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Anime of the Year 2013-II Spring - Shingeki no Kyojin


kivandopulus

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Shingeki no Kyojin is often called main anime of the decade for a reason. There's also a sprinking of honorable masterpieces - Yahari Ore no Seishun Love Comedy wa Machigatteiru. , Ore no Imouto ga Konnani Kawaii Wake ga Nai. , Aku no Hana and Koukaku Kidoutai Arise: Ghost in the Shell - Border:1 Ghost Pain .
 
1. Shingeki no Kyojin Attack on Titan 進撃の巨人 [Wit Studio] (Finished 25/25)
Tags: Shounen Gore, Military, Survival Action, Award Winning, Drama, Suspense
Centuries ago, mankind was slaughtered to near extinction by monstrous humanoid creatures called Titans, forcing humans to hide in fear behind enormous concentric walls. What makes these giants truly terrifying is that their taste for human flesh is not born out of hunger but what appears to be out of pleasure. To ensure their survival, the remnants of humanity began living within defensive barriers, resulting in one hundred years without a single titan encounter. However, that fragile calm is soon shattered when a colossal Titan manages to breach the supposedly impregnable outer wall, reigniting the fight for survival against the man-eating abominations.
After witnessing a horrific personal loss at the hands of the invading creatures, Eren Yeager dedicates his life to their eradication by enlisting into the Survey Corps, an elite military unit that combats the merciless humanoids outside the protection of the walls. Eren, his adopted sister Mikasa Ackerman, and his childhood friend Armin Arlert join the brutal war against the Titans and race to discover a way of defeating them before the last walls are breached.
Does not need introduction.  
Overall Rating: 10/10
 
2. Hataraku Maou-sama! The Devil is a Part-Timer! はたらく魔王さま! [White Fox] (Finished 4/13)
Tags: Mythology, Romantic Subtext, Workplace Comedy, Fantasy
Striking fear into the hearts of mortals, the Demon Lord Satan begins to conquer the land of Ente Isla with his vast demon armies. However, while embarking on this brutal quest to take over the continent, his efforts are foiled by the hero Emilia, forcing Satan to make his swift retreat through a dimensional portal only to land in the human world. Along with his loyal general Alsiel, the demon finds himself stranded in modern-day Tokyo and vows to return and complete his subjugation of Ente Isla—that is, if they can find a way back!
Powerless in a world without magic, Satan assumes the guise of a human named Sadao Maou and begins working at MgRonald's—a local fast-food restaurant—to make ends meet. He soon realizes that his goal of conquering Ente Isla is just not enough as he grows determined to climb the corporate ladder and become the ruler of Earth, one satisfied customer at a time!
Whether it's part-time work, household chores, or simply trying to pay the rent on time, Hataraku Maou-sama! presents a hilarious view of the most mundane aspects of everyday life, all through the eyes of a hapless demon lord.
Dropped it earlier, and no miracle happened now. As story shits to just reaction to attacks from fantasy world, story disintegrates and with that humor too, so I see nothing to linger for.  
Overall Rating: 6/10
 
3. Yahari Ore no Seishun Love Comedy wa Machigatteiru. My Teen Romantic Comedy SNAFU やはり俺の青春ラブコメはまちがっている。 [Brain's Base] (Finished 13/13)
Tags: Love Polygon, School Comedy, Romance
Hachiman Hikigaya is an apathetic high school student with narcissistic and semi-nihilistic tendencies. He firmly believes that joyful youth is nothing but a farce, and everyone who says otherwise is just lying to themselves.
In a novel punishment for writing an essay mocking modern social relationships, Hachiman's teacher forces him to join the Volunteer Service Club, a club that aims to extend a helping hand to any student who seeks their support in achieving their goals. With the only other club member being the beautiful ice queen Yukino Yukinoshita, Hachiman finds himself on the front line of other people's problems—a place he never dreamed he would be. As Hachiman and Yukino use their wits to solve many students' problems, will Hachiman's rotten view of society prove to be a hindrance or a tool he can use to his advantage?
I love such romcoms with serious protagonist, but this one is not super memorable after some time, so can't rate it too high.  
Overall Rating: 7/10
 
4. Date A Live デート・ア・ライブ [AIC PLUS+] (Finished 2/12)
Tags: Harem, Mecha, School Romance, Sci-Fi
Thirty years ago, the Eurasian continent was devastated by a supermassive "spatial quake"—a phenomenon involving space vibrations of unknown origin—resulting in the deaths of over 150 million people. Since then, these quakes have been plaguing the world intermittently, albeit on a lighter scale.
Shidou Itsuka is a seemingly average high school student who lives with his younger sister, Kotori. When an imminent spatial quake threatens the safety of Tengu City, he rushes to save her, only to be caught in the resulting eruption. He discovers a mysterious girl at its source, who is revealed to be a "Spirit," an otherworldly entity whose appearance triggers a spatial quake. Soon after, he becomes embroiled in a skirmish between the girl and the Anti-Spirit Team, a ruthless strike force with the goal of annihilating Spirits.
However, there is a third party that believes in saving the spirits: "Ratatoskr," which surprisingly is commanded by Shidou's little sister! Kotori forcibly recruits Shidou after the clash, presenting to him an alternative method of dealing with the danger posed by the Spirits—make them fall in love with him. Now, the fate of the world rests on his dating prowess, as he seeks out Spirits in order to charm them.
There are few watchable harems, and, with a typical protagonist like that, it's is not one of them. And subsequent seasons feel even worse (which I only sampled for mixing up with No Game No Life).  
Overall Rating: 6/10
 
