Anime Hajime Review: A Certain Scientific Railgun S

***Warning, the following may contain spoilers for A Scientific Railgun and A Scientific Railgun S. Reader discretion is advised.***

Series Synopsis

Academy City isn’t the easiest place to live. Sometimes the aspirations of science don’t know when to draw the line. Morality is often stuck in a gray zone.

Despite this, Academy City's filled with remarkable individuals. Among them is the legendary Level 5 electro master known as the Railgun. But to her friends, she's Mikoto Misaka (voiced by Rina Sato).

Through hard work and dedication, Mikoto has become a force to be reckoned with. Unfortunately, the road getting to this point hasn't been the smoothest. Some of her most naive mistakes are ready to come back and haunt her. Mikoto’s biggest challenges are on the horizon.

However, these are not challenges she has to face alone. The same determination which strengthened her power has given her an unbreakable support group. Mikoto will need every bit of help if she hopes to save the ones who are important to her.

Anime Hajime Review: A Certain Magical Index II

***Warning, the following may contain spoilers for A Certain Magical Index and A Certain Magical Index II. Reader discretion is advised.***

Series Synopsis

Against his better judgment, Touma Kamaijo (voiced by Atsushi Abe) is now a part of the world of magic. This has made a peaceful life in Academy City difficult. His ability to negate psychic and magical powers has also made him a wildcard. Though this has earned him many allies, it has also made him a target.

Supported by his friends, there is one Touma can always rely on to have his back. The young nun Index (voiced by Yuka Iguchi). The bearer of the Church's most sacred knowledge, she's yet to free herself from danger. Together, these two make for a formidable duo.

While Touma and Index strive for a normal life, the worlds of science and magic have other plans. With each passing day, the tension between the two moves closer to a breaking point. Up until now, there has been a balance. And it is this balance that has never been at greater risk.

At any moment, the world could split in two. If he can help it, Touma will make sure that day will never come.

Anime Hajime Review: Genshiken 2

***Warning, the following may contain spoilers for Genshiken and Genshiken 2. Reader discretion is advised.***

Series Synopsis

Welcome back to the Gendai Shikaku Bunka Kenkyukai (The Society for the Study of Modern Visual Culture). Or as it is better known, the Genshiken.

Kanji Sasahara (voiced by Takanori Oyama) is the club’s newest president. Though a rather quiet person himself, he has big plans for the Genshiken. He hopes to increase the number of activities the otherwise inactive group takes part in. His clubmates are open to the idea, but soon the realities of life settle in.

Otakus still live in the real world. And sometimes, the real world doesn’t always play along. Like it or not, a person has to take responsibility for their life.

The challenges may be daunting. The players may be uncooperative. Despite that, the best anyone can do is push forward. For the members of the Genshiken, that’s often easier said than done.

Anime Hajime Review: Noragami Aragoto

***Warning, the following may contain spoilers for Noragami and Noragami Aragoto. Reader discretion is advised.***

Series Synopsis

In the land of Gods, there are those who command respect. Powerful, all-knowing deities with legions of followers at their every beck and call. Wealth, influence, and importance are a birthright. One would expect a certain air of nobility and grace.

And then there’s Yato (voiced by Hiroshi Kamiya). This God of Calamity does his best to scrape by. Or at least he’s become a proficient mooch. It doesn’t take long for him to get on someone’s bad side. Despite that, and to the complete shock of everyone, there are those who tolerate him. And there are even two who are willing to stand beside him.

One is Hiyori Iki (voiced by Maaya Uchida), a human who can interact in the spirit world. Though she would like to return to a more normal life, she doesn't want to forget Yato. He might be a crybaby and troublemaker. But like it or not, he’s her crybaby and troublemaker.

The other is Yukine (voiced by Yuki Kaji). A recent spirit, Yato saved Yukine and gave him his name. Although hard to see what the true master/servant relationship is, Yukine takes it all in stride. He’ll be there to protect Yato in his most dire moments. He'll also be the one who'll smack some sense into to his idiot of a God.

Anime Hajime Review: Love Live Sunshine

***Warning, the following may contain spoilers for Love Live: School Idol Project and Love Live Sunshine. Reader discretion is advised.***

Series Synopsis

Chika Takami (voiced by Anju Inami) makes a life-changing discovery. While visiting Tokyo, she is awed by the recent winners of the popular Love Live competition; the school idol group µ (muse). Their humble origins inspire Chika to head down the school idol path herself.

She soon learns, that’s much easier said than done.

