Welcome to my profile! I'm a huge fan of Haikyuu!! and Psycho-Pass (S1), though my top shows are without a doubt, Hunter X Hunter and FMA:B. I am currently working on anime reviews (see spoiler at the bottom) but it's a work-in-progress. Please check it out!
I'm always up for recommendations, and feel free to take a look at my anime/ manga lists. Don't be afraid to shoot me a friend request, though please send me a message first! I will not accept random friend requests. If you want to chat, feel free to send me a pm - I'll try my best to get back to you as soon as possible. I look forward to talking to everyone, and thanks for visiting!
Anime of the Year
The following list is based on what the release date of the show, not the year I watched the show.
2008 - Code Geass: Hangyaku no Lelouch R2
2009 - Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood
2010 - Durarara!!
2011 - Hunter x Hunter
2012 - Psycho-Pass
2013 - Attack on Titan
2014 - Haikyuu!!
2015 - Assassination Classroom
2016 - Kimi no Na wa
2017 - Made in Abyss
2018 - Steins;Gate 0
2019 - Dr. Stone
2020 - Golden Kamuy 3rd Season
2021 - Dr. Stone Season 2
2022 - Kingdom Season 4
2023
Honorable Mention
Kingdom (S3)
Oregairu. Kan
Violet Evergarden
Golden Kamuy
Favorite Studios
Production I.G
Madhouse
ufotable
Anime Reviews
Overview
As someone who's always been somewhat interested in playing and watching sports, sports anime never really stuck with me. That is, until I started watching Haikyuu! Even if you're not a fan of sports, this show is unique on its take of sports, unlike some other anime that often don't depict the realities of sports e.g. Kuroko no Basket. I'll try to keep this spoiler-free, so let's get into it.
Story: 8/10
The story is probably one of the stronger parts of the show, and that's in part due to the characters (see below). The idea of a middle school volleyball enthusiast who happens to go the same high school as his supposed arch-rival sets up the scene wonderful, but what is noteworthy is the development of the characters. I've always had a soft spot for characters who aren't necessarily strong by any metric, but prove their mettle through hard work and dedication. Goals are set so that one can surpass them, and that's exactly what the Karasuno is out to do.
Art/ Animation: 8/10
You can really tell that the animators put a lot of work into the actual volleyball matches, and it really shows. Whether you're talking about the serves, receives, or sets, it's all spot on. Not only that, you can connect with the MC's team, especially in the heat of the moment. I personally found it difficult not to root for Karasuno, a task made harder by the fact that their opponents are quite likable teams (and people) as well. Bottom line, the amount of detail that's been put into the animation is incredible, and is definitely one of the show's best points.
Sound: 7/10
Not bad by any means. I really enjoyed the first two openings; they really give you a sense of the atmosphere the story is trying to convey. Nothing groundbreaking here, but the music is usually not the tipping point between a good and bad show.
Characters/ Plot: 8/10
At first glance, Hinata might not be most likable character, but to truly understand him you have to realize his backstory (I'll be vague here because I'll limit the spoilers). And to top it off, he's not exactly the most "powerful" MC, which is rare in this day and age. If anything, he can be annoying at times, but he changes as a person, which I find more important. Pair him with Kageyama, whose an amazing player but has attitude problems (leading to his fall from grace), and it's no shocker that plenty of friction arises. What's important is what happens after, though. By resolving their differences (though arguments still pop regularly), both individuals become better people and even better teammates. What's even better is that the supporting characters (the other members of the Karasuno team) are thoroughly developed as well, an even rarer situation. Lastly, I thought it was nice touch how certain volleyball jargon was explained in detail, which I definitely found helpful. The bottom line is not how the characters win or lose, but the journey and how each person contributes to team cohesion.
Enjoyment: 8/10
The show as whole is pretty enjoyable and really gets you going as you continue to watch it. One can only hope to join a volleyball team as committed and determined to reach the top. Each member of the team (not just the starting six) has their moment to shine, and it's really inspiring to see a bench player make a key play. It's not what you would expect, but the attention to detail is what sets Haikyuu!! apart from a good anime.
Overall: 8/10
Final Thoughts
The first season of Haikyuu!! is an amazing start for what is to come in the later seasons. You don't want to miss it. Just because you're not in volleyball shouldn't deter you from trying it out - I did and I didn't regret it!
Overview
Story
Art/ Animation
TBD
Work in progress (8/9/2020)
Overview
Story: 9/10
(in progress)
Art/ Animation: 9/10
(in progress)
Sound: 8/10
Nothing particularly groundbreaking, but overall it fit the theme, especially in the dark moments (of which there are plenty).
Characters/ Plot: 10/10
(in progress)
Enjoyment: 10/10
The entire 64 episodes was a roller coaster of emotions. Couple that with extremely dark backstories and heart-wrenching moments, and you get Fullmetal Alchemist.
Overall: 10/10
Final Thoughts
You don't want this show - it's one of the all-time greats and for good reason. Whether you're looking for an action-packed adventure or deeper psychological meaning or perhaps suspense, the show wraps it up in neat package. You don't want to miss this show!
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