New year, new anime! Wow, is Winter 2015 starting out strong or what?
In accordance with my resolution to watch less terrible anime, I watched a very wide range of new shows in order to pick my favorites. However, I ended up liking so many that I’m only committing to the first three episodes, and then reevaluating.
As I’ve mentioned before, I’m still watching Parasyte and Shirobako into their second seasons for fun, and Yowamushi Pedal Grande Road and Gundam Build Fighters Try for review. That means if I don’t cut any shows, I’ll watch 9 episodes, or about 4.5 hours of anime every week!
That’s not very realistic for my schedule, but check out what I’m dealing with here and see why I’m reluctant to narrow it down yet:
Cute High Earth Defense Club LOVE!
I call this one Magical Boys for short. Five pretty boys wear frilly outfits and fighting in the name of love to save the world. So far it’s stupid and silly in a way I’m certain is intentional since it shares a director with one of my favorite anime, Daily Lives Of High School Boys. I’ve got my hopes up for a so-bad-it’s-good parody of Magical Girl tropes.
Where I’m watching it: Crunchyroll
Assassination Classroom
A ridiculous supernatural premise and comedic timing that both remind me of Soul Eater. In “Ass Class,” students have to kill their invincible alien teacher before he blows up the planet. The twist is that he’s an excellent teacher. The first episode had too much exposition and too little plot, but I’ve got a good feeling about this hyperbolic shounen show.
Where I’m watching it: Funimation
Death Parade
A stylized supernatural thriller that looks gorgeous and sounds even better. I thought the pilot’s drama felt manufactured, but judging by Anime News Network’s consistently high scores, I’m giving it another episode. The first episode explained the gimmick; now I’m looking forward to see if the show can hook me now that all its cards are on the table.
Where I’m watching it: Funimation
Kuroko’s Basketball
After sticking with it for 50 episodes, I’m here for the long run. Season three started strong with a short recap that didn’t feel stale and the introduction of a terrifying new adversary. Kuroko is probably the most interesting sports anime I watch for the sports, because real players would have to be doping to perform these killer moves.
Where I’m watching it: Daisuki
The Rolling Girls
A little bit Samurai Flamenco, a little bit Kill La Kill, this show is all bright colors, smooth animation, and girl power. It’s a show about female vigilantes who battle for their districts in a distinctly panty-shot-free way. I like strong female characters better than Strong Female Characters, and I can’t wait to see where this character-driven drama goes next.
Where I’m watching it: Funimation
What are you watching this season? Anything you think I’ve missed?