5. Hentai Ouji to Warawanai Neko. The "Hentai" Prince and the Stony Cat. 変態王子と笑わない猫。 [J.C.Staff] (Finished 2/12)
Tags: Harem, School Comedy, Romance, Supernatural
Youto Yokodera wants to be seen in a way different from most men: as a pervert. However, his lewd actions are often misinterpreted as good intentions, and people cannot see his true nature. Upon hearing rumors of a cat statue that can banish an unwanted trait, he searches for it and prays for his façade to be removed. But each wish comes at a price: those unwelcomed traits are transferred to someone else who desires them!
After realizing that vocalizing his dirty thoughts is not the best thing, Youto decides to regain his lost traits by seeking out the person who received them. Unfortunately, he was not alone in praying to the cat statue, and now he must not only fix his life, but the lives of others as well.
Another harem that I inevitably dumped before. A perverted protagonist who is forced to harass and abuse girls verbally does not feel right to me. Watching it is like a chore to me.  
Overall Rating: 6/10
 
6. Ore no Imouto ga Konnani Kawaii Wake ga Nai. Oreimo 2 俺の妹がこんなに可愛いわけがない。 [A-1 Pictures] (Finished 13/13)
Tags: Otaku Culture Comedy, Romance
The diehard otaku Kirino Kousaka has returned and settled back into life in Japan with her friends and family. Despite what her older brother Kyousuke has previously done for her, Kirino continues to give him the cold shoulder, much to his frustration. He is worried that his persuasion for Kirino to drop her track and field training in America and return home may have severely strained his relationship with her. On top of that, Kyousuke now also has to decode a bold and cryptic message from Ruri "Kuroneko" Gokou, his junior at school as well as Kirino's friend.
As the ties between the two siblings and their friends deepen, Kirino and Kyousuke will soon have to figure out how they want to deal with these relationships, helping each other realize their own feelings in the process. In spite of that, Kirino still manages to find time to satisfy her otaku needs with the company of her brother.
Sequel.  
Overall Rating: 7/10
 
7. Toaru Kagaku no Railgun S A Certain Scientific Railgun S とある科学の超電磁砲S [J.C.Staff] (Finished 1/24)
Tags: Super Power Action, Fantasy, Sci-Fi
Mikoto Misaka and her friends are back, investigating rumors across Academy City. Soon, Mikoto discovers something terrifying: horrific experiments are taking place throughout the city, involving the murder of thousands of espers. Moreover, these espers are far from just ordinary people: they are clones of Mikoto herself. Feeling responsible for their treatment, she sets off to put an end to the experiments; however, the forces opposing her are much more dangerous than she anticipated, and Mikoto finds herself up against some of the most powerful espers imaginable.
Toaru Kagaku no Railgun S continues the story of the Railgun as she desperately fights to put an end to the inhuman experiments that she believes she helped cause, her life dragged deep into despair in the process. There's never a dull moment in Academy City, but no one ever said all of them would be pleasant.
Sequel.  
Overall Rating: 5/10
 
8. Suisei no Gargantia Gargantia on the Verdurous Planet 翠星のガルガンティア [Production I.G] (Finished 3/13)
Tags: Mecha Action, Adventure, Sci-Fi 
In the distant future, a majority of humans have left the Earth, and the Galactic Alliance of Humanity is founded to guide exploration and ensure the prosperity of mankind. However, a significant threat arises in the form of strange creatures called Hideauze, resulting in an interstellar war to prevent humanity's extinction. Armed with Chamber, an autonomous robot, 16-year-old lieutenant Ledo of the Galactic Alliance joins the battle against the monsters. In an unfortunate turn of events, Ledo loses control during the battle and is cast out to the far reaches of space, crash-landing on a waterlogged Earth.
On the blue planet, Gargantia—a large fleet of scavenger ships—comes across Chamber and retrieves it from the ocean, thinking they have salvaged something of value. Mistaking their actions for hostility, Ledo sneaks aboard and takes a young messenger girl named Amy hostage, only to realize that the residents of Gargantia are not as dangerous as he had believed. Faced with uncertainty, and unable to communicate with his comrades in space, Ledo attempts to get his bearings and acclimate to a new lifestyle. But his peaceful days are about to be short-lived, as there is more to this ocean-covered planet than meets the eye.
Synopsis is ok, but but with this kind of pacing content is incredibly boring, and I tried it at least twice.  
Overall Rating: 6/10
 
