Posted by  |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
This month has felt incredibly long for me – with five weeks in November, that’s a total of five episodes for each show that I’m watching. Crazy! Not to mention that the holiday season is quickly approaching which means another season finale, another season preview and of course, our year-end post! Hurray! But in the meantime, we’re here to talk to you about what we’re enjoying this season, what’s lacking and how shows are measuring up to our expectations. Feel free to discuss any shows that we’re not blogging (or are blogging) on a regular basis and provide your two cents here. We’d love to hear what you think so far.
This post could not be completed without the help of a few awesome individuals. The impressions below are brought to you by Divine, Enzo, Samu, Stilts, and myself. Each of the shows include our impressions of the episodes that have aired this month (the episode count is indicated). Please note that this not representative of all the writers on RC but only those participating. This also means that each of us are not necessarily blogging each of the shows that we’re writing about below. The post is not comprehensive of what each of us are watching but highlights a good selection of shows that are currently airing. If you would like to hear our daily impressions of shows, we all update regularly on twitter:
As always, this new concept is a work-in-progress and any suggestions are welcome. Please let me know what you’re liking, disliking, and hopefully I can make accommodations for it next month.
Housekeeping Notes:
| Nanatsu no Taizai Episodes 05-09 |
|
|---|---|
|
Stilts: Ban and King have joined the party! Nanatsu no Taizai thrives on its rowdy, carefree atmosphere, and Ban and King add to that dynamic well. First is Ban, the immortal, apparently apathetic drunkard … or is he? I’m told that Ban is a fan favorite, and I can see why—just the way he and Meliodas greeted each other, by destroying a prison and shattering an unbreakable barrier while horsing around was enough to put my solidly on the Ban train! But he has a surprisingly heartfelt backstory with the faerie guardian, Elaine. As for King, the OP/ED (and simple pattern recognition) spoiled his eventual reunion and reconciliation with the other Seven Deadly Sins, but his crush on Diane tickled me pink, when I wasn’t cheering while he kicked some ass with his holy weapon. They’re both good additions to the cast, and with a fist fighting tournament coming up while they reclaim the others’ weapons, Nanatsu no Taizai is doing its level best to show that shounen action anime can still be a lot of fun. |
| Grisaia no Kajitsu Episodes 05-08 |
|
|---|---|
|
Cherrie: I have not played the visual novel for Grisaia no Kajitsu but just from the brief glance that I got from this month’s episodes, it deserves more than one-cour. This past month has concluded three of the girls’ routes and with only a month left, I expect it to blaze through the final two as well. It’s such a shame that this series wasn’t given more time though because it’s one of the few that actually needs it. And I empathize ”NEEDS”. Even without reading reviews and spoilers, I can tell that there’s just so much more to the girls’ backgrounds and histories that could further explain their personalities and why they are the way they are. That’s the whole purpose of the show isn’t it? To explain why this high school is not “normal” and why these girls attend an isolated school. There’s barely any time for me to even get attached to them and then, the episode ends. For a “romance” visual novel, there’s barely any romantic chemistry at all between any of the girls and Yuuji. That’s probably one of the bigger complaints I have with the series; which leads to the absence of my emotional investment. |
| Ookami Shoujo to Kuro Ouji Episodes 05-09 |
|
|---|---|
|
Cherrie: Still, my one of favorite series this season is none other than Ookami Shoujo to Kuro Ouji. Judge me for whatever reasons, but until you sit through and watch this series with me, you cannot deny that this is one romcom that is going places. And I don’t mean literally, I mean its plot is moving much faster than I ever anticipated. In a typical shoujo manga, I wouldn’t expect there to be a confession, a kiss and for the main couple to actually date! Ookami Shoujo to Kuro Ouji has all of that and then some – it has all the drama and heart-wrenching moments I would expect from any shoujo series, but it still manages to deliver a solid relationship between Kyouya and Erika. I’m not saying that their relationship is perfect (because it’s not), but the whole point of the series is to see how it develops over time and how they go through these bumps along the way. Of course, I won’t lie – This show makes me giddy and reminiscent of all the moments in high school that I too, wished for a boyfriend like that. |
| Sora no Method Episodes 05-09 |
|
|---|---|
|
Cherrie: Sora no Method is that one friendship show this season that makes me feel good after watching it. It’s not about the drama or that love interest or deep psychological problems; it’s just about five friends that start to bond again after years apart. My problem with the show is that the melodrama gets to be too much when it gets too deep into the stories behind the characters (like Yuzuki’s desire to get rid of the saucer or Shione’s mood swings). However, when the series dedicates more time to show some lighthearted interactions between the characters – like the the hot springs episode and visiting Nonoka’s mother – these are the episodes that you start to see some meaningful development. I love how Noel shines through (even though her childishness can be too much sometimes) and how she plays a role in tying all the characters together. As we get to the end of the series, I’m curious now what will happen to Noel and the saucer and what the implications are to Nonoka. It’ll be a bittersweet ending, but I’m sure we all saw that coming. |
| Akame ga Kill Episodes 18-22 |
|
|---|---|
|
Cherrie: Wow, if you haven’t been following Akame ga Kill this month, you’ve been missing a lot! And I highly recommend that you stay away from all forums, Wiki pages and twitter to get the full impact of what’s been happening. The anime has finally diverged from the manga and we are on our way to an anime-original ending. All the while, people have been dying left, right and center and seriously, some of it isn’t even called for. As a whole, I still think the anime is a wild ride and amusing week after week… but it’s starting to lose a lot of continuity from the earlier episodes as plot lines are getting blurred and characters are becoming more ”monster of the week” archetypes. It’s a shame that Akame ga Kill has decided to tie out its loose ends so well because character development could have been key here to make a death more impactful and a fight worth waiting for. There’s only two more episodes left for December and I hope that the creators make the most of it. |
| Shinegeki no Bahamut GENESIS Episodes 04-07 |
|
|---|---|
|
Cherrie: I am hooked on this show. This is exactly what I would expect out of a fantasy adventure series and then some. Although it’s taken me a while to get used to the art style and character designs, it’s probably more refreshing than anything else to see something different. I haven’t fully committed myself to an adventure story in a long time and this is exactly what I needed to bring myself back into the world of crazy pirates, necromancers, knights, bounty hunters and thieves. This month has brought a new perspective to the world of Gods, Demons and humans and I love that they explain exactly what’s going on without there being too much talking and wasted airtime. Since this is a one-cour series (I honestly thought it’d be two; it deserves it), the show has everything you’d want without it being too rushed and crammed. The character development is subtle, yet there; there are more answers than questions; and ultimately, there’s one goal for Amira and everyone’s helping her get there. When you also happen to love each of the main characters, the show only gets better. |
| Inou Battle wa Nichijou-kei no Naka de Episodes 04-08 |
|
|---|---|
|
Stilts: Inou Battle is an odd little duck. It’s zany but heartwarming, ridiculous but mundane. I don’t know precisely who to recommend it to, nor what box (genre) to put it in, and that’s to its credit, if perhaps not to its benefit. The last four episodes were a grab bag of heartwarming slice-of-life and surprisingly evocative drama. In particular, Hatoko’s outburst in episode seven is one of the most powerful scenes I’ve seen in anime in a long time. No, seriously—Hayami Saori is to be commended for infusing so much raw emotion into her performance, and the lead up was masterfully done, coalescing into a scene that was so real and raw as to make it nearly uncomfortable to watch. In a good way—it resonated like good fiction should, by touching upon something that’s true. Perhaps Inou Battle’s greatest strength is that, while it has elements of fantasy, it’s so everyday as to make the characters supremely relatable, which makes their foibles and struggles strike closer to home. Mostly though, Inou Battle remains an irreverent romp that’s full of laughs and doesn’t take life too seriously. I laugh out loud every episode, usually multiple times, which is more than enough to keep me happily watching. |
| Akatsuki no Yona Episodes 04-08 |
|
|---|---|
|
Enzo: If you listened to the November podcast, you know I’m a big fan of Akatsuki no Yona. I’ve enjoyed this adaptation at every stage if its development, and through nine episodes it shows no signs of slowing down. The series continues to trust the audience to stay with the story even if we don’t know all the details, and it’s because we don’t that the behavior of nominal “villain” Soo-won is so hard to explain. Meanwhile Yona and Hak have traveled, made new allies, and fought for survival – and all the while Yona’s nascent urge to assert control over her own life has slowly taken root .All the best epic fantasy is masterful at telling both the big story and the personal, and Akatsuki no Yona is so far proving up to the challenge on both fronts. |
| Trinity Seven Episodes 04-08 |
|
|---|---|
|
Stilts: Trinity Seven got really bumpy in the middle, but it has recovered. For a few episodes there—especially episode four—the combination of a badly explained magic system and Arata’s deus ex machina victories left me disappointed. Then Liese showed up, and it got better. Arata got some training time, so his victories began to feel earned, and the magic system was explained well enough so that we could sit back and enjoy the battles rather than stop so someone could give Arata a lecture. (Plus, all that sexy Liese didn’t hurt.) That’s allowed the ecchi comedy to flex its muscles without neglecting the plot. Was it worth slogging through the uneven episodes? If this is a genre you enjoy, probably, though as I sit comfortably on the other side of the pain, that’s easy for me to say. This isn’t the A+ magical-fantasy-action-harem anime I hoped it would be, but it’s still enjoyable. Hopefully it finishes as strong as the last few episodes have been. |
| Gundam Build Fighters Try Episodes 04-08 |
|
|---|---|
|
Samu: Try is building upon what made the first season of Gundam Build Fighters so enjoyable – the epic battles, the lovable cast, and the element of pure enjoyment that is tangible in near enough every episode. All those highlights of the series not only continue to be done justice with Try, but are being improved upon. After spending a few more weeks with our main trio, it’s hard not to love them all and how they bounce of one another. Fumina is proving to be a great lead character, embracing her role as the leader and support for the team, with a much appreciation focus on how female representation is important for her, in order to make her dream become a reality. Sekai is still being showcased as the powerhouse of the team, and Yuuma’s part in the story is coming together as well, with his background in building getting a fair amount of focus, tying together with the current tournament. Overall, Try is on the right track, improving every week by embracing just how fun this show and its characters are. |
| Hitsugi no Chaika: Avenging Battle Episodes 04-08 |
|
|---|---|
|