Yet if there’s one thing Chika's known for, it’s persistence. Starting small, she turns to her best friend You Watanabe (voiced by Shuka Saito). The two run into roadblock after roadblock. But they make a major breakthrough after recruiting the recent transfer student Riko Sakurauchi (voiced by Rikao Aida).

The trio inspires more to join. Next are longtime friends, Hanamaru Kunikida (voiced by Kanako Takatsuki) and Ruby Kurosawa (voiced by Ai Furihata). Then they pick up the eccentric Yoshiko Tsushima (voiced by Aika Kobayashi).

The group gets their final push when they, at last, convince their school’s former idol group to come out of retirement. Third years Dia Kurosawa (voiced by Arisa Komiya), Kanan Matsuura (voiced by Nanaka Suwa), and Mari Ohara (voiced by Aina Suzuki).

Anime Hajime Review: Date A Live II

***Warning, the following may contain spoilers for Date A Live and Date A Live II. Reader discretion is advised.***

Series Synopsis

Shido Itsuka (voiced by Nobunaga Shimazaki) is still adjusting to his new role in life. The world remains in danger for the next spatial quake. A phenomenon which is the direct result of beings known as Spirits.

A Spirit’s power is serious business. They are too dangerous if ignored. If left alone, the damage a single Spirit could cause is unimaginable. That’s where Shido comes in. He has the ability to seal away a Spirits immense power.

Doing so is easier said than done. Shido has to put in a little effort. What that means is wooing the ever-growing number of Spirits. A task Shido has managed to do many times. Though he cares for all the Spirits he has help, there’s one who holds a special place in his heart.

Tohka (voiced by Marina Inoue), a.k.a. the Princess is one of the most powerful Spirits there is. Both she and Shido have managed to build an unbreakable bond. Whenever one is in danger, the other will be the first to rush in.

This unity is soon put to the test. Shido must now face against some of his most challenging assignments to date. All the while, outside forces continue to spin their own agendas. Shido must be careful. Exceeding his limits could be deadly.

Anime Hajime Review: Handa-kun

***Warning, the following may contain spoilers for Handa-kun. Reader discretion is advised.***

Series Synopsis

Sei Handa (voiced by Nobunaga Shimazaki) is the son a famous calligrapher. Now in high school, Handa has already made a name as and up and coming artist in his own right.

For years, a sort of legend has formed around Handa. Everyone at his school reveres him. There's hardly a person who doesn’t know his name. And there are even fewer who don’t think he's the greatest. He's beloved by everyone.

There's only one person who doesn’t think so. And that's Handa himself.

In his mind, he's the bane of society. At any and every opportunity, he thinks people are trying to bully or get rid of him. Because of this, Handa has closed himself off to the world. You can count on one hand how many people he feels comfortable around.

With Handa’s self-isolation and everyone else’s high praise, misunderstandings are bound to happen. Regardless of how they play out, Handa always shrinks deeper into his worries. And the number of people who idolize him continues to grow.

Anime Hajime Review: Chuunibyou demo Koi ga Shitai Ren

***Warning, the following may contain spoilers for both Chuunibyou demo Koi ga Shitai and Chuunibyou demo Koi ga Shitai Ren. Reader discretion is advised.***

Series Synopsis

Upon entering high school Yuta Togashi (voiced by Jun Fukuyama) hoped to abandon his delusions. Now in his second year, it turned out doing so was much harder than expected. Trying his best to avoid it, Yuta got involved with the fantasy world yet again.

This time, though, he was able to find a group of like-minded people. Among them was Rikka Takanashi (voiced by Maaya Uchida). Through unwavering perseverance, Rikka got Yuta to embrace his former self.

And at the same time, the two fell for each other.

Rikka and Yuta’s relationship is a surprise to no one. They've been inseparable. Despite that, both Rikka and Yuta aren’t too sure how the whole dating thing works. Though together for several months, they’ve struggled with even holding hands. A feat they've yet managed to do.

Awkwardness aside, they love each other. Yet, the power of delusions, particularly Rikka’s, are nothing if not exhausting. It takes a special kind of patience. A challenge both are willing to take. 

Anime Hajime Review: Koyomimonogatari

***Warning, the following may contain spoilers for Koyomimonogatari and all previous entries in the Monogatari series. Reader discretion is advised.***

Series Synopsis

Since that fateful Golden Week, Koyomi Araragi’s (voiced by Hiroshi Kamiya) life has been anything but normal. The world of oddities have not allow for it.

Time and time again, Koyomi has had to put his life on the line. On more than one occasion, death has been one mistake away. However, as long as there's someone who needs his help, he will face the danger. This attitude has saved the lives of an ever growing number of people.