9. Aku no Hana Flowers of Evil 惡の華 [Zexcs] (Finished 13/13)
Tags: Shounen Psychological, School Drama, Romance
Takao Kasuga, a high school student fascinated by poetry, reveres Charles Baudelaire and even decorates his room with the poet's portrait. On a normal day, Takao forgets his copy of The Flowers of Evil in the classroom. When returning to retrieve it, he steals the sports garments of Nanako Saeki—a model student who Takao calls his muse and a femme fatale.
Deeply ashamed of his act which he sees as a sin and what others see as a crime, Takao realizes with horror that Sawa Nakamura, his classmate and social outcast, knows about his theft. Blackmailed by her, Takao is now forced to partake in Sawa's disturbing fantasies, lest she reveals his deeds to everyone. Caught in a negative spiral of increasingly traumatic experiences, will Takao be able to break free from Sawa's thorns and atone for his sins?
Loved it a lot when first watched it, but needed to rewatch to remember how much. Story is rather questionable even though artistic execution is genius. And I can say that it's somewhat stretched. Moreover, protagonist is a huge irritation. It end with "End of part I" and continuation never came, so it's not really finished story. With all that, honorary masterpiece should be ok here.
Overall Rating: 7/10
 
10. Karneval (TV) Karneval カーニヴァル [Manglobe] (Finished 3/13)
Tags: Josei Action, Fantasy, Mystery, Sci-Fi
While in search of his precious friend, a young boy named Nai falls captive to a beautiful woman, whose looks are matched only by her taste for human flesh. Meanwhile Gareki, a clever thief, is in the midst of robbing her luxurious home. After causing a distraction, Gareki agrees to help Nai escape, but they are discovered upon the woman's return. As she transforms into a ghoulish monster, the boys flee.
On the run, Nai and Gareki are found by "Circus," a government defense agency that deals with criminal activity too difficult for the police to handle and protects civilians from "varuga"—terrible monsters that devour humans for sustenance. In the hope that it will lead Nai to his missing friend, he and Gareki decide to join Circus. On their perilous journey, they face dangerous varuga and begin to uncover the secrets behind a shadowy organization known as Kafka.
Josei mystery with bishounens is worrying from the start. Story of monster-hunting done by circus guys is shallow, and overall execution is on a very low level.  
Overall Rating: 5/10
 
11. Haiyore! Nyaruko-san W Nyaruko: Crawling With Love! Second Season 這いよれ!ニャル子さん W [Xebec] (Finished 1/12)
Tags: Parody Comedy, Sci-Fi
Nyaruko still wants Mahiro, as does Hasuta. Kūko wants Nyaruko, but believes both Nyaruko's and Mahiro's "first time" belongs to her. Yoriko puts up with all of it and cheerfully runs the house where they all live. Mahiro just wants some sanity. He doesn't want to be the love toy of a Nyarlathotepan, Cthughan, or a shots-like Hasturan. He may or may not hold out.
Sequel.  
Overall Rating: 5/10
 
12. Kakumeiki Valvrave Valvrave the Liberator 革命機ヴァルヴレイヴ [Sunrise] (Finished 3/12)
Tags: Mecha, Military, Space Action, Sci-Fi
In the 71st year of the True Era, humans have successfully expanded into space and have started living in independent galactic colonies. The world itself is split between two major nations: the Atlantic Rim United States (ARUS) and the Dorssia Military Pact Federation (Dorssia)—superpowers that wage war against each other on Earth and far into outer space. In this war-torn era, a third faction comprised of Japan and Islands of the Oceanian Republic (JIOR), reside peacefully and prosper economically, maintaining neutrality between themselves and their militant neighbors.
Kakumeiki Valvrave commences in an outer space JIOR colony, where 17-year-old Haruto Tokishima's peaceful life is turned upside down as a sudden Dorssian fleet breaches the neutral colony. Their objective is to seize the Valvraves: powerful, but rumored mechanized weapons hidden deep within Haruto's school, Sakimori Academy. In the ensuing chaos, Haruto stumbles upon one of the targeted Valvraves. With his friends' lives in peril, Haruto enters the mecha and seals a contract for its power in exchange for his humanity. With the aid of L-elf—an enigmatic Dorssian agent and gifted strategist—Haruto and the Valvrave initiate a revolution to liberate the world.
It feels like fusion or Gundam + Banner + Code Geass + vampires. But all the efforts went to visuals and designs, so shallow story is buried under layers of banalities.  
Overall Rating: 6/10
 