Stilts: The number of Chaikas is growing by the episode as this series quickly moves to a close. The pace, which used to be at one light novel per two episodes—which is fast for any series, though Hitsugi no Chaika has managed it remarkably well—has sped up to more like an episode per volume, and it’s showing. Impactful battles come and go so fast they have a hard time leaving a mark, and the plot has been pared down to the bare essentials. Even so, the central questions—What is Emperor Gaz up to? Who is Guy? What will happen when all the remains are collected? What’s with all these Chaikas?—haven’t been answered, and until they are, Hitsugu no Chaika has my attention. Low DVD/BD sales of the first season mean we’re probably lucky to have a second season at all, and the underlying story is good, even if we’re basically getting the CliffsNotes version. Those questions will have to be answered soon though, because there are only two more episodes left to go. |
| Kiseijuu: Sei no Kakuritsu Episodes 04-09 |
|
|---|---|
|
Cherrie: This one seems to get a lot of hype every week and that’s probably because it’s so different than what’s out there this season. Kiseijuu is no longer that thrilling or horrific to me, but I’m simply watching because I want to know what these parasites are and their origin. November has been a long month dedicated to the development of Shinichi, and now he’s a bada** without his glasses and a new haircut. I’m not very fond of his new personality (adopting more of Migi’s personality), but I think it’s great that we actually see the consequences of Shinichi’s survival after Migi saves him. The issue that I have with the series is that there’s no clear source of where these parasites are coming from and the only danger that Shinichi runs into are “people” that come looking for him. It’s too early to say, but I hope Kiseijuu expands beyond Shinichi and follows some of the other individuals around (like Satomi and Kana) because they seem to have further potential and added value to the show. I continue to adore watching Migi on screen though – she/he is like a pet… except attached to your hand. |
| Denki-gai no Honya-san Episodes 05-09 |
|
|---|---|
|
Stilts: This show has continued as it began, with solid comedy and shipping in spades. Almost all of the movement has been on the Kantoku x Hio-tan and Sensei x Umio fronts, with both of them edging toward something like a romantic relationship without ever quite getting there. (Something I would expect to continue.) But they’re getting closer, and the teasing hurts so good! The biggest addition was Kantoku’s ex-girlfriend, Tsumorin. Despite her feelings for Kantoku, it’s clear that there’s someone else in his heart, and we all know who! They all edged closer during the onsen episode (that inadvertent flashing, yum!), and when Hio-tan asked Kantoku about her oppai, and when she was sick … HNNNG~! Sensei’s battles with low joushi power and epic deadlines were mined for plenty of comedy, though there was less Sensei x Umio shipping moments. The ones we got were great though. This is a solid otaku shipping comedy through and through. I just hope we get resolution to some of those couples before the anime ends, even though I know in my heart of hearts that’s not likely to happen. You teases! |
| Shirogane no Ishi Argevollen Episodes 17-21 |
|
|---|---|
|
Divine: In a somewhat unexpected turn of events, the focus of the series shifted away from Tokimune and on to Samonji. Long gone are the days of our reckless, disobedient, and deceased sister-obsessed main character, as the one deserving of a court martial is Cayenne for starting a radical movement within the Arandas army. While at no point did these developments come as an absolute shock, I commend the writers for telling a story without a lot of the typical anime tropes that we see nowadays. Even Tokimune’s relationship with Jamie completely side-steps any romance, despite how just about everyone (myself included) figured that they would be a pairing. Instead—much to my delight—the series focuses on the war itself, the motives that drive Arandas and Ingelmia’s high-ranking officers, and the effects of a third party hoping to capitalize on the war by supplying prototypes to both sides. At this point, it’s fair to say that while Argevollen isn’t a stand-out series by any stretch of imagination, it does bring something refreshingly different to fans of military-themed anime. |
| SHIROBAKO Episodes 04-08 |
|
|---|---|
|
Cherrie: SHIROBAKO is a show that I’m never super anxious to watch every week, but I always feel like each episode is incredibly fun while it lasts. I get anxious and excited with Aoi and I love following the antics of her animation company as they go through real life issues that companies (probably) go through. It’s like The Office, except in anime and much more exaggerated. I’ve never worked for an animation company before, but I don’t doubt that it’s a high pressure, stressful career if you’re always working with deadlines and relying on others to do their jobs all the time. I find the latter episodes a lot more interesting as well since I’m actually starting to remember characters (although the nametags every episode aren’t terrible)! And I like seeing more of Aoi’s childhood friends take the spotlight as they too, are trying to get into the industry. Definitely a good watch to pick up anytime if you want to just see how hectic the anime industry can be. This is a show that doesn’t have the most continuity and each episode stands alone to focus on a different area of anime. |
| Gundam Reconguista in G Episodes 06-10 |
|
|---|---|
|
Samu: Things are certainly happening in Reconguista, that’s for sure. But sometimes it feels like I’m only understand about 65% of what’s going on, if that makes sense? It’s an odd one, because the story has mainly been at a standstill for most of this month, yet it still managed to feel cluttered and confusing in its delivery. Thankfully though, the last couple of episodes have changed the location and again showcased just how colourful and intriguing this timeline is in its setting and scenery. It really does feel like a real, living world, and the throwback animation is doing a brilliant job at complimenting that. Now that the repetitive fights over the ocean are finished, the characters from all sides are joining together – whether they be allied or still against one another is still a little muddled and likely to change anyway – which will only be a positive thing. Now we should start to get an idea of what the big picture really is and where the story will head from here. Whatever does happen though, I’m sure it will continue to be an entertaining watch, as it has been up until now. |
| PSYCHO-PASS 2 Episodes 04-08 |
|
|---|---|
|
Cherrie: What a crazy month for PSYCHO-PASS 2! Last month dedicated three episodes for setup and this month exposes everything. Everything from who Kamui is, to how he makes someone “clear”, to who Tougane really is… looking back, I’m surprised how much information they packed into the past few weeks. For a one-cour show, I think PSYCHO-PASS 2 has optimized great use out of its run and although some revelations don’t exactly jive well with me, I’m willing to accept it as it is. I have to keep in mind that this is anime and not everything going on in anime will be a reflection of what could happen in real life. That said, Mika probably earns top spot as one of my most despised character this season – she does everything an inspector should and still does everything wrong. At least, to the audience, she’s doing more harm than good. However, she does keep things interesting on the show as her POV is drastically different than Akane’s at this point in the investigations. For all those wondering, the new movie trailer for the PSYCHO-PASS movie is also out and about. Watch at your own risk and don’t say I didn’t warn you! |
| Shigatsu ga Kimi no Uso Episodes 04-08 |
|
|---|---|
|
Cherrie: This is one of those shows that I really had to urge myself to watch in its first initial episodes because as much as I wanted to love this show, it just wasn’t clicking with me. Music is not a theme that I resonate well with; even though I have a background in piano. However, I’m glad I stuck with it as Shigatsu wa Kimi no Uso has much more substance to it than just the internal dilemma that Kousei faces. As a romance series, I’m actually very surprised to see the amount of romantic interest surfacing so early on. I thought it’d be a side note somewhere along the lines but it’s a nice addition to the main story as the characters struggle to understand what love is. I’m not a fan of Kousei’s role as the MC, but Kaori and Tsubaki are amusing to watch as I find them relatable – both their thoughts and actions. I can’t really empathize with Kousei’s situation, but I like the message that the show sends about facing your past and striving to do things that scare you. The music is just a medium to pass the message along and it’s doing a decent job so far. |
| Amagi Brilliant Park Episodes 05-09 |
|
|---|---|
|
Cherrie: Another one of my favorites this season, Amagi Brilliant Park is entertaining, fun but not plot-less and this is what lures me in every week. I honestly thought that the jokes would get old and the fanservice would run wild by the midway point, but Amagi Brilliant Park proves me wrong. Yes, there are repetitive jokes and fanservice, but it’s much more than a harem comedy anime with cute girls. There’s always an underlining of seriousness in each episode, which adds to the continuity of the real problem at hand – getting visitors to the park. I love how even though each of the characters have their own quirks and their idiotic moments (Moffle, Tirami, & Macaron especially), they all mean well and it makes me ”Awww” when they show that they care. It’s not always the comedy that keeps me coming back, but the slight character developments and how their problems are ”real” problems (tight on money, low on staff, pirates…). It’s not that their situation is always relatable, but it’s entertaining to see how they resolve these “real” issues with some crazy solutions. It makes me genuinely excited to watch 2D characters. |
| Yuuki Yuuna wa Yuusha de Aru Episodes 04-08 |
|
|---|---|
|
Stilts: If you’re ever going to watch Yuuki Yuuna wa Yuusha de Aru, watch it now, because what’s making this show work so well is the uncertainty. Will it go dark? Will it stay light? How exactly will it end? And will all the main characters make it through? Not knowing where it’s going is what’s making this show so good, and even hearing spoiler-free comments in a month’s time could betray the tone and steal that joy away. Yuuki Yuuna knows how to hint at enough Madoka to keep us wondering, while staying an optimistic slice-of-life/hero tale the rest of the time. The cost of the girls using their full powers has been revealed, and there may still be more enemies to fight. Will it end in smiles, or in tears? I don’t know, but if you want to find out, now’s the time. Good original series like this are always better when they’re experienced together, and for Yuuki Yuuna wa Yuusha de Aru, that time is now. |
| Selector Spread WIXOSS Episodes 05-09 |
|
|---|---|
|
Cherrie: This is one gem that I could’ve missed so easily if I didn’t marathon the first season. It has surprised me how haunting it is to watch as these young girls play a game that could actually ruin their lives forever. The impact of being a Selector and a LRIG is explained in more detail this month; as is the origins of the game and Mayu herself. It’s not the secrets of the game that are incredibly shocking, but the implications it has on our protagonists and how they continue to try and break the cycle. As far as I’m concerned though, Mayu is still a secondary antagonist compared to Ulith – that girl be crazy! What is her obsession with torturing Ruko about? I was desperately hoping that Akira would deal some damage to her, but it seems like Akira is more psychologically damaged than anyone else. I’m interested to see how everyone’s going to come out alive this season. Last season totally took me by surprise with a cliffhanger so I’m more skeptical than hopeful that all will end well. |
| Garo: Honoo no Kokuin Episodes 05-09 |
|
|---|---|
|
