Currently Watching (Spring 2012 Edition)

[Buckeye]

The spring quarter is almost upon us, and with that, here is a new thread to talk about all the anime you are watching in April, May, and June, the spring season of this year. The winter quarter was quite loaded with great stuff that I ended up having to put on hold some shows that in a lighter quarter I would have continued. That said, a new season is just a few days away.

The link to the Winter 2012 Edition (http://www.mania.com/aodvb/showthread.php?t=109282)

Spring Anime Chart (http://static.neregate.com/2012/02/neregate.com-Spring-2012-Anime-v3.png)

Note
- change the title of your post to reflect the contents.
- do not use the Post Reply button; instead, click quote on the post you wish to reply to, or on this post if you're starting a new subthread.
- edit down the quoted section to the relevant bits, nobody needs to read someone's epic list of watched stuff twice.
- be nice to one another

Also, I'd like to add the following. The Currently Watching Thread is mainly meant for a general overview of how you're currently feeling about shows. It is not supposed to be a replacement for actual discussion threads. Try to keep heavier discussion (if possible) in the more specific discussion threads.

In addition, try to be careful of spoilers here. It's one thing if it's properly tagged and such. However, I don't want people to have to worry about someone randomly posting "Wow, X died in episode 17 of Y". Just a randomly made up example.

[Buckeye]

Now to start off the new season, here is my to-do list. This is just a tentative list as I might add or remove stuff depending on my mood and if I find the willpower to plow through all these titles.

Ga-Rei Zero
The World God Only Knows
Sora no Woto
Special A
Nisemonogatari
Papakiki
Future Diary
Hoshizora e Kakaru Hashi
Chaos;Head
Sacred 7
Ef ~a Tale of Memories~ (rewatch)
Revolutionary Girl Utena (rewatch)
Puella Magi Madoka Magica (rewatch from episode 5)
Bleach (from episode 236)
Pokemon Black and White (from episode 53)


As for simulcasts, here are the titles I am interested in:

Fate/Zero
Accel World
Eureka 7 AO
Haiyore Nyaruko-san
Natsuiro Kiseki
Medaka Box
Acchi Kochi
Hyou-ka
Uchuu Kyoudai


For this season, I am planning to follow only 3-5 simulcasts this time around, down from 7 from the winter season as I will have a lot less free time during the coming months. Fate/Zero will definitely be one of them being a continuation of the first half, with Accel World being the show I am most looking forward to this season. As for the rest, I plan on giving it a try and then deciding which ones to continue watching.

This season begins with Ga-Rei Zero. I am currently halfway through this series.

[Buckeye]

This season begins with Ga-Rei Zero. I am currently halfway through this series.

I just finished up watching Ga-Rei Zero last night. I thought I was not going to like this show after the first two episodes, but once the flashback story starts, it becomes great to watch. The story was just excellent with how Kagura and Yomi were so close to each other, but their duties as demon slayers lead them down a path of destruction. I'm not too sure if the story would have been better suited starting with episode 3 or not. But once everything is explained that the story made a whole lot more sense.

Next up is The World God Only Knows, the first season.

[Glamrgrl104]

Fairy Tail vol. 4 episodes 41-48- This show is always awesome with not a dull moment!

Spice and Wolf- episodes 5-13- I like this series, I might pick it up if they make a complete collection.

Ginban kaleidoscope- episodes 1-3- Interesting series. Reminds me of Kaleido star, a good anime about chasing dreams. I also like how it shows the world of ice skating. The dub is kind of hard on the ears even if it is Aniplex which usually does good job with dubs.

[pianocello]

Currently watching (episodes watched up to in brackets):

Outstanding
None

Very Good
Nichijou (22)
While it is still hit-and-miss at times, any skit containing Yuuko is guaranteed to deliver a laugh.

Rinne no Lagrange (2)
I like Madoka and I think she and Lan make a nice couple.

Guilty Crown (2)
This could still turn into another Code Geass and ultimately suck. For now, I like the music and character designs.

High School DxD (2)
Fanservice aside, a lot of people seem to hate the male lead. For me, I find it refreshing after watching tons of male leads who freak out at the slightest hint of nudity that there is actually a male lead who is not afraid to look at breasts and the females around him don't freak out when they are naked near him.

Good
Last Exile: Fam the Silver Wing (1)
I didn't like the 1st episode of the original Last Exile but this seems to have started well. They also seem to have ramped up the fanservice.

Seikon no Qwaser 1st season (2)
Will catch up later.

Boku wa Tomodachi ga Sukunai (5)
Each episode is getting better and better.

Manyuu Hikenchou (7)
Watch for the fanservice.

Higurashi no Naku Koro ni Kira (finished)
Has its moments but ultimately weaker than the earlier seasons.

Average
Black Rock Shooter (1)
I'm watching this since I like the yuri undertones in the OAV. One character is unfortunately rubbing me wrongly. Some of the scenes are also too brutal for me.

Asu no Yoichi (finished)
Ultimately this was just a low budget show to pass the time. The so-called romance between the leads felt forced - why should I care about them?

Another (1)
I don't usually like creepy shows like this but it is setting up the atmosphere nicely.

Tiger and Bunny (10)
I'm only watching it for the two female heroines. The two male leads bore me. Tiger can be grating and Barnaby's angst can be irritating.

Below Average
Carnaval Phantasm (finished)
A collosal waste of time.

[Fencedude]

Rinne no Lagrange (2)
I like Madoka and I think she and Lan make a nice couple.


Last Exile: Fam the Silver Wing (1)
I didn't like the 1st episode of the original Last Exile but this seems to have started well. They also seem to have ramped up the fanservice.


Black Rock Shooter (1)
I'm watching this since I like the yuri undertones in the OAV. One character is unfortunately rubbing me wrongly. Some of the scenes are also too brutal for me.



Dude. Why are you not watching Symphogear? And Mouretsu Pirates?

God last season was so hilariously gay.

[Glamrgrl104]

K-on episode 2- Cute and funny.

Princess Tutu-episode 1- An interesting shoujo anime that is becoming a good pick to start watching.

[Buckeye]

Next up is The World God Only Knows, the first season.

Just got done with the first season of The World God Only Knows. It's a pretty nice show to watch despite the overused themes in this show. It's about how a guy who only cares about dating sims suddenly has to play real-life dating games or else his head is gone. The concept works very nicely, and this show is more about Keima trying to help girls overcome their personal issues to release loose souls. And then there is the final episode that was really funny. Elsie is quite a handful as the female lead being so ditzy. Anyway, this is a nice show to watch since Keima somehow always manages to do other things while playing his PFP.

Sora no Woto is the next title on my slate. As for simulcasts, so far Fate/Zero and Accel World are definitely in, and Haiyore! Nyarko-san is also in barring a huge dropoff in the coming episodes.

[Glamrgrl104]

Princess Tutu-episode 2-4- A unique series. It is addicting XD

Phantom of the requiem-episode 8- Was mainly watching it as background noise and viewing it briefly. Still an awesome series, but I guess I wasn't in the mood for a dark anime.

Kimi ni todoke 1st disc of part 2- AWW such a good series! Gives me a heartwarming feeling. :3

[pianocello]

Currently watching (episodes watched up to in brackets):

Outstanding
None

Very Good
Senki Zesshou Symphogear (2)
This is so 90s. Anyway this could be the winner of the year or end up being like Ga-Rei Zero (I didn't like its ending and the fact that the yuri ended going nowhere).

Nichijou (finished)
I can't help thinking that this show could be condensed into a 12-episode season featuring just the skits involving Yuuko or Mio. Then, I might consider it one of the best anime of the year.

Rinne no Lagrange (3)
Episode 3 was really silly but I like the fact that the yuriness is still strong.

High School DxD (3)
Fanservice aside, I'm glad now the moral ambiguity of demons = good side, clergy/angels = villains is being brought out.

Good
Last Exile: Fam the Silver Wing (3)
The characterization is certainly deeper than the first season.

Seikon no Qwaser 1st season (2)
Will catch up later.

Boku wa Tomodachi ga Sukunai (5)
Need to catch up on this.

Ano Matsu de Matteru (2)
Onegai Teacher + a bit of Ano Hana + a slight megane fetish is how I'd describe this. It could still be good but it is getting too similar to the Onegai franchise in mood. If it becomes "Sempai sempai sempai SEMPAIIII!!!" (remember "sensei sensei SENSEI!"?) or "we might be friends we might be relatives" repeat ad nauseum I'm dropping. After all, Onegai Twins started fine and went downhill fast.

Manyuu Hikenchou (finished)
Lack of a conclusion but who cares if there is fanservice, right?

Guilty Crown (3)
I still like the music but this show is starting to have all kinds of red flag warnings for me.

Average
Black Rock Shooter (2)
The antagonists are too creepy for me for now.

Another (2)
The mood is building up nicely but the male lead is rubbing me wrongly with his stalkerish behaviour.

Tiger and Bunny (10)
Need to catch up on this.

Below Average
Zero no Tsukaima 4th season (finished)
Why am I watching this even though I swore I'd never touch this again? I guess because people were saying that this actually ended decently. Decent ending or not, the fact remains that this show should have ended 3 seasons ago and Louise is one of the all-time worst female characters in the history of anime.

Awful
Tantei Opera Milky Holmes 2nd season (finished)
While 1st season had its moments, this was just supremely awful. I hope they don't make another season.

[Glamrgrl104]

2nd disc of Kimi ni todoke Vol.2- Brilliant and heart warming, I can't wait until vol. 3 I already have it pre-ordered!

Princess Tutu- episodes 4-9- This series is not much to look at with the style of the characters, but the development of the story and the characters makes this a good watch. Every episode brings some new twist to the story.

Lovely COmplex Live action movie part 1- Just as hilarious as the anime!

[Tratious]

currently watching Toaru Majutsu no Index, didn't watch this before just jumped straight into Railgun, and also watching Persona 4, gonna get around to Space Brothers later tonight probably.

[something]

3/24/2012 Update! (http://www.mania.com/aodvb/showthread.php?p=1981142#post1981142)

First cour done, everything is complete except for Mouretsu Pirates.

R2 Import Tier
(01)　　Mouretsu Pirates - ◄0► - 15 eps - My only continuing series from Winter, so I probably won't update this season list anymore. I can't imagine anything knocking Mouretsu off the top spot and I'm not going to update this list multiple times just to say "Yep, Mouretsu is still fucking amazing". It's the best show of its season and the best show on TV today. Frankly I'm not confident even Hyouka will change my mind, even as huge of a KyoAni fan as I am. Mouretsu is just too damn good and frankly I won't be shocked if it ends up my #1 show of 2012, or at least top 5. Episode 15 gave me something I desperately wanted to see, and made it twice as fun as my already sky high expectations. I really think Marika might be my favorite character of the year so far, though she's competing with Remon, Hina and Ririchiyo. [Import - Already ordered.]

(02)　　Ano Natsu de Matteru - ▲1 - 12 eps / complete - Gotta give this the nod over Nise in the end. Nise didn't have a beginning or an end, which is appropriate for its source material, but that does give Ano Natsu an edge, because it gets to tell a complete and exceptionally well written story from beginning to end. It also gets high marks for having a far far better final episode. Like I've said before, I'm not going to say this show is as good as Toradora but it's completely worthy of being praised alongside Nagai's best works. [Import - Already ordered.]

(03)　　Nisemonogatari - ▼1 - 11 eps / complete - [Import - Already ordered.]