13. Devil Survivor 2 The Animation デビルサバイバー2 THE ANIMATION [Bridge] (Finished 2/13)
Tags: Mythology, Survival Action, Supernatural
The countdown to extinction begins on Sunday with the arrival of the Septentriones, otherworldly invaders set on the eradication of mankind. Caught in the crossfire, Hibiki Kuze and his friends join in the war for humanity's survival by signing contracts with demons to become "Devil Summoners." Soon, their abilities attract the attention of JP's, an underground agency led by Yamato Houtsuin. Once recruited into JP's, Hibiki and his friends fight and bond alongside other ordinary citizens who are Devil Summoners.
However, with each new day, another Septentrione appears to wreak havoc upon Japan. Even if many lives are lost in the process, before that night ends, the young summoners must defeat the invaders at all costs.
I really dislike Shin Megami Tensei for occultism focus and hectic rules. Adapting action-focused game to anime makes just an average supernatural action-packed anime.  
Overall Rating: 6/10
 
14. Photokano フォトカノ [Madhouse] (Finished 1/13)
Tags: School Romance, Ecchi
Kazuya, a mild-mannered high school sophomore coming to the end of a very average summer break, receives a digital single lens reflex camera as a gift. His nerdy fascination with its design soon turns to wonder when he realizes this little gadget could really give his social life a shot in the arm!
I don't know good anime about photography, let alone adaptations of dating sims. Cute banalities, as usual.  
Overall Rating: 6/10
 
15. Dansai Bunri no Crime Edge The Severing Crime Edge 断裁分離のクライムエッジ [Studio Gokumi] (Finished 2/13)
Tags: Seinen Gore, High Stakes Game, Survival Action, Fantasy, Romance, Suspense
Kiri Haimura has an obsession with beautiful hair—specifically, cutting it. This bizarre trait is what leads him to seek out a rumored long-haired ghost who lives in an abandoned house on a hill. However, he finds not a ghost, but a beautiful girl with long flowing hair named Iwai Mushanokouji, the "Hair Queen," whose hair cannot be cut due to a family curse.
Iwai explains that there is a death game surrounding her, and that if she is killed by a cursed object, aptly named a "Killing Good," the wielder gets their wish granted. After protecting Iwai from "Authors"—Killing Goods users—he learns there is in fact a Killing Good passed down in his own family: a pair of scissors used by his ancestor to commit murders. Naming the scissors "The Severing Crime Edge," he finds that he is able to cut Iwai's cursed hair with them, setting her free to live a normal life. However, many Authors seek to kill the Hair Queen, and Kiri will have to protect her in this lethal game of fate.
Just reading synopsis makes brain melt for the sheer amount of nonsense. But craze only multiplies, so I can't find answer to the question why watch it at all.  
Overall Rating: 5/10
 
16. RDG: Red Data Girl Red Data Girl RDG レッドデータガール [P.A. Works] (Finished 2/12)
Tags: Mythology, School Drama, Fantasy, Romance
Fifteen-year-old Izumiko Suzuhara just wants to be a normal girl, but that is easier said than done. Raised in a shrine deep in the mountains, she grew up extremely sheltered and painfully shy. She also has the unfortunate tendency to destroy any electronic device simply by touching it.
Despite this, she still wants to try and change her life. To mark her determination to follow through on this transformation, Izumiko begins by cutting her bangs, which shocks both her classmates and protectors. And that's only the start! Her guardian, Yukimasa Sagara, forces his son, Miyuki, to come to the mountain shrine and become Izumiko's lifelong servant and protector. Too bad Izumiko and Miyuki cannot stand each other. They have known each other since they were children, and Miyuki bullied her terribly. He simply does not understand what is so special about Izumiko. His father calls Izumiko a goddess, but that cannot be true…can it? Will Izumiko and Miyuki work past their differences? Is she actually a literal goddess? Find out in RDG: Red Data Girl!
I tried every P.A.Works anime, but this one felt terribly boring even when I could watch SOL anime all day long. It lacks interesting story/characters/interactions, so it's closer to torture.  
Overall Rating: 5/10
 
17. Yuyushiki ゆゆ式 [Kinema Citrus] (Finished 1/12)
Tags:  CGDCT, Gag Humor, School Comedy
The story follows the school life of the three girls, Yuzuko, Yukari, and Yui, who join their high school's Data Processing Club. The odd friendship between the three make for wacky humor in even the most mundane of events.
Comedies need good character designs to be memorable. This one same as nichijou has very similar characters. Humor is mediocre, like stupid puns and random abuses. Just averageness.  
Overall Rating: 5/10
 
18. Hyakka Ryouran: Samurai Bride Samurai Bride 百花繚乱 サムライブライド [Arms] (Finished 1/12)
Tags: Harem, Samurai, School Action, Comedy, Ecchi
Second season of Hyakka Ryoran: Samurai Girls.
Sequel.  
Overall Rating: 6/10
 