Samu: A definite contender for the most underrated show of the season – in fact, I’d say that Garo is probably the best show that no one is watching. The action continues to be stylish, the comedy between the characters and their (occasionally naked) antics are genuinely funny, and it seems like we’re building towards a long-running story here. With the recent announcement of 7 (yes, 7!) new Garo adaptations – two of which being a second season and an anime movie – it does seem to suggest that we’re only scratching the surface of what’s to come. The past few episodes give that away as well in how MAPPA is delivering these episodes stories that are usually resolved fairly quickly, before moving onto whatever horror pops up next. That being said, Herman is still hilarious, the focus on what’s going on in Leon’s head is much appreciated, and the story of Alfonso, the runaway prince, certainly has lots of potential now that it’s also tying together with Leon’s journey. |
| Log Horizon 2 Episodes 05-09 |
|
|---|---|
|
Stilts: Character development is the name of the game, and most of it has been aimed at Akatsuki as of late. Which is great! For a main character, she has had precious little character development before now—a little angst, but mostly she was stuck as the mildly frustrated follower of Shiroe. That changed when she ran across the serial killer of Akihabara, and decided she was going to take him down. From learning the value of weakness to tripping across an Overskill of her own, Akatsuki finally became a character who is more than just Shiroe’s roleplaying shinobi—now she has goals and desires of her own, and true friends she made all on her own. Finally, Lenessia and Minori aren’t the only ladies getting character arcs! Next up is Shiroe, the scheming introvert who has to figure out how to beat three raid bosses at once. That means more raiding before his arc is done. |
| Sailor Moon Crystal Episodes 09-10 |
|
|---|---|
|
Cherrie: November has been the month of revelations for my shows and Sailor Moon Crystal is no exception to that. This month has revealed the truth behind the Moon Kingdom and all of the Sailor Scouts’ pasts as well as who Princess Serenity is (big surprise there!). Nothing was unpredictable this month, except for the history behind Queen Beryl’s henchmen – that was definitely new material. The artwork and animation continues to improve every month even if the fights are brief and to the point; if it was the reason you turned away from the show, I urge you to continue on because it gets better. I’ve mentioned it before and I will again, but Sailor Moon Crystal does a good job at sticking to its manga material even if it loses some character development along the way. Each episode is meant to keep the plot rolling so there’s never really a dull moment in the series. It amazes me how far along Crystal has come and how different it is from the original Sailor Moon. I won’t say if it’s “better or worse” yet, but it’s “different” and that’s how I’ll describe it for now. |
| Madan no Ou to Vanadis Episodes 05-09 |
|
|---|---|
|
Stilts: War continues as a matter of course in the world of Madan no Ou to Vanadis. The battle against Roland was one of the most intense of the series so far, and refreshing since the enemy wasn’t a coward or a reprehensible monster. The big plot point this month has been the expansion of Tigre’s influence, as well as the growth in his power with his family’s bow. For my money, the guerrilla battle against the Muozinellan advance army which Tigre all but won in a stroke was the best episode of the past five. And … honestly, I don’t know what else to say. Though I like the characters, I don’t feel much for them, which is likely due to the deep source material cuts. There are enemies on all sides and battles all the time, but the anime resists being great. Madan no Ou to Vanadis is still enjoyable, but when I find myself enjoying the Tigre-kun to Vanadi-chu comedy shorts more than the main series, something is off. |
| Ushinwareta Mirai wo Motomete Episodes 05-09 |
|
|---|---|
|
Cherrie: I hate to say it, but Ushinawareta Mirai no Motomete isn’t exactly on the top of my “to-watch” list every week. Especially airing on a Saturday and competing against SAO II and Fate/stay night, I find myself less than satisfied with the outcome of this show. After a decent first episode, I have failed to see another episode afterwards that has captured my attention again. I’ve tried to give Ushinawareta Mirai no Motomete the benefit of the doubt, but there’s just a lack of progression between the plot and characters. It’s not until these last two week that something actually happened! The dots are beginning to connect, but I still feel cheated out of the first seven episodes that could’ve been easily condensed. Here’s hoping that the last few episodes aren’t rushed because then it’d really be a waste of half the season. There’s also a time skip here… but I hope they use it to their advantage rather than as a cop out to speed through the rest of the story. |
| Sword Art Online II Episodes 17-21 |
|
|---|---|
|
Cherrie: My my… what do we have here? A mini arc and the beginning of Mother’s Rosario? I have renewed my interest in Sword Art Online II this month! I wasn’t a huge fan of how GGO played out, but with the focus on this new arc being Asuna, you can bet that I’m on board. She’s always been my favorite girl (first girl wins for me this time) and having some time away from Kirito as MC makes it a refreshing watch. Of course, it makes his appearances that much more valued when he does come to save the day again! Oh yes – that was quite a delicious scene of Kirito being the hero. The new Sleeping Knights guild is also a nice addition since it welcomes a new cast of characters that breaks away from Kirito’s harem of girls. I can appreciate the attempt at focusing more on Asuna’s struggles as a normal girl rather than just seeing them in-game all the time. I’m sure we’ll see some contrasts between Yuuki and Asuna now that they’re “sisters”. Sword Art Online II has me reinvested in this show to see how it all ends and I hope the finale makes it all worthwhile. |
| Fate/stay night Unlimited Blade Works Episodes 04-08 |
|
|---|---|
|
Cherrie: The series that I’ve been looking forward to the most this season… is exactly what I expected it to be. No surprise there. Although I don’t personally remember too much from the UBW movie, I do recall events from Fate/Zero and the original anime, which helps when I have gaps in the story or questions. I’ve always liked this path the most (of the three) so while I’m excited to see it animated, but the beginning is repetitive of the original series and leaves me wanting more. As a first-time viewer, I can imagine how thrilling it must be to see some of the amazing shots of Saber and Rin in action. Guessing which hero each servant is, is also part of the fun. Personally, I don’t think Fate/Stay Night does a good job in keep things a secret very long (I mean, Shinji looks so evil!) but it’s how identities and secrets are revealed that keep me interested. It leaves me to wonder where they’re going to break off for their season break and what kind of cliffhangers ufotable has in store for us. I hope it’s nothing too unbearable because they’ve already spoiled us with this feast for my eyes. |
My top 3 anime of the Fall 2014 season:
Parasyte
Fate/Stay Night UBW
Psycho-Pass 2
They gave me heart palpitations & high blood pressure since episode 1.
Heart palpitations and high blood pressure? Sounds like you need a healthy dose of Mushishi to keep your heart in check and your blood pressure low. I suggest a dose every week.
Nothing like an episode of Mushishi after watching Shinichi or Archer going at it non-stop and being badass.
I don’t think I need to say anymore about what my top 3 are.
I also like Archer. He gives me palpitations… in my nether regions. If you know what I mean. ( ͡° ͜ʖ ͡°)
Truly ’tis…
I too get heart palpitations watching Parasyte. =/
Orenchi no Furo Jijou wins as anime of the season by unanimous decision.
http://www.orztoon.com/anime/wp-content/uploads/Orenchi-no-Furo-Jijou-3.jpg
Isn’t that y-y-yaoi? *walks away slowly*
Props to Parasyte/Kiseijuu for it’s unique OST. First time I heard dubstep & trap beats in my anime.
My top 5 this season:
1. Shigatsu
2. Kiseijuu
3. Amagi brilliant
4. Gundam G Reco
5. Gundam Build Fighters Try
2 = Agree
1, 3 = Acceptable
4, 5 = Seriously?
My top three this season would have to go like this in order.
1.) Kiseijuu: Sei no Kakuritsu. I love this show and I am feel engaged every week
2.) Fate/Stay Night Unlimited Blade/Budget Works. Dat animation is gorgeous and Rin is amazing.
3.) Amagi Brilliant Park. I really enjoy this show it’s most funniest show this season and possibly the whole year imo.
Yup. Amagi Brilliant Park is hilarious.
I started this season thinking “Fate’s going to be the best, I’m 100% sure.” After seeing the 1st episode, I was certain. But now, after Parasyte, I have to change that statement. Even though I’ve been pumped for FS/N since the announcement, Parasyte has blown me away. The character & plot development is top notch. I never really expected to enjoy this series so much, and now I cannot wait for the next episode. Parasyte is AotS and possibly AotY for me. I’ve been tempted so many times to read the manga, but I think I’m going to resist until the anime finishes.
Without a doubt the fantasy is dominating this season for me. Nanatsu no Taizai remains a fun and incredibly simple ride that just does everything right, it avoids the common problem with shounens of trying to maintain a serious atmosphere while testing just how far your suspension of disbelief stretches. The ridiculous powers are case in point, the show all but flaunts how overpowered the main characters (and villains) are and never once tries to apologize for it or explain it away. It’s nothing but a wickedly fun weekly half hour.
Shingeki no Bahamut also continues to gather strength and fully makes up for the utter failures we have gotten in fantasy of late in series like Blade and Soul. Probably this season’s black horse IMO, and not just for the competent loli zombie and the Favaro/Kaisar rivalry 😛 Why it has only one cour I have no idea because this is one of the best “standard” fantasy shows to come out in a while.
Only other show to stubbornly trip up expectations is Inou Battle wa. As you mentioned Stilts it seems to have no idea what it wants to be, quietly morphing from what looked like the typical comedy/harem school adventure into a chuunibyou SoL series with a good dose of realistic relationship growth added on top. Hell we got that incredibly surprising and powerful scene with Hatoko, only to quickly jump over to a semi-serious plot line involving fairies and subterfuge. I’m liking it, but it’s defying all attempts at categorization. Probably one of the few “comedies” which could have been legitimately blogged due to the pragmatic focus on chuunibyou and romance.
Inou Battle could have been blogged (though it’s not really a comedy … it’s a drama with silly jokes, like a lot of anime), but we didn’t realize that until far too late. It would have been a fun one though, and about the time Trinity Seven was threatening to topple under its own incompetence, I was regretting not picking up something else. Fortunately T7 has more or less recovered, but not being able to really dig into that Hatoko scene still sings. That was brilliantly done all around.
Agree. Maybe could be included in the “end of season” post with an overall impression…?
stilts if it gets an s2 you should so blog it
Hatoko was totally awesome in that scene. It’s a good little series. There are a lot of those this season.
Denki-gai is turning out pretty well. Kamekooooo! Someone make her happy!
Shirobako is at one moment funny, and the next, really poignant. (Tires. Nothing but tires. Yikes.) Things don’t usually go as easily as they do in our imagination, do they?
Don’t forget Yama no Susume 2! It’s still going! They’re still climbing! Some detours along the way, but generally solid.
And Twintails was still on some kind of crack the last time I checked…
@ projectnoa
You’re probably safe in expecting one.
Nanatsu has this Fairytale vibe.
My favorites of the season:
1. Chaika (It’s flying by at a crazy rate but I cannot resist the eyebrows)
2. Inou Battle (I’m surprised how much I look forward to it each week, and Hatoko’s rant just took it to a new level)
3. Build Fighters Try (The G Gundam references suit Build Fighters so much better than the season 1 material)
4. SAO 2 (GGO’s IMO the second best main arc, but getting Calibur and Mother’s Rosario animated is even better news)
5. Amagi (It’s engaging in how absolutely twisted it is week in and week out *coughTiramiecough*)
As for the unfortunate disappointments, I’ve got Akame ga Kill (manga reader, you’ll just have to give me this one), World Trigger (it’s stunning how low the budget for this show was), and Reconguista (Tomino, why must you forever live in the 1980s?).
