#21 A Centaur's Life!

     A Centaur's Life could fall under a few different genres, school life being the most prominent. It could also fall under comedy, slice of life, and monster girls. It focuses on our main character Himeno, or Hime, who's a centaur. We get to meet characters of different races and see how their society functions 'without prejudice.'

     A Centaur's Life has some subtle political undertones that we get to see in the first episode. The politics mostly focus on how the government pushes the equality between races and avoid 'hate crimes.' I'm glad that it's only addressed every once and awhile, otherwise it might alter the fun slice of life feel the show has going for it. (At the same time though, the undertones keep it from being just another monster girl school life anime.) If you want to check out some of the other undertones and or themes that both the manga and anime include, click here. (It's actually pretty cool to look at)

(just a side note I've also seen it translated to Centaur's Worries so if you're looking for that you're in the right place)


     One of the cool things about this show is how they address evolution and why their world ended up the way it is. Just like I said in the Made in Abyss post, I love learning about new worlds that stories introduce. It's awesome when the writers and animators take the time to explain the world the story takes place in. Although, I think A Centaur's Life takes place on an earth that's just evolved differently. (If you're confused this is all explained in the first episode.)

     Another great thing about this anime is that it shows you how the characters, who are different races, live depending on their differing sizes and limitations. For example, there are specific desks and cars made for centaurs. And there's a robot walking device made for mermaids. Usually in a monster girl anime or any anime that includes fantastical characters, it's never addressed how the society has to change in order to accommodate things like extra limbs or tails.

      One of the only problems I have with A Centaur's Life is the mermaids structure. As you can see, the tail starts much lower on the legs than a normal mermaid. I personally think it's disturbing to have a weird slit between the legs and then a tail. All of the other races look the way you would expect them to, except the mermaids. (Coincidence? I think not) 

     Another really great facet about the show is that the mermaids internal structure gets explained. There are a few other times where the structures of the different races are explained and we get to really understand the races themselves, instead of just accepting the characters as being fantastical. For example, in one of the episodes Hime explains why centaurs have to stay at a certain weight. (You're going to have to watch it to find out why)

     

     A Centaur's Life also includes a gay couple, which is fantastic! Especially since they're given actual personalities and aren't just there for extra fluff. When you think about it, on the surface A Centaur's Life looks like any other monster girl, school life anime but when you start watching it you begin to see all these little details that make it so much more interesting.

     If you want to watch A Centaur's Life click here.

     I've actually written a review about this one on anime planet if you want to check it out! (Click here.)

I do not own any of the pictures, gifs, or videos used in this post or any other post on AnimationNomination they are protected under the fair use policy 

#20 Made in Abyss!

When you look into and Abyss, the Abyss also looks into you - Friedrich Nietzsche

     The most important thing to know about the world that this takes place in, is that there's a gigantic hole that goes deep into the earth that everyone refers to as The Abyss. Inside of The Abyss are artifacts of old civilizations, along with incredible and dangerous creatures. The Abyss is split into different levels depending on the depth, dangers, and different flora and fauna found there.




     Decending into The Abyss is dangerous due to the creatures and environment, but ascending is even more of a challenge due to the 'Curse of the Abyss'. When a cave raider ascends they are struck with terrible and fatal effects. The first of which is light dizziness and nausea, which doesn't sound too terrible. But when ascending from, say, the 4th level, the effects are intense Full-body pain, dizziness from pain and varying amounts of internal and external bleeding across the body. (If you want to read more about the Curse of the Abyss click here. )

    One of the main characters of Made in Abyss is Riko, who is a 12 year old girl. She was orphaned after her mother, who was a renowned cave raider, died on one of her expeditions. 

     Riko is a cave raider in training, and during one of her raids she meets Reg, our second main character. He's a robot in the shape of a human boy. He has no memories of who or what he is. Riko take's him back to the orphanage and explains to him that she thinks her mother is alive and waiting for her in the abyss. This is essentially when their adventure begins.

     (The scenery of Made In Abyss is extremely complex and detailed, and I can't wait for season 2 so we can see more. It kind of reminds me of the Studio Ghibli movie Naucicaä of the Valley of the Wind. (which is fantastic and you should totally go watch it)

     The character art style is more childlike, they look more like video came characters or some form of chibi art style. However, don't be fooled by how cute and childish the characters look because there are abrupt and gory scenes. While they're not as extreme as Tokyo Ghoul, they're definitely not subtle.