19. Mushibugyou Mushibugyo ムシブギョー 蟲奉行 [Seven Arcs Pictures] (Finished 1/26)
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Tags: Shounen Historical, Martial Arts, Samurai, Super Power Action, Adventure, Fantasy
A menace of huge monster-like insects is plaguing the land of Edo. Too powerful to be subdued by ordinary folks, the creatures are hunted by the Insect Magistrates—a group of warriors who specialize in various secret arts and combat styles. To bolster their strength, they summon Genjuurou Tsukishima, the master swordsman from the Tsugaru Province.
Due to an unfortunate incident, however, Genjuurou is incapable of answering the call and sends his son, Jinbee, to serve in his stead. Determined to atone for the incident caused by his own cowardice, Jinbee agrees to travel to Edo and join the Insect Magistrates. Armed with his fiery spirit and unwavering resolve, Jinbee vows to become a stronger samurai and rid Edo of the insect threat once and for all.
Shounen about fighting giant insects in Edo. It's very predictable and mostly plays just as you imagine it to be in the crudest way possible.  
Overall Rating: 5/10
 
20. Arata Kangatari Arata: The Legend アラタカンガタリ~革神語~ [Satelight] (Finished 3/12)
Tags: Shounen Isekai Adventure, Fantasy
As a young boy from a noble family in Amawakuni, Arata has always expected to make life his own—until word of the princess growing weak reaches his city. Unbeknown to him, his grandmother had claimed him to be female at birth, and now, with no other girls to succeed the princess from the matriarchal Hime clan, he is next in line for the throne! Disguised as a woman awaiting a replacement to be found, Arata witnesses an assassination attempt on the princess by none other than her own guard, the 12 Shinsho. The crime is pinned on his head, forcing Arata to escape to the Kando forest, where it is said that no one comes out the same.
Meanwhile, in modern-day Japan, Arata Hinohara longs for escape from the cruelty of his classmates. Hearing his name called from an alley, he wanders from his path and unwittingly switches universes with Arata from Amawakuni. With his own power as a newly awakened "Sho"—a warrior able to wield Hayagami, weapons with the power of the gods—and the help of his companions he meets along his journey, Hinohara sets out to restore order to this new world.
It does not feel like real isekai, because protagonist was so depressed that he wanted to disappear from his world just because some friends did not call him a real friend. Moreover, there's a side modern timeline with reverse isekai. Story is just running away and reacting with the aim to overthrow 12 high mutineers, so there's even no intrigue, why watch it at all.  
Overall Rating: 6/10
 
21. Ginga Kikoutai Majestic Prince Majestic Prince 銀河機攻隊 マジェスティックプリンス [Doga Kobo, Orange] (Finished 2/24)
Tags: Seinen Mecha, School, Space Action, Sci-Fi
In the latter half of 21st century, humans leave the Earth and begin to live in space. In order to adapt to the environment in space and deal with the hostile aliens in Jupiter, genetically engineered children called "Princes" are artificially raised and trained to be pilots of armed robots "AHSMB (Advanced High Standard Multipurpose Battle Device). This is a story about one of the teenage "Princes," Hitachi O Izuru, who studies in an academic city Grandzehle.
Not a bad mecha, but with children again. And there's no complexity - characters and emotions are simple and crude.  
Overall Rating: 6/10
 
22. Inazuma Eleven Go: Galaxy イナズマイレブンGO ギャラクシー [OLM] (Finished 1/43)
Tags: Shounen Super Power, Team Sports
After fighting to free the game of soccer in Japan from the Fifth Sector, the country's soccer squads can once again look forward to stepping onto the field. However, a new challenge will emerge for Japanese players in the form of the Football Frontier International Vision 2, a new tournament that will bring together the best teams each country can assemble.
Tenma Matsukaze and his Raimon teammates, Takuto Shindou and Kyousuke Tsurugi, are once again part of the action as they have been selected to play for the Japanese representative, Inazuma Japan. Much to their surprise, the coach selects eight other players that have no previous experience playing soccer!
Team Inazuma Japan will have a huge mountain to climb, building chemistry and skills as they go along. What they don’t know is that the tournament will set the stage for something much bigger, something out of this world in Inazuma Eleven Go: Galaxy!
Sequel.  
Overall Rating: 5/10
 
23. Hayate no Gotoku! Cuties Hayate the Combat Butler! Cuties ハヤテのごとく! Cuties [Manglobe] (Finished 1/12)
Tags: Shounen Harem, Parody Comedy, Romance
Taking place after the events that occurred in Hayate no Gotoku! Can't Take My Eyes off You. Hayate, Nagi and Maria return to their daily lives at the Sanzenin Mansion and the Violet Mansion.
Sequel.  
Overall Rating: 6/10
 
24. Namiuchigiwa no Muromi-san Muromi-san 波打際のむろみさん [Tatsunoko Production] (Finished 2/13)
Tags: Shounen Comedy, Fantasy, Slice of Life
The docks provide a look into the very essence of ocean life—the calm, rhythmic sounds of the waves, the small bugs skittering across the pier, and—mermaids!? Takurou Mukoujima's quiet days spent fishing are no more when he reels in the energetic mermaid Muromi-san, who proceeds to entertain herself around her newfound friend, even if he is obviously disinterested.
Now with a talkative and reckless companion always by his side, Takurou struggles to avoid getting caught up in Muromi-san's pace as she starts to invite her deep-sea friends, making the dock a popular gathering place for mythological creatures. Every day might be new and exciting, but all Takurou really wants is to fish in peace!
Half-length episodes are here because it's silly gag comedy.  
Overall Rating: 6/10
 