It has also made him the center of attention. Though he has built a strong network of allies, the cost of doing so is still unknown. The worst thing he can do now is become complacent. Koyomi’s mind must remain sharp. The second he looks away, everything may come crashing down.

For all the good Koyomi has done, the repercussions of his actions remain a mystery. Perhaps, it’s all in his head. Maybe nothing awaits him at the end. Yet if there’s one thing his encounters with oddities have taught him, it’s this. There are always consequences.

Anime Hajime Review: A Certain Magical Index

***Warning, the following may contain spoilers for A Certain Magical Index. Reader discretion is advised.***

Series Synopsis

Welcome to Academy City, a place built on scientific discovery. A world leader in advancement, its population consists of 80% students. Most of whom have a wide range of psychic powers. It's a place like no other. Yet scientists are not the only ones looking for influence.

Around the world, many factions of faith do not rely on the power of science. But rather magic. Churches of the world and academic institutions are in constant struggle. Both sides are looking for their edge. At long last, the decisive piece may have come.

Touma Kamaijo (voiced by Atsushi Abe) is a student residing in Academy City. Designated as a Level 0 esper, he tries his best to live a normal life. But there are two things making that difficult.

The first is his ability to dispel all other abilities; both psychic and magical. The other is the sudden appearance of a young nun named Index (voiced by Yuka Iguchi).

Index is in possession of the Church’s most valuable knowledge. This makes her a frequent target. Though the odds are forever stacked against him, Touma cannot sit by when someone needs his help. Facing the strength of divinity and discovery, he is the only one who can make a stand against either.

Anime Hajime Review: Mob Psycho 100

***Warning, the following may contain spoilers for Mob Psycho 100. Reader discretion is advised.***

Series Synopsis

Shigeo “Mob” Kageyama (voiced by Setsuo Ito) is as unimposing as they get. In fact, unless you’re looking for him, you may not even notice his presence. Even if you are, he could still go unnoticed.

Along with a low profile, Mob's a bit hard to read. He never shows much emotion. Also, he’s kind of a huge dork. If you want to kill the mood of your good time, give Mob a call. Although his natural persona, there’s more effort behind it than one might expect.

Mob, in reality, is an insanely powerful esper. His psychic abilities go beyond what anybody can imagine. Though in good control over them, Mob does his best not to feed his powers too much emotion. A task that is sometimes out of his control.

Upon reaching a level of 100% percent, Mob turns into a frightening being. No one and nothing can stand in his way whilst in this form. Because of this, many people have taken an instant interest in him. Some for good. Some…not so much.

However, these people need to be careful. If pushed too far, they could unleash upon the world a terror from their darkest nightmares.

Anime Hajime Review: A Certain Scientific Railgun

***Warning, the following may contain spoilers for A Certain Scientific Railgun. Reader discretion is advised.***

Series Synopsis

Academy City boasts a thirty-year technological gap when compared to any other city in the world. It's the leader in every conceivable field. This thanks in large part to a population comprising of 80% students. If that wasn’t enough, many of these students are espers possessing a variety of psychic powers.

One of these students is Mikoto Misaka (voiced by Rina Sato). Though she looks like a typical middle school girl, she is anything but. Mikoto is one of the most powerful espers in the city. Being designated as one of a handful of rank five power levels. The one and only Railgun. Harnessing a tremendous ability, she doesn’t consider herself any better than her fellow students.

That said, having such remarkable power attracts certain attention. Mikoto is often investigating incidences with her close friend, Kuroko Shirai (voiced by Satomi Arai).

Together, these two make a formidable pair. Adding to their strength, they're supported by their friends Kazari Uiharu (voiced by Aki Toyosaki) and Ruiko Saten (voiced by Kanae Ito). When all four are working together, they are a near undefeatable team.

Helpful since Academy City is filled with people seeking to unlock power. Powers that could destroy everything.

Anime Hajime Review: Tokyo Ghoul √A (200th Review Special: Part 2 of 2)

***Warning, the following may contain spoilers for Tokyo Ghoul and Tokyo Ghoul √A. Reader discretion is advised. ***

Series Synopsis

Having suffered at the hands of an unimaginable tormentor, Ken Kaneki’s (voiced by Natsuki Hanae) mind has shattered. The last vestiges of his humanity are weak and broken. To survive, Kaneki, at last, submits to the ghoul inside him.

Embracing his carnivores urges, Kaneki transforms into a frightening being. With newfound strength, he escapes to a future that looks bleaker than ever.