Akame ga Kill used to be my favorite. It has now become a cluster f*ck of ridiculousness. Still, Esdeath is best girl. I now look forward to Fate UBW & Kiseijuu every week.
It’s so off the rails now. I have seen a lot of people furious me not so much since I didn’t read the manga but, if they keep killing everyone I care about in the end all that will be left are characters I little care for which sucks.
I’m not VERY upset with Akame ga Kill, but it does feel like they ruined the potential for any future seasons. As a non-manga reader, I just feel like there’s a lot of story that got literally – chopped off very early by killing off characters. Clearly not what the mangaka intended but at least it might entice people to read the manga now! >_>
My top goes like this:
1.Mushishi
2.Kiseijuu
3.Bahamut, Garo, Argevollen
4.Shirobako
5.Fate, Nanatsu
…
x-PsyPass2
PP is enjoyable sometimes but i feel a bit unhappy with the way the characters are used.
– Nanatsu no Taizai:
“…Nanatsu no Taizai is doing its level best to show that shounen action anime can still be a lot of fun.”
I think that’s a very good way to sum up the show (and series). It doesn’t break any new ground, delve into deep philosophical mysteries, or even try to be grim/dark “serious”. Instead, it knows what it’s about and goes about embracing that. Very shounen, but surprisingly for me not offensively so due to the presentation. So while perhaps “popcorn entertainment”, it is (IMO) entertaining and a fun, light watch.
– Shinegeki no Bahamut GENESIS:
By episode 3, I liked this show a lot and it was near the top of my watch list. Lately, I think it’s slipped a bit as the story-telling became a little less focused. Personally, I wouldn’t describe the character development as subtle, but that is present which is the important thing. Amira, however, has become too “damsel in distress” for my tastes. :< Where did the ass-kicking Amira go? I liked her a lot at first, but now, she's "OK". The show seems to be regaining it's footing, at least in part, as we head towards the end. I hope that's the case. Lastly, I agree with Cherrie that it's a shame this didn't get a 2-cour run. There's some solid stuff here, and IMO the additional time would prove beneficial to both the story and storytelling.
– Madan no Ou to Vandis:
“Though I like the characters, I don’t feel much for them, which is
likelydue to the deep source material cuts.”Fixed that for ya Stilts. This really needed a 2-cour run. Hopefully the anime will at least boost LN sales.
– Fate/stay night Unlimited Blade Works
Ufotable continues to impress. There is no let up in the overall quality here – at least not from my perspective. Unlimited Budget Works indeed, and still my favorite of the season.
Shingeki Bahamut is pretty good. Love color palette of the visuals.
Popcorn entertainment Nanatsu no Taizai may be, but there’s no shame in making a really good bowl of popcorn!
Crud. Now I’m hungry.
One thing I’m afraid about Bahamut is that they’ll rush it at some point because it’s not a two-cour. And I sure am waiting to see Amira kick ass again.
I’ve got the feeling that they are going for multiple season’s in the near future. This one is called Shingeki no Bahamut: Genesis, so i’m hopping for some Shingeki no Bahamut: “insert cool name here” 🙂
@blue:
Agree. Bahamut was the biggest surprise of the season for me (in a good way). Visually, I’d say it’s been pretty good throughout. Not UBW levels of course, but enough to be noticeable right from Ep. 01. The BD version should look quite nice.
@Stilts:
Just in case my original comment wasn’t clear – I agree with what you stated in your reply. In fact, that was my intended point. IMO Nanatsu embraces what it is (a very shounen show), and goes about doing just that well – both story and presentation. In some respect, I think the approach taken is refreshing and all too uncommon.
@The Story You Don’t Know:
That’s my concern as well – the ending will be overly rushed. They do have 4 more episodes to go which could prove to be just enough for proper pacing. I’m cautiously optimistic on that. And yeah, I miss “ass-kicking” Amira as well. Frankly, for me her regression (don’t know how else to phrase it) is possibly the most disappointing part of the story thus far. I can understand that they may have needed rein her in a bit given how the story plays out, but IMO they took it too far. :/
Ahaha, aye, I was agreeing with ya
My own monthly one sentence review…
SAO2 – O boy has A-1 nailed it this month, with both Caliber and Mother’s Rosario being very exciting animation-wise (though there were some awkward moments I think it was intentional…hopefully)
PSYCHO-PASS II – The month was somewhat of a crazy festival as revelations came with ever increasing magnitude, from “like a ton of bricks” to “like a nuke”, covering any of its misplaced shocks in the process.
Gundam Reconguista in G – on one hand the overall plot-line’s deep, but on the other hand its dialogue falls really flat on its face.
Selector Spread WIXOSS – O boy does this series continues to impress, its depression levels are pretty high, high enough that nothing fluffy in-universe can stop it other than for it to stop.
Log Horizon 2 – …. (no positive/negative comments)
Gundam Build Fighters Try – IMO this should rank higher than Reconguista just because of it’s clear cut plot (both plots *wink wink*) and execution.
Cross Ange: Tenshi to Ryuu no Rondo – well, I don’t know why but this show’s okay to watch even when some of its plot holes were pothole-sized…
World Trigger – The plot-line’s slow, but the interactions between (all of) the characters really makes the show shine. (it even buffs out Toei’s “quality” animation)
Thank you Cherrie for continuing the monthlies!
Did someone say Cross Ange? *shudders in revulsion*
That and Twintails are my worst this season. And yes, I follow the 3-episode rule before dropping any anime.
It’s called Cross R@pe, not Cross Ange. =)
Well,there’s been one rapey scene which was actually a body cavity search and another ATTEMPT in ep 2,that’s it. They weren’t exactly out of place either seeing as the place they’re at is kind of a prison. The main character isn’t likeable at first but it’s actually understandable why and has been constantly receiving some pretty good character development.
I’d even say that the slower plot progression in favor of characterization & character development is similar to Akatasuki no Yona,especially since both our leads happen to be princesses – or were anyway. But Akatsuki no Yona does all that in a much more dignified manner while Cross Ange’s developments are mixed in with a fanservice that put’s many viewers off to the point that they don’t even bother to notice that there’s been character development,plot progression or both all this time.
There are only 4 shows I’m watching this season:
1- Shingeki no Bahamut – I am really loving this show, its hooking me to watch the next episodes, and I can say I moved on from being irritated at how badly the men are drawn and how their lips look funny xD
2- Akatsuki no Yuna – gosh I marathoned this one last night and it is so good I’d recommend it to everyone.
3- Nanatsu no Taizai – I love this show alot and I love the charecters, waiting for its episodes keeps me going.
4- Oookami Shoujou.. – I love this show because the other three shows I watch are too dark and this one is good for a good cheerful watch
Those are just my two points in, I am bored so I’ll check Garo xD
I get a little distracted by the lips too, I’m like damn get this fool a napkin or something O.o but it’s still definitely in my top 3. Side note, how dare they put *minor spoiler if you haven’t started it* Show Spoiler ▼
Still, they are awesome characters. Favaro is hard to beat though…I mean how you gonna pull off an afro and a mullet at the same time? He did.
I’d highly recommend Garo. It’s by the same studio as Shingeki no Bahamut, and sadly it seems to be cast in its shadow. Garo is awesome though, great action, laugh out loud comedy moments, and it has that artistic flair to it that most shows don’t.
I kind of marathoned Garo last night, and at first I didn’t really like the adult stuff at the begining xD mainly don’t like that in animes (i’m weird I know), but then I am glad I continued it. The show is great!! I kind of regret the marathon-ing, should have taken my time to enjoy each episode. I won’t spoil it but its really worth watching and the story is great, I like how its rolled out between episodes, and episode 7-8 gave me a slight headache xD
Surprisingly the lips of the characters don’t bother me as much in Bahamut as it does in KimiUso o_o I think the character designs and art style in Bahamut fits very well but in KimiUso – the girls look like they have moustaches and the guys look like they have lipstick T_T
You’re watching Ookami Shoujo too?! Awesomeeeee =D
Cherrie ! You’re still watching shigatsu ^^ I think the last episode was simply amazing. Yellow and red 🙂 I have no idea about music but it looks like it took classical music competition to a level that’s more dramatic than shounen 😀
Parasyte is as epic. Psycho pass 2, I’m not sure I would decide if its awesome or awful only after the conclusion.
inou battle is surprisingly nice. I love the chuni comedy. I think chuni is a universal thing. I also had similar talks with friends in high school 😛
yowamushi pedal is running smoothly ~
Fate stay night – I’m not a fan. I liked the original. It suppose it’s ok to rewatch it after fate zero. 😛
I am still watching it! A lot of readers were telling me that it’s one of their favs this season so might as well finish it… it’s also two-cour and a lot of shows aren’t getting such a long run these days so I expect good things =)
That would explain it if you followed that rule… (some anime shine at the 4th, not before)
4th chapter of Cross Ange was the first one I found interesting to watch and from then it’s been delievering decent chapters. Last was a betrayal chapter with no mercy. (with Zola gone, everything was better :P)
For twintails, it’s fun to watch. Sometimes they lose themselves in their talking, but it’s definitely a good show within it’s own kind of world. Good enough to keep coming each week at least. :3
Response to kaye’s :3
Here’s the list of anime that I enjoy the most this season (in no particular order):
– Cross Ange ~Tenshi to Ryuu no Rondo~
– Shirobako
– Shingeki no Bahamut ~Genesis~
– Sora no Method
– Fate/stay night ~Unlimited Blade Works~
Not gonna rank them because I know how people get with numbers.
Anyone still watching Twintails? XD
Loving Twintails. Wish there was more Mikoto though.
Dropped it last month.
You don’t love twintails enough.
*raises hand proudly*
Hall hail to twintails!
PS: The owl monster had my very same attribute. I feel so sad!
In all my history of watching anime, it was the first one that I dropped before my 4 ep rule(3 is not enough as it ｕｓｕａｌly the worldbuilding episodes). That level of suspension of disbelief just doesn’t stick with me…. Others may like it but I just can’t.
Yup, me too. Also dropped it. Glad to know I’m not the only one who didn’t like it.
Twintails coud not be a good show, but a pretty smart one. Just notice how it mocks your average anime fan’s fetish having it smashed down in the face like the main heroine doesn’t give a fuck. After all Loli is justice, so shut up and explode! It’s silly and stupid and that’s the way with it.
Also Molin you traitor! I thought you were on the loving side!! I’ll unleash Red Loli Justice against you!!
@Solaris
Sorry. My sneak attack was too perfect no one saw it coming. XD
I am forced unwillingly to agree to that and give +1. >_>”
@Solaris
Always like a good sport. You can have my +1 as well. =D
I didn’t even start it. The plot sounded silly to me. Surely there are better writers in the anime industry.
