UlasanAnime.com – This year has been a fruitful one for anime enthusiasts, with many finding themselves watching more shows than in previous years, despite having less free time. This consistent engagement suggests a compelling draw, perhaps serving as a necessary escape or a way to unwind after demanding days.
However, a common challenge arises: the tendency to leave many anime unfinished, often around the tenth or eleventh episode. This phenomenon can be attributed to a few factors. While some anime might not sustain their initial intrigue, the primary culprit is likely the influx of new series that capture viewers’ attention. The allure of the unknown in new releases often overshadows older, less exciting fare.
To combat this, a strategic approach of dropping less engaging shows and reserving the option to revisit them later, or even taking a proper break, might be beneficial. The idea is that a relaxed and clear mind enhances the enjoyment of watching anime, potentially leading to the discovery of more satisfying series.
With this mindset, the current autumn anime season presents some truly compelling offerings. Fate Zero stands out, aiming to transcend its light novel origins and deliver a narrative akin to a proper novel adaptation. Its ability to generate genuine excitement every Saturday morning is a commendable feat in itself.
Ben-to, while not entirely unique, offers a refreshing experience after a long hiatus since similar shows like Air Master. Its appeal lies in its potential for intensity, spirit, and a certain “whackiness.” The animation style employed by David Pro contributes to this, providing a consistently intense visual experience.
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Guilty Crown narrowly missed the top tier with its pilot episode but shows promise if it can maintain its production value. It employs a familiar formula from the early 2000s, but with a refined touch, delivering high-quality animation.
The author also expresses a fondness for “angsty hot 2D chixorz.”
This season lacks a standout moe show, though C3, Horizon in the Middle of Nowhere, Majikoi, and Haganai offer comedic approaches. Majikoi and Haganai lean heavily into comedy, while C3 is praised for its early establishment of its premise, though its long-term potential is uncertain. Horizon‘s pilot episode is considered strong. Mashiroiro Symphony, while not critically acclaimed, caters to a specific niche within the moe genre, a common seasonal offering.
Tamayura and Croise fall into similar niche categories. The music in Tamayura is its primary draw, and the author admits to not finishing Croise, despite finding its soundtrack delightful. The initial intrigue of Croise did not fully materialize, and Tamayura appears to be an even less promising prospect.
Shows like Maken-ki and Kimi to Boku are easily dismissed due to their subject matter or a perceived lack of execution, despite one being a school comedy with fanservice. The author feels they require better execution to capture attention.
More accessible, yet still niche, titles this season include Chihayafuru, Phi-Brain: Kami no Puzzle, Gundam AGE, and Un-go. Un-go, a noitaminA series, exceeds expectations, while Gundam AGE meets its high potential. In a stronger season, these might all be watched, but currently, only one or two will likely be prioritized. Chihayafuru has an attractive protagonist, but its appeal might be limited, especially considering the precedent set by Hikaru no Go.
Mirai Nikki is enjoyed for its shock value, but without it, its compelling nature diminishes. While the source material is solid, the adaptation’s execution is questioned.
The decision not to watch the Persona 4 anime stems from the perceived time commitment required to play the game first, making it an impractical choice despite owning a copy.
The abundance of sequels this season means many are notable only for their continuation of existing series. Working season 2 is mentioned as potentially offering something slightly different, though its ultimate significance is questioned.
Regarding the new Last Exile, the author remains undecided, finding it difficult to separate it from its predecessor. While there are likable aspects, a definitive opinion cannot yet be rendered.
Excluding a few overlooked series, this season appears to be a relatively calm period compared to Spring and Summer 2011. However, with numerous sequels and two-cour shows, the overall impact is debatable. Nonetheless, 2011 continues to be a strong year for TV anime, and the author is eager to catch a screening of Letter to Momo!
