/Comedy/School type anime that I have watched, so I enjoyed hearing his voice talents for this project.

PS: The opening is really catchy.

 

Title: Magical Warfare          

Genre: Action / Fantasy / Magic       

Preview Score: 9

Preview (By: Blue)

Takeshi Nanase was just an ordinary high school boy until one day a strange, beautiful girl collapsed before him. Mui Aiba explains to Takeshi that she is a magician and in the process accidently turns him into one as well. NowTakeshis’ ordinary everyday life completely changes as he is force into battle from the three magicians that are pursuing her.

Magical Warfare starts off really strong with an episode full of action. The animations’ detail during battles impressed me as well as the battle music they used. For a first episode they explain where magicians live/come from, and the different magic that certain characters have. I didn’t see anything to nick pick about the Anime, and over all Magical Warfare seems very solid. As of now I would recommend Magical Warfare to those who love action, and magic. Also, be sure to view the preview, they have a cute chibi character doing the introductions.

 

Title: Witch Craft Works

Genre: Action / Fantasy / Supernatural

Preview Score: 8

Preview (By: Blue)

Takamiya, Honoka is an ordinary high school student who sits next to the very popular girl Kagari, Ayaka. One day he drops his eraser in which Kagari picks it up for him, and as a result her fan club gang up on Takamiya. When he thinks that things can’t get any worse, a giant part of the school’s building falls on him. This is when Kagari comes to his rescue, only she’s dressed in a witches outfit and wielding fire magic. Her mission is to protect him.

The moment I seen the fighting scene where Takamiya was fight mech bunnies, the only thing that went thru my mind is WIN! Fire elemental witch and mech bunnies, I couldn’t ask for more. Witch Craft Works seems like a decent Anime. The comedy makes me laugh, and while some may not like the CGI mix with drawn background the art works looks decent. But really, who wouldn’t like a battle between mech bunnies and a fire witch? If I had to pick at anything about the Anime, it would be Takamiya. I hope he doesn’t turn into a pitiful protagonist because, every time Kagari saves him he doesn’t “understand” why someone would risk their life for him.

I hope this turns out good. I’ve seen a few Animes that started off strong but flop midway or shortly after the first few episodes.

 

Title: Seitokai Yakuindomo II

Genre: Comedy, School, Shounen, Lots of dirty jokes

Aired: January 4, 2014 – March 30, 2014

Review Score: 9 – (I really loved these anime, met my personal taste perfectly.)

Review: (By: Blue)

(Story) There is no plot! Same as Seitokai Yakuindomo, we follow Takatoshi Tsuda as he trys to control the barrage of sexual jokes from Shino Amakusa, Aria Shichijou, and Ranko Hata.

(Art) The art is a bit crisply and fluid in season two, they upgraded the “Suzu’s Head” sign. The small amount of CGI blends well with the anime, and it the entire serious switches between crispy and clean to more of a simple character drawing when a joke is made. Which, IMO is not bad.

(Characters) Seitokai yakuindomo is character driven, all of the characters are very lovable. Each character has their own set of jokes in which they are made fun of or make said sexual jokes.

(Overall) I highly enjoyed Seitokai Yakuindomo II. The barrage of sexual jokes will have you laughing at every episode. Some of the jokes you do see coming, but it really doesn’t take away from the fun. Expect to see a lot more Suzu short jokes and Hata well… being Hata… You don’t need to watch season one, season two is just the same.

 

Title: Chuunibyou demo Koi ga Shitai! Ren          

Genre: Love, Comedy, Chunibyou & Other Delusions

Aired: January 9, 2014 to March 27, 2014

Review Score: 8 – (As good as it gets, probably something you should see as a fan)

Review (By: Blue)

 (Story)  In season two, you mainly follow Rika and Yuuta as they live their daily lives. It wasn’t anything great or amazing, at times I felt like I was watching a slice of life, comedy Anime where the main characters try to sort out their feelings for one another. Still, it was enjoyable to watch Rikka and her random delusions.

(Art)  While the art was great, and it did not seem like they got lazy at all. I don’t feel that the battles were giving much love.

(Characters) Most of the characters were enjoyable except Makoto, I just felt that he did not have a presence and was just “there” to be there. While I did like the addition of Shichimiya and her random battle with Rikka, I felt it was a bit unnecessary too the character’s development. However, this is coming from an adult, if I was in the second term I would completely understand and relate more to the drama. The relationship between Rikka and Yuuta will advance slow, so don’t expect anything fantastic.

(Overall) Watching the second season of Chuunibyou, I was a bit disappointed. As the score suggests you will enjoy the second season if you’re a fan. Chuunibyou didn’t completely fall flat on its face. It was very enjoyable during its moments. It just felt that the comedy was a bit weaker than the first season.

Just like season one, the first 80% of the Anime will be comedy, some character development, then it will start to hit its serious side near the end. All in all, the second season was enjoyable at best. It’s an ok time kill.

 

Title: Noragami

Genre: Shounen / Action / Supernatural

Aired: January 2013 – March 2013

Review Score:  10

Review by (Squish-chan)

When all else fails, turn to god, make an offering, and pray your voice is heard. For a mere 5 yen, delivery god Yato will accept any request, no matter how big or how small. Anything from scrubbing a bathroom clean to completely resetting your life, Yato will take any task. However, even Yato has his limits. Being a small, unknown god, Yato has difficulties getting jobs, and finds it difficult to keep his Regalia –ghosts of humans untouched by evil who act as weapons- and is widely regarded as being just a lazy screw up with no posititve traits. When his actions result in the accidental death of Hiyori Iki, Yato claims he can set things right. He also takes in the recently deceased Yukine as a Regalia, and the boy has to come to terms with his own death. All the while, shadows from Yato’s shady past return, each wanting him dead, or at the least, to return to what he once was.