Most people don’t watch it, but the people who like it really like it. Myself included.
My comedy anime of the year. Nozaki Kun will have to compete with Kokuri-san as my 2nd favorite.
Ore Twintails is funny. As a fan of kamen rider and power ranger. Twintails truly mocking my glorious love for tokusatsu. The enemy is hilarious, the heroine is cute and many stuff happened without giving any fuck to the viewer. That’s an A plus from my point of view. 😀
I’m watching 18 shows this season, so it’s a busy one.
My favourites haven’t changed from the start this time: Shingeki no Bahamut, Fate UBW, Parasyte and Log Horizon 2 have been consistently strong. And my, what a line-up. A complete surprise hit, another adaptation of a long-running franchise, an adaptation of an old classic and a good sequel.
Bahamut is just loads of fun, and pulls of the whole ‘swashbuckling adventure’ style magnificently well. Plot’s progressing in a good pace as well and every episode makes me excited for the next. And to think it’s based on a freaking cardgame! Fate being awesome is no surprise, but it’s still a good watch, and Log Horizon 2 keeps delving more and more into its interesting world and characters. And finally Parasyte, which is just a superb horror-type show that is certainly going to rank high on my end-of-year lists.
On a slightly lesser rank, there’s stuff like the ever-entertaining Amagi Brilliant Park, funny-as-hell yet d’awww-inducing short Danna ga Nani, good old zen-show Mushishi and solid fantasy Chaika (but ye gods its kinda rushed now).
Wixoss is better now as well since the plot started moving again (both seasons started out really damn slow) and its mysteries are intriguing. Nanatsu no Taizai is just a fun shonen romp that doesn’t try to be anything more than what it is, and it keeps me surprisingly interested every week. Sailor Moon is Sailor Moon and Yama no Susume I’m behind on. Then there’s Grisaia and Vanadis, two shows that keep entertaining but are both utterly and insanely rushed. With Grisaia they’re cramming an entire VN into one cour, with Vanadis they seem to enjoy cramming four LN’s into one season again. I mean, c’mon! Haven’t they learned anything? Putting that many LN’s in is always a bad idea, and the best adaptations are usually those that only use two (like No Game No Life or HataMaou). *sigh* Akame ga Kill! also takes a ride on the rush train and people start dying left and right. Bad idea, because it lacks impact. Let’s hope the ending is decent.
On the more meh side of the spectrum, you’ve got Shirobako. Not a bad show by any means, but, well, it’s hard to motivate myself to watch it. I usually watch it while playing a game on a handheld, so that says something. Also, I find that Psycho:Pass 2 has taken a bit of a turn for the ridiculous, and it’s hard to see it as anything more than a popcorn flick now. And Mika…ye gods, Mika. She’s like an anime version of Navi the fairy. I always reflexively yell ‘shut up, Mika’ whenever she shows up on screen.
And I suppose my biggest dissapointment this season comes from Sora no Method. Not that it’s actually bad – I’ve seen way worse this year – but it’s such a letdown in so many ways. Part of it comes from expectations: I wanted a more mystery-based approach, yet it goes for a character-focused tale. Yet it doesn’t even do that right. It just throws out heaps and heaps of melodrama, usually caused by two utterly aggravating characters (Yuzuki and Shione) who have really dumb motivations for their actions too. Especially Shione with her constant ‘you abandoned me >:(‘ whining. Yes, Nonoka, how dare she, for such a little thing too, like, y’know, her mother dying. And then our far too kind-hearted protag just swallows it and apologizes. What the f-? Not to mention nobody seems in any kind of rush to tell anyone anything – the characters just do not communicate. It’s frustrating to watch. At least there’s Noel’s antics to tie me over, but ugh, this show isn’t winning any favors with me.
I can definitely see where your frustration with Sora no Method comes from >_> I really enjoyed ep 5 and 6? The one with the hot springs and the one where Nonoka visits her mother’s grave, but all the eps surrounding it reminds me of how children would behave when they’re obsessed with ONE thing and can’t let it go. It gets to be too much but that’s why you have less dramatic eps in between. Also, I don’t like how no one is willing to reach out and just “talk things out”. I mean, things could easily be solved if people didn’t keep ignoring one another or storming off =S
Agreed. Also, what is it with the storming out of a conversation every time its getting somewhere…? 🙁
Pity nobody in the staff watched to Cross Ange.
I would have loved to read comments on how the main heroine always gets fucked up every episode (LOL).
Wtf is this hate for poor Angelise-sama? I know it’s Sunrise, but at least drop a word or two…
A list of Twintails Guildies and their respective elemeras/fetishes:
http://forums.animesuki.com/showpost.php?p=5341347&postcount=699
If you were a Guildy, what would your fetish be?
I’d be the owl with (shitty) literature fetish
Older Sister/Ponytail/Naked Apron FTW!!!!
is there no Oppai Loli trait? 😀
LN readers say the Vanadis anime will likely cover the entire Brune civil war arc. Hence the massive cuts in material. I can share some, if you’d like.
For those wondering, Tigre is fast becoming an object of desire by nearly all the female characters in the novels(although he is too naive/innocent/cautious to take further steps). Sofya has also confirmed Tigre ia packing a LARGE arrow in his pants.
I would gladly read spoilers on Vanadis’ episodes left out in the anime, but I think we needed a full fledged article for just that (and another several articles for Chaika as well)
I think you’d need a series of articles for each of both :p.
Sooooo many great shows to watch!
Hatako’s VA on Inou Battle wa Nichijou-kei no Naka de did that blow-up in one take, according to an involved Twitter account. Very impressive.
The shows I am following this season:
*The aforementioned Inou Battle
*Amagi Brilliant Park
*Parasyte
*That cute girls climbing mountains short
*Shirobako
*Denki-gai no Honya-san
*the I Can’t Understand my Husband short
*Gundam Build Fighters Try
An good medium number of shows. I’m excited to see how some of these will end in the coming weeks.
”That cute girls climbing mountains short”
What is this?
Yama no Susume 2
Also just want to say, since Moot over on 4chan and I Can’t Understand My Husband reminded me, Happy Birthday Asuka! Misato’s Birthday is on December 8, 1986; the same as mine. 🙂
hayami saori’s performance in inou battle episode 7 must be one of the greatest seiyuu performance ever. I don’t even know what word i should use to describe that performance anymore.
She’s always been good, but that was … wow. A perfect storm of characterization, directing, and acting talent.
yeah i started to notice that she is good since kami nomi zo shiru sekai a couple years back, but that performance has taken her to a new level
Out of curiosity, is anyone watching Girlfriend?
I kept watching thinking that the next episode would have some kind of plot or direction or something. Then they made me dislike a Kikuko Inoue character and that was a good indication to drop it.
They made someone dislike a Kikuko Inoue character? Burn it. Burn the series to the ground. That’s a capital offense.
Yes, I do (and still) watch that show. Just a “guilty pleasure/something to pass the time” thing.
Kikuko Inoue’s character in the show (for those who don’t know) is a student council president who mostly serves as “the load” to the rest of the student council.
On the bright side, though…she makes really good tea. And fortunately for her, her VP is hypercompetent.
Of course, I’m only watching Girlfriend (Kari) because of Chloe Lemaire. Though Kokomi is kinda cute in her own way…
So how’s it going?
The Student Prez ep was irritating. I’m not saying Inoue is bad, she is a goddess. It was just that annoying character. I’m just disappointed that I never made it to Nao Touyama’s character (if she ever got an episode).
@celebrinen:
The show’s not too bad, but not too good either. It’s (mainly) a non-ecchi “guilty pleasure” show that relies mostly on high school slice-of-life scenarios and cute girls doing cute things. The only thing unique about it is the loads and loads of cute girls voiced by both well-known and up-and-coming seiyuus.
I believe Nao Touyama’s character (a street performer/juggler) has already appeared in a few episodes, usually whenever Kokomi Shiina is in the spotlight (Emi and Kokomi are second-year classmates). Even though Nao Touyama does a good job voicing Emi, you can still hear a tiny bit of Karen Kujou from her, LOL.
My top 5 this season, in no particular order:
Fate/Unlimited Blade Works
Sword Art Online II
Akame ga Kill!
Amagi Brilliant Park
Trinity Seven
anyone here watch Daitoshokan no hitsujikai?
I want to know what you think when watching it.
Did Guardian Enzo just…….. disappear for a month!?
No, Enzo is hibernating. He hasn’t woken up yet after watching Season 1 of Mushishi. It put him into a deep sleep.
Enzocchi is on hiatus, as mentioned in the fall season schedule.
Well ah’ gawsh dang completely MISSED that part of that blog post.
So I suppose with Guardian Enzo, SHIROBAKO went with him. On his site Lost in Anime, no more posts for SHIROBAKO exist after the first 4 or so episodes, when it’s already on Episode 9. … upon trying to look at the last post he made here on RC, it was around a MONTH since his last one. Because the sentence is near the middle of the link you sent, not everyone is guaranteed to catch that little note.
Huzzah! Finally some love for Garo and Shingeki no Bahamut in the monthly impressions! Thanks for the writeup guys!
My top three this season are hands down:
#1 – Shingeki no Bahamut: this show does fantasy adventure near perfectly. The setting feels real and detailed, the action and animation are amazingly animated and choreographed, the plot, while not the most original, pulls enough elements together and is paced well enough to keep you interested without being confusing or boring, and the characters and entertaining and endearing. People with different tastes may not like it as much, but for me this is hands down the anime of the season, probably the year.
#2 – Ore Twintails ni Narimasu: is it stupid? Yes. Trashy? Absolutely. Well animated? Probably not. Intellectually deep and complex? Hell no. Fanservicey? Hell yeah. So what sets Twintails apart from the rest of the ecchi/harem pack this season? It completely revels in its ridiculousness and trash while acknowledging it by being subtly self-depreciating. This is one of those shows where you can feel that the creators are having fun with the insane premise, and it bleeds through to give the entire show an energy and life that help make it so entertaining. This sort of insane, reality-defying, blatantly over the top, somewhat trashy comedy is the style of humor I enjoy most and one of the things that drew me to anime in the first place. Twintails definitely isn’t for everyone, but it does what it intends to do exceptionally well. Hopefully we’ll get randomC’s take on it at some point this year (hint hint).
#3 – Garo: I’d completely agree that this is Fall 2014’s most underwatched, underrated show. It has the feel of a monster hunter/superhero weekly with an overarching main plot and manages to pull it off fantastically. The characters are realistic, entertaining, and endearing with a lot going on “under the hood” so to speak. The medieval Europe setting is also excellently done and really feels like a real world, with large castle downs, dirt poor villages, and most recently an ancient Roman Aqueduct. Glad to hear that this is getting more seasons, because it definitely deserves it.
