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Bakemonogatari - very simply, this anime proposes an interesting, overused premise, but with a lack-luster portrayal. There are similarities to the Natsume Yuujinchou series in that Ayakashi and Youkai are involved, except that Bakemonogatari uses arcs while Natsume Yuujinchou tells the story and usually resolves the plot within the same episode.

Bakemonogatari has darker contours and frames that skew the images not away from reality, but rather toward it. SHAFT Grupp's unique style of animation is present throughout the work as they seemingly meld bits and pieces of the anime and life in general together, somehow awkwardly connecting. Vivid colors give way to forceful imagination ... and torture the brain and eyes.

The Characters are somewhat memorable--not developed enough to "favorite" them but enough to remember what they did in general, and what anime they might have belonged to.

The sound, however, was supremely excellent. I thoroughly enjoyed the OP's and ED and if anything, the music was the highlight of the work. Oddly, even the lyrics seemed to fit, although the songs seemed more lively to me than the actual anime.

Overall, Bakemonogatari is an excellent work for a very specific audience. If you enjoy Ayakashi-related topics and anime, this will be the work for you. If you prefer cold-hearted and understandably paranoid Tsunderes, this is a piece for you! If you do not enjoy femdom I would advise staying away from this work; your eyes may be subject to violent younger sisters and a girlfriend who spouts verbal and physical abuse without so much a loving word. This eventually changes, however, but not much...

To be utterly generous, 3.5 stars out of 5 for the morbidly frank and seemingly wacky Bakemonogatari.

-Jay

P.s. If you find a problem with my review please comment on my profile or send me a message and I will get back to you! Thank you for taking the time to read and I hope you found this helpful!

Isn't it simply frustrating to overcome all your fears, work really hard, only to be sent back to square one? Isn't it absolutely irking when you try to remember something but no matter how hard you think, you can't remember?

Romance is supposed to be simple...right? Is it, then, complex? Meet, be happy, fight, makeup, be even more in love?

In Isshuukan Friends by Hazuki Maccha, no easy ending lays in sight for the main couple as the two polar opposites struggle with not only their own character and problems, but with reality as well.

- - - - - - - - - - - - ...

From the beginning to the end, One Week Friends provides a refreshing view of an overused archetype in not only anime but drama as well--memory loss. Despite the seemingly lackluster plot, the presentation of the characters and their struggles is utterly heartwarming and at some moments, tear jerking.

The art style is nothing much to mention: simple and sweet. The animation is fluid but feels slow at times, but the pace of the plot is fine as is. Sometimes, however, it does feel like the plot seems rushed, but only at brief moments that in no way disturb from the flow and organization of the anime.

The characters are well rounded and developed throughout the show. Through the strain of a friendship to a complete and full repair, the male main character learns to overlook and overcome his possessiveness and realizes his friend's supportive nature even more as he pursues the female main character in a romantic relationship.

While labeled a Shounen work, this piece is suitable for all ages and all audiences.

If you are looking for a break from watching your main anime category, be it action, survival, horror, or whatnot, I assure you that this piece will not disappoint for its money's worth.

Genuinely heartwarming and concise, 4.5 stars out of 5 for Hazuki Maccha's Isshuukan Friends.

-Jayex

Have you ever been completely and utterly bored by something you love doing so much? It is without saying that with too much love, too much fun, too much happiness--everything eventually seems rather dull.

After all, when one has been unbeatable for so long, and all opponents seem so easy, why would anyone bother to try?

In No Game No Life, for the siblings and main characters Shiro and Sora, their case for boredom lies in their only source of entertainment--games. With a fabulous record of zero games lost, their arrogance causes them to fall into a trap world, where the two neets are thrown into ... a society where everything is decided by games.

- - - - - - - - - - - -

Undoubtedly, NGNL by Yuu Kamiya proves an excellent backdrop for entertainment. After all, entertainment is the keyword to the whole anime. Moments of serious discussion and intelligent thought regarding "silly games" gives way to a blurt or outburst of perversion on Sora's part. These occasions of comedy that ensue are promising but few in number, while much ranting and explanation of the games are prevalent throughout the story.