Noragami is, without a doubt, one of the best anime that’s been released in the last several seasons, but is regarded as something of a hidden gem here in the west.  In my preview, I was highly concerned about this anime taking a turn for the bad somewhere around the half-way point, and it easily could have, but it didn’t.  I was worried that Noragami would have been derivative of shows like Blood Lad or Soul Eater,but I was pleasantly surprised to see it do its own thing, and slowly and maturely develop its own story. Each episode is extraordinarily well paced, and nothing feels rushed or overplayed, or understated. Every episode is an easy-to-follow, set of events that foreshadow  themes and develop concepts unique to the world in Noragami, without having to resort to massive exposition dumps or split-second character development or change. It is an extraordinarily well developed show that takes itself seriously without becoming a bore or a slog to go through, its tone is a happy medium between lighthearted and heavy, and it handles itself with a sense of maturity that’s not often seen in anime, especially since shows like Attack on Titan and Madoka Magica (both of which I love to death,) have made melodrama and overuse of plot twists the norm.

As I stated in my preview, the world feels naturally developed, and the supernatural element of Noragami is very well developed and unique, and feels supernatural, there is a tense feeling whenever a phantom is shown on screen, as it feels alien and strange and foreboding. All of which is only made better by the use of lighting, color pallet shift, and the off-feeling music that plays throughout the show’s run. Noragami is an amazingly handled show in terms of its visuals, and boasts some of the strongest, and most amazing animation I’ve seen in years.  While this is a production being done by Studio bones, compare the animation to another currently airing show like Space dandy, or the 2010 show Star Driver, where it’s clear that the animation for certain scenes were prioritized, or made somewhat choppy or over, blurred in order to make it appear more fluid. Noragami, however, has a fairly consistent, high-quality animation consistency throughout, and it feels like Studio Bones had painstakingly make Noragami a beautiful show in its animation. Hell, there are numerous high-quality walk cycles –one of the most difficult things to animate- through the show, and it shows just how much care and effort was taken to make Noragami look as good as possible.

The characters in Noragami grow extraordinarily naturally throughout the series. Yato is shown to be both a good friend to Hiyori, and a father figure to the delinquent Yukine, who Yato eventually straightens out at the risk of his own life to keep Yukine from losing his humanity. They grow closer to themselves and other characters through the show, and develop slowly, without making last minute 180s to generate false drama. It’s clear that these three care deeply about each other and hold a very strong bond, one that’s nurtured from the moment they meet to the end of the story when they all put themselves on the line to protect each other.  I really loved how Noragami handled it’s character progression, and felt like they were real people with real issues that were resolved in ways that felt natural, not forced like many, many other shows are so quick to do.

Here’s something new for me: How does it hold up to its source material, the Noragami manga? I literally became such a fan of this show, I marathoned reading the entire manga in a single night, and to be honest, the anime is a fantastic adaptation! While certain events are re-arranged to fit the 12 episodes, Noragami actually treats its source material with respect, and the Yukine arc is explored very well and develops across several episodes as a pace that builds slowly to the climax, which was definitely a defining moment of the anime. In addition, while the second half of the show introduces a non-canon character, Noragami does not allow it to override the events of the manga, meaning that if we get more seasons, it can still blend naturally into the manga’s storyline with no problems. As a side note, the manga is equally fantastic, also a 10/10, must read!
So, for my personal feelings on Noragami, I’m pretty sure you’ve gathered by my rampant gushing that this is one of my favorite anime. It’s just SO GOOD, I CAN’T EVEN. I CANNOT EVEN MAINTAIN MY NOT-VERY-PROFESSIONAL TONE, YOU GUYS. I literally have not been a bigger fanboy of an anime this fast. Not even for my all-time favorite. If an anime can keep me up until 6 in the morning because I JUST HAVE to watch every episode for the third time, or marathon the entirety of the manga in one sitting, I hold it in a very high regard; I love Noragami. I desperately want to see this anime get a second season, and since it’s currently the highest rated anime in Japan, even outdoing the yaoi fangirls(source), I don’t think I have a not to worry about it not taking off. I will DEFINITELY buy this anime when it comes out, hell, I’m buying as much swag as I can, and I’ve already got a cosplay lined up for it, I’m that in love with this anime. It is a VERY visually appealing anime, with an excellently developed world, story and cast, that takes itself, it’s source material, and the audience seriously. It’s the best anime I’ve reviewed on the site, and it’s one of the best anime I’ve ever seen, period. If you haven’t watched it already, you should go do so, like, right now! 10/10 must watch!

TL;DR: Noragami is a truly stunning anime, both from a visual standpoint, and from a story/cinematic one. It has fantastic pacing, a great story, well developed characters, gorgeous visuals, amazing music, grade A voice acting, as well as a superb source material. It’s a work of beauty, either go watch the show, or read the manga, both are amazing! 10/10, one of my all time favorites!

 

Title: Saikin, Imouto no Yousu go Chotto Okashiinda ga

Genre: Ecchi / Comedy / Romance

Aired: January 2014 – March 2014

Review Score: 6.5

Review (By: Rising Sun):

Mitsuki Kanzaki is a quiet, reserved, and shy girls whos mom just got remarried. Her and her mother move in with her stepfather and her stepbrother Yuya. Due to these recent developments, she acts aloof and cold especially around her new stepbrother. Yuya just wants to have a great relationship with his new stepsister. One day while acting cold and aloof Mitsuki finds herself possessed and acting lovey-dovey with her brother. She finds out that there is a ghost that posseses her. The ghost belongs to a girl named Hiyori Kotobuki. While Hiyori was living she remember that she loved Yuya. The possesion caused Mitsuki to have a chastity belt which can’t be opened (only for a short time) unless she engages in ecchi acts with Yuya. To make matters worse she has to help Hiyori pass on by falling in love with her brother or else she will be stuck with that chastity belt forever.