Humans and ghouls are on the brink of all-out war. Casualties will be high on both sides. Being an onlooker is no longer an option. To protect the people he loves, Kaneki chooses a dark path. His quest to grow stronger will bring him to the edge of sanity.

The peaceful days are numbered. Without warning, a friend can be gone in the blink of an eye. Longstanding perceptions will be tested. Hatred will consume the coming battles. The time for reasoning and diplomacy has passed.

Who will come out ahead is anyone’s guess. The streets of Tokyo seem poised to become a bloody battlefield.

Anime Hajime Review: Tokyo Ghoul (200th Review Special: Part 1 of 2)

***Warning, the following may contain spoilers for Tokyo Ghoul. Reader discretion is advised.***

Series Synopsis

There’s a war in the world. Humanity fears and lives alongside creatures known as ghouls. Feeding off humans, the public sees ghouls as dangerous and hunts them down.

All this is an afterthought to Ken Kaneki (voiced by Natsuki Hanae). He wants to do is get the attention of the girl he likes. To his delight, Kaneki manages to go on his dream date. Unfortunately, it was at a steep price.

Kaneki’s crush turned out to be a ghoul and the encounter almost cost him his life. He is only saved when a suspicious accident killed the ghoul. That and a less than legal medical operation.

To save him, some of the ghoul's organs were given to Kaneki. Because of this, he gained strength, speed, and stamina. And to his horror, the unquenchable craving for human flesh.

As a rare half-breed, Kaneki doesn't feel accepted in either the ghoul or the human world. The stress of subduing his desire to feed and keeping his identity secret weighs on his mind. It’s only a matter of time before it breaks.

Anime Eiga Review: Love Live the School Idol Movie

***Warning, the following may contain spoilers for both Love Live and Love Live the School Idol Project Movie. Reader discretion is advised.***

Film Synopsis

The national school idol competition known as Love Live is now over. Its current reigning champs are the girls of Otonokizaka Academy, µ (muse).

After months and months of hard work, these nine high schoolers achieved their dream. There is no way they could be any happier. Their love for one another is as strong as it’s ever been. And it only seems to be getting stronger.

That is why it hurts all the more when facing the inevitable. The older girls will be graduating. This means µ can no longer continue. With heavy hearts, they have all come to accept it. If only there was just a little more time.

Such an opportunity presents itself. Love Live is looking to grow bigger than it's ever been. Who better to promote the venue than the current champions?

For one last unforgettable show, µ appears poised to take on the world. These girls have been through so much. And they have stood shoulder to shoulder for every step of the way. Together, there is nothing that can stop them.

Anime Hajime Review: Engaged to the Unidentified

***Warning the following may contain spoilers for Engaged to the Unidentified. Reader discretion is advised.***

Series Synopsis

Kobeni Yonomori (voiced by Haruka Terui) is now sixteen. Bright and cheerful, Kobeni can only guess what the next year will bring. She the learns her grandfather has already arranged for her engagement.

The news is, by no surprise, a shock. Even more unbelievable, Kobeni's supposed fiancé will start living with her family. With everything happening so fast, there's little time to make sense of it all. Yet upon meeting Hakuya Mitsumine (voiced by Wataru Hatano), Kobeni can’t help feel a strong sense of familiarity.

Due to an accident, Kobeni can't remember much of her childhood. It appears, though, Hakuya was an important person from that time.

Regardless of what the history might be, this is all just too sudden.

To make matters more interesting, Kobeni has a few more headaches to worry about. The first is older sister, Benio (voiced by Eriko Matsui), who loves her little sister to a frightening degree. The second is from Hakuya’s own little sister, Mashiro (voiced by Yuri Yoshida). She'll also be staying at the house to keep an eye on her sometimes absent-minded brother.

Anime Hajime Review: Genshiken

***Warning, the following may contain spoilers for Genshiken. Reader discretion is advised.***

Series Synopsis

To generalize, an otaku is an over obsessed fan. Though applied to many fandoms, the most associated focuses are manga, anime, and games. Often, it's a combination of the three. The only way to understand this type of otaku is for you to be one yourself.

So, where does someone turn to find like-minded people?  At Tokyo's Shiiou University, look no further than the Gendai Shikaku Bunka Kenkyukai (The Society for the Study of Modern Visual Culture); better known as the Genshiken.

The Genshiken is the place one goes when the anime or manga clubs just don’t feel right. The group isn't big on formal activities. Instead, they spend most of their time discussing a variety of both retro and new visual mediums. It can be about the latest anime. Or it can be the current (often erotic) game they happen to be playing. It doesn't matter, the club doesn’t judge.

