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This isn't your typical 'Boys Love' Manga imo.

The story is really unique and somehow complex I must say. It's about two boys trying to survive misfortunes that are tied to them and their families since ages. I don't want to go into heavy details since the whole story unfolds step by step. There are also some twists and turns which surprised me. It's a really story-driven Manga but also with a good amount of Romance. The perfect balance.

The characters are good, nothing to complain about. Ikumi is by far the only one that caught my attention the most. He's not your shy, helpless ... counterpart of the cool, mysterious MC but a surprsingly tough person. What makes the relationship between Chihaya and Ikumi so good is that they actually communicate and support each other to the fullest. Of course they're tied by fate but as the story progresses, they learn more about their ancestors and about themselves as individuals. I love their connection and I would say that they're a healthy and wholesome couple which we don't see very often in other BL. Sometimes I wish we would see more lovey-dovey stuff but that's just my own opinion, it doesn't affect my enjoyment at all.

The art is fine. You can see the artist's improvement throughout the years.

I really enjoy this Manga and I think it's a underrated gem in the BL section. If you want a cute couple and a outstanding story in this genre then this is something for you.

Shadows House is probably the most interesting and intriguing Anime from the Spring Season. I mean, even the cover image is enough already to get your attention. And you should definitely give it a try and watch it!


- Story -

I'm not comparing but the premise of the show is a mix of The Promised Neverland and cute SoL moments in between. We still don't know very much about the whole story but what we got so far is really dark, creepy but also kinda sweet and lighthearted. The balance of those two things is actually so well made because when you see the ... interactions between Kate and Emilico, you think to yourself: “This is so cute and wholesome!” but at the same time you know, there's something scary going on in the shadows. The pacing is slow but not even boring in a slightest, it fits perfectly. I'd rather get information bit by bit than getting it thrown straight in the face so I really enjoy that aspect. The slow setup with little hints about the background is greatly executed. It makes you wonder, what is going to happen next and keeps you excited. What I need to address too is that the worldbuilding is masterly done so far. There's so much detail to the environment, the rules and generally the surroundings. Yes, there are still many questions but seeing how the world in the mansion is organized is mindblowing. The atmosphere is also very eerie and just gives off such mysterious presence that makes your skin crawl. I love the subtle way of showing us the creepy side of the Anime and the story itself is unique and promising.


- Art and Animation -

I love the use of colors in the Anime. They aren't bright and vivid but have a more grayish tone in them. It's perfect for the setting. The animation is fluid and excellent, there's really not a single bad thing about it. CloverWorks as it's finest again! They did a really good job with the shadows and designs, too.


- Characters -

We still have a long way to go with the characters in terms of introduction because the cast is really huge but we only saw just a handful so far. I can't really say anything big about them but I'll try. Emilico is the living doll of Kate. She's lively, clumsy and enthusiastic. We all know, there's more to her position in the Anime but I like how she gives us this tiny feeling of joy in all the darkness of the show. Her interactions with Kate are pure and innocent and I really like the little adorable moments between them. They also fight, make up and talk about their feelings and it shows that the relationship is growing and actually progressing which I really enjoy. Kate on the other hand is more soft-spoken and reserved so simply having a bit of both is really great. The Supporting Characters are also interesting in their own way and Shadows House really takes their time to fully introduce them like they did with Mia and Sara. Every doll has their own motivation and why they serve their masters. Also the different relationships between the dolls and the shadows can be very complex, showing us every type of relationship. It can be abusive, friendly, distant, awkward and I really love that. Just seeing how they interact is amazing.


- Sound -

I'm really blown away by the OST. It stands out so much and every single piece they took for the different scenes simply fit perfectly. The OP/ED themes are also heavenly.


- Enjoyment and Overall-

Yes, I do enjoy Shadows House. I'm really weak for dark and creepy shows with a hint of spookiness in them because we get to see so little of them. It also gives me some Shiki vibes and honestly, that Anime was terrifying. I expect a even stronger story to come and I'm also excited for the other characters that are going to make their debut. If you want something different from all the other ongoing Anime right now then Shadows House should be your first pick. It's certainly something else.

YES, THIS IS A VOLLEYBALL ANIME.
NO, IT'S NOT LIKE HAIKYUU.

First of all, it makes so mad that everyone compares Seiin with Haikyuu and downrates it because of it. It's just doesn't right and a big slap for the authors because they're so different from each other.


- Story -

The plot is kept very simple and focuses more on the characters and their struggles and problems. It's a really cast-driven story and shows the pressure and the rather darker side of a sports and I really dig it. It's not about fast-paced and action-packed fights and jumping around, laughing and fooling around. It's about ... 'What would you do if you were in their shoes?' kind of story.
The drama in Seiin is realistic and surprised me big time because it's not your generic Shounen sports Anime. It's not too exaggerated and just the perfect amount. The fact that it even HAS authentic drama makes it more interesting and real. You just follow the inner fights of the characters but also see some good volleyball games, a nice balance of both.
What I really liked, too...and I need to address it.., is, that they also targeted on injuries and how they can affect you. What would you do, if you can't do the things you love anymore? They actually handled it so well, I was taken aback.


- Art and Animation -

It's probably the aspect I like least about Seiin but it's not bad. The art is really fine, nothing to criticize but the animation just isn't smooth and doesn't look that appealing. It's ok.
The character designs are simple, no bright surroundings, no over the top hair colors, dim lighting. It fits the theme and I like it, makes the show more visually engaging.