Ok for all the people reading that dislike fanservice or ecchi anime, move along to the next review. Those of you that like those type of anime, stick around. I actually though this anime was pretty okay. Sure they had a ton of fan service, but the anime was enjoyable. I really liked the character designs especially Mitsuki’s. The animation is typical for a ecchi type of anime. The anime reminded a bit of kiss x sis (If you don’t know what it is, youtube it. 😉 ). In kiss x sis there was a lot of fanservice along with the stepsister’s crazy lust over their step-brother. There is also a small similarity with oreimo where Mitsuki acts cold towards Yuya, but then she grows to have feelings for him.

Hiyori was also my favorite character along with Mitsuki. For Hiyori to be able to pass on, Mitsuki needs to do some perverted stuff with Yuya. There are some humorous instances that come due to this. Hiyori also has the power to possess Mitsuki for a bit which leads to more funny moments due to her having love for Yuya.

The opening and ending were pretty cute and catchy. The characters were ok, but you probably won’t remember them in a few weeks. To me this was an ok anime, and it will only be a one time see through for me (no pun intended). It is a mindless romcom with lots of Plot (the bouncy kinds). If you love Imouto or any kind of super ecchi anime with not much story, then this is for you.

 

Title: Nourin

Genre: Romanctic Comedy/School

Aired: January 2014 – March 2014

Review Score: 8

Review (By: Rising Sun):

Kousaku Hata is one of the biggest fans for the idol Yuka Kusakabe. He has posters, figurines and everything involving her in his room. Then one day comes the bad news, Yuka announces her retirement from being an idol. This leaves Kousaku devastated and he refuses to leave his room. His friends convince him to go back to school. While waiting in his homeroom class, a new transfer student is introduced. The transfer student turns out to be Yuka Kusakabe but with the name Ringo Kinoshita.

The story of this anime is basically what you see in the paragraph above. This anime is mainly a comedy set near Osaka, Japan (which is like the Japanese version of the Southern U.S.) at the Tamo agriculture school. It is at this school where students go to learn about farming and agriculture. Kousaku Hata attends this school along with his close friends Minori Nakazawa and Kei Kamatori. Then Ringo Kinoshita A.K.A Yuka Kusakabe transfers.

Nourin was a pretty lighthearted, hilarious, and fun anime. This was one of the anime from the winter season that I looked forward to watching every week. The characters were hilarious and awesome. Kousaku Hata is like your average perverted high school student. Minori (voiced by one of my favorite seiyuu Kana Hanazawa) is Kousaku’s curvy and clumsy childhood friend. Kei is also perverted but he is very talented in agriculture. Ringo is the quiet and reserved girl who is the opposite of her idol image.

I really liked the animation style. It reminded me of baka to test (which I highly recommend if you haven’t seen it). This anime also had a good bit of star power. Some of my favorite VA’s are in this anime. Kana Hanazawa (Kuroneko-Oreimo) does the voice of Minori. Marina Inoue (Yozora-Haganai) does the voice of Yoshida. Yukari Tamura (Nui Harime-Kill la Kill) does the voice of Ringo. I also loved the cute opening Himitsu no Door kara Ai ni Kite by Yukari Tamura.

I had a great, great time watching this anime. I had a ton of hardcore laughs watching this. I loved the lighthearted and good vibe this anime gave me. Now if i had to have con about this anime, it would be for more romance. I feel that the love triangle between certain characters (I’m not going to spoil it for you) could have been fleshed out more. I wish that they would have explored their relationships a bit more clearly, but hey this is a comedy anime right?

If you enjoy comedy anime like Baka to Test or Seitokai Yakuindomo, then is the type of anime for you.

 

Title: Sakura Trick

Genre: Slice of Life / Yuri / School / Comedy

Aired: January 2014 – March 2014

Review Score: 6

Review (by: Dash)

Takayama, Haruka and her friend Sonoda, Yuu are starting the epic journey of “High School”. Unfortunately for them they chose a school that will soon be shutting down and they are the last graduating class. This “last of class” pushes Haruka even further into wanting to create ever lasting memories with her friends and high school life. Haruka and Yuu have been friends for a while and you can tell their relationship does beyond the lines of friendship (at least for Haruka). Midway through they decide the best way to create a memory is to exchange and important first, a kiss. This simple kiss leads to a more passionate one and makes clear of the feelings they have for each other. The story will continue as they bumble along high school while sorting out the feelings they share (and the friends they make along the way).

Sakura Trick ran a bit cheesy for me at first glance. After viewing the first few episodes I placed this anime on hold deciding to finish it in one go around with a new mindset.

First I had to remember, this is a story about first love. Second this is a comedy romance… With my mind reset I jumped back into Sakura Trick and was not let down. Sakura Trick made me remember just how cheesy and fun first love can be. I thought back to early high school and my own first love and connected those to what is shown in Sakura Trick, it all came together.

Aside from the fun picks and pokes of comedy that pop up from this show, I had to remember how confusing first love can be and all the feelings that are assiocated with it. I love how that those first few times you kiss (should still) mean something and how you do want to kiss at every chance you get. I think I started to forget how fun butterflys in the stomache can be.

Although not brought out until later, you start to realize and question “what is love” and the possiblities of “how long this will last”. Sakura Trick did a great job with bringing out all of the drama associated with your first love as well as point out how “big of a deal” your first date.. gift.. kiss.. fight.. all can be when you fifteen.

At first I was not really into Sakura Trick, but once I thought back to my early years I really do feel the writers did a great job with the story/plot. The comedy and romance were very well pieced so you can sit down and enjoy a solid first love story. All in all its a solid watch, probably lacking some of the re-watch value anime of this genre carry. I would recommend it to anyone looking for a cute romance/comedy with hits of fan service (but nothing over the top or straight overly ecchi).

I do feel i need to point out that this is a Yuri (Girl x Girl) for nothing more then moral standards and those with delicate sensabilities. Although they do have a little service, this is not “super ecchi” selling yuri action as a means to watch the anime. I do think its a great first love story that hopefully most fans of the comedy/romance genre.