The premise of the plot is not completely original, but still refreshing in light of the more narrow-minded survival anime that exists. In a way NGNL has its on take on Survival-anime, and yet, at the same time, does not exactly fall under that category.

The plot is advanced using a series of games that often feel long-winded and may cause some viewers to fall asleep. Regardless, due the pace of the series vs. the actual content in the Light Novels, this anime and its season ending gives a small foreshadow of a second season.

As for the characters, Sora and Shiro remain mostly static throughout the work. Genius combined with Analytical Intelligence and utter Confidence results in a tag team that need not change. Other characters, such as Steph, I would not believe to be a main character but rather a supporting one in that she does nearly nothing to move the plot forward.

Ah, that brings to light the fan service. True, the world that Sora and Shiro is not necessarily an Asian Society, and therefore certain--erogenous zones--are more "enhanced" and prevalent. (I'm not saying that big is better, however). Steph is such a case, and judging with all the partial-nudity scenes the animators were trying to make a point with them. Or not, and it could just be to see if viewers get nosebleeds.

However, much of the fan service is not as memorable as the plot, which is always a good thing. Except for in episode 6...but that is another story. :>

The sound is nothing special, standard-fare OP and ED; nothing memorable. BGM is where it should be and as such deserves a higher score.

The art style was excellent. Sometimes it clearly feels like the Animators had fancy art and animation just to buy time by showing all the locations and area in HD.

Overall, this is no masterpiece. NGNL has its own flaws, and despite them remains overly entertaining.

No Game No Life has earned a place in my heart, and I hope that through my review I might cause you to watch it and have it earn a place in your heart as well :P

Folks, give it up for Kamiya Yuu's No Game No Life, the imperfect but nevertheless beautiful work.

4.5 out of 5 stars for the excellently animated and entertaining No Game No Life!

-Jay

Almost everyone wants to make their mark on their world. At the very least, most people wish to have the power to change the world around them...

But what happens when you possess that power, and fantasy gives way to reality?

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In Tokyo ESP, Hajime Segawa provides a forlorn and forsaken Tokyo, cursed with the mystical powers of Esp and subsequently, the people who control Esp--Espers. In a society that remains critical of individualistic personas, and partial to those who do conform, Rinka, a young girl who only wants to fit in with the people around her, is ... forced to act upon her new powers.

From the very beginning until the end of part 1, Rinka's transformation from a simple, frugal, self-conscious young teen to a mature, strong young woman--and a symbol of hope for all of Tokyo--is beautiful to see.

On the other hand, the archetypes of this work is obvious and plain as day. Heroine is given power, heroine recognizes injustice, heroine attempts to beat injustice with her own power, gets owned, works hard to overcome her weakness, beats injustice.

As for the romance--nothing to see here, folks!--if the "fall in love at first sight" archetype is your thing, you will enjoy the work.

If you are a fan of Hajime Segawa's work, I assure you that Tokyo ESP does not disappoint. From the beginning to the end, through the curse of Segawa's horrible setting explanation to the final, vainglorious moments, this rough gem stands out amongst the dust around it. Shine it a little more, and polish it--here is a work you might not easily forget, a work that you just might add to your favorites.

Folks, please give it up for Hajime Segawa's Tokyo ESP.

4.5 out of 5 stars for the currently incomplete but captivating Tokyo ESP.

From the beginning to the utter, compelling end, Variante delivers a disturbinglly satisfying plot to entertain the twisted minds of those who dare read it.

A simple story that starts off with a seemingly boring murder scene and detectives evolves into something much more. The existence of extraterrestrial beings--or so it seems on the surface--gives reason for the Atheos "police squad" to round up these monster-like beings, called "Chimeira", and bring them back to the scientific community for examination and extermination.

