This week: why episode 13 of Yama no Susume Second Season might be the best episode of anime of 2014, distress and worry that Psycho-Pass 2 will be a fanservice anime or a shell of its former self, examining why the melee choreography of the fights of Fate/stay night: Unlimited Blade Works are so enjoyable, and concerns over the evolving comedy in Amagi Brilliant Park.

Best episode of the week (and maybe even the year): Yama no Susume Second Season

Anime trending up this week: Fate/stay night: Unlimited Blade Works

Anime trending down this week: Psycho-Pass 2

Akame ga Kill! (Episode 15)

The storytelling is unbalanced in Akame ga Kill!, which results in some episodes being mind-numbingly boring, like episode 15. The issue with this episode is that there was a huge infodump in the middle where all that happened was dense backstory, brief character exposition, and laying out the plan for the next giant battle. Of course, with all that out of the way, the next episode or two will be nothing but pure action and fanservice… nothing more than sensational battles, charming comedy, and sexy female characters. It’s a trade-off I often dislike in anime, where one episode sacrifices itself by being all story-centric to make the other episodes around it more entertaining. To be honest, I enjoy an anime more when the two aspects are integrated together rather than isolated like this. However, to me, Akame ga Kill! is an anime where the story and characters are secondary to the entertainment, so I can tolerate such a trade-off provided that the fighting/fanservice episodes are significantly more enjoyable than the tedious and lackluster story-centric or character-centric episodes. This episode wasn’t the worst in the series, especially since it recovered at the end with the promise of a colossal battle between members of Night Raid and Jaegers, but I want to see shows integrate their material better instead of being bipolar like this.

Amagi Brilliant Park (Episode 2)

So… the comedy has slumped. I suppose I shouldn’t be surprised since I predicted this in my First Impressions post for Amagi Brilliant Park, but the sudden drop-off between episode 1 and episode 2 is somewhat shocking. Don’t misinterpret what I mean here… Amagi Brilliant Park is still amusing and featured a number of witty or hilarious jokes, but it just wasn’t the same caliber or quality that we saw in the first episode when we saw the incredibly shitty amusement park for the first time. Additionally, this episode focused primarily on developing the foundation for the story by elaborating on the dire situation of Maple Land’s inhabitants and introducing an antagonist, Chris Tucker Kurisu Takaya. Again, that’s not to say that Amagi Brilliant Park is bad or that it’s on the wrong track – honestly, I believe it’s moving in the right direction with this episode – it’s just that the comedy changed so quickly between episodes that I feel a little lost. There is hope for me, however, that my ideal humor will continue in subsequent episodes with the various employees needing to fix up the park for its patrons. I can see that brand or style of humor continuing for a majority of the series as the amusement park struggles in its miserable, decrepit state, so hopefully this situation can salvage the rich and robust comedy from the first episode. If not, I’m sure I’ll enjoy Amagi Brilliant Park just fine… just maybe not as much as I hoped I would.

Fate/stay night: Unlimited Blade Works (Episode 1)

A successful fight in anime depends on competency in a collection of basic areas: animation/cinematography, choreography, intensity/emotion, originality/innovative, and significance to the characters or story. The fights seen thus far in Fate/stay night have been exemplary in each of these categories. However, what I want to focus on in this review is the truly remarkable choreography (and a bit of cinematography) in these sequences. The two major fights that we’ve seen thus far have featured melee combat, meaning the two sides are fighting with weapons at close range. A majority of anime will often depict these fights as turn-based, where we see the actions of one character first and then the reaction of the other as separate shots. To contrast this, FSN has selected the majority of its shots to feature both of the characters on the screen at the same time, meaning the two components of melee fighting – action and reaction – are performed together at the same time more often than not. What is challenging about this method of choreography is that in these fights it requires the two sides to be in constant motion and to constantly be reacting to the movement or actions of their opponent. In other words, the choreography must be fluid between the two, especially since FSN wants to show the two characters on screen at the same time (it is worth noting there is a significant association between choreography and cinematography here). However, FSN is brilliant in this regard and each fight features choreography that is both elegance and marvelous, which deeply appeals to me as a viewer. The style of choreography that we’ve seen in these first couple episodes is an obstacle for any anime, especially with the given shot selection of FSN. However, FSN has been truly extraordinary here and has given us some breathtaking moments already. I can only hope we see this pattern continue with melee combat since the fights that we’ve seen thus far have been genuinely astonishing.