 

Title: Saki: Zenkoku-hen

Genre: Mahjong / Slice of Life / School

Aired: January 2014 – March 2014

Review Score: 7

Review (by: Dash)

(This is the third season of Saki and Second following Saki herself. Here is a short description over he standard first episode.) Saki is first year student in High School. She wants to lead a “normal” high school life and due to circumstance with her family hate Mahjong. Of course a friend of hers “invites” to come play (and although unwilling), plays with the rest of the small Mahjong club. When all is said and done she scores plus/minus zero three times in a row, which is extremely unlikely to do as the club president points out. At this point Harumura, Nodoka goes after Saki and wants to play again. Saki eventually comes back and plays (to win finally) and does. After some side story (pretty short actually), Saki joins the club and makes a promise to go to nationals with Nodoka. Saki Zenkoku-hen picks up at the Nationals (team). The other series (Saki – Achiga-hen follows former classmates of Nodoka who are also makes their way through Nationals. Their arc does finish and the winner of Saki’s bracket will play the winner of the Achiga-hen bracket.)

So Saki is still Saki, its hard to really do a solid review on the “continueing” of an anime minus saying “so far so good”. There are no real “changes” in either the quality or interest I have in the show. Saki continues to add some level “powers” or “genius” added to the game of mahjong. I would say give the anime a try from the original run (2-3 episodes) and from there you will be able to tell if you can stick with it. So I personally love Saki. I know nothing about mahjong, even after watching this show, but I can still enjoy the ebb and flow of the anime. Saki does have a knack for continueing the story after the “end” of said season or in OVA, so I do expect this to take longer than the 13 episodes it has aired (I didn’t check if it is scheduled for 16 or 24 to be honest). In either case, you have been warned.

The second season for Saki and her team, the third of the series, picks right back up at nationals and the varying degree of foes and abilities continue. The anime does a good job of adding another flaw in Saki’s play style with the ongoing plot of wanting to confront her sister. There is nothing “new” to really add to the story to “rate”. Its better to look at the “Series Saki” as one giant entity than to divide and rate per season it runs. As the 3rd Season continues, I still enjoy the slice of life / mahjong style and will continue to follow it until the end of its run (mainly to see how they finish).

 

Title: Wizard Barristers: Benmashi Cecil

Genre: Magic / Legal / Science Fiction

Preview Score: 6

Dropped Mid Season

WBBC rushes right into an on going train hi-jacking. A fire wizard is at odds with the cops using his powers to fight them. In the end several people are harmed (probably killed), but the police are able to bring the criminal in. (Cut Ahead) Now the criminal is found guilty and is immediately given the death sentence (some death magic used in the court house) as ruled by the magic justice system. You find out the man was represented by “Butterfly” a group of Wizard Barristers (or attorney’s for wizards). Butterfly is the group which the anime will focus and follow as they have hired two new recruits. (Shift Again) Now the anime turns in a lighter fashion as you wake up with Sudou, Cecil. Cecil is a youngest person to ever become a full fledged attorney (by 17) and wizard (by 15). She shows a lot of promise and Butterfly is excited to have her. On her way to work (of course running late) she witnesses a crime about to go down… she rushes to the scene of the crime where she chooses to represent the wizard being held. The story will unfold from here for the remainder (yes this is the half way mark) of the episode as Cecil works to represent the wizard properly in a city that fears wizards and their power. Oh and of course Cecil has a strong reason for wanting to see each person is properly represented and given a fair trial.. but this will come later.

One word.. “what?” I spent half of this anime trying to get my footing on what was going on plot wise. They are taking poke a various elements, but by the end of the anime it calls along the lines of “CSI – Magic Invesitgation or Law and Order  – Wizards” (if it was a real series). Taking notes from current law shows, they do mix in action (and in this case their magic) with the legal and crime solving aspects (very Law and Order like). With this clear and the main characters own personal reasons (and age working against her), I believe the anime has clarity moving forward instead of the viewer possibly being overwhelmed with information at the start. I would also note, yes there is an evil looking shadow organization working behind the scenes to see Cecil’s true power.

The animation is clean and the action/magic well executed. I do love the more “Avengers” feel of “there would be a lot of collateral damage” due to the nature of the fights, which is a win in my book for realism sake (again Law and Order – Wizards). The character design had me thinking back to the days of Perfect Blue with a little modern refinement. I would define the main character as “off cute”, the style throws me off a bit, Th overall VA and attention to “realism in background” was there, but the overall nature could run a little heavy or not click with mainstream. If you like Law and Order, you may find this interesting. I’m not raising my expectation on this one, but rather like watching any crime show on TNT… going to go with it and see where it takes me.

Note: The animation for the magic is really well done. I especially enjoyed watching Cecil’s magic and how it works.

 

Title: Pupa

Genre: Horror, Supernatural, Shounen, Psychological

Preview Score: 7.5

Dropped Mid-Season

Hasegawa Yume, like a typical high school girl, walks home from school with her brother every day. When Yume shows up outside her brother’s, Utsutsu, classroom, he tells her that he’s not ready yet and that she should wait for him at a nearby park, which Yume agrees. On the way to the park, she passes a mysterious woman who tells Yume not to go to the park because if she does she will see the red butterflies. Not understanding the warning, Yume continues on to the park and while waiting she is attacked. When Utsutsu finally gets to the park, he finds his sister unconscious, but that will not be the most disturbing thing he finds in the park today.

I kinda went into this anime blind. I wanted to watch a short this season, but the only reason I picked Pupa was because it was done by Studio DEEN. I really like the shows they animate, and with Pupa, they did not disappoint. Ironically, the only disappointing thing is is that it IS a short. The story is one that I could really get into. I really have a thing for horror and psychological shows; plus there is just something about the art style of this show that works great to bring out these two qualities.  This would be a good show for a watcher that likes the strange and unusual stuff. I can’t wait till more comes out. Anticipation is high for this one.