(04)　　Inu x Boku SS - ▲1 - 12 eps / complete - Hands down best hetero couple of the year so far, and I'll be pretty surprised if anyone else tops it. Any fears I had about the ending trying too hard to jam unwanted plot or were dropped when the show instead took its final episodes to examine its characters' most fundamental motivations and feelings in a respectful, sweet, beautifully written manner. Could not have ended better. But gimmie a sequel anyway! Best thing David Production has done by a long, long, long shot. [Import - Already ordered.]

(05)　　Papa no Iu Koto wo Kikinasai! - ▼1 - 12 eps / complete - Truly couldn't have asked for it to turn out better in the end. The Sora dream stuff got kinda dumb but everything else was so spot on. This one really rises head and shoulders above what I thought it could have accomplished, with every character except the detestable Sako playing by turns fascinating, heartwarming, hilarious roles. And at the center of it all, the little goddess Hina! <3 [Import - Already ordered.]

(06)　　Rinne no Lagrange - ▲1 - 12 eps / complete - Oh wow, I did not need to worry about the ending at all. That was spectacular in every possible way. Madoka x Lan forever, totally looking forward to the second half! MA-::sniffles::-RUUU! <3 [Import - Already ordered.]

(07)　　Natsume Yuujin-chou Shi - ▼1 - 13 eps / complete - Season five where? REIKO WHERE? I love this show as much as ever. [Import - Already ordered.]


Non-imports
(08)　　Another - ◄0► - 12 eps / complete - Can't quite decide if this or Canaan is my second favorite PA Works title, but this was very good. Almost impossible to talk about without spoiling though.

(09)　　Senki Zesshou Symphogear - ◄0► - 13 eps / complete - Very good yet simultaneously disappointing ending. I'm not sure what to think, but it's a very solid show all around with its fair share of great scenes.


OVAs, Specials, other oddities (will next be updated in the Winter post, when I do one)
moved to Spring list


Dropped:
Kill Me Baby - 7 eps
Tantei Opera Milky Holmes 2 - 4 eps
Brave 10 - 6 eps
Zero no Tsukaima F - 5 eps
Highschool DxD - 3 eps
Danshi Koukousei no Nichijou - 2.5 eps


Still need/plan to try (may not have aired):
none


(Blah blah disclaimer, the number on a tier is not at all indicative of a show's absolute quality, merely its quality relative to the other shows on the list).

Insanely high quality season. One of the best there's been, and far better than Winter '11, even if it lacked that season's 10/10s of Madoka and Hourou. Mouretsu still has a chance though... it just needs a really epic final arc and perfect ending.

[something]

1/07/2012 update (http://www.mania.com/aodvb/showthread.php?p=1973051#post1973051)

Mirai Nikki finally decided to end, so I can complete this. Man that show seemed so much longer than it is.


R2 Import Tier - er, sorta? See descriptions for explanation.
(01)　　Working'!! - ◄0► - 13 eps / complete - [Import - Already ordered.]

(02)　　Boku wa Tomodachi ga Sukunai - ▲1 - 12 eps / Complete - [Import - Already ordered.]

(03)　　Shakugan no Shana III - ▼1 - 24 eps - Man talked about mixed feelings. For the majority of its run this was beautifully brilliant stuff, 10/10 material, blowing away the first two seasons, some of the best material of the year... and then the final arc started and coherency went to hell as a thousand side plots (some irrelevant, some relevant but badly executed) were shoved into a total narrative clusterfuck and all focus of anything that mattered was obliterated. If this is the price paid for faithfulness to the source material, then it wasn't worth it. But the rest of it was just sooooooo gooooood, and very very importantly, I loved the very ending of the show. It's exceptionally difficult to straighten out my feelings for this show but I do know it was, on the balance, great. I suppose my feelings would be very different if the last episode had flopped - I'd probably have stopped importing it and dropped it to second tier. What a delicate balancing act an ending can be. [Import - Already ordered.]

(04)　　Mirai Nikki - ▲2 - 26 eps / complete - All things considered, this is actually better than some shows I decided to import. really my #4 show of the season but it's not the kind of thing I import, so yeah, can't put it in import tier. Goddamn it's good, though it's another show that's so hard to talk about without spoiling. Just... just go watch it. It's the kind of show that makes my stare at the screen and go "This show, THIS SHOOOOOOOOOW!", and enjoy the hell out of it. What an insane, hilarious, bizarre, chaotic story this is. I still don't think I've seen a show pull off violent ridiculousness this well since, what, Geass R2? [Import - Um, should I have? Probably. Did I? No. As odd as it sounds, there are simply some shows that are exceptionally good but that I don't seriously consider for imports. Take Uchuu Kyoudai from Spring. It's probably going to be import-worthy, but I'll never really consider it - Bakuman is another example. I don't know, I just feel comfortable importing Tamayura and Ikamusume instead, even if this is better. It's weird.]

(05)　　Tamayura ~hitotose~ - ▼1 - 12 eps / complete - [Import - Already ordered.]

(06)　　Shinryaku!? Ikamusume - ▼1 - 12 eps / complete - [Import - Already ordered.]


Second Tier
(07)　　Kyoukai Senjou no Horizon - ◄0► - 13 eps / complete - [Import - Not in full, but I will be importing Vol. 6 in order to own episode 10.]

(08)　　Bakuman 2 - ▲1 - 25 eps / complete - Great episodes all around at the end. Can't wait for season three in Fall, and frankly I hope there's more after that. I want at least 100 episodes of this.

(09)　　Fate/Zero - ▼1 - 13 eps / complete

(10)　　Chihayafuru - ◄0► - 25 eps / complete - Well this goes pretty high up on my list of shows that desperately need a second season but will probably not get one. Everything that made this show early on just got better as it progressed, and really, the story has only just begun. It's a shame there's so much left. I can only hope NHK feels like funding more at a loss, I guess.


Third Tier
(11)　　Mashiro-iro Symphony - ▲1 - 12 eps / complete

(12)　　C³ - ▲1 - 12 ep / complete


Fourth Tier
(13)　　Kidou Senshi Gundam AGE - moved to the "OVAs, Specials, other oddities" list under Spring due to length


OVAs, Specials, other oddities
moved to Spring '12 post


Dropped:
Persona 4 - 12 eps - I just never ended up getting back to this, and the annoyingly inconsistent art quality and lack of acceptable subs sapped away my desire to make time for it. Oh well, I'll live.
Ben-To - 7 eps
Maji de Watashi ni Koi Shinasai!! - 5 eps
Kimi to Boku - 3 eps
Guilty Crown - 2 eps
UN-GO - 1 ep
Phi Brain - Kami no Puzzle - 1 ep
Maken-ki! - 0.5 eps


Still need/plan to try (may not have aired):
none

(Blah blah disclaimer, the number on a tier is not at all indicative of a show's absolute quality, merely its quality relative to the other shows on the list).

In the end, Shana... I don't want to say "falls apart", but it definitely didn't end up challenging Working'!!, which I thought it would for sure, and has to drop to Haganai too, leaving Working'!! with a pretty dominant lead over Fall.

It's curious... despite being one of the two major seasons, Fall probably hasn't been my favorite season in any year since 2008, when we got both Clannad After Story and Toradora. That said, I don't usually compare seasons mentally so that might just be a skewed perception I've got. I guess I just have this idea in my head of big Fall seasons being one-upped by the small subsequent Winter. That most certainly happened this year and I'd say Winter 2010 did it as well. Winter 2011 less so overall, but comparing best to best, Madoka and Hourou crush OreImo and Zakuro in my eyes.

So no 10/10s in Fall, but Working'!! was pretty close.

[HitokiriShadow]

(04)　　Mirai Nikki - ▲2 - 26 eps / complete - All things considered, this is actually better than some shows I decided to import. really my #4 show of the season but it's not the kind of thing I import, so yeah, can't put it in import tier. Goddamn it's good, though it's another show that's so hard to talk about without spoiling. Just... just go watch it. It's the kind of show that makes my stare at the screen and go "This show, THIS SHOOOOOOOOOW!", and enjoy the hell out of it. What an insane, hilarious, bizarre, chaotic story this is. I still don't think I've seen a show pull off violent ridiculousness this well since, what, Geass R2? [Import - Um, should I have? Probably. Did I? No. As odd as it sounds, there are simply some shows that are exceptionally good but that I don't seriously consider for imports. Take Uchuu Kyoudai from Spring. It's probably going to be import-worthy, but I'll never really consider it - Bakuman is another example. I don't know, I just feel comfortable importing Tamayura and Ikamusume instead, even if this is better. It's weird.]


I was considering this for importing in Fall but Haganai won that competition. I had some issues with the second half that ultimately made me glad I didn't, but the last few episodes and the ending were pretty damn good. Still not regretting my decision though as it still doesn't come back to a level that makes me want to own it and certainly not more than Haganai. Plus I've overextended myself as it is and already had to drop a show from Winter, and if I was buying this, I would still have six more volumes to get.

(10)　　Chihayafuru - ◄0► - 13 eps - I think you forgot a few episodes there.

This is one of those shows that just fell through the cracks. I'm sure I would have liked it a lot, but I had enough other things to watch and never got around to watching the second episode.



Dropped:
Persona 4 - 12 eps - I just never ended up getting back to this, and the annoyingly inconsistent art quality and lack of acceptable subs sapped away my desire to make time for it. Oh well, I'll live.I ended up dropping it around episode 19. My interest just slowly tapered off. It wasn't doing anything wrong, really, but I was interested primarily in the characters and the goofier side of the show and wasn't that interested in the plot. I still want to play the game someday anyway.

[something]

Spring has begun and I've already tried way more shows than I'm actually going to be able to finish.

Below is only first impressions, of course. I'm a long way from knowing what I'll import.


No tiers yet, too lazy. Next time.
(01)　　Saki: Achiga-hen - Episode of Side-A - ◄NEW► - 2 eps - I don't see anything but Hyouka having a chance of beating this. It's Saki... but cuter! Also fuck yeah Yuuki Aoi and Hanazawa Kana. Episode one did a superb introducing and making me care deeply about a completely new cast. By the end of the episode I felt as invested in them as any of the main Saki cast, and more than most. With the second episode completing the team, it looks like we're jumping headlong into superpower mahjong action. Probably a good thing, with only one cour. There's no way I'm not importing this.

(02)　　Uchuu Kyoudai - ◄NEW► - 3 eps - Sometimes you just want a show about adults doing adult things in the adult world, no matter how much you love the high school drama and comedy and romance. Uchuu Kyoudai fills this need so damn well. It also helps that I'm very interested in realistic space exploration stuff, so everything about this show is a huge huge win for me right now.

(03)　　Tasogare Otome x Amnesia - ◄NEW► - 2 eps - I feel like Oonuma Shin is finally getting the hang of this "directing" thing. Yuuko is deviously adorable, and the split view of events is handled really damn well.

(04)　　Sakamichi no Apollon - ◄NEW► - 1 eps - I've got pretty high expectations for this after the first episode. Very interesting art style, great direction, and great character introductions right off the bat.

(05)　　Nazo no Kanojo X - ◄NEW► - 2 eps - This is some retro-looking anime right here, and it's pretty great. I'm not exactly a big fan of the drool fetish but it could be so much worse, and Urabe is such a fantastic character. The show has a very unique atmosphere. Very... mysterious, appropriately enough. It's like a retro Denpa Onna to Seishun Otoko in a vague way, and I guess it helps that the male protagonist is the same seiyuu for both. As for Urabe, Yoshitani Ayako will be a seiyuu to watch. She's young, at 21, and this is her first role.

(06)　　Acchi Kocchi - ◄NEW► - 2 eps - Massive ahoge + nosebleeds + nekomimi + Hiiragi Tsukasa clone + the fluffiest show ever = I bet I end up importing this.