Anyone with an interest is welcome to come by. Yet, the Genshiken isn’t for everyone. The mind of an otaku isn’t the easiest thing to decipher. To comprehend this level of nerddom requires a special kind of patience. If you don’t have that, then it takes a special kind of tolerance. And if you don’t have that, well then it comes down to a pure endurance test.

Anime Ichiban: Top Ten Horror Anime

Criteria

Throw something at any given anime season and you’re bound to hit one, two, or five high school slice-of-life comedies. You’ll also run into a few romance stories here and there. Plus, there's going to be a mech or some other action show in the mix. Every now and then, though, you’ll get something different.

It won’t be cute, it won’t be nice, and it won’t be easy. I’m of course referring to the horror anime.

These are the stories of tension and reservation. These are the shows that will get you to cower and cover your eyes. These are the images you see alone on the darkest of nights. These are the anime that get you scared.

I have seen a ton of shows with horror elements and they are effective. The problem is, many of these moments are just that, moments. In terms of a full series, there are a lot, but there aren’t many that are good.

Many shows that classify themselves as horror have a tendency to go a bit overboard. They even sometimes have a habit of going silly. And some are flat-out stupid (I’m looking at you Pupa, you piece of s@#$).

Yet, there are good ones out there. When a show gets it right, my God does it get it right. These next ten…these next ten got it right.

Perhaps the only other genre with this much subjectivity is comedy. What scares one person may not scare someone else. So, these ten are the shows that got to me the most. These are the shows that caused me to step back.

I like to think it takes a lot for a story to scare me. Thus, my only criteria for this list was, which shows proved me wrong?

Anime Hajime Review: Undefeated Bahamut Chronicles

***Warning, the following may contain spoilers for Undefeated Bahamut Chronicles. Reader discretion is advised.***

Series Synopsis

Five years ago, the Arcadia Empire was overthrown. Now seen as a remnant of the past regime, former prince Lux Arcadia (voiced by Mutsumi Tamura) does what he can to get by.

Though not an intimidating presence, Lux has been building quite the reputation as a Drag-Knight warrior. To this day, he has never lost a battle. This has earned him the title, The Weakest Undefeated Drag-Knight. Despite this, Lux isn’t concerned about glory.

His skill allowed him to enter the New Kingdom's most prestigious Drag-Knight academy. The problem, he is the only male student. Things get awkward from pretty much the moment he arrives.

Yet Lux's kindness and selflessness earn him the respect of his peers. He also gains the affection of some of the academy’s most accomplished students. First is the crown princess of the New Kingdom, Lisesharte Atismata (voiced by Lynn). Second is the daughter of the high-ranking Einfolk family, Kruicifer Einfolk (voiced by Yukiyo Fujii). Third is the daughter of one of the four great noble lines and the school’s strongest warrior, Celistia Ralgris (voiced by Risa Taneda). Finally, there’s Lux’s own childhood friend, Philuffy Aingram (voiced by YurikaKubo).

Anime Hajime Review: Kimi ga Nozomu Eien

***Warning, the following may contain spoilers for Kimi ga Nozomu Eien. Reader discretion is advised.***

Series Synopsis

Since starting high school Haruka Suzumiya (voiced by Minami Kuribayahsi) has had a crush on Takayuki Narumi (voiced by Kisho Taniyama). Yet her shyness always prevented her from talking to him.

To give her best friend a shot, Mitsuki Hayase (voiced by Tomoko Ishibashi) befriends Takayuki. This allows Haruka to spend time with her crush until she found the courage to speak her heart. At long last, Haruka and Takayuki became a couple.

Though the moment is a happy one, the past few years have led to an unexpected problem. Mitsuki also developed feelings for Takayuki. Out of respect for her friend she decided to not act on those feelings.

Then without warning, the unthinkable happens. The fun times of high school were now over. What is on the horizon is nothing short of heartache and pain. The line between fairness and what’s right becomes blurred. The right answers no longer seem to exist.

A once solid friendship will be tested to the ultimate degree. What is to happen could bring everything crumbling down to a bitter end.

Anime Hajime Review: Red Garden

***Warning, the following may contain spoilers for Red Garden. Reader discretion is advised.***

Series Synopsis

One night in New York City, Kate Ashely (voiced by Akira Tomisaka), Rachel Benning (voiced by Ryoko Shintani), Claire Forrest (voiced by Miyuki Sawashiro), and Rose Sheedy (voiced by Ayumi Tsuji) are brought back to their homes fast asleep. The girls wake up the next morning restless and concerned. None of them have any memories of the previous evening. Adding to their unease, they learn that one of their close friends has died.