Gundam Reconguista in G (Episode 3)

I think this is the first time I’ve ever seen (or ever paid attention to) a toilet being in the cockpit of a mecha. We saw the pilot’s chair convert to a toilet twice in this episode, with Klim and Bellri both using this unique feature. I never considered it before, but it makes sense to have such a facility onboard a mobile suit given how long these fighters might be stuck in these machines. And after thinking about that predicament, I can’t help but wonder what happens in all the other mecha anime I’ve watched…

Hitsugi no Chaika: Avenging Battle (Episode 1)

The first season of Chaika needed more Chaikas. Simple fact. No questions asked. Three Chaikas is a start, but it was definitely not enough. With the first episode of the second season of Hitsugi no Chaika formally introducing to us a new Chaika (Vivi), I can see that Chaika is finally addressing its most glaring weakness. Hopefully, we’ll be introduced to the twin Chaikas (the pair wearing black on the cover of the eighth volume of the light novel) soon, in order to increase the Chaika density. Oh, and if other characters turn out to be Chaikas, too, that’d also be great. In fact, I’m hoping that by the end of the series, everyone is a Chaika. Could you imagine how good this anime would be if there were a hundred Chaikas running around? But even then, that still might not be enough. However, the point is that Chaika is still adding Chaikas to the series… and that’s never a bad thing for an anime like this.

Parasyte (Kiseijuu) (Episode 1)

How does Migi fashion itself into metal objects with just Shinichi’s hand? Where does this metal come from? It’s not like this metal is naturally within Shinichi, where Migi just simply rearranges the anatomy of the hand to produce sharp metal in the exterior. No, it’s like Migi is taking the organic material of Shinichi somehow turning it into metal… and then back into a normal, fully-functional hand when it’s through. And while we’re on this subject… how does Migi talk when it doesn’t have lungs? And why would it even have lungs if its entire circulatory system is connected to Shinichi’s? Oh, I knew I shouldn’t have considered real-world anatomy and physiology with this anime… or really… any anime (especially most of my favorites).

Psycho-Pass 2 (Episode 1)

One might argue that Gen Urobuchi is overrated as a writer, but the first episode of Psycho-Pass without him was both worrying and frustrating. It was a resounding disappointment, a plunge from the first season, and Psycho-Pass is now devolving into a soulless, fanservice anime. Wait… fanservice anime? Yes, I mean fanservice in the sense that the content of this episode was meant to be eye-candy for the fans and nothing more.

Purposeless action and gratuitous explosions for the sake of action and explosions? Check.

A deadpan and stern Akane who is now intended to be the badass of the group (who now poses every so often)? Check.

No relevant narrative, questionable writing and superficial characterization? Check.

Check, check and check… sounds like a fanservice anime to me. But don’t get me wrong, as I, too, enjoy genuinely good action… but not like this and never in an anime like Psycho-Pass. There always needs to be a sense of meaning or purpose; otherwise, it comes across as emotionless and self-serving. Contrast this with the first episode of the original season of Psycho-Pass where we witness Akane’s idealistic humanitarian and Kantian values challenged when Kougami exploded the criminal and Akane immediately disciplined Kougami. Where was the relevant characterization in this episode? Or even easier, what was the purpose of this episode? And bloody hell, what happened to Akane, too? She was the only character to retain her humanistic qualities following the first season of Psycho-Pass. Her character was much livelier, altruistic and enthusiastic during the first season… even smiling and humble in the epilogue of the finale. Now she’s some cold, unsympathetic badass? Are we just going to ignore all her characterization, her maturity and complexity as a person and completely rewrite her to be the champion of some in-your-face action series?

I had my reservations about the second season of Psycho-Pass when I learned that Gen Urobuchi was being replaced by Tow Ubukata. I figured the series would dip with a sequel given that two-thirds of the genius from S1 are now missing (Kougami and Makishima), but I figured that the anime would continue to build from its setting and introduce a new story that challenged Akane’s philosophy again. What I didn’t expect was for her characterization to be ignored and dismissed, and rewritten to be someone she isn’t in a shallow and simplistic anime that just so happens to be set in the same world as Psycho-Pass. What made Psycho-Pass one of my favorite anime is that it had genuine character development, expressive and scholarly dialogue, and an exciting plot that challenged the philosophies of its three primary characters. There was none of this in the first episode of Psycho-Pass 2, and I have a grim feeling that these elements will be forgotten for the sake of action and badass-ery. I pray that this first episode is a fluke and was scripted to thrill or entice the fans of the franchise… but dismal garbage like this had the opposite effect for me.