25. Yondemasu yo, Azazel-san. Z You're Being Summoned, Azazel Z よんでますよ、アザゼルさん。Z [ Production I.G] (Finished 1/13)
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Tags: Seinen Gag Humor, Mythology Comedy, Supernatural
The second season of Yondemasu yo, Azazel-san.
Sequel.  
Overall Rating: 5/10
 
26. Zettai Bouei Leviathan Leviathan: The Last Defense 絶対防衛レヴィアタン [Gonzo] (Finished 3/13)
Tags: Comedy, Fantasy 
The story is set in Aquafall, a fantasy world abound with water and greenery, and populated by dragons and fairies. Meteorites suddenly bring forth evil creatures that threaten all living things on the planet. The fairy Syrup assembles the Aquafall Defense Force, with three girls of the dragon clans as recruits. The story follows Syrup and the dragon girls Leviathan, Bahamut, and Jörmungandr as they work together to battle enemies and grow up.
Very random adventures and behavior. I'd say it's only a tad better than some Winx Club.  
Overall Rating: 5/10
 
27. Pretty Rhythm: Rainbow Live プリティーリズム・レインボーライブ [Tatsunoko Production, Dongwoo A&E] (Finished 1/51)
Tags: Shoujo Idols (Female), Music Sports
Naru Ayase is an 8th grader who can see the colors of music when she listens to it. For Naru, who is extremely good at decorating, becoming the owner of a shop like Dear Crown was her dream. One day, she finds out that the manager of a newly-opened shop is recruiting middle school girls who can do Prism Dance, and immediately applies. Naru begins to Prism Dance at the audition, and an aura she's never experienced spreads out in front of her. At that moment, a mysterious girl named Rinne asks her if she can see "rainbow music."
Sequel.  
Overall Rating: 6/10
 
28. DD Hokuto no Ken (2013) DD北斗の拳  [Ajia-do] (Finished 1/13)
Tags: Seinen Parody
It's a special project commemorating the 30th anniversary of Hokuto no Ken.
It's ugly. And I dislike Hokuto too much to ever enjoy its parody.  
Overall Rating: 5/10
 
29. Jewelpet Happiness ジュエルペット ハッピネス [Studio Comet] (Finished 1/52)
Tags: Anthropomorphic, Mahou Shoujo Fantasy
The series focuses on the main heroine Chiari Tsukikage and her friends on managing the Jewelpet Cafe. One day at the magical world of Jewel Land, Lady Jewelina entrusted Ruby the Magical Jewel Box with a mission to make friends and collect Magic Jewels. At the same time she needs to attend the Jewel Academy to do so and open a shop called the Jewelpet Cafe. However with her friends, things didn't go well as planned with several failed mishaps happened to her and the students being scared, in the point of Ruby giving up. But when she met a young girl named Chiari Tsukikage and decides to help, Ruby's life is about to change forever. Now, she and her friends now must work together for the cafe to prosper, stick together through good and bad luck as well as protecting the Jewel Box from being stolen.
Sequel.  
Overall Rating: 6/10
 
30. Danchi Tomoo 団地ともお [NHK, Shogakukan Music & Digital Entertainment] (Finished 1/78)
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Tags: Seinen Comedy
It's a heartwarming and sometimes nonsense comedy about an elementary school boy Tomoo Kinoshita.
Not translated. Japanese are good at SOL as usual, but without translation nothing to do here.  
Overall Rating: 6/10
 
31. Balala Xiao Mo Xian: Qiji Wubu Balala the Fairies: Miracle Dance 巴啦啦小魔仙之奇迹舞步 [Alpha Animation] (Finished 1/52)
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Tags: Mahou Shoujo Comedy, Fantasy
The kingdom of Gemini is attacked by the evil Queen Halle. The twin princesses of the kingdom are missing, so is the important Night Star Box, which has affected planets including Earth. The fairy Queen had sent Prince You Le and Sally to Earth, looking for the Night Star Box with the help of Maggie and Michelle. Then the gang found out one of the girls who takes dance lessons with Maggie and Michelle is one of the missing princesses, Bei Bei! The mission to find the Night Star Box and the the still missing princess, Ya Ya, is now on the shoulder of the fairies.
Sequel.  
Overall Rating: 5/10
 