(07)　　Sengoku Collection - ◄NEW► - 1 eps - I really really liked episode two, so this is higher than it probably should be or will ever be in the future. Certainly I know I won't be importing it thanks to 12 disc bullshit, but I'm really enjoying it, especially since it turns out there isn't a specific male protagonist after all. With it being two cour I assume the episodic vignettes won't last the entire time. I'm expecting some kind of change in format halfway after Nobunaga presumably attains all the treasures.

(08)　　Shining Hearts: Shiawase no Pan - ◄NEW► - 1 eps - There's no way this is going to stay so highly ranked, but episode 1 was just so damn pleasant (both visually and in tone) that I'm really dying to see more. How much I like it will be inversely proportional to how much plot it shoves at us. I don't want anything to happen in this show. Ever. Just bake bread and walk around the forest and show us sexy elf girls and catgirls please. I bet this drops 5+ spots as soon as plot hits.

(09)　　Kore wa Zombie Desu ka? of the Dead - ◄NEW► - 2 eps - Kore wa Zombie Desu ka? Yes, this sure is Kore wa Zombie Desu ka. Ayumu's life is unending suffering, and we enjoy every second of it.

(10)　　Natsuiro Kiseki - ◄NEW► - 2 eps - Cute girls yelling at each other and being cute and gay. Yep, I'm in.

(11)　　Haiyore! Nyaruko-san - ◄NEW► - 2 eps - After episode 1, this would have been a solid lock at #2, but I didn't like episode two nearly as much. The "unwanted lesbian stalker" trope is so tired at this point, and I'm getting tired of Mahiro's fork already. Like I said in the thread, what do I need to do to get an alternate version of this show where Kuko kills Mahiro and goes off to fight aliens with Nyaruko? Meh. I can put up with the trope if the canon couple is really great (see Inu x Boku SS) but if I'm not feeling the main couple it really starts to grate. Still, the fanservice is spectacular (oh god Nyaruko in that ep 1 bath scene ::dies:: ) and Asumi Kana's Nyaruko is glorious, so I'm sure the show will keep me interested. I'm just annoyed with it right now.

(12)　　Fate/Zero - ◄NEW► - 2 eps - Um. I don't know how I feel about Fate/Zero anymore. Parts of it are fantastic and cool as hell and the show is at a quality level TV anime rarely sees, but parts of it are just... ridiculous (oh god that dogfight why) and there's really too much 3dcg. I'm going to treat it like a new show from episode 3 onward, though, for various reasons.

(13)　　Medaka Box - ◄NEW► - 2 eps - Shiranui is Hachikuji Mayoi reborn. She's also the best thing about this show, but I just like it in general, so yeah. Not sure if they'll get much past the "student council does silly odd jobs" phase in just one cour but even if not it's still fun.

(14)　　Sankarea - ◄NEW► - 2 eps - I really love Rea, because I love unassuming ojou-sama characters who don't let their social standing affect how they interact with people. And therefore, I enjoy this show. Just gimmie more Mero.

(15)　　Accel World - ◄NEW► - 2 eps - Ummmmmm. It's actually much better than this ranking, but I've got mixed feelings about whether it'll actually keep me engaged. I see it quickly becoming a show I watch only for Kuroyukihime, with a dash of whatever Chiyuri leftovers they deem fit to send our way. I guess it's just too "14 year old boy cool" for my tastes, though it's a lot better than other "14 year old boy cool" shows like Guilty Crown or Index so far. But again, that's all Kuroyukihime.

(16)　　Upotte!! - ◄NEW► - 2 eps - Don't give a shit about gun trivia but the girls are fun and the firefight in episode 2 was a lot of fun.

(17)　　Eureka Seven AO - ◄NEW► - 1 eps - This was actually a really good, high budget, pretty exciting opener for a sequel to a show I liked fairly well, but for some reason I wasn't sure how much I cared once I finished. I'm certain I'll continue it though.

(18)　　Tsuritama - ◄NEW► - 1 eps - The jury is out. It's colorful, and kinda fun, but pretty massively overshadowed by Apollon right now, even though I know it's unfair to compare them just because they're both airing in the same broadcast block.

(19)　　Queen's Blade: Rebellion - ◄NEW► - 1 eps - Tits. Sigui can go to hell.

(20)　　Lupin the Third: Mine Fujiko to Iu Onna - ◄NEW► - 1 eps - Tits. Oh and Sawashiro Miyuki!

(21)　　Yurumates 3D - ◄NEW► - 2 eps - Watching because it's like 3 minutes a week and stars Momoi Haruko <3


OVAs, Specials, other oddities
Fairy Tail - 126 eps - 126 was the single worst episode of the show and if they ever do that to me again I will hurt someone. I can survive entering a filler phase if it's more like 125, but 126, fuck, bleach my brain please.
Hunter x Hunter (2011) - 27 eps - I hope they don't plan on doing a recap after every cour, but so far so good, and a great adaptation. I'm happy to get into some typical tournament stuff actually, so yay current arc.
Smile Precure - 10 eps - Gonna watch 11 today so I'll actually be caught up. Yay! This is definitely looking to be my favorite of the three Precures I've watched seriously, but only if it's as epic in the endgame as Heartcatch was. It definitely started the best though, by a long shot.
Kidou Senshi Gundam AGE - 27 eps - ...Just... why, why do you do what you do, Gundam AGE? >_>
Ozuma - 1 eps - Uh, it's ok. Put it here because it's only some 6 episode thing. But I'll probably drop it.


Dropped:
none


Still need/plan to try (may not have aired):
Hyouka
AKB0048

(Blah blah disclaimer, the number on a tier is not at all indicative of a show's absolute quality, merely its quality relative to the other shows on the list).

Hell, I may end up having to drop upwards of half of these, sadly.

[MelancholicMariya]

(01)　　Saki: Achiga-hen - Episode of Side-A - ◄NEW► - 2 eps - I don't see anything but Hyouka having a chance of beating this. It's Saki... but cuter! Also fuck yeah Yuuki Aoi and Hanazawa Kana. Episode one did a superb introducing and making me care deeply about a completely new cast. By the end of the episode I felt as invested in them as any of the main Saki cast, and more than most. With the second episode completing the team, it looks like we're jumping headlong into superpower mahjong action. Probably a good thing, with only one cour. There's no way I'm not importing this.


I actually watched the first episode of Saki Episode of Side A, and I really enjoyed it, but I didn't want to continue watching it because I'm not sure if the original series is a necessity.

Would I be able to watch Side A without reading the original manga or watching the Gonzo anime which came out in 2009? It seems like it's just a side story in the same vein as Soul Eater Not where you don't need to know anything about the original series, but it would add something for you.

I feel like this question has been asked before.

[ultimatemegax]

(01)　　Saki: Achiga-hen - Episode of Side-A - ◄NEW► - 2 eps - I don't see anything but Hyouka having a chance of beating this. It's Saki... but cuter! Also fuck yeah Yuuki Aoi and Hanazawa Kana. Episode one did a superb introducing and making me care deeply about a completely new cast. By the end of the episode I felt as invested in them as any of the main Saki cast, and more than most. With the second episode completing the team, it looks like we're jumping headlong into superpower mahjong action. Probably a good thing, with only one cour. There's no way I'm not importing this.


I actually watched the first episode of Saki Episode of Side A, and I really enjoyed it, but I didn't want to continue watching it because I'm not sure if the original series is a necessity.

Would I be able to watch Side A without reading the original manga or watching the Gonzo anime which came out in 2009? It seems like it's just a side story in the same vein as Soul Eater Not where you don't need to know anything about the original series, but it would add something for you.

I feel like this question has been asked before.
Outside of the first two episodes, the series takes place alongside the first series. You'll miss out some references such as the OST/OP/ED, but it should be fine. I'm saying this as someone who has kept up with both series' manga, so I know how Achiga will go and exactly why it was made. Feel free to join in!

[something]

I was considering this for importing in Fall but Haganai won that competition. I had some issues with the second half that ultimately made me glad I didn't, but the last few episodes and the ending were pretty damn good. Still not regretting my decision though as it still doesn't come back to a level that makes me want to own it and certainly not more than Haganai. Plus I've overextended myself as it is and already had to drop a show from Winter, and if I was buying this, I would still have six more volumes to get.
I actually really loved Yuno through to the end so I found it consistently enjoyable even when Minene wasn't on screen, but in addition to just not really importing especially violent/creepy shows much, the issue I had is a basic two cour handicap: they cost more for one, and it takes longer before you can really be certain they're worth importing. Especially for a show such violent mood swings and plot wists as Mirai Nikki. Meanwhile, Tamayura and Ikamusume were over ages ago, and I already knew I loved them, and it was just such a safe choice to make.

(10)　　Chihayafuru - ◄0► - 13 eps - I think you forgot a few episodes there.
This is one of those shows that just fell through the cracks. I'm sure I would have liked it a lot, but I had enough other things to watch and never got around to watching the second episode.
It was damn good, I should probably rank it higher than I did (honestly, I enjoyed it more than Fate...) but rankings are such arbitrary things anyway.

[Fencedude]

Would I be able to watch Side A without reading the original manga or watching the Gonzo anime which came out in 2009? It seems like it's just a side story in the same vein as Soul Eater Not where you don't need to know anything about the original series, but it would add something for you.


Saki, is of course, still easily available on CR, so you could watch them simultaneously.

Also, its not really a "Gonzo" anime in the strictest sense of the term.

[something]

Saki, is of course, still easily available on CR, so you could watch them simultaneously.
::looks:: Huh so it is, I thought that was pulled long ago. Yeah, MelancholicMariya, totally watch the first season too. You don't have to at all from what I can tell, if you're short on time, but it's just a damn fun show anyway and it can only help your enjoyment of Achiga-hen.

Also, its not really a "Gonzo" anime in the strictest sense of the term.
Right, it switched to Picture Magic at ep 15. Both did a great job.

[Fencedude]

Also, its not really a "Gonzo" anime in the strictest sense of the term.
Right, it switched to Picture Magic at ep 15. Both did a great job.

And from what I gather, much of the staff that worked on this, from both companies, split and formed Studio Gokumi, who did A Channel and now Achiga.

[MelancholicMariya]

Outside of the first two episodes, the series takes place alongside the first series. You'll miss out some references such as the OST/OP/ED, but it should be fine. I'm saying this as someone who has kept up with both series' manga, so I know how Achiga will go and exactly why it was made. Feel free to join in!
Oh so I wont actually be missing anything vital at all, that's good to know. I may as well continue watching Side A. I guess I should go and learn more about mahjong just in case the show remembers its supposed to be about that sport.


Saki, is of course, still easily available on CR, so you could watch them simultaneously.

I might actually do this. I didn't know it was all on CR and available in the UK, so I have no reason not to try the first series.


Also, its not really a "Gonzo" anime in the strictest sense of the term.

Oh, sure. I was just stating Gonzo because Side A is a different studio all together (even though it has Gonzo employees I think?), though it's reassuring to know the first series is not Gonzo's typical anime.

[Fencedude]

Oh, sure. I was just stating Gonzo because Side A is a different studio all together (even though it has Gonzo employees I think?), though it's reassuring to know the first series is not Gonzo's typical anime.

For all intents and purposes, both series have the same staff.

[ultimatemegax]

Oh so I wont actually be missing anything vital at all, that's good to know. I may as well continue watching Side A. I guess I should go and learn more about mahjong just in case the show remembers its supposed to be about that sport.


Saki, is of course, still easily available on CR, so you could watch them simultaneously.

I might actually do this. I didn't know it was all on CR and available in the UK, so I have no reason not to try the first series.