Shocked and confused, the girls can’t help shake the feeling of being watched. Their unease grows when they see a swarm of strange butterflies flying through the air. As though summoned, the girls find themselves in a dark alleyway. Here they meet a mysterious woman named Lula (voiced by Rie Tanaka).

Lula informs the girls of their chilling reality. Their bodies are not their own. They were all murdered the night before. Kate, Rachel, Claire, and Rose must now fight a terrifying enemy. There are people in the city who will transform into bloodthirsty beasts. It is the girl’s duty to hunt these creatures.

The four take the news hard and are unsure of what to think. If they don’t fight, they’ll have no chance of ever returning to their original bodies.

Anime Hajime Review: Parasyte

***Warning, the following may contain spoilers for Parasyte. Reader discretion is advised.***

Series Synopsis

One night, Shinichi Izumi (voiced by Nobunaga Shimazaki) gets awoken by a strange worm-like creature trying to crawl inside him. Despite his best efforts, the thing ends up burrowing itself within Shinichi’s right hand. The shock of the encounter causes the young man to lose consciousness. He wakes up the next morning believing the whole thing to be a dream. Unfortunately, it was all too real.

The parasite (voiced by Aya Hirano) awakens within Shinichi’s right hand. It explains that it is part of species that feeds off humans. The reason Shinichi is not dead is because the creature failed at attaching itself to his brain. Because of this, the thing’s life is completely connected to Shinichi’s.

To Shinichi’s dismay, he isn’t given time to process what has happened to him. Other parasitic beings begin showing up, attacking and eating were ever they go. Shinichi feels a responsibility to act. He is one of the few people who can successful coexist with these creatures.

This sets Shinichi and his parasite, who he names Migi, down the war path. To protect the people he loves, Shinichi must hide away his secret. This burden weighs on him. At any moment, a parasite could show up and cause unimaginable carnage.

Anime Hajime Review: Super Sonico the Animation

***Warning, the following may contain spoilers for Super Sonico the Animation. Reader discretion is advised.***

Series Synopsis

Super Sonico (voiced by Ayano Yamamoto) is a young college student with big dreams and aspirations. A perpetual sleepyhead and a lover of all things cute, Sonico easily puts a smile on the faces of everyone.

Her schedule is busy. Juggling school and homework along with a rising modeling career, there are always things for her to do. Yet, what Sonico wants more than anything is to play her music for everyone to hear. Her spare time goes into improving her guitar skills and practicing with her band, First Astronomical Velocity.

Sonico surprises many people with her dedication and hard work. For those quick to judge, they're caught off guard with Sonico’s cheery demeanor.

Having become part of so many different lives, incredible opportunities have opened for Sonico. In turn, she has built a rock solid support network of friends and loved ones who will run to her side at the drop of a hat.

The future is bright for the up and coming eighteen-year-old. Whatever challenges she might face, Sonico will take them all on smiling.

Anime Hajime Review: Black Lagoon the Second Barrage

***Warning, the following may contain spoilers for Black Lagoon seasons one and two. Reader discretion is advised.***

Series Synopsis

The streets of Roanapur remain as corrupt and as dangerous as ever. The many crime syndicates remain in constant struggle for power. Death is the norm and when you have a job that needs to get done, look no further than the Lagoon Shipping Company.

Rokuro “Rock” Okajima (voiced by Daisuke Namikawa) is trying to adapted to new outlaw life style and it’s hard to tell if things are getting easier or harder. Regardless, he's built quite the reputation and is a true member of the infamous Black Lagoon. Alongside captain Dutch (voiced by Tsutomu Isobe), computer expert Benny (voiced by Hiroaki Hirata), and the dangerous gunslinger Revy (voiced by Megumi Toyoguchi).

If the price is right, the Black Lagoon will take on any job. Too bad the door swings both ways. This group finds themselves against some of the world’s most dangerous and deranged assassins. Though they have partners in high places, there's no one they can call an ally.

If goals align, the Black Lagoon is a symbol of lawlessness in one of the world's bloodiest cities.

Anime Hajime Review: Ace Attorney

***Warning, the following may contain spoilers for Ace Attorney. Reader discretion is advised.***

Series Synopsis

-Note: I'm aware of the Japanese title, Gyakuten Saiban: Sono “Shinjitusu”, Igiari. But that's too long and I will forever know this series as Ace Attorney. Any and all names from this point will be from the English localization.-

In court, evidence is the only truth. For some, justice is harder to obtain when the evidence gets stacked against them. When the innocent are viewed as guilty, it is the job of lawyers to defend their clients to the bitter end. Such is the goal of rookie attorney, Phoenix Wright (voiced by Yuki Kaji).