32. Shima Kousaku no Asia Risshi-den Shima Kosaku's Asian Entrepreneurs 島耕作のアジア立志伝 [NHK] (Finished 0/26)
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Tags: Seinen Drama 
How did Asia's most prominent entrepreneurs know when to grasp opportunities? And how did they overcome difficulties and attain their positions of power? This series uses the unconventional technique of blending actual documentary footage with CG animation to get a close-up look into the front lines and what lies behind the scenes of Asian business.
Our cartoon host is Shima Kosaku, a character from a popular Japanese business manga. He delves into the heart of the Asian economic market representing 4 billion people, to visit entrepreneurs who have survived turbulent times. Thai business magnate, Dhanin Chearavanont (Chairman of CP Group), and innovative Taiwanese semiconductor entrepreneur, Morris Chang (Chairman of TSMC), are among the many movers and shakers to be featured. Don't miss this opportunity to glimpse the dramatic lives of these media-shy business titans.
Not found.  
Overall Rating: 0/10
 
33. Kotonoha no Niwa The Garden of Words 言の葉の庭 [CoMix Wave Films] (Finished 1/1)
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Tags: Visual Arts Award Winning, Drama, Romance
On a rainy morning in Tokyo, Takao Akizuki, an aspiring shoemaker, decides to skip class to sketch designs in a beautiful garden. This is where he meets Yukari Yukino, a beautiful yet mysterious woman, for the very first time. Offering to make her new shoes, Takao continues to meet with Yukari throughout the rainy season, and without even realizing it, the two are able to alleviate the worries hidden in their hearts just by being with each other. However, their personal struggles have not disappeared completely, and as the end of the rainy season approaches, their relationship will be put to the test.
The type of movie to send to concurs, which is not my type. All those romance works are overrated.  
Overall Rating: 6/10
 
34. Steins;Gate Movie: Fuka Ryouiki no Déjà vu Steins;Gate: The Movie - Load Region of Déjà Vu  [White Fox] (Finished 1/1)
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Tags: Drama, Sci-Fi
After a year in America, Kurisu Makise returns to Akihabara and reunites with Rintarou Okabe. However, their reunion is cut short when Okabe begins to experience recurring flashes of other timelines as the consequences of his time traveling start to manifest. These side effects eventually culminate in Okabe suddenly vanishing from the world, and only the startled Kurisu has any memory of his existence.
In the midst of despair, Kurisu is faced with a truly arduous choice that will test both her duty as a scientist and her loyalty as a friend: follow Okabe's advice and stay away from traveling through time to avoid the potential consequences it may have on the world lines, or ignore it to rescue the person that she cherishes most. Regardless of her decision, the path she chooses is one that will affect the past, the present, and the future.
I don't lie this sudden tilt into romance, and story does not really impress, More like fandisc.  
Overall Rating: 6/10
 
35. Hal ハル [Wit Studio] (Finished 1/1)
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Tags: Drama, Romance, Sci-Fi 
Kurumi is a beautiful young woman whose beloved boyfriend, Hal, died in a sudden airplane accident. Left heartbroken and gloomy, she isolates herself in a small house. But this soon comes to change when her grandfather requests the help of a humanoid robot named Q01.
Taking on the appearance of Hal, Q01 is sent to Kurumi's house in order to save her from her state of despair. As Hal returns day after day and increases his efforts, Kurumi, despite her initial reluctance, slowly begins to open up to him and break free from her depression. But there is more to Hal than meets the eye, and these two will soon learn an unexpected truth about this relationship between a human and an android.
Romance between human and AI is not the theme I can enjoy. Can't even call it a good romance story.  
Overall Rating: 6/10
 
36. Aura: Maryuuin Kouga Saigo no Tatakai Aura: Koga Maryuin's Last War AURA~魔竜院光牙最後の闘い~ [AIC ASTA] (Finished 1/1)
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Tags: School Drama, Romance
Ichirou Satou is an ordinary high school student who pretended that he was a hero by the name of "Maryuuin Kouga" back in middle school, which led to others frequently bullying him. Now that he has left this embarrassing phase behind, he does his best to avoid standing out and live a peaceful life, although he feels the world has become quite dull. But when he makes his way back to school one night to grab a textbook he left in class, he runs into a strange girl wearing a costume.
This girl, Ryouko Satou, happens to be his classmate and is affected by the exact same condition that he once had, holding on to a delusion that she is someone else and dressing up to reflect this. The very next day, Ichirou is asked by his teacher to become friends with Ryouko, to which he adamantly refuses, unwilling to be reminded of his own history. When he sees that she is being bullied just as he once was, however, the boy makes it his responsibility to take care of her and break her free from that which what once plagued him—the perfect job for Maryuuin Kouga.
Another reimagining of bullied chunibyou and this time with disappearance of Haruhi vibes. It's pretty stupid overall, as for me.  
Overall Rating: 6/10
 
37. Saint☆Oniisan (Movie) Saint☆Young Men (Movie) 聖☆おにいさん [A-1 Pictures] (Finished 1/1)
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Tags: Seinen Comedy, Slice of Life
After thousands of years of hard work, Jesus Christ and Gautama Buddha decide that they have earned a vacation and descend from the heavens to rent a small apartment in Tokyo, Japan. As the pair struggles to live incognito, they enjoy the luxuries of modern society, such as amusement parks, and limited-time store sales. Jesus and Buddha take the time to celebrate each other's holidays, watch the changing of the seasons, and explore their new surroundings.
It's literally no story and silly jokes.  
Overall Rating: 5/10
 