.
Random commentary on other shows:
Yuuki Yuuna is a really good magical girl show. The action scenes are visually impressive and they make great use of an excellent soundtrack all the while. The characters and setting are nothing too unique or exceptional (save for the novelty of a handicapable sniper), but the execution of everything is so good and keeps you coming back for more. I’m 100% sure it’ll eventually take a turn for the grimdark and break my heart.
As a VN-reader I couldn’t stand watching the anime adaptation of Grisaia no Kajitsu butcher the plot. I take back every negative thought I’ve ever had about people complaining that the source material was better, I now feel your pain!
Inou Battle is definitely a curious show. I’m not terribly fond of the harem elements or how the main character constantly switches between insightful empathic wise-man and stereotypical dense harem protagonist, but everything else is pretty darn interesting. Hatako’s breakdown was one of the most impactful scenes of the entire year, and I’m really curious about the fairy war that’s going on in the background. If only the harem elements weren’t so cliche, especially since it’s obvious that nobody will win the Andoubowl this season, and that Tomoyo will eventually win it.
While Fate/Stay Night is definitely a good show, it has a lot of issues preventing it from being a great show in my eyes. The pacing and exposition are my biggest beef with it; one moment it’ll be “war on!” with intense action, and then the next it’ll be “war off!” with a mountain of useless exposition or boring, out of place slice of life. Shirou himself said that it’s better to show and not tell, ironically in an episode that then proceeded to break that rule for the next twenty minutes. It’s also immensely frustrating how people will back off from a fight for no apparent reason instead of acting like they’re in the deathmatch the Grail War is. Shirou can be excused due to his idealism and naivete, but all the other characters who have trained their entire lives for this cannot. Overall, it just feels a tad too clinical and sterile to me; too much like a visual novel that’s being read aloud (with very pretty background pictures) and not enough like an anime.
Really?I was under the impression that Tomoyo and Jurai would be the ones to get together. If only I could find a link to the raw lns.
That’s what I said, Andou’s Jurai’s last name…
Sadly I highly doubt that any romance will get anywhere. In this kind of show, it’s better to keep everyone half happy with hopes for their personal ships and no definitive resolution relationship wise.
Watch Bahamut, people. You won’t regret it. If you liked Lupin the III, Cowboy Bebop, Samurai Champloo, Outlaw Star, then this might be the show for you. A good mix of humor, action, and fantasy will always be a win in my book.
For once, the MC is not an annoying weakling given a super power nor is he a Perfect God Mode character. That doesn’t stop him from being a lovable badass though. Pretty sure you’d all be shouting “Faaaaaaaaavaroooooooooooooooo” in no time.
My Favorites this season are (in no particular order)
-GARO (Watch This anime, people. It’s great. Glad to see that at least Samu is Watching it)
-Wixoss (Psycho Akira is best Akira and Ulith is a great Villain)
-Akatsuki no Yona (Loving this show. Yona is so Cute ^^)
-PSYCHO-PASS 2 (Am i the only one who doesn’t hate Mika?)
-Kiseiju (Not a fan of Shinichi being a Badass who gets all the girls but it’s still a very good show. Kana>Murano BTW)
And I’m sorry guys. But I still don’t know what the F/SN Hype is all about.
From the dozen animes that i’m watching i am really glad with:
– Kiseijuu: Sei no Kakuritsu (Parasyte)
Shinichi has become a badass and though i kind of miss the good guy type, that he was in the beginning, i must say that über powered Shinuchi is doing great in showing us a different side of the story, and that conflict between staying human vs gaining more power and wal the path of becoming a monster is a plus.
– Fate/Stay Night UBW
I’ve read the VN and know what’s gonna hapen, but i still love watching every episode, plus THAT QUALITY! Also that was my favourite route (Rin and Archer are amazing):)
– Psycho Pass 2
After an amazing first season, they manage to piss of the original author and still pull a good story. The worst part for me is the lack of Kogami… Even Akane is missing him :/
-Shingeki no Bahamut Genesis
This one wasn’t even in my list in the beginning of the season, i just watched the first episode, because it was a slow Tuesday and BAM, WOW, what a show 🙂 Epic Story, cool characters, it all makes sense, none of that is rushed, just great.
– Akatsuki no Yona
I still remember watching the first episode and feeling that this one would be another one of those romantic/drama animes with a romanthic traingle and then… somebody kills Yona’s father and it catapults the anime into awesome town. Amazing story, great character development, and it manages to do something that in most shows, that try to tell a decent story, would probably destroy the feelings: it has comic moments drawn in a chibi way and it’s funny :v
-Nanatsu no Taizai
Well, it has action, nice characters, epic powers and a feeling of laissez faire that leads into fun and great moments.
I would like to give an honorable mention for:
-Cross Ange (it really is a decent show with a nice story if you get past the second episode, it’s an all girl’s detention facility where there’s a chance of dying with every battle, but the real story here is the prejudice against people who are not abble to wear magic)
-Ushinawareta Mirai wo Motomete (multiverse, time travelling, A.I., i just love those things)
Disapointments:
Akame ga Kill – Kill the continuity! Once it deviated from the manga it deviated from being awesome. Will be reading the manga though :p
Trinity Seven – The only thing that keeps this one together is the fact that it has nice girls and comedy moments, the magic part gets a passing grade but until episode 8 it’s just plain.
Grisaia no Kajitsu and Mandan no Ou to Vanadis – Rush , all done in a rush, unlimited rush works!
The Shows i am watching this Season are:
1.) Amagi Brilliant Park (because entertainment since from the Start)
2.) Akatsuki no Yona (The Story and serious tune combines with some Humors)
3.) Madan no Ou to Vanadis (Also the Story and serious tune and fights)
4.) Shirobako (Give a bit background, in how Anime production Work. Audience is more for working adult fans)
5.) Log Horizon 2 (i admit it, after Episode 6. Before it was just Aftereffects of Season 1 for me)
6.) Sanzoku no Musume Ronja (to watch this Old Story animated with this Studio. i am a Ghibli fan. And i saw the real Film of “Ronja die Räubertochter”)
7.) Fate/Stay Night (More for the astounding Animations and Action. it is no secret what kind of Budget they have)
8.) Trinity Seven (reminds me of Highschool DxD. Echi Fan-service with good Story. i am impressed in how they handle the Ecchi)
9.) Gundam_ G no Reconguista (Actually i droped it, because the MC was to much of a Super genius all known Person, and a bit annoying. To much for my taste. Sorry)
10.) Bahamut (Well it has pretty Pictures and awesome Animations. But the Story.. the Story is it weakness. An Female fallen Angel (reminds me a bit of Ah My Goddess Half Demon/Angel Sister) want to meet Big badda Bum Dragon for Destroying the World to create a New?. Old overused Storyline)
Wow Saori Hayami is good. Now I’m hyped up for Oregairu season 2 because that’s where shit is about to go down.
Top 3 from the series you have said…
1. SwKnU
Just the best. Period.
2. FSN:UBW
Astonishing.
3. SMC
A little slow pacing but still a pleasure to watch, always better than fillerFILLED previous anime in both pace & animation (not so sure about music, ya know… Too hard this, same as if they try to remake Saint Seiya and decide to change the music… uh-oh… You can’t beat the unbeatable 😉
4. Parasyte
Gladly surprised.
long acronyms composed of japanese transliterated into english … is never a good idea
I’m following Bahamut, Garo, Mushishi, FS:UBW, and Cross Ange. Cross Ange because it’s like Valvrave; a Sunrise trainwreck you can’t help but watch to see how it engulfs in flames.
Who here is still following Kokkuri-san?
I’m watching the following shows:
Sanzoku no Musume Ronja – I watched the first two episodes and thought Ronja was the cutest baby ever animated, however, nothing much happens after that. I think the plot is too slow for my liking, but I was interested again when Birk came out, because he livened the atmosphere and he is a fun character and he complements Ronja’s character really well, I could imagine being bored out of my mind in Ronja’s world when the only people around are adults. I was disappointed again when Birk was absent the previous two chapters. I am really looking forward to the next episode when he comes back.
Cross Ange – I am actually skimming through this show. It is badly drawn (even the breasts look bad) considering it comes from Sunrise. And I don’t know what I’m irritated by more, Ange or Mizuki Nana. I do apologize, but I think she has a terrible acting voice, she should just stick to singing.
Gundam G Reconguista – For me, this feels like a Ghibli’s take on a Gundam series in terms of art style and especially the part before the show goes on break when the characters do some silly dance. No offense to Ghibli, I love Ghibli! I think this show has a serious lack of seriousness. I don’t feel the tension, nervousness or the negative feelings associated with war. There’s a war going on, man. All in all, it gives the wrong feeling.
World Trigger – I read Samu’s review on this show and decided to see what the manga was about. I really enjoyed it and it has become a manga that I look forward to reading every week. Then I watched the anime and really loved it and I have rewatched several episodes (more than once), because I enjoyed them that much. The music is excellent and voice acting well done. I am not bothered by the pacing or the so-called substandard animation. This show has better artwork than many other shows this season. And, Yuuma is my favourite character, but he and Chika are especially adorable together.
The screenshot for Shigatsu wa kimi no uso is one of my favorite scenes (Kousei’s turn to give piggyback ride to Tsubaki XD)
Amagi Brilliant Park-I’m still enjoying the jokes too and especially sexy voice of Uchiyama Kouki <3
Ookami Shoujo-This one, I'm following the manga too!Kyouya is so sweet despite how he acts.lol Sometimes I squeal in front of the screen/manga XD (not to mention, Sakurai-san's voice perfectly matches Kyoya!)
Psycho-pass 2:all time favorite!Another awesome ending from supercell since that epic "Namae no nai Kaibutsu" ending <3
Sora no method, shirobako, Akatsuki no Yona, sword art online II, etc.
My favorite scene of the series so far =) That’s why I picked it!!
I realize that no one really cares about it but I do have to commend Yugioh Arc-V for actually getting back to the roots of Yugioh while at the same time moving forward with evolution of the game (plus it totally redeems the franchise after the steaming pile that was Zexal).
Actually i like yu-gi-oh Arc-V better than ZEXAL. The premise of the story is much more complicated than ZEXAL. I like how the how presented the battle. But, the first twenty episode of the show is so slow paced than the ZEXAL. Rather than that it’s pretty much enjoyable.
actually my comment meant to say that I liked Arc-V a lot more than Zexal ^_^ it came out weird. Agreed, Arc-V is slow to start up, but at least it knew the direction it was going (Oh my god, that Sora vs Shun duel was so freaking great!). Zexal’s start was faster, but the show’s plot really had no direction for a great while and to me I didn’t really connect with an of the characters that we started out with. Only person I actually liked were….the side characters introduced farther into the series. While Arc V, almost everyone won me over.