Overall: Though little short on time, just the right amount creepy. Score 7.5

 

Title: Hamatora the Animation

Genre: Action, Fantasy, Superpowers

Aired: Aired: January 2014 – March 2014

Review Score: 7

Review (by: Happypiccolo)

This is the story of the Hamatora Detective Agency. A small group of “minimum users” that use their collective powers to solve crimes and hunt down criminals. Each user of the “minimum” ability has to perform a specific task in order to activate their power. Trouble starts when villainous minimum users start to cause trouble in town. The two lead detectives, Nice and Murasaki, immediately hop into action to solve a couple of contracts for money to run the agency. Deeper issues lurk around the corner when a murderer hunting down minimum users starts to leave bodies throughout the city.

I found Hamatora very intriguing with its take on the Darker Than Black concept of using superpowers through the use of minor action payments. The art and character design of this show is pleasing to the eye but does not stand out all that much. I have very high hopes for this show’s future. Hamatora the Animation has a lot of potential to be one of the better mystery action/fantasy shows. I would recommend it to fans of Darker Than Black or anyone who prefers the detective or superhero genre. The different types of powers and cost actions are so varying that it would be difficult for this show to fall short with interesting material. Not to mention, the clashing but interesting character personalities that make up the Hamatora Detective Agency. Each different agent has their own unique abilities and skills that make them powerful and interesting. I am looking forward to a second season of Hamatora the Animation and the antics that come with it. Unfortunately, I have to warn that this show’s first season does end in a bit of a cliffhanger. Hamatora the Animation is a show that will keep you guessing until literally the last second of each episode.

 

Title: Nobunagun

Genre: Sci-fi, Action

Preview Score: 8

Preview (by: Happypiccolo)

Shio Ogura is a Japanese high school student who is obsessed with all things military. Her awkward tastes and actions puts off most of the other girls in her class. The exception being Kaoru, one of the more popular girls. Kaoru notices her quirky ways and decides to treat her kindly by giving Shio her cell phone number.

While on a school trip to Taiwan, the area is suddenly attacked by a large insect-like creature from the ocean. Shortly afterward, agents known as E-Gene Holders from the government agency DOGOO arrive. Each E-Gene Holder has the potential to summon a spiritually infused weapon of a historical figure. While trying to rescue her only friend, Shio is revealed to be an E-Gene Holder with the soul of Oda Nobunaga in her. Her weapon of choice? Gun!

Nobunagun stands out to me visually and in an entertaining story sense. At times the style of this show can be striking, with its use of still background filling for some of the coloring. I think the story and nature of the main character flow very well to make for a very captivating mixture. The concept of an E-Gene Holder in Nobunagun has the potential to make for a large mixed bag of solid characters. This one is a high recommendation for fans of action or science fiction.

 

Mid Season Reviews for Fall 2013 – Winter 2014

 

Title: Golden Time

Genre: Romantic Comedy/Seinen

Aired: October 2013 – March 2014

Review Score: 9

Review (By Rising Sun):

Banri Tada is a young man who is just beginning his college career at Private Law University in Tokyo. He hails from the town of Shizuoka and is unfamiliar with his new surroundings in Tokyo. Banri runs into another young man named Mitsuo who is also new at the university who was to attend a more prestigious collage but transferred to this university for personal reasons. All of a sudden an extremely beautiful woman name Koko Kaga comes out of nowhere and slaps him with a bouquet of roses. It turns out Mitsuos’ reason for coming here was to get away from Koko who is madly and crazily in love with him.

Golden Time was a wild, dramatic, and emotional ride to me. I really enjoyed and it was one of the best anime of fall 2013 along with kill la kill and nagi no asukara. Even though it’s a romantic comedy, this anime has a bit of serious drama but nothing like Clannad.

The light novels were written by the same author who also wrote Toradora. You can see the influence and similarities with Toradora. Koko Kaga looks like an older version of Taiga. This anime is also set in the post high school/ young adult world which is something different compared to the usual high school romcom setting.

The characters in this anime are all very likable to me though some of you may get aggravated by Koko(The main heroine). Banri Tada has lost most of his memories due to an accident. The anime deals with him trying to remember his past and his relationships from that time. At the same time he makes new friends and he catches feelings for a girl named Koko.

I really wish I could tell you guys a lot more story details, but I don’t want to spoil you. I will say that the story takes some emotional twists and turns. One moment you will feel happy and the next you will feel sad.

I love the animation which is like toradora. Yui horie (Minori-Toradora and one of my favorite VAs) voices Koko Kaga  and I just love her voice. She also does the openings and endings for golden time. The opening “golden time” an ending “sweet and sweet cherry” are both really cute and catchy.

I really enjoyed the entire anime and I was satisfied at how things turned out. I just wished that some of the other characters relationships were fleshed out more. Other than that I loved this show! The best way to describe this would be a college version of Toradora but more serious.

If you like romantic comedies like Toradora or Love Hina then I deeply recommend this. I also recommend this if you are just a general anime fan.

 

Title: Gundam Build Fighter

Genre: Sci-fi, Mecha, Action, Shonen

Aired: October 2013 – “Unknown”

Mid Season Review Score: 6.75

Dropped Mid Season

Gundam Build Fighter is not your usually Gundam anime. The story starts off in a hobby shop for Gunpla, gundam models. The main character, Sei Lori, is the shop owner’s son and a typical Japanese middle school student. His dream is to win the world championship of Gunpla Battles, a competition where the gundam models are used in virtual fighting simulations. Though Sei is an excellent model builder, he lacks the skills to fight his own Gunpla. One day Sei saves a strange boy name Renji who then vows to help Sei whenever he calls. As it turns out, Sei calls for help when he is in the middle of a Gunpla match, and as promised, Renji suddenly appears to help Sei. Renji takes control and wins the match for Sei. After seeing Renji play, Sei is sure he has found the perfect fighter for his Gunpla.