38. Koukaku Kidoutai Arise: Ghost in the Shell - Border:1 Ghost Pain Ghost in the Shell: Arise - Border 1: Ghost Pain 攻殻機動隊ARISE -GHOST IN THE SHELL- border:1 Ghost Pain [Production I.G] (Finished 1/1)
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Tags: Adult Cast, Detective, Mecha, Psychological Sci-Fi
The anime's story is set in 2027, one year after the end of the fourth non-nuclear war. New Port City is still reeling from the war's aftermath when it suffers a bombing caused by a self-propelled mine. Then, a military member implicated in arms-dealing bribes is gunned down.
During the investigation, Public Security Section's Daisuke Aramaki encounters Motoko Kusanagi, the cyborg wizard-level hacker assigned to the military's 501st Secret Unit. Batou, a man with the "eye that does not sleep," suspects that Kusanagi is the one behind the bombing. The Niihama Prefectural Police detective Togusa is pursuing his own dual cases of the shooting death and a prostitute's murder. Motoko herself is being watched by the 501st Secret Unit's head Kurutsu and cyborg agents.
I don't like prequels so much, and this Kusanagi is not great. A lot of elements are snatched from before. It's still a memorable serious piece, so can't deny it a honorable masterpiece.  
Overall Rating: 7/10
 
39. Crayon Shin-chan Movie 21: Bakauma! B-Kyuu Gourmet Survival Battle!! 映画クレヨンしんちゃん バカうまっ! B級グルメサバイバル!!  [Shin-Ei Animation] (Finished 1/1)
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Tags: Seinen Adventure, Comedy, Gourmet 
Comical adventure story starring Kasukabe Defense Forces and dealing with "food" as theme. Kasukabe Defense Forces (Shinnosuke and his mates: Kazama-kun, Nene-chan, Masao-kun and Bo-chan) decide to attend "B-class Gourmet Carnival", a big event in Kasukabe, without their parents, to eat very tasty yakisoba sauce cooked by "Sauce's Ken". On the way, a mystery woman asks them to bring a legendary sauce to Sauce's Ken. They head to the event site with the sauce, but they wander off into a mountain, and "A-class Gourmet Organization", an organization plotting to eliminate B-class gourmet, seeks to take the sauce away from them.
Another vile organization, but at least location is calm and rural. Hardly any humor that I could like.  
Overall Rating: 6/10

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Seishun Love come- Great rom-com series that was incredibly popular at the time.  

Hataraku Maou- While this series is dated nowadays and it shows in the boring second season, it was still a good comedy fantasy at the time.

Suisei no Gargantia- Starts out as a mecha sci-fi in an obviously dystopian future before making its way to a submerged version of earth plagued by the same aliens the protagonist was fighting in space.  Generally an interesting story where the protagonist slowly starts to gain humanity as he deals with the survivors of Earth's fall and the legacy of the ancestors.

Mushibugyou- Shounen fantasy about a world where hyperevolved insects are fighting a war against the shogunate.  Great action, decent story, ends without a conclusion.

Crime Edge- Mystery/fantasy based in the modern age where psycopaths' artifacts both alter the minds of their descendants and grant them power.  Interesting but the series ended without the main story going anywhere.

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Pretty Rhythm Rainbow Live - The best Pretty Rhythm with them improved the song, and I admit that I'd like to hear the duet song. Tatsunoko here also put some focus on the handsome male cast, so at least this time they have more role besides being there as the fanservice for female audience by have them perform several times. 

Hataraku Maou-sama - The reverse of Maoyu with the hero being female and the demon king being male, and also both got thrown into the real world with the demon king keep thinking that he'll survive in the real world like the demon king. Has the second season in 2022, although apparently the animation gotten worse. It also has controversial ending which to say didn't do any favor to the fans.

Attack on Titan - It also got controversial ending, and some hardcore fans got crosse the line by made the death threat to the writer. Anyway the writer did mention that he was inspired by Muv Luv Alternative with the Titan here is obviously stand-in for Beta, and of course with a lot of death and all. Initially the author sent the manga to Shueshia, although they rejected it without realising that it could be their Cash Cow Franchise (Oh well, their loss). Then the writer goes to another publisher, and the rest is history.

Date A Live - Admittedly the premise is quite questionable with the MC need to date the spirit to save the world, but surprisingly the author find a way to make it work while adding sci-fi element. Other thing to note is that the artist is also Neptunia franchise artist, so it's normal that Idea Factory (The company behind Neptunia) published the VNs for Date A Live.

Devil Survivor 2 - I remember that I make a note on demon summoning cost because resummoning demon from Compendium is quite costly and I played this up to the early 7th day. Anyway for the anime, let's just say that the staffs got a bit creative in regard of rewriting and arranging some of the game plot points.

That's all for what I can comment in regard of Spring 2023 anime here.

Edited by littleshogun
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