These monster-like beings exhibit inhumane physical qualities but very human feelings, emotions, and thoughts, as seen through the female main character, Aika.

Throughout the ... story, the author juxtaposes the inhuman world with the inhuman Aika, as Aika discovers her own humanity amongst the horror that is her own body. This transition within itself entails interesting and disgusting thoughts that will haunt one for long after reading, but every moment is well worth.

However, the action is often repetitive, although showing character development at every turn, the development seems slow for the pace in which the manga proceeds.

The author finally concludes his manga with a seemingly twisted ending as paradox within paradox come to conclusion, understanding, and solution.

As if a cruel tiwst to fate the protector and rescuer becomes the rescued, and
in turn the two roles are once again switched to complete the compelling, dramatic ending.

Ultimately, Variante is a manga that is a must-read for all sci-fi and gore lovers.

4.5 out of 5 stars for the well developed, well written, and well drawn Variante.

Velvet Kiss is arguably Harumi Chihiro's best work. By far, the marriage between plot and ecchi/hentai always is a good one to read and observe. Especially if done well. Between the constant sex scenes and themes rampant throughout this work, there is a tender love growing between the two main characters that can be observed as the chapters fly pass. This love, while not clear at first, begins to slowly reveal itself and is very satisfying to see, if not being one of the main reasons to read this.

Harumi Chihiro's art is aesthetically pleasing to the eye in more ways than one, and in ... Velvet Kiss this is no exception. Although the amount of sex she drew in Velvet Kiss was somewhat excessive, it is understandable at the same time as it is somewhat true to say that the sex drives the plot.

In and of itself, the sex that Kanoko experiences at the beginning of this work reveals how shallowly she lives her life at first, until she meets the male MC, a somewhat lucky salaryman named Nitta. As the work goes on, she begins to have feelings for only one man, Nitta, and only with him can she have pleasure. If one reads between the lines, one can see where the direction of the rest of the book is going.

Needless to say the character development is also pretty exceptional on Kanoko's part. She changes from a girl without a care for life to a girl with conviction and power, and yet still retaining a somewhat tender side for the man she loves. The transition is so well rendered and made and is well worth the read.

On the other hand Nitta doesn't change very much--he remains your atypical male tsundere. Strangely enough he doesn't chase after his feelings aggressively, like some male MC's do, instead he acts through his gained wisdom from work and life in general and the way he applies his wisdom and skill is nothing short of satisfying.

Most people don't care for H manga. Undoubtedly, I'd say once most people read this they will change their mind. Some H manga, such as many of Harumi Chihiro's works, are well written and carry a bold and fulfilling plot while boasting beautiful art to boot.

Again, definitely worth the read, especially in one sitting.

5 out of 5 stars for Harumi Chihiro's Velvet Kiss.

Harumi Chihiro does it again. From "Velvet Kiss" to "Come Come Vanilla!" Harumi Chihiro delivers with her marriage between plot and harem/ecchi, to portray a young man, Kaji Rikou, who is confronted with a "monstergirl" named Vanilla and her master, Ibu Kiriko, with whom he (once upon a long time ago) made a promise to marry.

Here, the house-handy Rikou meets the anything-but-domestic Kiriko and Vanilla. Armed with his house-working skills and a scent that seduces all things animal, Rikou must confront Kiriko and the promise he made head on. The only problem is, he doesn't remember a thing! Comedy ensues as Kiriko and Vanilla hit ... on Rikou as he deals with his problems.

Harumi Chihiro's art is perhaps one of the top reasons to read this. Not only is it visually satisfying (while not delving into H) it is also very well drawn as a whole. From the background to the characters, not one thing is left lacking.

As for the actual story, the story is not as hot as the art. While better than most atypical harem/ecchi, it is by no means Stellar. Compared to her earlier work, Velvet Kiss, this manga by far has a much simpler plot and focuses on day-to-day life and all out comedy on the whole.