The one that make me hate Zexal than any of the Yu-gi-oh franchise is the second season.
Zexal is fast paced but after a while but the direction is damn.
And I agree with you, Sora vs Shun duel is so awesome that make me crave to see more, the last time i feel like that is when Yusei vs Jack Atlas in the Fortune Cup. Wow, that was long time ago. Arc-V convince me, and i’m going to stick with it until the end. 😀
YES, someone is watching yugioh ARC-V!
Man, that episode 34(dat face. http://livedoor.blogimg.jp/subcuroute/imgs/2/6/2618ffdc.jpg ). I can’t wait for how things will turn out.
And I also love the fact that there is so much mystery involving “Academia”, “Heartland”, and mysterious D-runner synchro user.
Its really exiting to see these connections with the previous series. Like how Academia is most likely referring to Duel Academia from GX(and Sora’s clothing kind of resembles Obelisk blue uniform). And Heart Land is quite obvious because it is where ZEXAL took place(also proven in the ED where they actually show heartland). And if you look closely at the OP, the motorcycle is definitely a D-runner, because the D-runner does in fact have a rainbow ring around its engine, thus the 5Ds era’s main energy source “moment”.
All I can do is thank the director, because I heard ARC-V has the same director as 5Ds. And in my opinion, I think 5Ds is the yugioh series so far. So I’m super hype for what’s going to happen in the future.(and yuya and yuto are finally meeting next episode!)
Wow i didn’t know that Arc-V and 5D’s have the same director. No wonder i enjoy the show so much.
Indeed Yu-Gi-Oh 5D’s is the most awesome show in the yu-gi-oh franchise. I like how the show is so dark compared with other series. And i hope Arc-V take the same turn. I really miss the excitement when i watched yu-gi-oh. It’s just, Zexal is not sitting so well with me. That’s why i really have big expectation with Arc-V.
Yup, their director is the same person (obviously meaning that Zexal had a different director). Only thing I fear with Arc-V is down the road, it’ll get the same filler treatment as 5D’s did (that’s when it kind of dipped in quality). Because if you remember in the Fortune Cup Arc, there was a lot of pointless fillers, like Jack dueling a loan shark, Yusei dueling the clock guy, etc. That’s because that was the time the Bonds Beyond Time movie was in production, so the director of 5D’s went to work on that, leaving the actual plot of 5D’s open to filler until he could resume his position. Same is probably going to happen to Arc V because of the new movie that’s already in production.
Oh yeah, another thing to support that Academia is from the GX era. If you look at Shun’s flashback images, one of the Academia people uses an Ancient Gear monster. As we know, only professor’s at Duel Academy are allowed to use that deck (there was a professor in the 5D’s duel academy that also used that. 5D’s, GX, and DM are all in the same universe so it works considering Zexal is a different universe).
Man….I kind of wish someone here showed slight interest in the show (but in a way I also understand why other people wouldn’t watch it unless you still were into the card game), because honestly there’s enough content in most episodes to generate a good amount of discussion with us.
Wow, didn’t know that 5D’s have a movie. That’s surprising, consider i am a fan of yu-gi-oh since the first Yu-Gi-Oh in middle school. Can you tell me what title of the Arc-v Movie? I need more research for this subject. 😀
That’s flashback is surprising. I thought the enemy Shun mention is the LDS, considering the enemy he search is the Head of LDS, what’s his name again?
Well, because i am a fan of Yu-Gi-Oh, i can’t bring myself read or watch the same card game genre like Vanguard or Selector WIXOS. I always unconsciously comparing Vanguard or WIXOS with Yu-Gi-Oh. Like how the battle system, the Life Points system, the story, character, etc.
There’s no movie name, we just know one is in production. As for the 5D’s one, its Bonds Beyond Time. It features Yuji, Jaden, and Yusei….somewhat of a dissapointment because it was only like 45ish minutes.
Though I guess it depends on the person….because I have no problem getting into Wixoss.
THe real enemy is Reiji’s father (for some reason). Not enough information asides from Reiji looking for people to build an army to go against his father….not sure how he ties in all of this.
Thanks, gonna check it out.
Well, i drop Vanguard and Wixoss in the first season. Dunno if i have to rewatch from season 1 or just go ahead watchin season 2.
For Arc-V, i really hope they didn’t make the show go Second season. Because when i look Zexal, the show is turning bad in my opinion. Why the hell did they make the last boss in season one helluva powerful when they want to make the second season of Zexal.
Wow, that’s all for the rant. 😀
i am waiting in expectation with the upcoming episode next 2 weeks. why the hell they take a break on the most crucial plot.
Nanatsu no Taizai: Diane is awesomedorable.
That is all we know on Earth, and all we need to know.
Great and sweet, best girl from Nanatsu no Taizai. That reaction when King was about to criticize her in the last episode and she just hide her face with her twintails, sweet girl xD
I read this post and watched all 9 episodes of Yuuki Yuuna in one go, and oh dear lord, why was this show under my radar all this time.
This show is definitely a late bloomer and a lot of people like me, might have missed this show just because of it. Judging by the lack of comments for this show (literally zero), this is most likely the case.
Please, go watch this show right now, you are definitely missing out! And no, the 3-episode rule does not apply.
Also, don’t worry about the animation quality, it is definitely in the top percentile for this season.
@Stilts, Thank you for doing an impression for Yuuki Yuuna! I know this will be a lot of work, but please do a series impression when this ends to bring this show in others’ radars.
You’re welcome! And thank you for posting this … sometimes it feels like we’re talking into a void when we talk about these lesser watched shows, but if I helped one person find something that really enjoy, totally worth it 😀
And I’ll try to do an END post! Though it’s airing on x-mas day, and I have a rehersal dinner & wedding to go to the next two days, sooooo we’ll see how all that goes, lol
Definitively not talking to the void. I can’t count the times when a random impression from one of you guys motivate me to pick what turned to be one of my favorites. Thanks for your hard work.
Yuuki Yuuna is the most unexpected show i ever watch. I like how the show turn darker the moment they finish the job. It’s not just some moe-moe show about girls beating some random enemies.
This season is definitely a treat for those who love adventure and fantasy anime. But for me the top three of my watch list is :
1. Shigatsu wa Kimi no Uso
This show is deliver what anime is. The feeling of wanting more, honestly this show is the only show i anticipated so much each week. How the show deliver the story is absolute beauty. And the Soundtrack is top notch. I am fall in love with this show. I recommended this show for you who wants a good show to watch.
2. Psycho Pass 2
Psycho Pass 2 is a treat for me, because i loved this series from the first season. the only setback is because there is no Kogami Shinya. Other than that i ain’t got any complaint for this show.
3. Kiseijuu Sei no Kakuritsu
Kiseijuu is a classic. That’s what my impression when i read the manga. And the anime is just fantastic i like how the show handle the story so well. The only disappointing or “relief” i got from this show is when they give us ‘softer’ gore than the manga. I have mixed feeling about the gore part.
This season i mainly followed 9 or 10 show. Here is the list which anime i’m following each week :
1. Shigatsu wa Kimi no Uso
2. Psycho Pass 2
3. Kiseijuu Sei no Kakuritsu
4. Nanatsu no Taizai
5. Shingeki no Bahamut
6. World Trigger
7. Any Gundam show
8. Amagi briliant park
9. World Trigger
Show like Akame, Log Horizon, SAO, and Fate is the show i didn’t follow each week. I basically wait 4 or 5 episode then watch it in maraton. In my opinion. it’s more entertaining that way. 😀
I Forgot to Mention “Garo Honoo no Kokuin” as number 10. As a fan of garo franchise i think Garo Honoo no Kokuin is the most underrated anime this season. I like how garo armor is looking more beautiful in the anime than in the live action.
My top 3 (in no order):
Shigatsu
UBW
Wixoss (But if i had to say my favorite, it would be this one) Took me by suprise this season and it only has gotten better.
Top 5 for this season in no particular order
1) Psycho Pass 2 (love the story)
2) Akame ga Kill (best fight scenes this season and the death flags)
3) Log Horizon 2 (awesome writing especially love it for it reminds me of my hardcore MMO days)
4) Yuuki Yuuna wa Yuusha de Aru (Slow pacing but awesome character development especially picks up around ep 7)
5) Gundam Try Fighter and Gundam G (Gundam Junkie :P)
Yuuki Yuuna wa Yuusha de Aru is definitely a sleeper to those who wrote it of after the initial couple of episodes your patients will be rewarded as this show will take you on a emotional roller coaster.
Ok I have more time than i had originally anticipated. I NEED TO DO THIS.
I made this post purely for discussion with the people watching these shows. Abundant spoilers ahead. You have been warned.
These are the shows i’ve put in time every week to watch (along with my rating so far */5):
Ookami Shoujo to Kuro Ouji (3.5)
Show Spoiler ▼
Akame ga Kill (3)
Show Spoiler ▼
Trinity Seven (3.5)
Show Spoiler ▼
Hitsugi no Chaika: Avenging Battle (4)
Show Spoiler ▼
Denki-gai no Honya-san (4)
Show Spoiler ▼
Shigatsu wa Kimi no Uso (4.5)
Show Spoiler ▼
Amagi Brilliant Park (4)
Show Spoiler ▼
Selector Spread WIXOSS (4.5)
Show Spoiler ▼
Log Horizon 2 (5)
Show Spoiler ▼
Ushinawareta Mirai wo Motomete (2.5)
Show Spoiler ▼
Sword Art Online II (4)
Show Spoiler ▼
Fate/stay night Unlimited Blade Works (4.5)
Show Spoiler ▼
Amagi Brilliant Park:
This is one of those shows that gives you a serious well writen story, disguised in a sea of cute, fluffy characters. And it’s good and funny.
I must admit that though i’m rooting for them to save the park, i’m also hoping for a Sento and Seya finale :p
WIXOSS
Man, that’s some wicked show, it’s filled with pain and darkness, a twisted game and some even more twisted characters, i don’t know wich is worse, if psychopat Ulith in Iona’s body or damage case Aki-lucky. I really like it, i’ve picked this one when it came out and i have no regrets.
Hoping for a clear explanation about Mayu, the origins of this game and Mayu’s powers aren’t still clear enough…
Hitsugi no Chaika: What can i say about this one, it’s rushed, you can feel it, but i’ve fallen in love with white Chaika so i’m hooked xD It’s got a nice plot, that Guy guy (ahahah) and the whole Gaz plan are interesting, and i do like Toru has a character and has a fighter, he is capable. Besides that last episode really caught me by surprise :O
Amagi really took me a few episodes to get invested into the story. But the jokes were hilarious, especially the AV bait hahahaha.