Even though you can watch Achiga and not be lost without having seen the previous series, I would recommend watching the first series first if you do plan to view it. This allows you to avoid any possible hint of spoilers that the series may reveal that hasn't shown up in the manga yet. It'd suck if the spinoff spoils the original series, but it is possible.

[HitokiriShadow]

I guess I should go and learn more about mahjong just in case the show remembers its supposed to be about that sport.


Ahahahahaha. I wouldn't bother.

First, its not necessary. It's fun to watch even if you have no idea what's going on.

Second, there are apparently differences between Japanese Mahjong and some aspects of it as it tends to be played here/in the West/English speaking countries.

Third, its really goddamn confusing. I'm under the impression that just reading up on it a bit probably wouldn't help much. I very quickly just ignored the TL notes in the first season

Fourth, and most importantly..... LOL realism. This show cares not for such petty things. It is not only incredibly over the top (which is what makes the games so fun to watch), it is completely detached from reality. Many of the characters basically have supernatural powers. For all intents and purposes, they're using magic.

[Fencedude]

Fourth, and most importantly..... LOL realism. This show cares not for such petty things. It is not only incredibly over the top (which is what makes the games so fun to watch), it is completely detached from reality. Many of the characters basically have supernatural powers. For all intents and purposes, they're using magic.

Exactly, remember Nodoka's reaction to being informed of Kuro's ability?

Lets just say that Nodoka has a very bad time of things later in that respect.

[William K]

Third, its really goddamn confusing. I'm under the impression that just reading up on it a bit probably wouldn't help much. I very quickly just ignored the TL notes in the first season

The game itself is not that confusing. It's the counting of points and the dora that are beyond the beginners.

[HitokiriShadow]

(01)　　Saki: Achiga-hen - Episode of Side-A - ◄NEW► - 2 eps -

(10)　　Natsuiro Kiseki - ◄NEW► - 2 eps

(11)　　Haiyore! Nyaruko-san - ◄NEW► - 2 eps

(15)　　Accel World - ◄NEW► - 2 eps -

These are my four import contenders. Accel World is probably the shakiest. Kuroyukihime made really, really good first impression on me and the show has some excellent potential for her relationship with Haruyuki. But I still expect the story to be at least decently good, and its not at all clear where that is going and its far too early to say whether that or the characters and relationships will be handled well.

I had Accel World and Natsuiro Kiseki pegged as potential imports, but Nyarko-san was a surprise. I had expected to write off Saki: Achiga-hen, despite having moderately high expectations because I liked the original a lot, because of a "I didn't import the original series" handicap. But then they cast Yuuki Aoi and Hanzawa Kana as major characters and made it quite possibly better than the original. Goddammit, Japan.


(12)　　Fate/Zero - ◄NEW► - 2 eps - Well, and then there's this, which I'm definitely importing since I already bought the first half (which I hope to someday think of more as the first quarter....), so its not really a "contender".


(06)　　Acchi Kocchi - ◄NEW► - I have a scattered history with 4-koma adaptations (didn't care much for Azumanga Daioh, gave up on Hidamari Sketch after 2 cour of it doing very little for me, K-On! was hit or miss within the show and my enjoyment of it tended to be directly related to whether or not Azusa was involved) and this one started off poorly, with a good chunk of the first episode's first half leaving me bored. At some point though, I started enjoying it and the second episode was enjoyable throughout.

As it should be. After all, it would be a crime if Tsumiki's adorableness + nekomimi + :3 resulted in a show I didn't like.


(17)　　Eureka Seven AO - ◄NEW► - 1 eps -
I haven't decided yet if I'm going to watch this or not. I lost interest in the first show around episode 30-something and while I'm pretty sure that shouldn't matter much for AO, I have plenty of other shows to watch. And I'm already pretty much guaranteed to be adding two more shows to that list.


OVAs, Specials, other oddities
Smile Precure - 10 eps - Gonna watch 11 today so I'll actually be caught up. Yay! This is definitely looking to be my favorite of the three Precures I've watched seriously, but only if it's as epic in the endgame as Heartcatch was. It definitely started the best though, by a long shot.
I'm definitely liking this a lot more than Suite. Not sure on Heartcatch, which was really darn good.... and I really will get around to finishing it one of these days.

[superdry]

Third, its really goddamn confusing. I'm under the impression that just reading up on it a bit probably wouldn't help much. I very quickly just ignored the TL notes in the first season

The game itself is not that confusing. It's the counting of points and the dora that are beyond the beginners.

Correct. The basic gameplay is pretty much gin rummy 500. After that it's all a game of strategy and probability. It can be confusing to beginners or people watching if they're watching a game played by experienced players as it'll move pretty fast.

As an avid casual (I don't gamble) mah-jong player, Japanese rules always bugged the hell out of me since I play HK style.

Scoring can be simplified and I suppose one can do the same thing with Japanese mah-jong.

[MelancholicMariya]

I guess I should go and learn more about mahjong just in case the show remembers its supposed to be about that sport.


Ahahahahaha. I wouldn't bother.

First, its not necessary. It's fun to watch even if you have no idea what's going on.

Second, there are apparently differences between Japanese Mahjong and some aspects of it as it tends to be played here/in the West/English speaking countries.

Third, its really goddamn confusing. I'm under the impression that just reading up on it a bit probably wouldn't help much. I very quickly just ignored the TL notes in the first season

Fourth, and most importantly..... LOL realism. This show cares not for such petty things. It is not only incredibly over the top (which is what makes the games so fun to watch), it is completely detached from reality. Many of the characters basically have supernatural powers. For all intents and purposes, they're using magic.

After posting that I decided to go and watch the original Saki OP theme, because apparently there are parallels between the first season and Side-A, and I discovered that they were transforming and throwing majong pieces around all over the top like.

Yeah I don't think I need to know majong at all.

[superdry]

(06)　　Acchi Kocchi

(10)　　Natsuiro Kiseki

(11)　　Haiyore! Nyaruko-san

(15)　　Accel World - ◄NEW►


I like to limit myself to only 2, maybe three show per season, but, so far, those four shows are ones I'd love own (what is it with Spring season? Last spring I imported four shows).

Acchi Kocchi is absolutely adorable and I feel like it's this Spring's A-channel. I was always interested in Natsuiro Kiseki because of Minako Kotobuki, but the first two episodes have been really fun to watch and I'm totally smitten with Natsumi. Nyaruko-san was another highly anticipated show for this season (since the previous ones were flash animated), and, well, it's been awesome - batshit insane comedy with a super cute girl? Sign me up. I just hope it keeps up with itself for the next 10 episodes. Accel World - interesting and Kuroyukihime is the main attraction.

I can definitely do all four. I'll just have to order a set of each each month after August and it can be manageable. I might pre-order Natsuiro Kiseki to try and score the HMV store bonus(es).

Other shows currently watching for Spring -

Medaka Box - Enjoying this right now, but it's practically following the manga 100%. Not sure if I want to import this one since I can read the manga.

Sankarea - "ehhhh!?" Sanka Rea is cute and that's enough right now to keep me watching. Chihiro is a little wonky with his zombie obsession, but that's fine. After two episodes, it's still setting things up.

Shining Hearts - Why the hell not? Just trying it out. Tony designs are nice. Kanae Itou is a plus, too.

Saki Side A - I should finish watching the first season, but Mah-Jong is something that always interest me (need to finish watching Akagi, too). Cute girls+Mah Jong. Sold! Really good first two epsiodes bringing together all the characters and quickly moving things along with high school with bogging things down. I'd like to import this, but don't know yet.

Upotte! - The show is nice with it's gun trivia. So, far it's been cute and fun to watch. I like the game the girls played in the second episode and it toned down the sexuality and innuendos a bit too.

The only show left that I want to check out is Hyouka. Every time I see Eru's face, she makes me want to import the show, if I like it, but I hate the way Kadokawa is releasing the series.

[HitokiriShadow]

I might pre-order Natsuiro Kiseki to try and score the HMV store bonus(es).


Wait, what? .... Huh, I had no idea and didn't even look for that when I was checking HMV the other night. Normally I wouldn't bother, but with the Aniplex situation at Amazon.jp and the first volume being cheaper than normal anyway and the fact that I've already made a June Amazon.jp order, I need to consider other options anyway. And HMV would probably be better than AmiAmi for that. I wouldn't do that for all of them unless the Amazon situation ends up being something permanent.

[EmperorBrandon]

(07)　　Sengoku Collection - ◄NEW► - 1 eps - I really really liked episode two, so this is higher than it probably should be or will ever be in the future. Certainly I know I won't be importing it thanks to 12 disc bullshit, but I'm really enjoying it, especially since it turns out there isn't a specific male protagonist after all. With it being two cour I assume the episodic vignettes won't last the entire time. I'm expecting some kind of change in format halfway after Nobunaga presumably attains all the treasures.

Whoa, this will be two cour? I totally didn't think it would be at all... Ah well, I liked this much more than I was expecting, so I guess that will be good if the show manages to keep my interest.

[superdry]

I might pre-order Natsuiro Kiseki to try and score the HMV store bonus(es).


Wait, what? .... Huh, I had no idea and didn't even look for that when I was checking HMV the other night. Normally I wouldn't bother, but with the Aniplex situation at Amazon.jp and the first volume being cheaper than normal anyway and the fact that I've already made a June Amazon.jp order, I need to consider other options anyway. And HMV would probably be better than AmiAmi for that. I wouldn't do that for all of them unless the Amazon situation ends up being something permanent.

The only issue is that Aniplex titles are only discounted 18% right now(currently, for some reason, HMV dropped their anime discount 2% across the board for most publishers. King Records seems to be at the usual 23% off, though). And, there hasn't been a decent anime promotion in like a month (x10 points is probably one of the best outside of 25% off preorders).

Well...the only bonus that's guaranteed for importers is a bromide. Everything else HMV lists as not available outside of Japan, but I did receive the Haganai HMV poster for buying volume 1 and that also was not available to overseas customers. So, I'm just hoping HMV will toss in the extras, but no guarantee (doing the same thing with Nisemonogatari...hoping to get the artbox).

The other bonuses are a A3 poster for buying volume 1 along with the bromide. If you buy volumes 1-4 you'll get a A3 clear poster and there is an artbox if you buy the whole series.

I'm not entirely surprised with the bonuses HMV is tossing in since Lawson's seems to be a sponsor(?) of the show or helping with promotion.

[HitokiriShadow]

The only issue is that Aniplex titles are only discounted 18% right now(currently, for some reason, HMV dropped their anime discount 2% across the board for most publishers. King Records seems to be at the usual 23% off, though).

Yeah, I skimmed the last few posts of the HMV that night as well and saw your comments about that.

But canceling my June order would result in me paying a higher price for some of the volumes, which would make up for any higher discount I got for adding Natsuiro Kiseki to it. Furthermore, I can't order Natsuiro Kiseki #1 at all right now anyway due to the Aniplex issues. And if my worst fears about the reasons for those issues (http://www.mania.com/aodvb/showpost.php?p=1984508&postcount=6) turn out to be correct, then I still wouldn't be able to add them to the order and Amazon would essentially not be an option for Aniplex titles.

And, there hasn't been a decent anime promotion in like a month (x10 points is probably one of the best outside of 25% off preorders).

They seem to be running a "26% off if you buy two DVD/BDs" sale which Natsuiro Kiseki #1 is eligible for, and that seems pretty decent as the discount would be almost as good as Amazon. But I may be missing something about how it works, as I didn't read the fine print for it.

Well...the only bonus that's guaranteed for importers is a bromide. Everything else HMV lists as not available outside of Japan,

Ooooh, right. Bleh.

The other bonuses are a A3 poster for buying volume 1 along with the bromide. If you buy volumes 1-4 you'll get a A3 clear poster and there is an artbox if you buy the whole series.