The characters are not very memorable. That is, except Vanilla. Of all the characters, Vanilla is really the only one who has shown considerable development. Being part animal, she relies mostly on her instincts and the things that she already knows (not much.) Although later on she really develops as a character and the transition in itself is beautiful to observe *and so is she!

Overall excellent work. What else would you expect from Harumi Chihiro? Read one work of hers and it will not disappoint, especially if this stuff is your cup of tea.

4.5 stars out of 5 stars for this highly under read and underrated work.

Bokura no Kiseki asks a simple question, "If you had been reincarnated, and you could find out about your past, how much and why would you want to know?"

The questions later pile on--"If you held certain power in your hands, what would you do with it?"

The Story ~
The story starts off rather peculiarly. A young man, Minami Harasumi, strangely relates to a princess from the Middle Ages--Princess Veronica of Zerestria--and he himself is certain that he is the princess in reincarnation. Peculiar. But it doesn't stop there. While he is the only one who believes he is a reincarnation at first, others in his ... highschool--many who had once scorned him for his "fantasy--" begin to remember their past lives as well.

Wars from the past reincarnate as well, through the form of the numerous students who remember their allegiances and seek rashly the answers to the wars of the past. As the students and Harasumi himself begin to question the motives of their past selves innocent lives are hurt and moral issues are thrown into play.

Overall an excellently developed plot, while being slightly confusing at first the plot does begin to be more and more understandable as one progresses reading this manga.

The Art ~
The art does quite resemble Reimei no Arcana to a large degree, the eyes, the styles of hair--makes you wonder if the artists are the same. Needless, the art is pleasing to the eye.

The only one thing to note about the art is that often times it can be quite confusing to tell one character from the next. Often times I could scarce tell the difference between Haruko and Maki save for a slight difference in the way they braid their hair.

But other than that wonderful art overall.

The Characters ~
The main character Harasumi shows quite a bit of character development--as do all the characters on a whole--so it is easy to feel for their thoughts and understand them. As one reads, one begins to pity, to sympathize with some of the characters as they lament either the past deaths of loved ones or of their own actions of their lives in the past.

But what is most appealing is that these characters, no matter what happens to them, stay true to themselves. They do not forget their roots, their backgrounds, and most of all themselves. Kudos to the author for these character designs, really loved them on the whole.

Overall ~
If you are looking for an entertaining shoujo manga to read--look no further thou shoujo lovers/shounen lovers! This manga will satisfy any tastebud guaranteed! Especially if you do not read shoujo very often this is a great change of pace that you will find refreshing!

There is enough action present for me to be on the tip of my seat and yet enough romance and slice of life for me to be in the feels half the time. And I don't get in the feels very often!

4.5 stars out of 5 for the wonderfully presented, manipulative, witty, and speculative Bokura no Kiseki!

"Helpful" and "Not Helpful" voters alike, I would like to encourage you all to drop me a message, a comment on my profile perhaps regarding all comments questions or criticism you may have regarding my review! Any and all criticism is appreciated!

Kimi no Iru Machi - a twisted love story.

I'll just start off with saying, I haven't read the manga yet, so I'm not going to say anything about the manga. The anime however, was a whole different animal in essence and I personally felt that the animators did a poor job on this then they have with other works I've known them to do.

The Plot ~
Overall the plot depicted by the anime is ok. At first the fast pace of the anime had me entertained, but as I progressed through the story I realized just how down to earth and simple it was. There ... was a lot of going back and forth between past and present, and sometimes this was pieced together in a way that simply became incomprehensible and incoherent to the manga.

The story itself (as depicted by the anime) seems downright flawed and cruel, basically weak-willed boy (Haruto) has his girl (Eba) cheat on him, he wants her back but she's with a friend of his who's about to die, so he's stuck with a dilemma. So he hitches another girl (Asuka) nearby. Then he cheats on that girl.

So between the characters cheating, that really all they let you see in this anime and its kind of depressing as a whole.