Shirobako (Episode 1)

There’s just something about a work-place setting in anime that greatly appeals to me. It doesn’t necessarily need to involve adults, like Shirobako graciously ensures, and it doesn’t necessarily need to be at work full-time either, say splitting its time evenly between work and school. It’s just a setting that has grown on me more and more in recent years. Now that doesn’t mean that every anime with a work-place setting is worth watching, with Denki-Gai no Honya-san being a perfect example, but there seems to be a better chance of me watching and enjoying an anime in some employment setting than most others.

Yama no Susume Second Season (Episode 13)

Up there with Ping Pong the Animation episode 10 and Space Dandy S2 episode 3 is Yama no Susume Second Season episode 13 for best anime episode of the year. Unlike the preceding two anime which need no introduction, Yama no Susume Second Season seems to be relatively anonymous or disregarded as an anime this season. A few quick searches confirm this claim, and they reveal a nominal amount of discussion or dialogue on the series. However, it’s obscurity as an anime has no correlation to its quality or its entertainment (or its education about mountaineering!), and the thirteenth episode was easily one of the most inspiring and satisfying episodes of the year.

What made this episode so outstanding, so remarkable is that it felt complete despite its multifaceted story and its phenomenal characterization. The episode successfully integrated three separate plots – star-gazing, firefly watching and Aoi and Hinata getting lost as children – into one coherent story where each element has a significant impact on the other. The episode was magnificent in how it personified Aoi and Hinata, how they thought about each other, how they acted around each other and showed the strength of their friendship, both in the past and in the present. The visuals was exceptional and truly paramount for a series of this nature, featuring a diversity of aesthetics that range from oil pastels (how often can you say that about an anime?), to a detailed, cartoony style and back to the traditional/moe art style but at a much higher quality and excellence than normal. Everything about this episode was perfect, far exceeding even my wildest imagination for this anime and delivering an episode that is captivating, charming and exceptionally beautiful. I could not recommend this episode enough, even to outsiders of the franchise who know nothing else about the series besides these two short paragraphs. Please watch this episode since it is one of the most incredible and gratifying episodes of the year.

Every time I attend Sakura-Con, I experience something new. During my first visit, the friends, panels and convention itself stood out to me the most. For my second trip, the social interactions were the most memorable of my experiences, though I knew what to expect and was able to manage my time better. This year, however, I did not actively plan out any new activities or experiences, and mainly rested on the idea to just see my friends again, buy some more art books, and take it easy. However, the most memorable experience for me during Sakura-Con 2014 was something I never anticipated…

When reviewing the panels this year, a particular name stood out to me from the list of special guests: Hiroshi Nagahama. Among his many famous works as a director was one anime that I highly anticipated for the Spring anime season: Mushishi Zoku Shou. Yes, the director of an anime currently airing in Japan was scheduled to visit for the weekend… and it just so happened that one of his panels was specific to Mushishi. I was not alone in this anticipation as the majority of my friends were enthralled in the prospect of hearing Hiroshi Nagahama talk about a beloved and cherished anime. So the stage was set for one of my highlights for Sakura-Con 2014, friends, anime, and the director who makes it all… but what I anticipated would be, something akin to the Puella Magi Madoka Magica panel with writer Gen Urobuchi and producer Iwakami Atsuhiro or the Psycho-Pass panel with producer George Wada and directors Naoyoshi Shiotani and Katsuyuki Motohiro, was not. No, instead, Hiroshi Nagahama had something much more grandiose and magnificent planned.

Rather than a standard Q&A session, Hiroshi brought with him the next episode of Mushishi Zoku Shou. At that time, the third episode of Mushishi Zoku Shou had yet to air, but he was able to bring with him a copy that was broadcasted to the attendees of the panel. Of course, the episode was not subtitled in English, but it was a remarkable and exceptional experience. Unlike most anime, where I watch them alone on my small computer screen, constantly battling distractions and taking screenshots, I was able to watch an anime among friends, on a large silverscreen without needing to worry about anything else in the world. But what stood out to me the most was Hiroshi’s commentary throughout the episode, where he described his work and the production process behind the episode. On specific shots, he would enlighten us to how they created the effect of the snow or the choice of sound effects. Others, he explained his emotions when reviewing the episode in its final stages and how this episode was one of his favorite from the manga. The director’s words and insight stood out to me as one of the most significant experiences in my anime life and created a lasting impression for the appreciation of anime from people in the industry. Even though Hiroshi is a director, far removed and elevated from the community he entertains, you could tell that he is still a fan at heart and that this is what he lives for. To hear that, to hear someone’s drive and passion for their career, through the medium of anime, is something I doubt I will ever forget. It was that moment that stood out to me as the highlight of Sakura-Con 2014.