After some persuasion and quite a bit of provoking, Renji agrees to be Sei’s fighter, and the two of them inter the world championship of Gunplay Battles. With Renji’s quick movies and Sei’s imaginative modifications, the duel easily make their way through the regional qualifying rounds and land a seat in the finals.  However, the world championship is not to be taken lightly. Experienced fighters, some with entire buildings teams, from all over the world have come to Japan to compete for the title of world’s best. Both Sei and Renji will have to become stronger if they want to have a chance at winning…

So my first impression of the anime was, “it’s just one long commercial for gundam models. Bandi is getting some really cheap advertising.” But as I watched the anime, I found that, while it was a really smart play on marketing, it was really a gundam show for the fans. The diversity in the models used went all the way back to the beginning of Gundam to the new models made for the show. It was strange seeing such old models hold their own against the newer ones and fun to watch too.  If you are a gundam fan who never built a model or a crazy fan who has, this show leaves the feeling of wanting to finally start working on that model you’ve eyeing.

This is not the typical fight for the colonies, space rule kind of show. It’s fun and light hearted. Everything opposite of what normal Gundam shows are. But even with all the “War violence” taken out, I still found some of the more well-known gundam traits in this anime.  Like inhuman fighters, ultra advance technology, a mask man, losing and have to rebuild/redesign your gundam mid-way through the show, and other classics.  It’s a really nostalgic watch for long time gundam fans. So as a gundam fan and modeler, I can’t wait to enjoy the completion of this series.

Overall cretic: if you’re not 8 or not a gundam fan, this anime might be a little boring to you. But you are a gundam fan, and child at heart this anime is right up your ally.

Score: 6.75(only because it has not ended)

 

Title: Hajime no Ippo Rising

Genre: Boxing

Aired: October 2013 – March 2014

Review Score: 8.5

Review  (By Rising Sun):

Ippo Makounichi is a Japanese featherweight champion defending his title from any challenger. It took him a lot of hard work and determination to get where he is now. This is actually the third season of Hajime no Ippo. I have never seen the first two seasons, but I am catching along just fine. The first episode deals with a flashback of Ippo’s life when he was younger.  It deals with a flashback of his father and how he wanted to be like him. Sadly his father died during a fishing trip storm. He works and trains hard to be just like him. We also see him go against a powerful boxer  from Okinawa challenging him for his title.

Hajime no Ippo Rising will keep you pumped up everytime there’s a bout. This anime series is considered a classic with this being the third anime series. I can now see why this anime is popular and well revered.

I haven’t seen the first two seasons bit it was very easy to just start watching without missing a beat from the first two seasons.

I really liked the characters in this anime. Ippo is the humble but powerful protagonist with his famed boxing move “The Dempsey Roll”. Most of his friends are boxers just like he is and he also trains at the same gym with him. Aoki, Ippo’s friend who uses tricks to win bouts. Takamura, a loud, brash, an powerful heavyweight champion. All these characters made the show.

The action in this show is amazing. The boxing is fast and furious and everytime someone is punched, you will grit your teeth. Everytime a character was in trouble in the ring, I would sweat bullets. During bouts, your emotions will get in the way especially if a character you like is victorious.

I like the animation which also reminds of me of a 90s like style. All in all I really enjoyed this anime. I also really hope they make another season for this. If you like sports anime or boxing or action anime then you MUST watch this.

 

Title: Kill la Kill

Genre: Action / Shounen / Sci-Fi

Aired: October 2012 – March 2014

Review Score: 6

Review  (by: theSquish-chan)

Warning: There is a LOT of subtext/moments that contain rape/exploitation. Watch Kill la Kill at your own discretion.

As the threads of fate tighten around Hannounji Academy, Ryuuko Matoi finds herself gravely outmatched in her quest for retribution over her father’s murder.  Having finally made it to the top of the Academy, she is faced by the new threats of the Kiryuin family, and her quest for vengeance turns sharply into a race to save the world. Armed with half of a scissor blade and the sentient sailor uniform Senketsu, Ryuuko fights not only for revenge, but to save the world.

Well… the second season got very bad, very quickly, and I’m eating my own words. I stated in my mid season review that “My previous assessment where I compared Kill la Kill to Gurren Lagann and Panty & Stocking seems to be only more well-founded. Kill la Kill seems to strike a balance between the two shows, never quite reaching the utter stupidity of Gurren Lagann, nor ever quite reaching the outright sleaze of Panty & Stocking.” Season 2 of Kill la Kill proves that sentiment wrong, so completely so that it seems deliberate.  That’s not to say that Kill la Kill became unwatchable -it’s anything but- however, its quality took a steep dive, and become more stupid and outright sleazy.  Shortly after season 2 begins, Kill la Kill shifts gears, and stops trying to tell its own story, and begins to retell Gurren Lagann’s , nearly identically so. In addition, the fan service that was mocked and ridiculed in the first season returns with abandon. However, it’s no longer a joke. Season 2 takes the sexual material, multiplies it, and intensifies it to the point of bordering on becoming a hentai. In addition, most of this sexual material has to do with explicit incest and rape, which is something Kill la Kill is not equipped to handle, and completely negates what feminist angle was established in the first season. In fact, the primary antagonist of the second season, Ragyo Kiryuin, acts as the embodiment of the male gaze in a female form, actively taking an anti-feminist stance.

The story deteriorated heavily this season, because of this, and several episodes are downright frustrating, either because they are obvious padding, or because it actively reverses itself and all the character development that was established. If an episode did neither of these, it did something to progress the plot, but in a very stupid and haphazard way.  There’s no more foreshadowing and no more build up to the finale, it becomes just a raging explosion of passion and plot progression so forced it’s tripping over itself in order to be comprehensible.

The characters in season 2 also suffer, Ryuuko most notably. Her personal character development often reverses or does complete 180s, becoming incredibly sloppy and rushed. Characters reverse development several times, and there’s a lack of growth and humanity in this season, which is a pity because it was such an important and well-handled part of the anime until this point.