As for Wixoss,
Show Spoiler ▼
There is a piece of the puzzle we’re missing and i feel like it’s going to be revealed either this week or next. That being said…I’m downloading the episode right now!
Chaika has really been a ride. I’m rooting for the Chaika x Toru ship, but i can’t feel but want Akari to get some sort of reciprocation. I just thought of this:
Show Spoiler ▼
I thought that she was one more caught in the madness Show Spoiler ▼
Completely agree about WIXOSS, the next episodes will be crucial for understanding if Mayu will just be declared as a god ex machina kind of character or something more. Also downloading the episode now :p
Inou Battle has captured my heart from the start, then Hayami Saori’s Hatoko happened…
It is now my favorite anime of all time. Episode 7 was THAT good.
Seriously? No TERRAFORMARS????? :\
Can not believe that in my review above i forgot ot talk about the Monster of Awesome action that is Terra Formars. I give to you one name Adolf Reinhard, two episodes ago Show Spoiler ▼
Well, i do saw Episode 1 and the episode where they got the Next Crew for Mars, and arriving there to get slaughter again like Episode 1. Are they just flying Human living stock for the cockroaches on Mars? a Bear eaten flesh out of the stomach?, and he still life and kill the bear.. i would not mind, but do he not feel the pain? No he got a flashback of his Girlfriend…
So Episode 1, was a huge turn down, where the follow 2 episodes do not turn it better for me
I’m glad I’m not the only one not entirely sure what’s going in Gundam Reconguista. It’s like I get the gist of what’s going on, but I’m never entirely sure if I’m right or not.
My watch list (From First to Still-Good-But-Someone-Had-To-Come-Last)
1. Fate/Stay Night: Unlimited Blade Works
2. Gundam Build Fighters Try
3. Psycho-Pass 2
4. Log Horizon
5. Gundam Reconguista in G
6. Shigatsu ga Kimi no Uso
7. Cross Ange
8. Argevollen
Reading this really makes me wish I had more time in my life. The only series I’m watching this season are KimiUso, Akame ga Kill, Grisaia no Kajitsu and Selector Spread WIXOSS. I’m actually hoping that one of the seasons next year DOESN’T have anything that catches my eye just so I can catch up on the ones I want to watch from this season but couldn’t (Sora no Method, InouBattle, Akatsuki no Yona, Girlfriend, SHIROBAKO and the parasite one-can’t remember its name)
1. Shigatsu ga Kimi no Uso
2. Amagi Brilliant Park
3. SHIROBAKO
nice images man! thanks.
In terms of G Reco, it’s actually par for Tomino Gundam series’ if one has watched the Universal Century era series’.
Not that much really happens early on (at least nothing that really explains what exactly is going on immediately, minus the first Mobile Suit Gundam that gives a brief explanation for the Principality of Zeon, the One Year War, and such), so it’s no surprise that you’re given just enough to stick around to see how things pan out while keeping your current attention with Mobile Suit/Mobile Armor battles and getting new designs sprung.
Also par is, now that we’re hitting episode 12 next, we’re starting to get more of that information leaked to us as events move along. Now we’ve had our first battle in space, we’re hearing the “Rose of Hermes blueprints” being mentioned a bit more often, we’re getting a bit more info on the “threat from space”, it’s plainly obvious that there are things going on behind the scenes, and whatnot.
Basically, we have to keep paying attention and remember the little details we’re told so it makes sense later on.
And despite the first few episodes, Cross Ange has actually been picking up and becoming a bit more interesting with the latest few episodes. Despite how she acted most of the time before, I still feel really bad for Hilda x_x
I think this is one of the best anime season we had in years, same can be said for the whole year, both in quality and quantity of shows.
So many good shows this season. Still baffled RandomC isn’t covering the anime produced my MAPPA (such as Shinegeki no Bahamut GENESIS). This studio really is trying to crank out some fresh new material for us to checkout. If you’re looking for mature anime that is far away from the beaten path then checkout the titles released by MAPPA yo
We can’t cover everything, and sometimes worthy shows slip through the cracks. In Bahamut’s case, we had three writers on hiatus, and by the time those of us who could have maybe picked it up saw the first episode, it was too late to make an intro post, much less pick it up. Similar thing happened with Yuuki Yuuna … I went into that honestly hoping it would be bad so I didn’t feel compelled to do an intro post, much less cover it, because I was already full up on shows.
But that’s what the monthly impressions are for!
It baffles me how people can call Bahamut’s characters “badly drawn.” Can’t see why, the designs are pretty good and animation top-notch. They aren’t even that unusual, if you ignore lip-gradients and Favaro’s afro.
Okay, the armpit hair on the main character was a surprise, but not a bad one. I’d pick a man looking like Favaro or Kaisar over someone like SMC Mamoru.
Well, i can not speak for others, so i speak for my own.
It is has not badly drawn Animations and so on. They even used a Awesome camera angel, when the Girl attacked the Demon in Episode 1. Nice Butt shots. So it was fresh and awesome colors. a ex-noble guy, that are even a cavalier to tavern ladies (to avoid the filter here). Yeah Episode 1, looked interesting. But i dunno, in the meantime they lost it somehow. All this Moe, “Favaroooo!!!” gags and so on, do not fill my Gap of something important, the Drive. Demons, Fallen Angels, Human Angel Heroes and Angels could not keep my flame alive. They put the Story to easy together.
She could just walk in an take the Key. In a Angel Fortress?. Even someone of the Human Angel Heroes are helping here out, and the Quest Giver of Favaro are here suspicious. They even gave us a Moe Undead Girl. To much of “to easy, they are taking a stroll” action for me… Not real walls to overcome. A kidnapping that was that easy… i could go on. Looks like the Story drive is forcing to give a the easy way of World doom. Where she WILL see this Dragon. And my old Experience see that the Dragon will do something about the current World
is there not really anyone that wont to stop her? Until now they was not real effort, just… well, i am out of my words
I hope i could give you a piece of my mind, why i see a lack of Story drive for this Show. Graphics and such is good. But the combination that makes the meal Perfect
The Story is washed to much in the delicate laundry in a laundry machine, in shot terms
I’ve decided to pick up some shows. Since winter break is approaching quickly, i wanted to have a marathoning party and I have everyone’s comments to thank.
Sora no Method – i was watching this but then stopped after episode 3.
Inou Battle wa Nichijou-kei no Naka de – I have Stilts’s to thank for this one! It seemed interesting just reading the description but if it can keep me laughing, i’m pretty sure i’ll enjoy it.
Yuuki Yuuna wa Yuusha de Aru – Madoka vibes? Ok. Count me in!
Garo: Honoo no Kokuin – I already started this the other day. It’s awesome. ^^ The fights scenes are well-done, the characters aren’t annoying and the golden knight’s armor is just bad ass.
Shinegeki no Bahamut GENESIS – When The Story You Don’t Know compared this to Samurai Champloo, Outlaw Star, and Cowboy Bebop I became really excited to watch this. While i haven’t watched Cowboy Bebop, i’ve read the manga and it is one of my all time favorites. I can’t wait for winter break!!
I’m enjoying G Reco the most these days by far, seems it’ll be the next show after Pretty Rhythm to get in my long list of favorite shows ever. After that it’s Cross Ange and HisCoool! SeHa Girls.
Even with Tomino back I actually didn’t have much expectations for G Reco. That quickly changed though. Trolls and kids trying to act cool by jumping on a popular opinion aside, I think people saying that they don’t get something in the show (like Samu here) is that you’re worrying too much. Thinking too much. Maybe you’re overestimating the show. You don’t need to understand everything to enjoy the show. Maybe the answer is something much more simple. Maybe you didn’t even need to understand it.
It’s true the show doesn’t take you by hand and it can be confusing in the first three episodes, with the intentional lack of exposition monologues, and that it’s something we aren’t accustomed to anymore with current shows. However, like some guy on a forum I go to said, at the beginning of Cinderella, they don’t take 20 minutes to explain the feudal system and tell you along with the kingdom’s technological advancement the current situation of middle classes to justify what will happen next.
Just in case, this “discovery” side of the show isn’t even what makes me enjoy it, I’m mostly indifferent to it. I was a bit confused the first two episodes, then it just stopped being confusing. I’m also not enjoying the show because it has the name Gundam on it. While I like Turn A, I couldn’t care less whether things will tie in to it or not.
I just like Gundam G no Reconguista because it has a great story, great characters, a character named BANANA PEEL, great animation all the time, fights in every single episode but that never feel like filler, and other reasons I can’t think of right now.
Another show I’m liking this season is Shirobako, and in a sense it’s first episodes were very similar to G Reco. It introduces you to all those characters working on anime, slapping all those name tags and professions in your face, making things confusing fast.
Then with each episode, they slowly expose the job of each character in detail and answer the questions that were brought up before. I hate to say it like that because I don’t consider myself to be a patient person, but with both shows I think you simply need to be patient to enjoy them.
Ange is the best protagonist of the season
All hail Kuzuhime!!!!
Cross Ange may be kinda bad, but I still look forward to it every week because it’s so offensive and entertaining.
In my heart, Sora no Method is the best anime I’ve seen this year. I love the plot and how it requires the audience to piece it all together as it slowly reveals itself, rather than spoon feeding everyone a hearty helping of exposition mush. I love the healing of all of the fractures that hurt everyone’s relation with each other after Nonoka left. I think people are quick to take issue with the pacing because it doesn’t jump straight to ironing things out with Shione, but everyone was hurt when the saucer was summoned, not just Nonoka and Shione. I like how everyone is getting time to heal.
Sure some of the characters are kooky, but then when don’t people come with quirks? Some people are just as crazy as Yuzuk (though she’s not really a cloud cuckoolander) and as messed up as Shione (who lost her best friend before she even had time to be friends with her).
I don’t usually like to argue over whether a show is good or bad. It’s a waste of time to me because it’s so subjective due to people’s tastes…
But gosh darnit, this show is probably one of the most beautiful depictions of the precious love that friends share and the things they’ll go through for each other I’ve seen. I haven’t ran across a show this year I’ve seen that made me say “This show is the best of the year,” but this one has. I just couldn’t stop replaying the end of episode five. Episode 10 was just as amazing. That ED… That ED is the best I’ve ever seen in anime. The way it transitions from the endings just makes me feel so satisfied with the direction things are going, even though something bad just happened to derail the progress being made.
I’m just so confounded as to how people are so lukewarm to disliking with their opinions this show. In my opinion, we don’t get enough of these shows. We don’t get enough of this type of interactive writing style.
I just… I don’t know. I love this show. I guess that’s all that matters, but it really disappoints me that I’m the only one who appreciates it this much.