Let’s start 2016 with a proper farewell to 2015. Before we look forward to another year of anime, we should look back on 2015 and reflect on what made it one of the best years of anime in recent memory. There were numerous anime and characters that were incredible, dazzling, brilliant sensational, influential, and monumental in 2015, and today, I want to take a moment to provide my thoughts and opinions on the 15 most significant anime and characters from this last year. Come, take a look and re-experience why the anime of 2015 are so remarkable and unforgettable.

One thing to keep in mind before viewing these lists are that they are geared specifically toward the TV anime of 2015 and not toward OVAs, movies, specials, or other formats. I may try to cover those later, but it’s more a question of time than anything at this point.

Top 15 Characters of 2015:

Honorable Mentions: Hitagi Senjougahara (Owarimonogatari)

Senjougahara has always been one of my favorite characters from the Monogatari series, but she was essentially a background character in Owarimonogatari. Had her role been similar to that in the other Monogatari anime, I would’ve felt comfortable to add her to this list, but she really wasn’t featured much, and played a much smaller role than she usually does. Still, she appeared in an anime this year, and I feel that she should be mentioned despite having the least amount of screentime of everyone on this list…

15. Maya Matsumoto (Working!!!)

Well… It’s hard to say whether Senjougahara or Maya Matsumoto had the least amount of screentime, but considering that Maya is a background character, it’s only appropriate to include her since she did have a presence in the regular episodes for the first time in 3 seasons. She probably has the highest success rate for jokes in the series for me, which is why I always find myself normal excited whenever she’s on screen.

14. Aoi Miyamori (Shirobako)

Aoi Miyamori is the heart and soul of Shirobako, being our guide as we go through the anime industry with our favorite production assistant, now production manager. What makes Aoi so remarkable is that she is relatable as a person and genuine as a character; you can associate with her challenges and accomplishments, whether it’s personal or professional. Not only that, but Aoi has a positive and cheerful personality that makes her enjoyable to be around, even in the face of yet another deadline.

13. Nosuri (Utawarerumono: Itsuwari no Kamen)

Although every character has had the opportunity to make me laugh in Utawarerumono: Itsuwari no Kamen, no one has been as outstanding as Nosuri. This noble bandit has been featured throughout the sequel as a lighthearted antagonist, with has produced some of the best jokes at the expense of this unlucky girl. What also helps is that she has some of the best faces and reactions in the series, making her easy to enjoy as a comic relief character.

12. Kumiko Oumae (Hibike! Euphonium)

Kumiko Oumae is a fascinating character who grows and matures throughout Hibike! Euphonium. At the start, she’s an ordinary girl who lacks direction and is never particularly emotional or invested in the things around her. But, after joining the Kitauji High School Music Club, Kumiko experiences a number of trials and challenges that test her resolve, and, as she goes through a rollercoaster of emotions, we see her grow into a fine, young lady. And let’s not forget that she probably has the best display of emotions of any anime character this year.

11. Kanon Memphis (Soukyuu no Fafner: Dead Aggressor – Exodus)

Although I am missing half of Kanon’s character because I never watched the 2004 series, I find Kanon to be particularly gratifying as a character considering her selfless devotion to those around her. She’s both gentle and ruthless, with a calm and stoic exterior while possessing a fragile and aching interior. Her development throughout the sequel was a pleasure to watch and an instant favorite for me in a wonderful mecha franchise.

10. Hiyori Iki (Noragami Aragoto)

Hiyori is a character who exhibits an ideal combination of both sincerity and comedy. Her character is the central point of everything that happens in Noragami, whether it’s being the emotional link for Yato or Yukine or being the victim of another joke or prank. She’s selfless as a character, which is evident by the amount of time and attention she spends on the gods and their relics. Hiyori continues to impress me as a character and she has become an even greater character through this sequel to Noragami.

9. Saber (Fate/stay night: Unlimited Blade Works)

What makes Saber satisfying as a character is her devotion and dedication to her master. Although her role is somewhat reduced in this route, Saber is stunning as a character considering her personality and resolve in the face of almost certain death. Then again, she’s intended to be the embodiment of loyalty and magnanimousness, two traits that I always enjoy in a character, so it makes sense why this gallant knight is ranked so highly on my list for 2015.

8. Suruga Kanbaru (Owarimonogatari)

A common theme on this list are characters that can be both humorous and humane, and we saw exactly that from Kanbaru in Owarimonogatari. Kanbaru is strong and resilient as a character, and was able to be the backbone for Araragi and others throughout this series and all the others. Although she’s not at the height of her character for me, a zenith which occurred in Hanamonogatari, I’ve always enjoyed this transformed character who always seems to make me laugh or smile.