Eh, I've not been impressed with what I've seen of HMV's artboxes, or their bonuses in general, which tend to be "here's the(/a) character(s), wearing our boring store T-shirt". But its better than nothing, and they seem to be the best way to go after Amazon.jp anyway.

[something]

These are my four import contenders.
It's kind of funny, I may rank the series one way but if you ask me to put my best guess out as to what I'll actually end up importing, it won't even be close to my current top 4:
(01) Saki: Achiga-hen - Episode of Side-A
(06) Acchi Kocchi
(10) Natsuiro Kiseki
(Not yet aired) Hyouka

Nyaruko probably lost its chance with ep 2, unless I end up importing 6+ shows. Which I probably won't thanks to fucking Kadokawa and 11 disc Hyouka. I'll probably have to limit to 5 to keep to my ~¥300,000 msrp limit Especially since who the hell knows what is up with Aniplex on Amazon these days.

(17)　　Eureka Seven AOI haven't decided yet if I'm going to watch this or not. I lost interest in the first show around episode 30-something and while I'm pretty sure that shouldn't matter much for AO
Yeah probably not. I don't remember much of anything from E7 (and I actually watched it for the first time much more recently than its first airing, probably only two years ago), so you'd probably come at it remembering as much as I did. :sd: I do want to like this show, and the first episode did absolutely nothing wrong. It was good. But somehow I don't know that I care. Weird.

[superdry]

[
And, there hasn't been a decent anime promotion in like a month (x10 points is probably one of the best outside of 25% off preorders).

They seem to be running a "26% off if you buy two DVD/BDs" sale which Natsuiro Kiseki #1 is eligible for, and that seems pretty decent as the discount would be almost as good as Amazon. But I may be missing something about how it works, as I didn't read the fine print for it.


It's a maximum of 26% off if you buy two or more. When you look at any product, during the promotion, look at the multibuy price. For anime, that only goes up to 23% for the most part.

[Fencedude]

I do want to like this show, and the first episode did absolutely nothing wrong. It was good. But somehow I don't know that I care. Weird.

This is how I feel about Sakamichi.

Good show. Doooooon't really care.

[HitokiriShadow]

(17)　　Eureka Seven AOI haven't decided yet if I'm going to watch this or not. I lost interest in the first show around episode 30-something and while I'm pretty sure that shouldn't matter much for AOYeah probably not. I don't remember much of anything from E7 (and I actually watched it for the first time much more recently than its first airing, probably only two years ago), so you'd probably come at it remembering as much as I did. :sd: I do want to like this show, and the first episode did absolutely nothing wrong.

I didn't see Eureka Seven anywhere near its Japanese airing either. I think I saw it around a year before you did. I watched it on Cartoon Network. I slowly fell behind and eventually piled up about 10 episodes on the DVR. A storm fucked the DVR and lost everything.... and I didn't even care.

It was good. But somehow I don't know that I care. Weird.

Like Fencedude, that's pretty much how I felt about Sakamichi no Apollon. And Tsuritama, though I'd have to add a few qualifiers, both good and bad.

[Glamrgrl104]

Princess Tutu episodes 10-13- Epic who knew this could be such a treat. An odd combo of Ballet mixed with fighting and emotion that is in this anime.

Fushigi yuugi- episodes 1-9- It is a good rewatch, addicting fun and dramatic.

[pianocello]

Currently watching (episodes watched up to in brackets):

Outstanding
Rinne no Lagrange (finished)
Without doubt, this is a strong contender to be the best anime of 2012. The yuri is just so amazing. My heart must have skipped several beats at the end of ep 7 and the beginning of ep 12. The 2nd season better have a yuri kiss, yuri confession and a yuri wedding!

Very Good
Senki Zesshou Symphogear (4)
This could be a winner but Tsubasa needs to cut down on the angst - it's not cute at all.

High School DxD (7)
This is a guilty pleasure. The cast is really fun.

Good
Last Exile: Fam the Silver Wing (5)
Some of the things in the story are really dumb and illogical. Still, this is better than the 1st season.

Seikon no Qwaser 1st season (3)
It has fanservice - what more do I need to say?

Boku wa Tomodachi ga Sukunai (6)
I've figured out the reason why this show rubs me wrongly at times - the female lead Yozora is mean - I'm finding it hard to like her.

Ano Matsu de Matteru (2)
Need to catch up on this.

Guilty Crown (3)
Need to catch up on this.

Average
Black Rock Shooter (2)
Need to catch up on this.

Another (3)
The atmosphere is great but the male lead is really rubbing me wrongly - he is reminding me too much of a certain annoying busybody I know in real life.

Tiger and Bunny (11)
It's not bad but I'm not finding myself motivated in watching this.

Below Average
None

[Buckeye]

Sora no Woto is the next title on my slate.

I just finished up Sora no Woto. The first thing that crossed my mind when watching this show is that there must be some connection between this show and K-On! and I thought that it was by the same artist given how each member of the 1121st Platoon is a descendant of the Hokago Tea Time members. Paradores and Kakifly must have some connection. Anyway, It was a very nice show to watch if you like moeblobs doing moetastic things. But it is not all that as the story takes place at a time where wars are happening all too frequently. The artwork was really nice as the artist did an excellent job with the scenery, and the character development was pretty solid since there is an episode where each of the girls takes center stage. The only problem is that I felt like this show was trying to bite on more than it could chew.

Next up is Nisemonogatari. I started watching this show last season but put on hold due to time constraints after three episodes, and this time I plan on watching it through to the end.

[Glamrgrl104]

Fushigi yugi-episodes 10-20- This series just gets better.

Princess Tutu-episodes 14-16- AMAZING. Didn't expect the plot twists.

[Glamrgrl104]

Princess Tutu episodes 21-26- An AMAZING unique and touching anime. I seriously didn't expect the twists and turns in the story, but that is what it made well worth watching. Although I wish the ending was different Yes Roux gets the prince but I wanted Duck to be with Fakir as a girl not a duck :P


onto more fushigi yugi and K-on!

[pianocello]

Currently watching (episodes watched up to in brackets):

Outstanding
High School DxD (finished)
There needs to be more male leads like Issei. Finally a male that doesn't freak out at the sight of boobs and is honest with his perversion. And yet he goes all out for his haremettes and can be thoughtful when he needs to be.

Very Good
Senki Zesshou Symphogear (6)
Ep 6 was really good now that Tsubasa has toned down.

Guilty Crown (5)
Last 2 episodes were really good. I hope it gets better.

Good
Last Exile: Fam the Silver Wing (5)
Need to catch up on this.

Seikon no Qwaser 1st season (4)
Yuri makes anime better.

Boku wa Tomodachi ga Sukunai (8)
Okay. Episode 8 actually worked at some parts.

Ano Matsu de Matteru (3)
Sempai sempai sempai SEMPAIIII!!!!! - didn't we get the similar sensei sensei sensei already in Onegai Teacher?

Another (4)
This show is like Final Destination. I think this could be good but the male lead is just reminding me of a real life colleague who has no delicacy and just must poke his nose and pry when others are not keen to talke about something.

Average
Black Rock Shooter (3)
This show is too freaky for my taste despite the yuri potential.

Tiger and Bunny (11)
Need catch up on this.

Below Average
None

[Glamrgrl104]

Fushigi yuugi-episodes 10-29- Well I skipped some of them because they were just recap episodes, but the 2nd half is where it gets better. The first 5 episodes introduce the characters and if you can get past Miaka being annoying sometimes, this can be a worthwhile series.

Shiki eng dub episodes 1-4- Unique yet creepy. Sort of a horror/psychological anime, I don't know if I'll continue with this one, but it is interesting.

Twelve Kingdoms-episodes 1-5- A really good series not much humor, but character and story wise it is a good anime.

Cat Planet Cuties- episode 1- Okay not my cup of tea nevertheless I checked it out, and my thoughts are not changed of what I was originally thinking it was. Dry story lots of fanservice and not that great of characters.

I will still thinking I'll check out Dragonaut, Sekeri, and Vandread which were recommended by my bf lol. I was like yeah right you just like the chicks with abnormally huge breasts XD He told me the plot was worthwhile even though there happens to be fanservice in it. I have only seen one like that I really liked which was Spice and Wolf and I guess Fairy tail has a lot too, but it makes up for it with a good plot.

[Glamrgrl104]

Dragonaut-- episodes 1-5- Surprisingly really good so far. I thought it was just going to be alot of fanservice like the trailer makes it out to be, but this actually is pretty good.

[Suwako Moriya]

Hyouka (2)

Eri makes me "curious" enough to keep watching this. The ending is glorious. I also like the type of mysteries we have so far. Even if they are just example mysteries.

AKB0048 (1)

Well, this actually turned out to be more interesting that expected. And I was mainly expecting a simple "amusement" factor series for the most part. That being said, it's hard to say if they can keep it up. Depends on how well, the core girls interact together over the course of the series.

Natsuiro Kiseki (5)

Aside from a few issues, I'm quite enjoying the series. Before anyone asks my main issue is more related to the "Idol Plot" they were advertising. Sure, it's part of the series in a sense, but it's hard to say what will beocme of it if anything. There's also the matter of another subplot introduced early on that they are going to have to finalize in a satisfying way for the series to truly come together. Here's hoping for the best. If they can deal with those two main challenges, it will be one of the higher level series for me. Now if only Rinko could recieve more love. Ah, well....

Acchi Kocchi (5)

So long have I waited for this and it lives up to expectations. Tsumiki is adorable and she's surround by decent girls and even guys for supporting characters. It's also been rather fun so far. Now I just have to Sentai is still addicted to be TBS + 4-Koma Anime.

Tasogare Otome x Amnesia (4)

One of my favorites of the season. Yuuko is like the ghost that people dream of being haunted by. Or maybe that's just me. In any case, Yuuko makes the show. Although the reactions by the others such Kirie and Momoe do help. There's definite hints of an actual plot. I just hope it's not the type designed to suck quality out of a series. Please let us get the type that gives payoff.

Sankarea (4)

No ghosts here, but we do have a lovely zombie. I can't believe I'm saying this. The slow paced nature of the series worries me because they won't get that far in the story. Not that I'm that far in the manga. Well, I guess I could go back to reading the manga if worse comes to worse.

Yurumates 3D (5)

A rather fun series. I just hope it gets a second cour to go with the first. So there's hope of getting some of the later stuff. So, yeah I'm one of the few that watched both OVAs.

Saki: Achiga-hen - Episode of Side-A (3)

It's actually kind of nice to see things from the perspective of a different team for once. Especially given what happens in the third episode. The members of the new group work rather well so far. It does seem to be a bit faster paced. Then again, this is supposed to be one cour (if I heard rigth) and they may have a story goal in mind.

Sakamichi no Apollon (2)

It's got an interesting premise and is nice so far, but I get the feeling I might be better off watching in batches.

Nazo no Kanojo X (0)

Er, I'm still trying to decide if I'll bother with this. Aspects of it attract me, but other aspects worry me. Maybe it's not as bas it sounds, I don't know....

Sengoku Collection (5)

A pretty fun series so far. I love having a "characrter of the episode" series. on occasion Kind of reminds me of Seraphim Call for example. Except this is two cour, and I get the feeling this series won't end with character introductions. Still when that change of focuse does come, I hope for the best.

Shining Hearts: Shiawase no Pan (2)

Bread is clearly the ultimate super power. In other words, the series is rather sweet so far. Plus, we get several pretty girls. So, yeah it's pleasant.

Kore wa Zombie Desu ka? of the Dead (0)

Another series that I still need to get. Just not sure when.