The Art ~
The art wasn't that bad. It seemed more like Modern Shoujo to me. There seems to be this presence of "static" in the motions created by the animators, but this should not diminish your viewing of the anime--just minor lighting aspects could have been tweaked to make the anime more bold and color-appealing like other animes.

The Sound ~
The OP and ED aren't half bad for this song. I gave this a 9 out of 10. The anime as a whole could've used more string orchestra sound tracks in my honest opinion.

Characters~
This had me pretty sad. Not only do the animators show you so little of the characters' character, but also the fast paced story doesn't give you time to breathe and analyze the characters as a whole.

Haruto basically lacks a pair and when he gets it he's stuck with a dilemma of friendship. At first I pitied him because Eba leaves him, but towards the end I kind of understand why. I hated him when he cheats on Asuka and doesn't do anything when Asuka confronts him. To be honest when they were coming clean to each other I wish Haruto got up and stopped Asuka from leaving, beg her and tell her he was sorry and tell her not to leave.

But then again, thats another story.

Eba more or less PMS's half the story. First she likes Haruto like crazy, then she likes this other guy, then she wants to steal Haruto back when Haruto's going out with another girl? What's her problem?

Asuka is perhaps my favorite, as she's the most human and understandable character throughout the entire anime. She portrays the every day girl, in essence, and when she is betrayed she is the only character I actually was able to sympathize with.

Rin is your archetypal tsundere. She likes Haruto and hates her older sister, and yet gives Haruto advice and even aids the two in getting back together. I don't really understand her--why doesn't she just grab Haruto herself?

As for the rest of the characters--I can't really say much. And the reason is because the animators failed to show more of each character--the only image you're able to grasp is a shallow image of one.

Overall ~
To be honest this piece could have used more work.

If you like twisted and denied Romance then this is the anime for you. 3.5 out of 5 stars for the undeniably twisted and cruel Romance "Kimi no Iru Machi".

Kanojo ni Naru Hi asks the modern question, "What would you do if somebody you knew switched genders?"

But another strikes closer to the heart, "What if that masculine, male friend that you had always relied on, that friend who would do anything to make sure/help you succeed, that friend that would hide in the background and help you ask that girl you like out--what would you do if that friend went from an alpha male to a soft-skinned, beautiful female?"

In Kanojo ni Naru Hi, the author, Akane Ogura illustrates the struggles of a young man named Miyoshi, who is conflicted as to how to ... deal with his (now-evolved female) best friend. The one friend--and person--he most looked up to as a man, has become a woman. "Do I treat her like a woman, or like a man like I always have?" Stuck between personal desires and social correctness, Miyoshi is stuck at odds as to how far he should go for his friend.

Equally conflicted is his best friend, Mamiya, who now must live life with the body of a girl. In a new world as a seemingly much more vulnerable human being (having once been accustomed to the strength of a man), Mamiya doesn't know how to deal with being a woman, resulting in an internal turmoil of feelings that she cannot explain or understand, both to herself and Miyoshi.

As one reads this gripping, fast-paced manga, one begins to wonder if this is in a way, a propaganda manga in which the author is trying to vouch for acceptance of Transgender Women and Men, or if this was merely an experience the author had felt that she wishes to portray within this manga. The struggles

Whatever be the case, this manga is a worthy read. With every page turned within this manga, the desire to receive the mysterious answers to our own, modern questions only grows stronger and our thirst grows deeper. Every page is filled with thoughts, with underlying meaning that can only be groped once read. And when the chapter ends, our hearts and minds groan out and desire for more--only to be filled with endless, seemingly unanswerable questions, with our minds and eyes always seeking the answers in the chapters ahead.

4.5 out of 5 Stars, for the fast-paced, but nothing short of excellent, Kanojo ni Naru Hi.

-Jayex-

P.s. Mangas that have not been completed to do not receive a 5 out of 5 stars. When the manga has been completed, and the Conclusion (and remaining chapters have proved to be of equal, not lesser quality then the chapters before it), then I will re-edit this and give this a 5 out of 5.

Thank you for reading this Review.