7. Touka (Utawarerumono: Itsuwari no Kamen)

This might be cheating considering that her role is completely diminished and muted versus the original Utawarerumono series, but Touka was one of the few bright spots in Utawarerumono: Itsuwari no Kamen thanks to her personality and comedy in her one appearance thus far. Like most of the other girls on this list, Touka is both chivalrous and comical, and made the most of her brief appearance by displaying both those elements in a limited time. Again, it might be cheating because her placement on this list is due to her effort in previous anime, OVAs, and specials, but it’s the product of her growth that makes me enjoy her so much as a character.

6. Orihime Minashiro (Soukyuu no Fafner: Dead Aggressor – Exodus)

Orihime is rather unique as a character as she is the reincarnation of the island’s core from the original Fafner series. Though she possesses the body of a child, Orihime behaves like a venerable veteran, demonstrating tremendous knowledge and understanding of both life and death. And while she’s deadpan and serious, almost lacking human emotions, she’s very considerate and caring as a person, as we saw by her actions throughout the series.

5. Kaede Kagayama (Non Non Biyori Repeat)

Kaede, affectionately known by the local children as “Dagashiya” or “Candy Store”, is a heartwarming character thanks to her generosity and benevolence. Although she doesn’t want to be known for it, she’s one of the best motherly characters of the year given how she readily takes care of Renge and the others at a moment’s notice. Kaede also had great humor throughout thanks to her personality and the circumstances she found herself in. Overall, one of the most rewarding characters of the year.

4. Dio Brando (JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure: Stardust Crusaders)

A series can only be as great as its antagonist is, and wow, what a character that Dio is. Although the middle of Stardust Crusaders dragged on and on, we knew the anime was building up to the final showdown with Dio, and it did not disappoint. Dio has been developing as a villain since the very first episode and it all culminated at the end of Stardust Crusaders. Dio is truly one of the greatest villains of our time thanks to his persistence, heartlessness, and sophisticated personality. A series can only go as far as its villain and Dio was able to take JJBA to the top.

3. Celty Sturluson (Durarara!!x2)

Celty has always been one of my favorites, and while she had a diminished role in this sequel to Durarara!!, her presence was always a bright spot. As the characters and Ikebukuro change, Celty remains wholesome and respectable, remaining as one of the only “good” characters in urban jungle. And though she remained on the sidelines for most of 2015, the series is starting to revolve back to her and her story, which is something to look forward to in 2016 when the series returns. Oh, and let’s not forget that OVA with Shinra, too, which will be out in January, too.

2. Tsubasa Hanekawa (Owarimonogatari)

What is simply remarkable about Hanekawa is that she was probably my least favorite character at the end of Bakemonogatari. She didn’t do much for me in Nisemonogatari, either, and when she started off as the protagonist in Monogatari Series Second Season, I thought I was going to hate it. But, at that time, Tsubasa transformed herself as a character, and I began to appreciate her more and more as a altruistic, sincere, and motherly character in the Monogatari franchise. Her role in Owarimonogatari elevates her even higher considering her role and effect in this series. I can’t think of another character who has shown such an astronomical climb in a series, but I’ve fallen in love with how Tsubasa influences the story and the characters around her. Her story arc and transformation were phenomenal and she continues to grow on my with each new apperance. She is truly remarkable as a character, and I can only hope to see more of her as the Monogatari franchise continues.

1. Joseph Joestar (JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure: Stardust Crusaders)

Like many of the other entries on this list, Joseph Joestar possesses many of my favorite character traits. However, what this JoJo excels in is how well he represents the duality of comedian and integrity. And while he isn’t the protagonist of Stardust Crusaders, Joseph steals the show thanks to his flamboyant personality, his resilient perseverance, and his ability to ruin heartwarming moments with the worst of jokes. I was rather fond of Joseph as a protagonist during Battle Tendency but he has become one of my favorites thanks to his role and effect in Stardust Crusaders.

Favorite OP and ED of 2015:

OP: Soukyuu no Fafner: Dead Aggressor – Exodus OP1 (Exist by angela)

FOLLOW ME. FOLLOW YOU. With a powerful song by angela, astute directing, and gorgeous art and animation, Fafner is easily the best opening sequence of the year. I’ve always been fond of angela, but this song is perfect as an opening with such a strong beginning as soon as the opening starts. Not only that, but the song has elegant vocals and catchy lyrics, too. The directing is superb, with the pairing of the characters and their backgrounds to start, then progressing to battle with dynamic shots of pilots and their mechas to go with stoic support characters staring into nothingness. Easily the most enjoyable OP to watch all year and still enjoyable to this day.