Haiyore! Nyaruko-san (2)

Not sure what to think of this one. While it still frustates me, I could probably live with the "Rejected Lesbian Stalker" if I were to ask "Would I feel this way if the one being rejected was another guy?" Evnen so, Mahiro's hateful nature is pissing me off. He really needs to stop treating Nyaruko like crap. I guess the question is whether the Fork means the series is done or I should let the chaos continue. I'll decide later.


Medaka Box (3)

To be honest, as hot as she may be, Medaka herself is starting to becoming boring. She feels more like a fantasy than a character at this point. I realize the series is less about her and more about the guy who wants to live up to her. However that might make it worse. Still there are awesome secondary characters. In fact, let's make Nekomi the lead. That would work, right?

Upotte!! (3)

Girls & Guns, but I'm watching more for the former than the latter. Also, I'll admit the service is uh effective. The type of series for people who focusing on watching things for the sun of it.

Accel World (3)

This is actually interesting so far. That being said, I get the feeling I'll mainly be watching for Kuro and Chiyu. Just from design standpoint alone, they are lovely.

Tsuritama (2)

Bleh, it's got interesting aspects to it. However Haru is being annoying as heck (and as a guy, he's can't trick me into forgiving him by using cute female power) and is also at least in the first two episodes essentially a bully. As is his sister. If this is just going to be Annoying Bully The Anime, I don't see much point watching anymore. It needs to move beyond Haru existing to be annoying to be of any value. Even then, it's still questionable with so much on my plate.

Polar Bear Cafe (3)

So a Polar Bear, Penguin, Panda, and other animals can lead to amusing results. Especially given some of the things they do as if it were perfectly normal. Seriously that's part of the charm of the series.

Jewel Pet Kira Deco (5)

Sadly, only one lead female this time. We get four guys to go with her. However Pink is hot (Yes, she's a middle schooler, but it's not as if middle school girls in anime being attractive is new. Wait, I'm making it worse) and awesome. Oh, and the jewerly she has is very effective. Plus, it confirms why I enjoy the franchise. They really like shakings things up. I mean Pink is part of a Sentai group. Where as before we had exchange students.

Pretty Rhythm Dear My Future (5)

A decent experience so far, but I need to get used to the idea of the trio being supporting character this time around. Well, the new girls are actually kind of nice looking. So it works . So far anyway.

That about covers it. As you can see, there are 2+ series to try. I say 2+ because while I mentioned two in this post, I'm sure people will point out the stuff I forgot about. Decided to skip continuations. Not like it's any secret, I'm watching and enjoying Smile Precure.

[superdry]

So, we're almost at the half way point of the Spring 2012 season...

Natsuiro Kiseki - Currently loving this show. The girls are absolutely fun to watch every episode and one of the few times that I actually care and like all the main characters (Natsumi is my number one, though). Looking forward to watching it every week and wonder what new hijinks the girls get into this time.

Acchi Kocchi - Unbelievably adorable. It's such a cute, laid-back, fun, light show to watch. Again, really fun characters overall to watch every episode. Perfect show to unwind to after a long day at work.

Haiyore Nyaruko-san! - Okay, so the show has kept up with it's fast paced batshit-insane craziness and I couldn't ask for more. Good comedy and all the references are golden (even though I do have to refer to external websites to actually see all the references in each episode).

Accel World - Kuroyukihime is still on the level of god-tier character design and I'm really digging the pace of the show. It's not being rushed or going too slow. We've learned a lot about the world and Brain Burst and continue to learn. Fight scenes aren't too shabby either.

Medaka Box - Why am I still watching this? I like the parts it's animating, but it just feels weird watching an episode since it 98% of the time adapts the manga chapters perfectly. Not to say it's bad, though.

Sankarea - So cute! Characters are bizarre, but lovable besides one. I'm up in the air on how I feel about the show overall since it looks like it's finally got the ball rolling after, what I feel, a long intro.

Saki Side-A - Only up to episode 3 and it's still enjoyable. I don't have a concrete opinion on it besides it's been entertaining so far.

Hyouka - Only two episodes and it's still mysterious. Don't really know what direction the show is going to take even though it's absolutely beautiful to watch. Eru continues to be utterly fantastically cute and mesmerizing.

Mouretsu Pirates - My only leftover from Winter 2012. It continues to be a fantastic show each episode.

I think I've locked in my imports for Spring 2012 and it's tough. Natsuiro Kiseki, Acchi Kocchi and Nyaruko are all definite. Accel World is really good, but since it's two-cour there are more chances it can fuck up. So, it's on the maybe list (I highly doubt Viz is going to release it here on BD) along with Sankarea and Hyouka.

Sankarea really just started, even after four episodes, so I don't know what direction it'll take to the end. Hyouka is beautiful, but thinking of buying it reminds me of Kadokawa's silly release schedule.

I did mention in the past that Medaka Box would be an import, but after watching the first five episodes, it's cheaper for me to continue buying the manga instead.

[Buckeye]

Next up is Nisemonogatari. I started watching this show last season but put on hold due to time constraints after three episodes, and this time I plan on watching it through to the end.

After taking my time with this show due to my life getting way too busy and having ACen during that time as well, I just finished watching Nisemonogatari, and this season was disappointing in relative terms to is predecessor. It starts out all jumbled and with no real sense of direction that the first season had as Koyomi flirts with all the girls he just met in some way. But then the show straightens itself out later on once Karen and Tsukihi become the focal point. The visuals and everything that made Bakemonogatari what it is does its job again for this season. The first season is still better, but at least Nise did not end up being a train wreck that it could have been after the first few episodes.

Hoshizora e Kakaru Hashi is up next.

[Glamrgrl104]

Dragonaut episodes 6-23- WOW a really good series will watch the rest of the episodes soon. A surprisingly good series not going to buy bc I can watch it on Funimation App whenever I please lol.

[Fencedude]

Dragonaut episodes 6-23- WOW a really good series

I'm hardly one to comment on people liking shitty shows, but jesus/

[Glamrgrl104]

Dragonaut episodes 6-23- WOW a really good series

I'm hardly one to comment on people liking shitty shows, but jesus/

LOL its an opinion. Okay maybe not a really good series, but so so good but not great. The premise was weird but the relationships worked.

[something]

2012/04/16 update (http://www.mania.com/aodvb/showthread.php?p=1984423#post1984423)

Two shows have distinguished themselves as definite imports so far, and they're exactly the ones I knew would. I'll import at least 2-3 more, but it's still too early to call.


R2 import tier
(01)　　Hyouka - ◄NEW► - 2 eps - It'll probably be close between this and Saki for a while, at least until Saki ends, but this show is just so unbelievably gorgeous it would get the edge for that alone. Hyouka has not shown its hand at all yet, so I still don't even quite know what it's about, but I'm still floored by what I see. And very very interested in where it's going... or as Eru would say, Watashi, kininarimasu! [Import - As guaranteed as a non-sequel can be 2 episodes in.]

(02)　　Saki: Achiga-hen - Episode of Side-A - ▼1 - 4 eps - Meeting so many of my old beloved characters was moving. ::sniff sniff:: The way Achiga-hen fits into the overall universe makes for a very very interesting storytelling method - basically, starting a parent series' sequel from a different point of view. I desperately need this season to be a success (preorder showing is on the fence so far, which is disappointing) so they animate the rest of the main storyline. [Import - Guaranteed.]


Import possibilities
(03)　　Sakamichi no Apollon - ▲1 - 4 eps - Easily the best written straight-up character drama of the season. This more thanmakes up for a bit of a dry spell for me on noimtaminA. I haven't been nearly this into anything aired on the block since Usagi Drop last summer. [Import - Very very likely.]

(04)　　Acchi Kocchi - ▲2 - 4 eps - It's... so... adorable... Hands down the cutest show of the season. That's all anyone needs to say about it. [Import - I can't imagine what would knock it out of contention short of too many other shows being even better.]

(05)　　Tasogare Otome x Amnesia - ▼2 - 4 eps - I had Yuuko as sexiest dead girl of Spring until the last two episodes of Sankarea. It's a dead heat now, but Tasogare still wins for overall show. [Import - Quite likely. Only concern is if the last arc is lame or something.]

(06)　　Uchuu Kyoudai - ▼4 - 6 eps - I might be getting a liiiiiiittle annoyed with Mutta's self-pitying, but it's all done so damn well I can't be mad. The whole premise and setting is too good to pass up. [Import - Probably not, but relatively cheap up-front boxset is a strong vote in its favor.]

(07)　　Shining Hearts: Shiawase no Pan - ▲1 - 4 eps - Hey, two episodes with plot and they were both good. Wtf, Happy Bread, how? Xiao Mei's first major scene continues to raise the female cast to god-tier, and hell I even like Rick, since he's utterly inoffensive. Amil, though, I don't like where they're going with her even if it was inevitable that one of the girls would have to play the role she's been given. Ahh, I'm sure plot will destroy this show's charms eventually, but so far it hasn't done so at all. [Import - I'll likely find ~5 more worthy shows, but this show is actually a genuine possibility.]

(08)　　AKB0048 - ◄NEW► - 1 ep - Absolutely spectacular first episode when I'm not being assaulted by 3DCG crap. Bleh, I worry it'll just get worse in that respect, if anything. Still, this was one of the best first episodes of the season so it's technically an import possibility. For now. It manages the most-ridiculous-premise-yet-taken-seriously since Toshokan Sensou though. [Import - Maybe. But if it's on the fence when it comes time to decide, I'll probably favor a series that will need the financial support more... and isn't full of 3DCG.]


Not currently in the import race
(09)　　Sankarea - ▲5 - 4 eps - This would be an import possibility if it would just stick to being the adventures of protagonist boy, dead girl, and their friends. But the antagonist seems destined to fuck everything up. Even so it's so good otherwise, and Rea herself is A-tier hot.

(10)　　Upotte!! - ▲6 - 5 eps - I, um, wow. Episode 5. What the fuck. That was awesome. Who would have predicted that Upotte!! would have one of the most intense episodes of the season? In various ways... This show is surprisingly good at being serious.

(11)　　Nazo no Kanojo X - ▼6 - 3 eps - It's certainly unique, and Urabe is one of my favorite girls of the season, but something about it just feels weird. Maybe it's because it is weird, but that's also its charm, so... I... I dunno. I guess it's one of those shows I really have to be in the mood for, and it's not a mood that comes around often? So very impressed with Urabe's seiyuu though.

(12)　　Fate/Zero - ◄0► - 5 eps - Nice backstory episode. Just pretty good stuff in general lately. I'm not blown away but it's thoroughly competent. Needs more Waver x Rider shipping, or more Rin.

(13)　　Kore wa Zombie Desu ka? of the Dead - ▼4 - 4 eps - Last two episodes were the same old fun KoreZom silliness, and I love those episode previews, but maybe it's getting a bit... I'm not sure. It's good, but I don't think I'll be importing it again. "Stale" is too harsh a word when I am genuinely enjoying it, but some variant of that might work.

(14)　　Sengoku Collection - ▼7 - 4 eps - Didn't care for ep 4, but it wasn't bad either, it just wasn't what I'm watching this show for. Episode 3 was a lot better (yuri!), but was also back to the really poor animation (whereas 4 looked better).


Potential drops
(15)　　Haiyore! Nyaruko-san - ▼4 - 3 eps - Not sure I feel like putting the effort in to get over my hangups with Kuuko's role. She's easily one of my favorite characters of the season, but that just makes it more frustrating. Disliking Mahiro makes it even worse.