Ultimately, Kill la Kill became a severe disappointment in the second season. While its bombastic nature and edge-of-your-seat action keeps you well entertained as an above-average popcorn flick, Kill la Kill lost any of what made it truly worth watching in this season, and became merely a retelling of Gurren Lagann, with less clothing.  The first season, aside from its shortcomings, was worth watching and had a lot of heart and good that kept it going. The second season had far more shortcomings, and no heart, it relied heavily on its action to keep you from dropping the series, and while effective, it leaves a rotten taste. I only recommend watching Kill la Kill if you already were, otherwise, the second season leaves a lot to be desired, especially after its great first season.

Tl;Dr: Kill la Kill got very bad in the second season. While ultimately a slightly-above-average anime, the lack of heart, compelling story, characters, and an over-reliance and recycling of another show’s story as well as several purely aggravating characters, plot points, and a loss of its merits make Kill la Kill difficult to stand in its latter half. Only watch if you’re already invested. Otherwise, pass it up, as the hype isn’t worth it.

 

Title: Log Horizon

Genre: Action, Adventure, Fantasy, game, Magic, Shounen

Aired: October 5, 2013 – March 22, 2014

Review Score: 6 – (Average, enjoyed it a bit more. You have to like the genre.)

Review: (By: Blue)

(Story) Trap in Eldar Tale, an online game, we follow Shiroe an elite straightest who was part of a non-guild group called “The Debauchery Tea Party”. Confused as to what happen to the game and realizing that no one can log out, he and his friend Naotsugu travel around to gather information about game and the reason why they are trap. Along the way Akatsuki, a skilled ninja, joins them on their travels after helping her by providing a character change potion. These 3 set forward to figure out what is going on.

(Art) I loved the art in Log Horizon, it was crisp and clean. The look of the characters HUD when someone pulled up the info was a good add on and I like how everyone looked as if they were an MMO character. If anything, the only thing I disliked was the use of CGI. It off set the fluid animation that the Anime kept, and it didn’t mix in well. Besides that most people will say that the art didn’t have anything special or it wasn’t horrible.

(Characters) Log Horizon has a huge cast of characters, all ranging from super smart people in glasses, noobs who just started playing the game, hardcore players who focus on clearing dungeons and crafters. The large amount of characters  did hinder the Anime. I enjoyed how they actually played an important part in the sub plots. This is where the Anime shines a bit, everyone was likable or useful in some way. Even some of the lower cast characters like those from the crafters guild had a decent amount of air time.

(Overall) I really lost track of where the plot was going with Log Horizon. The atmosphere of the Anime seems to switch from trying to get out of a game, to politics and economics. There were so many sub-plots; you started to wonder when they were going to get back, in this case start, to trying to figure out how to get out of the game. The Anime had its moments, but unfortunately you will have to wait on average 3 episodes for Shiro to finish prepping his master plan. He’s a very smart, strong character, but I did think that the entire cast relied on him too much.

All the battles were beautify done. They did well in plotting and explaining tactics, however this was another downfall of the Anime. Most people who were watching this Anime already has a clear understanding of what an MMO is. They didn’t need an explanation on what a healing spell is.

 

Title: Samurai Flamenco

Genres: Action / Superhero / Comedy

Preview Score: 7

Preview (By: Storm)

A police officer named Hidenori Goto, stumbles across a naked man in a dark alley. This man is Masayoshi Hazama, a male model with a secret life. Masayoshi wants to be a superhero, so he goes out at night to try and dispense vigilante justice, the only problem is he is not a fighter. So form this new formed friendship with Hidenori will Masayoshi find a police man wanting to arrest him, or an alley in his noble cause. This show opens up very well purely showing Hidenori’s day by day routine and showing nothing to out of the ordinary just a simple average life.

Then we get introduced to Masayoshi, a very nice if not somewhat stubborn male model. This show is going to be about the growth of friendship and the bonds that it can make. We will see here how each of the two main characters are going to need each other in the end for some bigger reason. I really enjoy Masayoshi’s character as he is a very good guy, his only intention with his superhero identity is to keep the youth and other out of trouble so they can live a good a full life. It is nice to have a characters whose morals are strong and firmly believes that through trial and error, you can change someones life for the better. I love the moral this show gives out with its characters and story line.

Right away this show is not just gonna be a straight ecchi trip, instead it feels as if it will be something to look at for inspiration. The main character is a great guy and HIdenori is there to backup his new friend, so we can see a lot of reliability and trust be built here and that is good to see in television now a days. Overall I would say give it a watch, you really want Masayoshi to succeed in his task and help guide people down the right path. This show will be fun to see unfold and where the road takes these two.

 

Title: Strike the Blood

Genre: Action, Ecchi, Fantasy, Vampire, Supernatural

Aired: October 2013 – December 2013

Mid Season Review Score: 8

Mid Season Review (By: Blue)

(Story) – We follow Kojo who was a normal student up until three months ago until the fourth primogenitor, the strongest vampire known in existence, made him her heir because of a wish she granted him. Yukina who’s an attack magician was order by the government to follow and keep an eye on Kojo, killing him if she sees him as a threat. Unknown to to Kojo as to why the government would view him as a threat he tries to carry on a normal life as much as he can.

At first it was a bit hard for me to follow the plot in StB, but it’s very interesting. The Anime did a well in advancing the plot by not leaving you completely in the dark as to why stuff is happening. It also did a good job in adding organizations that are out to kill Akatsuki which makes you want to know why.  I hope they completely explain how he also got his powers, and I’m looking forwards into any character development with the main characters.

(Characters) – The characters are what I enjoy the most of the Anime. Each character has something different to bring to the Anime. Himeragi is a very strong character that doesn’t need saving from a male character, which is a relief to me. She is well rounded and is my favorite character. Aiba the very intelligent girl has her hacking ability which does come in handy. As far as Akatsuki, I love the way he just wants to live a normal life. Despite becoming the most powerful vampire in history, he’s not too overpowered and does need help from his friends.