ED: Sore ga Seiyuu ED (Anata no Omimi ni Plug In! [Plug In to Your Ears] by Earphones)

What could be better than chibi girls happily singing and bouncing around to their own ED song? What about clips that review the last episode and clips that preview episode? Great, what else can we do? How about the characters taking a break to talk about the last episode? Awesome, I don’t think that’s really been done before. But… what else can we do to take it over the top? How about having the characters sing a different OP song each week? That… that’s perfect. And all of those elements are why Sore ga Seiyuu has my favorite ED of the 2015… it has so many brilliant elements that made it a must-watch every week and a highlight to the end of every episode.

For a list of the other Top 5 OP and ED of 2015, check out Day 3 of my 12 Days of Anime post.

Top 15 Anime of 2015:

Honorable Mention: Mobile Suit Gundam: The Origin

I don’t include OVAs, movies, or specials in this list, but if I did, Gundam The Origin would probably be in the top 3. Gundam The Origin has been one of the most impressive anime of the year thanks to its distinctive art, its fluid battles, its robust narrative, and its powerful characterization. With only two episodes out, the series is still ongoing, but I strongly recommend this to anyone who enjoys watching anime (and especially if you avoid mecha or Gundam shows).

15. Utawarerumono: Itsuwari no Kamen

Although Utawarerumono: Itsuwari no Kamen is a huge disappointment when compared to the original Utawarerumono, the sequel performs well as a pleasant slice-of-life or comedy series with its relaxing setting and pleasant cast of characters. It also ranks highly for me considering the numerous references and parallels to the original, but falls flat for those wanting a bloody revolution with lots of kemonomimi fanservice and naked girls bathing. Hopefully the series will transform itself with the latter half in Winter 2016, because it is desperately missing elements of action and purpose. Still, it’s a cute anime with plenty of jokes and humor to keep me entertained.

14. Concrete Revolutio: Choujin Gensou

Concrete Revolutio is a bit confusing and messy with its abrupt and haphazard storytelling, but the elements and characters of the series keep me interested and intrigued as it reaches its halfway point. The characters are all quite strange and unique given their backgrounds and the ideologies and conflicts are rather interesting to watch in an anime given the subject of diversity and justice. There’s also the color palette and aesthetics which gives Concrete Revolutio a pleasant visual style. I’d enjoy the series more if it were a bit more direct with its story and writing, but hopefully this anime has a plan with where it’s going and what it’s doing.

13. Noragami Aragoto

Noragami has improved with Noragami Aragoto, expanding and developing the characters beyond what the original showed and further utilizing the chemistry of its main trio to better each character. The story arcs in this sequel felt more monumental and significant, really adding to the characters and causing them to change, which is something I always like to see with an anime.

12. Rokka no Yuusha

One of the biggest surprises of the year, Rokka no Yuusha featured outstanding chemistry and deception over one of the best mystery anime I’ve ever watched. What made Rokka no Yuusha so enjoyable were all the little, individual interactions between the characters and how they evolved throughout their fated encounter. The anime would’ve placed higher if not for its disagreeable ending, but it remains one of my favorite anime of the year regardless.

11. Yuru Yuri San Hai

To think, I passed up the original Yuru Yuri years ago because I felt it wouldn’t match my style. Well, since the original season, Yuru Yuri has grown on me as a comedy, and continues to do so with the OVAs and this third season in 2015. And while many weren’t happy with the change in art and color palette, I found the change to be positive as it gave the series a fresh, distinctive look. On top of that, the comedy improved, and I’ve grown to appreciate all the characters after all the previous entries in this franchise. Yuru Yuri is quickly becoming one of my favorite comedy franchises of all-time thanks to this third TV series.

10. Working!!!

Working!!!, another one of my favorite comedies, really impressed me with its third season by finally resolving a number of loose storylines and finally progressing toward its ending. Working!!! is a truly remarkable comedy, but the series was anchored down by its storylines that never seem to go anywhere. That issue was appropriately addressed in this third season with many outstanding issues finally resolved. I’ve always respected an anime that can make it to its ending, and while I am sad to see this franchise go, I am delighted with everything it has accomplished.