     Personally, I love it when we get to learn more about the world that a story takes place in and it's history and Made in Abyss definitely delivers. We also get to learn about the creatures that live in the abyss and why, even though it's claimed so many lives, the characters are still fascinated by it.

If you want to read the Made in Abyss Wiki click here. If you want to read the official description click here. If you want to watch it you could go to gogoanime or kissanime.

I do not own any of the pictures, gifs, or videos used in this post or any other post on AnimationNomination they are protected under the fair use policy

#18 Voltron: Legendary Defender!

Just another Mecha show? No way!

     Voltron takes place in a universe that includes our Milky Way and much more. It's a remake of the 1984, Voltron Defender of the Universe. (If you're more interested in that one click here!)

     Voltron: Legendary Defender, focuses on five Paladins, a Princess, an advisor, and an evil Emperor. Each Paladin pilots a colored lion, which is shown to the right. (for more on Princess Allura, Advisor Coran, and Emperor Zarkon check out the full description link) 

     From left to right the pilots are Lance in the blue lion, Keith in the red lion, Shiro in the black lion, Pidge in the green lion and Hunk in the yellow lion. When the lions combine they form Voltron, which looks like a giant robot, and become the defenders of the universe!

     Each lion has different abilities, strengths and weaknesses that relate to their Paladins. When they combine to form Voltron they're the only being in the            universe that is strong enough to overthrow Emperor Zarkon, who has conquered most of the universe and destroyed anything in his way. 

     (If you want to read a full description click here!)

     Voltron is a good show to watch if you like Space Dandy, or Gurren Lagann. It's funny, action packed, and available on Netflix, so it's easy to watch. Right now Netflix has 4 seasons of Voltron available to watch and season 5 comes out on March 2nd 2018. If you're a sci-fi lover, space enthusiast, or even a mecha fan, I highly suggest that you check Voltron: Legendary Defender out!


I do not own any of the pictures, gifs, or videos used in this post or any other post on AnimationNomination they are protected under the fair use policy 

#17 Restaurant to Another World!

     If you love food then you should definitely watch this show! We've all seen animated food before but Restaurant to Another World takes it to a whole different level and will leave you hungry for more.

     The restaurant in question seems ordinary during the week, but on Saturday it connects to a different world. In the other world, multiple doors appear at random locations, inviting the inhabitants to see what's on the other side. We, as viewers, get to meet all different kinds of creatures and people. Each character develops a love for a certain dish which we get to see in each episode. We also get to learn more about the restaurant owner and the world it connects to.
     The high quality of the food is what really makes this anime a gem. I'm use to seeing animated food as simple and uninteresting, but the food in this anime is highly detailed and really holds your attention. From the gloss on a tomato skin to the crispy texture of fried shrimp, it truly is amazing to look at.

     If you want to read the official description click here. And here's a link to the first episode!

I do not own any of the pictures, gifs, or videos used in this post or any other post on AnimationNomination they are protected under the fair use policy 

#12 Drifters!

          Drifters involves A LOT of violence and it also includes a lot of historical figures. Drifters takes place in a world that's in between life and death. Renowned warriors on the brink of death are taken to this world to fight in a war to end all wars. They're called Drifters.

          All of the warriors are well known somewhere, if not everywhere in the world. The three main characters are, Shimazu Toyohisa, Oda Nobunaga, and Nasu no Yoichi. All three are from Japan but there are others from different countries like Joan of Arc, Grigori Rasputin, Hannibal Barca, Butch Cassidy, Sundance Kid, and many others. If you want to look at who all is included click here.

          The animation style isa lot like Hellsing, the faces, teeth, and shading for example are very much alike. The only large difference is that in Drifters the animation style switches back and forth between hyper realistic and cartoonish. 
          The clothing and characters are extremely detailed and engaging thoughout the entire anime. The opening is especially highly detailed and includes a storyboard-like introduction.

          Many of the historical figures you might not recognize. (I know that I had to google some of them.) Even though these characters were once real people some of them are given supernatural powers. An example would be Joan of Arc, who is given the ability to control flames. If you're not familiar with Joan of Arc she was a heroine in the 100 Year War but was then betrayed by the people she was fighting for and was burned at the stake. Her anger at the betrayal sparked her hatred for people, causing her to join the Ends, instead of the Drifters.

          (If you want to read more about the actual Joan of Arc click here. If you want to read more about the character click here.)

          The Ends consist of people who have given up hope in humanity and would rather see them all dead. Rasputin, Anastasia Nikolaevna Romanova, Gilles de Rais, and Hijikata Toshizo all joined the Ends. They are led by The Black King and their only goal is to destroy mankind and let the creatures and beast 'inherit the world.'