(16)　　Accel World - ▼1 - 4 eps - Haru makes it hard to care. I feel like I'll really enjoy it if I stick around long enough for him to advance a bit more through his character arc and get less pathetic, but the question is if I can last long enough. Even Kuroyukihime, while utterly divine, can be hard to take seriously when she's played up as a potential romantic partner to Haru. I dunno, something about this just is not clicking for me the way it probably should.

(17)　　Medaka Box - ▼4 - 5 eps - Um. It's not bad, but it's also just not very interesting with it running through two fairly typical "help students with problems" stories every episode. It's totally watchable but I don't think "watchable" cuts it when I'm watching a lot more than I have time for.

(18)　　Eureka Seven AO - ▼1 - 1 eps - On hold.

(19)　　Queen's Blade: Rebellion - ◄0► - 2 eps - On hold.

(20)　　Yurumates 3D - ▲1 - 3 eps


OVAs, Specials, other oddities
Fairy Tail - 127 eps
Hunter x Hunter (2011) - 28 eps
Smile Precure - 11 eps
Kidou Senshi Gundam AGE - 27 eps


Dropped:
Natsuiro Kiseki - 3 eps - No.
Tsuritama - 2 eps - I really couldn't take any more of the protagonist's faces, or of... well everything about Haru.
Lupin the Third: Mine Fujiko to Iu Onna - 1 ep - Sawashiro is <3 <3 but I need to drop stuff and this was an easy cut.


Still need/plan to try (may not have aired):
none


(Blah blah disclaimer, the number on a tier is not at all indicative of a show's absolute quality, merely its quality relative to the other shows on the list).

I still need to drop more. I have a bunch of candidates as seen above, but haven't committed to offing any yet.

And I just want to say, ranking was exceptionally difficult and this could look very different 12 hours from now.

[Glamrgrl104]

Fushigi yuugi-episodes 30-31- I like this series but it has some slow episodes and others that get you interested in it again.

Gurran Laugen-episode 1- Okay I watched this a few agos and hated it, but it was a little better the 2nd time watching it.

Needless-episode 1- Very stylzed action, I don't know if they were trying to make it look like a comic book, but that is what it looks like. It was kind of boring even though it had a lot of action. The humor was mostly where the main girl smashes into a character with a motor bike then continues to kick him in the face throughout the episode.

Sekerei-episode 1- This is all fan service, I am sorry I do not see a good underlined plot with character development. A chick falls out of the sky and automatically falls in love with the poor guy that she smashes into. The whole story is the "accidents" of the main heroine where her clothes get ripped or she is around this guy having no modesty whatsoever. It all turns up to be some game where girls with big breasts called Sekereis go around fighting eachother. Very dry plot and the last five minutes was the only thing because there was some romance. I liked some parts that were funny, but I can't see myself continuing with this one.

Fate stay night-episode 1- This was more interesting than any of the other shows I watched yesterday.

[Damius]

Fushigi yuugi-episodes 30-31- I like this series but it has some slow episodes and others that get you interested in it again.

Now I want even more to watch it again... since I like slow episodes as well... Come on MB...release them all before it's too late...

[superdry]

Not currently in the import race
(09)　　Sankarea - ▲5 - 4 eps - This would be an import possibility if it would just stick to being the adventures of protagonist boy, dead girl, and their friends. But the antagonist seems destined to fuck everything up. Even so it's so good otherwise, and Rea herself is A-tier hot.

Episode 4 is where I feel like the show finally starts after getting the lengthy intro out of the way regarding Sanka's problems. So, hopefully, it focuses more on the romantic comedy side of the two protagonists. Also, needs a good balance of Wanko and Mero screentime.

[Magewolf]

Dragonaut episodes 6-23- WOW a really good series

I'm hardly one to comment on people liking shitty shows, but jesus/

LOL its an opinion. Okay maybe not a really good series, but so so good but not great. The premise was weird but the relationships worked.

I am glad someone liked it but I must say I do not understand how.I mean it is literally pants(or actually panties) on the head retarded.If you have made it to episode 23 you must know what I mean.

[HitokiriShadow]

R2 import tier
(01)　　Hyouka

(02)　　Saki: Achiga-hen - Episode of Side-A -


Import possibilities
(08)　　AKB0048 - ◄NEW► - 1 ep - Absolutely spectacular first episode when I'm not being assaulted by 3DCG crap. Bleh, I worry it'll just get worse in that respect, if anything. Still, this was one of the best first episodes of the season so it's technically an import possibility. For now. It manages the most-ridiculous-premise-yet-taken-seriously since Toshokan Sensou though. [Import - Maybe. But if it's on the fence when it comes time to decide, I'll probably favor a series that will need the financial support more... and isn't full of 3DCG.]

Hyouka is really good and easily one of the most gorgeous shows I've ever seen. But at this point, I'm really not feeling any interest in importing it. Which is good, because I really, really did not want to buy an 11 volume Kadokawa screwjob.

Saki was on my list, but its fallen off. I'm still enjoying it just as much, but its just too heavily connected to main series, which I have no intention of buying (either the first season, or a sequel), so that's a problem. And there's some other minor issues, but its enough to kill this show's chances, especially considering its competition, and the fact that Mouretsu Pirates is now a definite import.

Haiyore! Nyarko-san and Natsuiro Kiseki are off the list. Nyarko-san is still a lot of fun and hasn't done anything particularly wrong, but it just hasn't quite lived up to to that sheer, unadulterated bashit, Asumin-on-drugs insanity of the first episode. I love Kuuko, but she can't bring the whole show up. Natsuiro Kiseki.... ugh. I'm not having any problem continuing to enjoy the show and do my best to forget episode 4. But I can't forget or forgive that abomination either. It would be incredibly hard to justify importing something that contains an episode that painful. Nothing short of Yuuka and Rin confessing to each other and then making out could make me forgive that and reconsider it as an import.

And then there's AKB0048. I don't understand. How can a show have such a ridiculous premise and still be so damn good? I was expecting this to be a fun show, if only for reveling in an absurd premise, but I wasn't expecting it to be one of the best shows of the season.

So my import consideration list is now just Accel World and AKB0048.

I'm pretty much importing Accel World for Kuroyukihime, though the overall show does have to hold up well, but the standards are slightly lower in most regards. But so far, its a really good show overall. So unless it has some major issues, its pretty much a lock. If AKB0048 continues to be as good as the first two episodes, that's going to be hard to resist as well. I'm just going to have to figure out if I can afford it.

Oh, and I'm also buying the second half of Fate/Zero, but that's essentially the second half of a Fall 2011 show, so I'm not really thinking of it as one of this seasons shows in some ways.


(11)　　Nazo no Kanojo X - ▼6 - 3 eps - It's certainly unique, and Urabe is one of my favorite girls of the season, but something about it just feels weird. Maybe it's because it is weird, but that's also its charm, so... I... I dunno. I guess it's one of those shows I really have to be in the mood for, and it's not a mood that comes around often? So very impressed with Urabe's seiyuu though.I'm having similar issues with the show. The weirdness is a double edged sword. On the one hand, its certainly unique and interesting to watch. But the weirdness is a significant barrier to connecting with and being emotionally invested in the characters and their relationships the way I usually do.


Potential drops
(16)　　Accel World - ▼1 - 4 eps - Haru makes it hard to care. I feel like I'll really enjoy it if I stick around long enough for him to advance a bit more through his character arc and get less pathetic, but the question is if I can last long enough. Even Kuroyukihime, while utterly divine, can be hard to take seriously when she's played up as a potential romantic partner to Haru. I dunno, something about this just is not clicking for me the way it probably should.Watch episode 5.


(17)　　Medaka Box - ▼4 - 5 eps - Um. It's not bad, but it's also just not very interesting with it running through two fairly typical "help students with problems" stories every episode. It's totally watchable but I don't think "watchable" cuts it when I'm watching a lot more than I have time for.I think I've hit my "give a shit" limit on this one. I can't find it in me to care enough to start episode 5. Unless I hear of drastic improvement soon, I'm probably done. Shiranui is the only thing in the show worth watching, and her screentime in the show is minimal. Normally I might be more willing to put up with it a bit longer, but due to the things I've heard about the manga and the adaptation, I already know there's basically no hope of the anime getting significantly better unless its a surprise split-cour show.



(19)　　Queen's Blade: Rebellion - ◄0► - 2 eps - On hold.
Episodes 3 and 4 were both really good.


Still need/plan to try (may not have aired):
none
Not even going to give Jormungand a try? Just no interest in the series at all or is it because only gg is subbing it?

[EmperorBrandon]

I think I've hit my "give a shit" limit on this one. I can't find it in me to care enough to start episode 5. Unless I hear of drastic improvement soon, I'm probably done. Shiranui is the only thing in the show worth watching, and her screentime in the show is minimal. Normally I might be more willing to put up with it a bit longer, but due to the things I've heard about the manga and the adaptation, I already know there's basically no hope of the anime getting significantly better unless its a surprise split-cour show.
Episode 5 has a fair amount of Shiranui, but was overall somewhat boring to me. I've hit that "give a shit" limit too, and am not following this closely any more. After starting up several more series from this season recently, and a few of them being very enjoyable, it's hard to continue with stuff I'm only OK on. If I do come back, it will be after the cour ends, and only if I've heard really good things about it.

[something]

Not even going to give Jormungand a try? Just no interest in the series at all or is it because only gg is subbing it?
Minimal interest and have an already more than full schedule, and under those conditions gg being the only release likely to finish is more than enough to kill whatever chance there was of watching it, which wasn't a lot anyway.

And then there's AKB0048. I don't understand. How can a show have such a ridiculous premise and still be so damn good? I was expecting this to be a fun show, if only for reveling in an absurd premise, but I wasn't expecting it to be one of the best shows of the season.
So my import consideration list is now just Accel World and AKB0048.
I really kind of want to not import AKB even if it's good, because it's certainly not going to need my help to sell a shitton. It's going to need to be significantly better than whatever else gets import consideration to overcome that and the massive penalty I need to apply for the utterly shameful 3dcg. But if it's truly good enough then, well, I'll get it. I guess yuri could make me forgive the cg but I'm not holding my breath for anything unusually strong there.

[Damius]

And then there's AKB0048. I don't understand. How can a show have such a ridiculous premise and still be so damn good? I was expecting this to be a fun show, if only for reveling in an absurd premise, but I wasn't expecting it to be one of the best shows of the season.

So it's good enough, for someone like me who doesn't know anything about AKB48 would enjoy it anyway?

[something]

So it's good enough, for someone like me who doesn't know anything about AKB48 would enjoy it anyway?
I have a feeling I'm missing a little when they go on about "I'm going to become InsertAKBGirlName XVIII!" (...kinda like popes) because I have no idea what the girls they're talking about are like, but by and large it really shouldn't be necessary to know AKB at all. It's just cute girls becoming guerrilla idols and other silliness.

[Damius]

So it's good enough, for someone like me who doesn't know anything about AKB48 would enjoy it anyway?
I have a feeling I'm missing a little when they go on about "I'm going to become InsertAKBGirlName XVIII!" (...kinda like popes) because I have no idea what the girls they're talking about are like, but by and large it really shouldn't be necessary to know AKB at all. It's just cute girls becoming guerrilla idols and other silliness.

Ok, I'm quite sure I may really like this. Definitely add to the watch list.

[Glamrgrl104]

School Rumble episode 2- LOL so funny no matter how many times I see it.

Clannad-episode 1- Pretty good so far. I heard this was a really sad anime, but I'll not judge it before I watch all of it.

Ghost Stories- episode 1-2- This was much funnier the 1st time I saw this. It is still kinda funny though.

Nodame Cantabile- episode 1-3 On Crackle- I used to not care for the ENG dub but this makes it even better that I don't have to read subtitles. I wish they'd release this version on DVD though.