9. Gakkou Gurashi!!

Gakkou Gurashi!! is an marvelous blend of cute, cheerful moe comedy with depressing, dreadful elements straight out of a horror show. And while I wished the anime was less sugary-sweet, the anime was phenomenal in its unusual mix of styles, its characterization, and its story. And while I don’t agree with everything that happened in the story, it was still one of the most powerful and enjoyable anime of 2015.

8. JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure: Stardust Crusaders

Another year, another JJBA, and another entry in my final review of the year. The Egypt Arc of Stardust Crusaders was far superior to the first half in regard to the characters, the fights, and the Stands, especially when facing off against Geb, the Oingo Boingo Brothers, D’Arby, Pet Shop, and, of course, Dio. Again, JJBA is one of the best anime of the year due to its exceptional characters, art, comedy, and dialogues. I’m eager and excited for when it’ll return with Part 4 in 2016.

7. Durarara!!x2

Finally, the sequel to one of my favorite anime of all-time, Durarara!!x2 continues to build off the personalities and relationships of Ikebukuro’s strangest. One thing that I’ve always loved about Durarara!! is its cast, and thankfully, it continues to grow with its second season. Although there were some issues with its quality, especially in Shou, the writing, storytelling, and directing are still premier and every episode is an adventure to experience. The end to this sequel begins this month, with Durarara!!x2 Ketsu, so keep an eye out for it this Winter 2016.

6. Hibike! Euphonium

Hibike! Euphonium was exhilarating and eye-opening, a smörgåsbord of events, experiences, and emotions that helped shape and form the teenagers of Kitauji High School. It was remarkable to watch the band go from a disorganized, chaotic rabble to a single, exceptional expression as a capable orchestra. Furthermore, Hibike! Euphonium had brilliant art, animation, and directing that brought the characters and their struggles to life. And as a bonus, I’ve always enjoyed classical music, too, so Hibike! Euphonium had all the right elements to make it one of the better anime this year. Executing all that, and then spicing in some surprises, made it one of the very best.

5. Soukyuu no Fafner: Dead Aggressor – Exodus

As I sit here now, I look back and wonder what I would’ve missed had I passed up Fafner because I never watched the 2004 original. Immediately, I also think about all the details and references that I’m missing, too, and how I’d experience the anime differently. Nevertheless, picking up Fafner is one of the best decisions I’ve made all year as the anime was simply brilliant and sensational. Although I felt confused and conflicted at times, Fafner was one of the most emotional anime of the year with the lives, struggles, hopelessness, and redemption of a tiny, insignificant island and its optimistic pilots in the face of an alien war. Fafner left a lasting impression on me and I can only hope that others follow in my footsteps and give this series a chance. You don’t know what you’re missing out with one of the best anime of the year in Soukyuu no Fafner: Dead Aggressor – Exodus.

4. Fate/stay night: Unlimited Blade Works

Fate/stay night: Unlimited Blade Works has all the hallmarks of a favorite anime given its exceptional visuals, its unparalleled characters, its unique setting, and its stunning story. I am very thankful to have finally finished one of the routes, and I couldn’t be more enthusiastic and learning how its other stories progress and conclude. I can finally understand and appreciate the fame and acclaim this series begets as this is truly one of the most impressive and special anime that I’ve watched.

3. Shirobako

Of all the anime on this list, Shirobako is the most human. Shirobako not only lives and breathes as the heartfelt stories and humorous experiences of the people in the anime industry, but it also documents and relives their lives through an educational, emotional, and eventful narrative. There is no greater ambassador to the anime industry than Shirobako as it provides an open-window into the lives, passions, and responsibilities of those in the anime industry. Shirobako is an anime, not to watch, but to experience, as it will offer you with an eternal and appreciating perspective on everything that goes into every anime that we watch and love.

2. Death Parade

Death Parade, the TV anime that evolved from my favorite OVA from 2013 – Death Billiards – is truly remarkable in its ideals, philosophies, and details. The series was elegant and sophisticated in its approach to its central theme on evaluating the lives of its characters. No other anime really dives deep into such complex and metaphysical questions of meaning and purpose as Death Parade does with its exclusive format and conflicting personalities. Additionally, the anime has an unforgettable setting, with stunning art and a cohort of astonishing characters to act out its debates. Death Parade is truly one of the most expressive and imaginative anime of all-time.