          The Drifters chose Shimazu Toyohisa as their leader, for his unmatched war expertise. From poisoning the enemies water, to setting death traps, he can come up with ideas whenever they're needed. The Drifters goal is to take back the world from the Orte Empire and free all of the people who have been enslaved, essentially liberating the entire country from the inside out.

          Drifters also included spots of comedy and characters who literally act insane. The comedy helps keep the show from becoming just another war anime and helps break up the dark overtones.

If you want to read the full description click here. If you want to watch the first episode click here.

I do not own any of the pictures, gifs, or videos used in this post or any other post on AnimationNomination they are protected under the fair use policy 

#11 One Punch Man!

          Recently added to Netflix, One Punch Man follows Saitama, who can win any fight with just one punch. Because he's so strong nothing is challenging to him no matter how impossible it seems to us. His strength and power aren't obvious from the outside and he doesn't even look like a hero. His red gloves and yellow body suit are more like a Ronald McDonald outfit. His shiny bald head also doesn't scream super hero. 

         (One of the best things about this anime is that the artist switches between styles easily and effortlessly as shown in the first picture.)

          All of the characters are unique and over the top. They also love to talk about themselves and share their backstories. 
          Because they tend to do this often, Saitama will tell them to shorten their back stories to "20 words or less." 
          
          Saitama chose to be a super hero for the fun of it. He could be considered a casual hero. He isn't really known or recognized by other heroes or by the government . In this show the other heroes try to do everything they can to be recognized and remembered. While Saitama would rather go to the grocery store during a sale.

          Since Saitama's fights end so quickly he often takes the time to listen to his opponents for awhile. One of the best examples is the fight between him and Carnage Kabuto. (Click here to watch it.)

         

One Punch Man does involve gore, blood, and violence. It's abrupt and up front, so if that's not your thing don't be fooled by its ability to seems family friendly. If you want to read more about One Punch Man click here.

I do not own any of the pictures, gifs, or videos used in this post or any other post on AnimationNomination they are protected under the fair use policy 

#7 Adventure Time!

          "Adventure Time, C'mon grab your friends, we'll go to very distant lands, with Jake the dog and Finn the human, the fun will never end, it's Adventure Time!"

          When I first watched Adventure Time I wasn't really impressed by what I was watching. It seemed like a very crude and weird cartoon. A couple of years later I tried it again and was surprised that I liked it. Adventure Time has it's disturbing episodes but it also has it's relatable and sweet ones. Even though it says that it's rated for ages 10+ it probably appeals more to teenagers than anyone else. But I feel like you're never too old for cartoons, and I know a lot of college students who LOVE Adventure Time.
         
         The setting for Adventure Time is the land of Ooo, it looks like a fantasy world including abrupt climate changes, specific territories and large castles.

          Our two main characters; Finn and Jake, are best friends and brothers. Finn is the only human in Ooo. As a viewer I didn't even notice this until it was brought up in the episodes. Jake is a magical dog and is able to change his shape and size at will. This unlikely duo consider themselves the hero's of Ooo. This mainly consists of saving princesses from the Ice king and any other problem that comes their way. 
          
          Adventure Time has so many unique characters that most people can find at least one to relate to. From Marceline the Vampire Queen, to Tree Trunks, they each have their own personality and views of the world. None of these characters are perfect either, even our heroes have problems. The fact that not everything is happy-go-lucky is something that you can also see in Steven Universe. 
          
          Adventure Time could be considered comedy, fantasy, adventure, and sci-fi, you could also say (in some episodes) there is a weird psychological element to it as well. The episodes are short, only 10 minutes long, and don't usually carry over into the next one unless it's the finale or a more in depth story line. 

          Adventure Time has also won many awards which you can find here. 

(If you want to read more about Adventure Time click here.)

I do not own any of the pictures, gifs, or videos used in this post or any other post on AnimationNomination they are protected under the fair use policy

#6 Cowboy Bebop!

"This is real mystic and all but do you have anything to eat here?"

          Cowboy Bebop can most accurately be described as a 'space western'. Even the characters call themselves cowboys. It's fast paced and most of the time each episode has its own story without overlapping into the next one. While there is an underlying plot, it seems to only become the center of attention at certain points in the show. Cowboy Bebop also has one of the most interesting music styles. Combining western, opera, and jazz music together. This new style of music was made by one of the most prominent artist in anime; Yoko Kanno. The fast paced and catchy opening isn't only fun to listen to, but to watch as well. 