Having at last earned his lawyer badge, Phoenix finds himself in the courtroom. With great conviction, he realizes that believing in his clients is not enough. There are those who hope to conceal the truth from the world. Yet there are still those who share his ideals.

Phoenix becomes acquainted with the spirit medium, Maya Fey (voiced by Aoi Yuki). Meeting under sad circumstances, the two develop a strong partnership. Together they'll defend anyone with no place left to turn.

Phoenix and Maya must go up against the toughest of opponents. This often means facing the brilliant prosecutor, Miles Edgeworth (voiced by Masashi Tamaki). Their styles may be different, but Phoenix and Miles seek to discover the truth in all cases.

Anime Hajime Review: Sweetness and Lightning

***Warning, the following may contain spoilers for Sweetness and Lightning. Reader discretion is advised. ***

Series Synopsis

Kohei Inzuka (voiced by Yuichi Nakamura), a high school teacher, recently lost his wife and takes care of his daughter, Tsumugi (voiced by Rina Endo) by himself. Juggling work and being there for his little girl, Kohei is doing his best, but he can’t do everything. The two live off boxed lunches and microwavable meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Kohei wants to give Tsumugi the best at all times, but he doesn’t have the cooking skills to achieve that ideal. Then one day he and Tsumugi find their way to a small restaurant run by the family of one of his students, Kotori Iida (voiced by Saori Hayami).

Kotori has been feeling lonely lately and would love it if she found a few people to spend time with. Despite not being that good of a cook herself, she's thrilled when Tsumugi enjoys her cooking. She opens the restaurant’s kitchen to the pair and the three try their hands at a wide variety of dishes.

Perhaps a little unorthodox, Kohei, Tsumugi, and Kotori become like a family. Together they help one another fill the holes that have formed in their hearts.

Anime Hajime Review: Amanchu

***Warning, the following may contain spoilers from Amanchu. Reader discretion is advised.***

Series Synopsis

Futaba “Teko” Ooki (voiced by Ai Kayano) is about to start her high school life in a town far and away from anything she has ever known. Teko has always been shy, never having the courage to try anything new, and she hopes to leave her old self behind. A task much easier said than done.

However, she isn't given much of a choice. On the first day of school, Teko meets the highly energetic Hikari “Pikari” Kohinata (voiced by Eri Suzuki), who does everything with a smile. The thing which gives her the most joy, scuba diving.

Teko cannot help but be drawn to Pikari’s constant motion; even if it means going against every instinct she has ever held dear. 

The two find their way to the school's diving club where Pikari signs up without any hesitation. Seeing such unabashed confidence, Teko also decides to give the club a chance.

From that day on, the two become inseparable and are soon the best of friends. Through Pikari’s never ending positivity, Teko begins to realize the world isn’t as intimidating as she once thought.

Anime Hajime Review: New Game

***Warning, the following may contain spoilers for New Game. Reader discretion is advised.***

Series Synopsis

Aoba Suzukaze (voiced by Yuki Takada) is about to realize her dream. As a child, she fell in love with the game Fairies Story. Particularly the beautiful artwork and character designs. Since then, she has wanted to be a character designer. Thus she got a job as the game studio, Eagle Jump's, newest artist.

Racked with nerves and excitement, Aoba has no idea what the future has in store for her. Or at the very least, she didn’t expect to find a woman in her underwear sleeping under a desk. Aoba is struck with awe when she realizes the woman is none other than Ko Yagami (voiced by Yoko Hikasa), the character designer for Fairies Story. The very person who inspired her dream.

There's a lot to learn and the work is difficult. But Aoba is dead set on producing the absolute best game possible.

Aoba will come to realize the backbreaking amount of time and dedication it takes to make something worthwhile.

Anime Hajime Review: Black Lagoon

***The following may contain spoilers for Black Lagoon. Reader discretion is advised.***

Series Synopsis

Rokuro Okajima (voiced by Daisuke Namikawa) isn’t all that special. An average Japanese salaryman he does his job. Although has become a basic errand boy for his company. As a result, he often has to travel the world.

On one trip to the South China Sea, Rokuro runs into the infamous pirates of Black Lagoon. They plan to take the cargo Rokuro is caring and decide to kidnap him as well.

While a prisoner, Rokuro mingles with the crew of the Lagoon.