(Art) – The art is very good. I enjoyed all the spell effects, details in the environment when something gets destroyed, and especially the combat. In my mind they really did a good job, and put a good amount of effort.

(Overall) -The action in StB was what caught my eye the first time; I enjoy the action a lot. Second, I enjoy the characters in StB. It was kind of hard for me to follow the plot at the start, and I was totally misled by how his vampire urges were activated. Overall, I’m really enjoying StB.

 

Title: Tokyo Ravens

Genre: Action / Supernatural / Magic

Aired: October 2012 –

Mid Season Review Score: 8

Mid Season Review (By Dash):

Tsuchimikado, Harutora was born into a line of Onmyoji, however he seems to lack the power needed to do the job. As a result another member of the family is forced to take the mantle to represent the family, Tsuchimikado, Natsume. Harutora wants to live out a normal life with his friends knowing if he was to go study to be an Onmyoji (if he had the talent) he would have to give up that life. Will he rise up to his promise and become Natsume’s shikigami to fight for and protect her?

(First Episode Run Down) Tokyo Ravens opens with a short flashback involving Harutora and Natsume. The episode will jump to an older (high school) Harutora walking home with his friends. Side chatter changes to the conversation he hates, “Why don’t you become an Onmyoji” due to Hokuto insistence he pursue that path. Harutora shoots down the idea a few times and heads home. On his way home he runs into a “visiting” Natsume only to get into a fight with her over “duty” and her being “uncute” in the current moment. Later on they (Harutora and his two friends) attend the local festival. This gives you a little time to setup the relationship between Hokuto and Harutora. From there they head up to a shrine to find Hokuto placing a prayer for Harutora to become Onmyoji making him upset and Hokuto now running off crying. Now comes along Dairenji, Suzuka (one of the 12 strongest Onmyoji in Japan) who challenges Harutora (believing he is the heir) to a battle. FBI like Onmyoji show up and you get your first taste of what the Onmyoji powers can do…

In no shape or form have I been let down by Tokyo Ravens. Of all the action/magic anime to release over the Fall and moving to the Summer this one has earned my full attention. One big reason I could get into TR more so than several other action anime was the solid balance of comedy, action, and character design. TR includes several of your standard character designs and types which I’m sure one of which you will love (unwilling childhood friend hero, rich talented girl, childhood friend in love with main character… who also pretends to be a boy and causes fun confusion, best friend who has tragic past, cute side character lacking in common sense…).

TR does have a good dose of action and magic as well. It is focused on Japanese myth and lore, using magic to battle demons and harness some pretty cool summons. Action is not in every episode (if your looking for that full throttle action anime.. your out of luck), but does move into the action and fight scenes pretty well. Personally I think the action is solid and happens “enough” where fans would be able to get into this one.. )Of course there is a your dark magic group based on bringing one person back into power working in the background).

Comedy wise, they tap into several elements of the anime and plot to pull some good ongoing humor. This humor keeps the anime moving at a solid pace mixed with the action and day to day ongoings. A huge pull for the comedy was the addition of the adorable Kon and the the interaction between Harutora/Natsume at school (she has to keep the fact of being a girl hidden). Add in her jealousy of anyone who tries to get close to him and her “seemingly quiet” nature and you get some solid funness.

Not every anime can combine the comedy, action, and day to day categories into a solid anime, TR delivers. I do feel it might slip under the radar due to Kill la Kill or Magi (2nd Season), but I would recommend giving this one a shot. I feel there is anything beyond “normal” or “original” character plot wise (but most anime fall short here), but the overall quality (this totals in VA Work, Music, Art, Story, and Design) is a win. Tokyo Ravens is still moving onward into the Winter and if I had to guess will take a slightly more serious tone. I am hoping the “love interest” factor of the show does not leave it open ended, if it does I could see knocking a point off the final score. Standing on the thirteen episodes I have seen, I would recommend it to most anime fans.

*Side Note: The VA Team has done a great job for this anime, but I never honestly took time to dive into them. They are all voices I have heard before and simply let it sit at that. This was not an anime I felt the VA reputation carried the series or pulled me (this is a good thing).

 

Title: Yowamushi Pedal

Genre: School / Sports / Comedy

Aired: October 2012 – Unknown

Mid Season Review Score: 6.5

Dropped Mid Season

Onoda, Sakamichi is just entering high school and hopes to join the anime club listed on the student handbook. He spent the previous years not talking to anyone about anime because there was no one he who he could talk about anime stuff with. An Otaku at heart, he spend his time like any other Otaku would, riding his bike to Akihabara to buy the latest limited edition items! Once he learns that the anime club is shut down due to lack of members he desperately trys to bring it back because he does not want to join an alethic club. On his way back to school after leaving his wallet in his desk, Shunsuke Imaizumi an ace bicyclist notices someone riding a simple frame bike uphill and races to pass him up. To his surprise it is Onoda. How could he be riding his bike up this steep road he wonders? The next day Imaizumi finds Onoda and challenges him to a race. Not wanting to do anything with other alethic clubs, will Onoda accept his challenge?

While this starts off like some anime in the aspect of our main character not wanting to do anything with said club or clubs all together, it follows the simple: “I was kind of force into a sport and like it” intro. This is a reference to anime like Eyeshield 21 and Stella Jogakuin Koutou-ka. The plot is nothing new however, the whole bicyclist sport anime is new to me. The first episode entertained and kept me interested in the anime with its comedy. He’s the representation of how some of us are like towards anime. I like the idea of an otaku being force to race his bike vs an ace bicyclist. The animation of the anime is ok, nothing too special to point out as of yet but I do hope they add special effects like jet streams to the bikes when they’re making a tight turn! I will not lie, I should have not judged an anime buy its cover! I’m very interested in finding out how Onoda would do. Overall this anime could go either way. It might be really good and capture our attention with a good story and comedy or it could just be all piles of horribly wrong and end up in a ditch. He’s hoping for a great story!