         
           Cowboy Bebop isn't always fast paced, sometimes it seems downright slow, but keep in mind that there will be fast moments where you might have to rewatch the show to make sure you see everything. 

          'Cowboys' are another name for bounty hunters in 2071. 'Bebop' is the name of the ship that Spike, Jet, Fay, Ed, and Ein live on. 

          



          Spike's our main character and could be considered the one that usually get the rest of them in trouble. He's also a master of Jeet Kune Do, which he almost always has to use when they go after bounties.


           Jet's the captain of The Bebop and tries to keep order between the others. He use to be an investigator for the Inter Planetary Space Police (IPSP) until his former partner betrayed him and led to him losing his right arm. 


          Fay is a thief and joins the Bebop crew after repeatedly running into them. She was put into a cryogenic sleep and woke up 54 years later in 2071 not remembering who she is, and with an insane amount of debt.  


          Ed is a highly renowned hacker and does everything her own way. From walking on her hands, to typing with her feet. She joins the crew when she hacks into the Bebops navigation controls and brings them to her. Ein is a corgi that has the intelligence of a human. Ein joins the crew accidentally when they're chasing after a bounty. Ein is also referred to as a 'data dog' and can do things that other canine can't do; like drive a spaceship, or play shogi. If you want to read more about the characters click here.

          The Bebop crew may be bounty hunters but most of the time they don't have any money. Most of it goes to repairs for things that Spike breaks or is gambled away by Fay. Unsurprisingly that also means that they don't have money for food. Most of them can be bribed with food, especially Spike, into doing random jobs and even helping total strangers.

          Cowboy Bebop was a big step forwards for the sci-fi genre of anime and could even be considered a sci-fi anime classic. While it is old it doesn't lack in action or comedic moments. 

Until next time, 

"See you, space cowboy."

I do not own any of the pictures, gifs, or videos used in this post or any other post on AnimationNomination they are protected under the fair use policy 

#5 Baccano!

          "Cast aside the illusion that there is a beginning and end to the story. The story has no beginning. And it has no end. All there is, is a performance of people connecting, living, influencing each other, and departing." 

        One of my favorite things about Baccano is the opening. It has fluid and interesting transitions that go from character to character without missing a beat. It's also fun and quirky without really revealing any of the darkness that resides in the anime. 

          The first episode throws a lot of information at you and it makes so much more sense if you go back and watch it once you've finished the series. Don't get discouraged if it seems like there isn't enough action. When you're watching keep in mind that Baccano! likes to jump between years. 

          Even though the subject and execution of the anime is dark there is still some humor to it. The best example would be the characters Isaac and Maria. They're fun loving and oblivious and are never really tainted by what's going on around them. If you've ever watched Durarara!!! then you would have noticed their cameo appearance in it.

          
          Baccano! mainly takes place on a train called "The Flying Pussyfoot." Although these passengers aren't the ones that you would usually find on a normal passenger train; like the mafia, bank robbers, immortals, a bomb enthusiast, and an extremist group. 

          Baccano! puts together the excitement of a murder mystery, and the ruthlessness of human nature together into one series. It contains the subtle cues of the insane, the drive of the dedicated, and the crazy fun of the innocent. 

          If you want to read more about Baccano! click here. If you want to read the description click here.


          I do not own any of the pictures, gifs, or videos used in this post or any other post on AnimationNomination they are protected under the fair use policy

#2 Steven Universe!

         "We are the crystal gems, we'll always save the day. And if you think we can't, we'll always find a way. That's why the people of this world, believe in; Garnet, Amethyst, and Pearl, and Steven!"

           Let's be honest, if you've seen Steven Universe you know that it will forever hold a spot in your heart for being one of the cutest cartoons ever. It revolves around family, friendship, and saving the world (or at least your home town). Steven, along with Garnet, Amethyst, and Pearl, put themselves in danger in order to protect each other, their friends, and their home.

 

Steven Universe has gorgeous background scenery and an amazing musical score. If you want to specifically check out the background artists click here. Aivi and Surasshu are the composers for many of the Steven Universe songs. Their music is happy, sweet, and can contain a hint of melancholy. When listening to it you can clearly hear the chiptune and piano influence in many of their songs. 

       Steven Universe is so beautiful, and if you're looking for a fun, quirky, but sometimes deep cartoon this one's for you.

(P.S if you want to make your own gemsona click here)

         I do not own any of the pictures, gifs, or videos used in this post or any other post on AnimationNomination they are protected under the fair use policy