Benny (voiced by Hiroaki Hirata) is the group's computer technician. Dutch (voiced by Tsutomu Isobe) is the Lagoon’s captain and is a well-known figure in the area. Last, there’s Revy (voiced by Megumi Toyoguchi). She is the team's fighter and one of the deadliest people on the planet.

Rather than negotiating, Rokuro's company declares him dead. Left with no place to go he decides to stay aboard the Black Lagoon. Taking the name Rock, he has entered the world of pirates, crooks, and killers.

Anime Hajime Review: Devil Lady

Series Synopsis

Jun Fudo (voiced by Junko Iwao) is a successful model who has been losing her confidence. Normally a quiet and shy person, she starts to question if she chose the right career. Making matters more unnerving, she can’t shake the feeling she is being watched.

One day, Jun gets a knock at her door. The person on the other side introduces herself as Lan Asuka (voiced by Kaoru Shimamura) and commands Jun to follower her.

Taken to a dark and frightening warehouse, Jun is told to wait inside. There she is confronted by a chained man keeling over in pain. To her horror, the man transforms into a ferocious beast and attacks. With no one coming to the rescues, Jun accepts that this is indeed her death.

However, a spark is lit within. Jun’s eyes glow golden and she undergoes a terrifying metamorphosis. She reawakens as a creature known as a Devilman and easily kills her attacker.

Asuka informs Jun that mankind is at a crossroads. People are beginning to turn into dangerous beasts and demons. Although she wishes for nothing more than to be left out of it, Jun is the only one with the power to combat the coming threat.

Anime Hajime Review: Barakamon

Series Synopsis

Seishu Handa (voiced by Daisuke Ono) is a professional calligrapher who has risen to become an up and coming star. He has poured everything into his writing his whole life and given up a lot in the process. However, his latest piece is criticized for being too textbook. Following a very public freak out, which involved the punching of an elderly critic in the face, Seishu is sent away to clear his mind.

The young artist arrives in a small rural community on Goto Island, far and away from the hustle of Tokyo. He hopes to finally find a style that is truly his own and to do that he requires absolute peace and quiet. What he gets is anything but.

Upon his arrival, Seishu meets six-year-old Naru Kotoishi (voiced by Suzuko Hara). This energetic little girl instantly finds the newcomer fascinating and a lot of fun. Much to Seishu annoyance, Naru comes over everyday to play with her new friend. Along with this, the whole town quickly develops an interested in the newest resident.

Although the quiet country life he was expecting turned out to be much more lively, Seishu and his writing are clearly affect. Perhaps he can find the inspiration he has been desperately searching for.

Anime Hajime Review: DRAMAtical Murder

Series Synopsis

The small island of Midorijima has been turned into a paradise resort. For those who can afford it, the island is heaven on Earth. Everyone else is forced to live in the residential district. Here street gangs, called Ribstiez, are vying for control of the city.

Hoping to live a simple life amongst the tension is Aoba Seragaki (voiced by Atsushi Kisaichi). Although he has close ties to several Ribstiez, Aoba has no interest in joining. He has even less desire to participate in the new virtual reality fighting game, Rhyme, which has taken the town by storm.

Unfortunately, Aoba is ambushed and forced to battle. To his surprise however, he taps into a mysterious power allowing him to easily best his opponent. Through this, Aoba discovers he has the ability to control people’s minds with only his voice.

Once people learn of his talent, Aoba becomes a target and a plot is uncovered which could result in the enslavement of every human mind on the planet.

Anime Hajime Review: Tamako Market

Series Synopsis

Welcome to the Usagiyama Shopping District, home to the small, family run mochi shop, Tamaya, and it’s eldest daughter Tamako Kitashirakawa (voiced by Aya Suzaki).

Tamako loves her little community and is beloved by all the vendors who she happily considers her family. Extremely friendly and easy going, there isn’t anything that can get Tamako down. Everything is as perfect as it can be.

Then suddenly, daily life gets a little more exciting when a strange talking bird named Dera Mochimazzi (voiced by Takumi Yamazaki) comes to town. He claims to be on a journey to find the future bride for his country’s prince. While initially deadest on seeing his mission through, the relaxed and open atmosphere of the shopping district, as well as Tamako’s family’s delicious mochi, turns Dera quite complacent.

No longer caring about his objective, Dera takes up residence in Tamako’s home. Though unsure why such a strange bird has chosen to attach himself to her, Tamako quickly accepts Dera. Soon the sight of a cheerful girl with a fat bird sitting on her head turns into a calling card of the district.

The days continue on as they always have. Tamako makes everything a little brighter and Dera makes everything a little more interesting.