- Characters -

The cast is amazing, it really is. Yes, they can act immature, self-indulgent, weak, naive and, and, and but that's what makes them sympathetic and loving. They're just a bunch of kids, acting how kids should be and they're learning and growing up. The development felt a bit fast but I don't really mind the pacing. It's not overly rushed so it's absolutely fine.
They also focus on the rivals, giving them nice backgrounds and just the attention they deserve. They aren't there for being strong opponents only, you actually feel and cheer for them. It's the huge selling point in Seiin when you take a deeper look in their traits. Some may feel annoyed but that's indeed good because I think Seiin WANTS to make you feel frustrated and mad with the cast since they act like actual teenagers. That's how it should be and I love it.


- Sound -

The OST is fine, there are some nice Soundtracks, especially in Ep. 8 and THE OPENING IS SOOO FREAKIN' GOOD.


- Enjoyment and Overall-

I honestly enjoy Seiin. It begins interesting and immediately came to the point so it's easy to start it and be captivated. It still lacks a proper story and sometimes it feels dull but overall I love the idea of it. It's a Slice of Life mixed with sports after all. It doesn't want to be like Haikyuu, more the opposite...and to be frank, I dig it sooo much more because we never saw a sports show (besides Ping Pong) that takes on a more deeper look on everything. The execution could be better but they still did an amazing job and it really deserves at least a 6-7. So folks, don't compare everything to XYZ just because they have one small thing in common. Seiin is a great watch, don't miss it and do it when you're interested and just don't when you're not, it's that easy.

"When I was a kid, back when I watched heroes on TV and stuff, the hero said, "What is your happiness?"
He absolutely hated ending without knowing what happiness was, he said.
But no one knows the answer to the meaning of happiness.
I thought " Don't say scary stuff to kids that aren't even in grade school yet."
To become rich?
To be popular with girls?
To get into a good school?
To be respected?
Of course, I'm sure that for many, that's what happiness is.
But none of them are my happiness.
... I know... what my happiness is!"

SK8 starts with a relatively common monologue but oh I was so wrong to judge the beginning so fast by such generic words. It surprised me big time.


- Story -

SK8 seems like any other sports Anime with it's simple story line that consists of a quirky, loud MC and a timid, quiet transfer student who become friends and do sports stuff together. But it isn't. Yes, it's plain and ordinary and we saw it so many times before but what makes SK8 so special is the idea of a complete different setting than your average high school sports club. They call it "S", a secret racing route in an abandoned mine. It's refreshing, it's new, it's something else. It doesn't have a big main plot, not even in a slightest, but that's what makes it so entertaining and diverse. They don't want to go to nationals, win tourneys or fight against strong opponents to become the best of the best. They just want to have fun but also test their limits against others. What teenagers actually want to do – have fun while doing the things they love. The story isn't really going anywhere but I don't mind it at all in SK8. They still deliver, they still manage to make it interesting and exciting and they still find things to never make it boring or dull. There are no slow moments in SK8, zero, it's always moving forward. The pacing can feel too fast but for me, it has the perfect progression. There's no big goal or a proper plot but it's still highly enjoyable.


- Art and Animation -

Bones at it's finest! I love the bright colors, the character designs are unique and fresh and the fluid animation is superb. There's not a single thing I dislike about the art. It's appealing to watch and to look at. Especially the skateboard animation in a race (even small things like how the board moves) are totally excellent - visually and animation-wise. You can tell they took their time and effort to animate it so smoothly. Also the outfits of the characters are great and totally fit in the skateboard setting. Amazing.


- Characters -

I was totally surprised by the cast and the MC's. They seem generic and your typical sports Anime characters at first but I was so wrong again. We have Reki, who is your average noisy, shrill and freaky MC that actually struggles hard to find his place in this sports. I was totally shook by his sudden fight against himself after realizing that he can't compete against Langa. It totally gave me a different view on his character. In other shows, the MC never felt like how Reki did. He is scared and uneasy and that's what makes him so human and realistic. He is the opposite of Langa, who seemed calm and gentle at first but developed differently than what I expected. Nevertheless, you directly feel connected to Langa and Reki's relationship, they immediately flow together and I loved their natural bond even though they're so different from each other. You watch them learn, fail, fight and have fun together, it feels genuine. The other characters are also strong and everyone has their own interesting background, struggles, goals, traits and motivation. What brings them together is their passion for skateboarding. Everyone, really..., everyone is so likable and sympathetic in their own way. The dynamics are wonderful, they're amusing to watch and the interactions feel casual and unforced. Miya, Cherry, Joe and even Shadow are also lovable but unfortunately there's nothing special what makes them stand out. Adam can act over the top and unrealistic sometimes but he's still kind of fascinating and when he's on screen, you're promptly entertained. The show definitely knows how to make their characters endearing.


- Sound -

The OST is amazing. It fits well in the scenes and it really stands out. I don't usually pay that much attention to the music but I definitely know when the sound is special and in SK8, it really is. The Soundtrack isn't overshadowed by anything and I love it. OP and ED are awesome, too.


- Enjoyment and Overall-

This is the point, where my scoring of 8 (maybe even 9 when they keep up the quality) is coming from: SK8 gives you this special adrenaline blast while watching. It's fast-paced and thrilling. You're hyped and absorbed in the world of skateboarding. And by the way, you also learn little things about the sport. They don't info-dump or make it complicated but still manage to give you important details. You have a fair amount of drama and a good balance of serious and fun moments. You don't have a super deep plot but it still entertains you from the start of a Episode to the very end. I don't even think, SK8 WANTS to be deep or complex, it just wants to have fun. And sometimes this is enough to be great. The last time I felt this fascinated by an Anime was a long time ago and back then it was Kuroko no Basket, that gave me the 'guilty pleasure' vibes. But SK8 definitely has more to offer: some character traits and the MCs surprised me, the setting is unique and you're not getting bored for one second. Recommended.