1. Owarimonogatari

Brimming with charisma, introspection, and performance, Owarimonogatari is the pinnacle of the Monogatari franchise, thanks to its synthesis of numerous thought-provoking storylines, inspiring characters, and brilliant themes. Owarimonogatari is fascinating and mesmerizing, littered with magnificent monologues and dialogues that demonstrates characters maturing while grappling with disturbing oddities and unnerving mysteries. Owari is an anime to behold with how it connects the elements and details of all the previous and future stories, finally answering questions we never thought to ask and bestowing a mirror for which to reflect upon and understand our protagonist and the setting he lives in. This is Nisio Isin’s greatest masterpiece, the culmination of several outstanding narratives, and all this with some of the best directing and storytelling in all of anime. There is little doubt in my mind that Owarimonogatari is the top anime of 2015 given its influence on me and the sensation I feel when I watch an episode, truly unparalleled for more than a year at the minimum. The Monogatari franchise continues to improve with each revival, which only bodes well as the series is nowhere near its end.

For Week 3: gushing about the setting of Shouwa Genroku Rakugo Shinjuu, questioning Satoru’s treatment of Hiromi in Boku Dake ga Inai Machi, a personality shift with a positive cause in Dimension W, and highlighting the brilliant animation in Kono Subarashii Sekai ni Shukufuku wo!

Best episode of the week: Boku Dake ga Inai Machi

Anime trending up this week: Shouwa Genroku Rakugo Shinjuu

Anime trending down this week: Utawarerumono: Itsuwari no Kamen

Boku Dake ga Inai Machi (Episode 3)

I don’t find it odd that Satoru is completely devoted to saving Kayo, especially with how guilty he feels about her death to the present day, but I am downright perplexed that he doesn’t seem to mention anything about wanting to save Hiromi. After witnessing his relationship with Hiromi at school and learning about his death in relation to the serial kidnappings in 1988, I find it strange that Satoru doesn’t remember Hiromi more than Kayo. From my perspective, I’m curious as to why Satoru doesn’t focus on Hiromi more considering his established relationship with him and the fact that he is one of the victims, too. Then again, Boku Dake ga Inai Machi will address it eventually considering that it brought it up already, so I’m curious to see what Satoru does in order to prevent Hiromi’s death in the past.

Dimension W (Episode 3)

Is it just me or have we seen a dramatic shift in personality for Mira? Given what we saw in the first episode, I figured Mira would be a rather serious and tragic character, what with the circumstances of her father’s death and relationship with Kyouma. But… those are distant memories now with the third episode showing Mira as a playful, young girl who seems to be the butt of jokes more often than not. And would you have expected to have a scene where Kyouma walks in on her while she’s on the toilet after the first episode? It feels like a bait-and-switch to me, but it might be for the best considering that Kyouma is always miserable and cheerless. Too much of that emotion would have anchored Dimension W down, so it’s for the best that Mira has evolved and become the sunshine in Dimension W.

Durarara!!x2 Ketsu (Episode 3)

The chances are high that every new person you meet on the streets of Ikebukuro is stronger than the last. I mean, it seems like every new character they introduce in Durarara!!x2 is stronger than the last, and the fighters that we expected to be indomitable are now breakfast for whomever shows up next. Then again, that’s often how things progress, as it really isn’t much of a challenge if the new characters are wimps… but it’s still remarkable given the size of the cast and the number of outstanding fighters that we’ve seen since the very first episode back in 2010. Still, I’m willing to bet we haven’t seen the strongest fighter in the series yet, given that we still have at least 9 more episodes to go.

Kono Subarashii Sekai ni Shukufuku wo! (Episode 2)

Kono Subarashii Sekai ni Shukufuku wo! is turning out to be a pretty fun anime given its setting, its characters, and the humor, but one element that has taken me by surprise has been the art and animation, especially during the attacks. The most notable example from the second episode would be Megumin’s explosive magic. Megumin’s casting of Explosion featured quite an array of colors, lighting, and special effects, giving the magic quite a powerful and exciting flair. But beyond that were Aqua’s attacks which were quite spectacular on their own, and probably would’ve been the highlights of this episode if it weren’t for Explosion. I’m really hoping the art and animation for these spells and attacks keeps up since these have been pleasant additions to an already entertaining anime.

Shouwa Genroku Rakugo Shinjuu (Episode 3)

What can I say? You know that the setting is often my favorite aspect of anime, and I absolutely adore the historical setting of Shouwa Genroku Rakugo Shinjuu, especially with it split between the present and this current flashback. Both eras thrill me given that they’re both extremely underutilized in anime, and you often don’t see prewar and postwar Japan together in a single anime. Even if the story or characters don’t pan out in Shouwa Genroku Rakugo Shinjuu, this will still be one of my favorite anime of the season based on the setting alone. And fortunately for me, the storytelling and perspective thus far have been superb.