[Buckeye]

I have decided what shows I will be watching during the simulcast period. They are Fate/Zero, Accel World, Haiyore Nyarko-san, Kids on the Slope, and Eureka 7 AO. I will give my thoughts about those shows and the ones I am putting on hold soon.

[Glamrgrl104]

Ghost stories- eng dub-episodes 5-9- Hilarious kind of the same jokes over and over again, but it is still pretty funny. They are pretty episodic so you can just watch one then stop and do something else and then get back to it.

Full metal alchemist brotherhood-OVAS- LOVE IT!!! it was so good, funny and the extras are hilarious!

[superdry]

Well...not much of a blast...maybe more of a pop. The majority of the Spring shows I'm watching fall during the weekend, so I figured I would catch up on my backlog during the weekdays.

Instead, I decided to rewatch Raimuiro Senkitan - can't believe it's been 9 years since it was released. I do have a ton of older shows I've yet to watch, but the DVD rips from this show has been out for a bit and thought "why not?" since I vaguely remember enjoying the show back then.

I watched episode 1 -4 and thought "how did I actually finish this so long ago?" The show is hokey as all hell with some terrible CG work. None of the girls are really likeable or memorable and are walking cliche factories. The male lead looks to be a younger version of the dude from Night Shift Nurses...so that doesn't help. The, what looks to be, extra scenes really don't do much to add the to story either (don't remember the explicit stuff from the TV rips).

Well, I guess I'll just soldier on and finish the series since I'm a third way there already. Too bad the subs for the sequel was never finished because I actually wanted to watch it back then. I'm still intrigued to this day even though the sequel is probably just as bad.

[Glamrgrl104]

Clannad-episodes 2-5- Sweet, funny, but also makes you saddened. I really am loving it so far.

[pianocello]

Currently watching (episodes watched up to in brackets):

Outstanding
None


Very Good
Senki Zesshou Symphogear (finished)
This turned out to be not too bad though I was hoping for a more emotional yuri ending.


Good
Seikon no Qwaser 1st season (6)
This is getting to be a guilty pleasure for me.

Boku wa Tomodachi ga Sukunai (finished)
I'm surprised. They actually had quite a decent ending.

Ano Matsu de Matteru (5)
I don't think the story seems to be moving anywhere.

Another (finished)
It got a bit ridiculous towards the end but it did a good job keeping the suspense.

Average
Black Rock Shooter TV (finished)
The best part of the show were the Saya flashbacks in episode 6. I can't stand Yomi though.

Last Exile: Fam the Silver Wing (7)
Some of the story concepts are a little too ridiculous for me and the storyline seems like nothing more than an excuse to show well-animated flying machines.

Tiger and Bunny (14)
I've been taking months to watch this. It isn't that bad but it doesn't have enough to motivate me to watch faster.

Guilty Crown (finished)
Not really good and has too many flaws. Still you can't say that this show is boring - it never has any dull moments.

Below Average
None

[Buckeye]

Hoshizora e Kakaru Hashi is up next.

I just finished up Hoshizore e Kakaru Hashi, and this show is just your ordinary visual novel adaptation more than anything. It has fanservice, but it's not over-the-top like other such shows like to put in it, which is good. Kazuma is a good lead and the girls are pretty solid characters with nobody standing out like a sore thumb. But at the same time, it's a story that I have seen way too many times by now in different ways, shapes, and forms. So this show is passable for keeping me intrigued, but not much else is going for the show that seems to be done time and again.

Up next is Utena, and this will be a rewatch with the recent Nozomi release that I bought. I began watching this in 2001 and it took me five years to finish as CPM's releases were slow to come out, and then there was that long wait between the first 13 episodes and the rest of the series. But now, I will be marathoning this show this weekend.

[tytan88]

Finished watching Minami-Ke which were all very good. Nice to watch while I was playing borderlands. Wonderful show with nicely developed characters and a good plot. Another one that can be re-watched over and over. Watched Hyakko and A-Channel also good to watch over and over.

Bought the Toradora dvd's and watched them. Fabulous! My favorite all time anime, bumping Robotech into #2. K-On will be my next order.

Watching Acchi Kocchi and Hyouka andloving the plot progression so far.

Can't wait for summer!

[Glamrgrl104]

Full metal alchemist Sacred star of Milos- WOW is all I have to say. I was kinda on the fence about this one, it kind of fit as a side story of the infamous Full metal alchemist franchise. I quite liked it even if it was darker than the anime and movies. It had some non-stop action and then drama, and then totally interesting mystery twists in the story. This isn't as good as Conqueror of Shamballa, but it was pretty good a nice addition to my FMA collection.

Ginga Nagareboshi Gin- episodes 1-5- I seriously never get tired of this series; I always seem to come back to it.

[MelancholicMariya]

it kind of fit as a side story of the infamous Full metal alchemist franchise.

Infamous? From what I know people genuinely enjoy Fullmetal Alchemist, and Arakawa Hiromu's works in general very much.

[Glamrgrl104]

it kind of fit as a side story of the infamous Full metal alchemist franchise.

Infamous? From what I know people genuinely enjoy Fullmetal Alchemist, and Arakawa Hiromu's works in general very much.

sorry I meant famous lol.


So watched

Kiki's Delivery Service

Clannad episode 10- This series is so touching, hilarious at times and just overall very good.

[something]

2012/05/06 update (http://www.mania.com/aodvb/showthread.php?p=1986492#post1986492)

Two thirds through the first cour. Only 4 of these will be continuing into the summer cour.

R2 import tier
(01)　　Hyouka - ◄0► - 6 eps - Perfect end to the first novel. I can't gush enough about this show's attention to detail, gorgeous art and animation, amazing music, fantastic OP, fascinating characters, delightfully subtle character growth, etc etc etc. And we have so many episodes left too. This should be a lock for #2 show of the year at this rate. I think it's a shame some people obsess over the fairly trivial nature of most of the "mysteries" and in the process miss the fact that the mysteries are not important, but what they say about the characters and how investigating them together affects the characters. [Import - Guaranteed.]

(02)　　Saki: Achiga-hen - Episode of Side-A - ◄0► - 7 eps - Oh my god Stealth Momo. <3 Everything about this show is amazing, with the exception of the mahjong matches not being half as exciting as the first series. That's why I wish this were two cour - they'd have ample time to have long, crazy matches. There's just no time for a one cour show that's covering more time (formation of club up to and including nationals) than the first series covered in two cour (not yet starting the nationals). Seriously though everything else is just fantastic. So sad it's on hiatus this week, but that does give me a little time to catch up on other stuff. [Import - Guaranteed.]

(03)　　Acchi Kocchi - ▲1 - 7 eps - Still insanely adorable. Cuteness is part of this show's DNA. It can be nothing else, and I don't want it to be. Tsumiki and Io are definitely one of my top hetero couples of the year. [Import - Almost certainly. How can a show like this go wrong?]


The others
(04)　　Sakamichi no Apollon - ▼1 - 7 eps - Last few episodes had been good but not quite on par with the brilliance before that, and then episode 7 just blows me away. Absolutely one of the best episodes of any show this season. What is it about playing music at school culture festivals? Haruhi, K-ON!, Manabi Straight, etc. It results in the best scenes.

(05)　　Tasogare Otome x Amnesia - ▼2 - 8 eps - I feel like the transition into serious plot material has been handled mostly well, if abruptly at times. I'm surprised how far along certain things have gotten by only episode 8, but I'm glad. I'll forgive some perhaps overly quick pacing if they do something great with the setup.

(06)　　Sankarea - ▲3 - 7 eps - Still not liking anything about the Sanka family plot, but everything involving Rea is absolute gold. Could have done a better Wanko episode though.

(07)　　Shining Hearts: Shiawase no Pan - ◄0► - 7 eps - Still really really really enjoyable. And Rouna adds another sexy character with a great seiyuu to the cast. Why is Hirohashi Ryou doing two characters? Who cares! There's never enough Hirohashi Ryou. I think this may be my favorite console RPG anime adaptation... for what that's worth.

(08)　　Uchuu Kyoudai - ▼2 - 9 eps - Okay I think we can finally progress beyond the "self-pitying Mutta" rut it had gotten into. Though even when in a rut, Uchuu Kyoudai is better than a lot of shows. Hoping for more Serika now too.

(09)　　Upotte!! - ▲1 - 8 eps - Funco's yuri harem is growing! That's the most amusing part about this show, but there's really quite a lot that's amusing about it. Teacher guy is pretty boring though, but isn't in it too much thankfully.

(10)　　Nazo no Kanojo X - ▲1 - 8 eps - Oka is starting to steal this series from under our protagonist couple's noses.

(11)　　Fate/Zero - ▲1 - 8 eps - Back to being silly now that the awesome Kiritsugu backstory is over.

(12)　　Sengoku Collection - ▲2 - 8 eps - Episode 6 was a bit boring, but 7 was the best episode (Bashou! Haiku!) and 8 was amusing in a completely nonsensical kind of way. SenColle is still more hit than miss, I'd say 5-3 so far.

(13)　　Kore wa Zombie Desu ka? of the Dead - ◄0► - 4 eps - Oops, I'm so behind.

(14)　　Accel World - ▲2 - 7 eps - It's getting better but I don't think I'll ever be in this for anything except Kuroyukihime and Chiyuri. Well, there is another girl being introduced at least.

(15)　　Yurumates 3D - ▲5 - 6 eps - Last few episodes were really funny, actually.

(16)　　Queen's Blade: Rebellion - ▲3 - 4 eps - It's okay, but it's... still Queen's Blade.


OVAs, Specials, other oddities
Fairy Tail - 129 eps
Hunter x Hunter (2011) - 32 eps
Smile Precure - 12 eps - Guess I need to switch groups so I can catch up on this.
Kidou Senshi Gundam AGE - 27 eps - Probably dropped, since I'm so far behind.


Dropped:
Medaka Box - 5 eps - It's not bad, but I guess I just don't have time to stick around and wait for it to go from "not bad" to "really good".
AKB0048 - 4 eps - Amazing first episode, good second episode, kinda meh third and fourth. The utterly hideous, jarring, terribly integrated CG takes what would otherwise be a "continue and see if it gets better" and turns it into a drop. Maybe I should just stay away from Kawamori Shouji or something? Dunno. Thank god Satelight's other recent show (Mouretsu) turned out so so so so so so so much better.
Haiyore! Nyaruko-san - 3 eps - Meh, this isn't working out. Sorry, Asumin.
Natsuiro Kiseki - 3 eps
Tsuritama - 2 eps
Eureka Seven AO - 1 ep - Not going to have time to get back to this.
Lupin the Third: Mine Fujiko to Iu Onna - 1 ep


Still need/plan to try (may not have aired):
none


(Blah blah disclaimer, the number on a tier is not at all indicative of a show's absolute quality, merely its quality relative to the other shows on the list).

I might drop QB but I think I've got my final list for Spring after shelving four more shows in this update.

I've mentioned this elsewhere, but I'm going to take a bit of a break in imports this season. I did 6 in Fall '11 and 7 in Winter '12, but I think I can cut back to 3 this season. I have at least four BD boxes getting bought this year (Kannagi, HidaSketch, HidaSketch365, Manabi) for one thing, and this way I can totally splurge on Summer if need be. Dog Days, Rinne and Yuru Yuri are already guaranteed and more than a few other shows catch my eye. Wouldn't be surprised if I'm back up at 6 for Summer.

I also think I can pass on everything after Acchi Kocchi this season without regretting it too badly. There are a lot of very good shows and I'd buy them if imports cost far less, but I don't necessarily feel an intense need to buy them at normal prices. Have to say I kinda want Shining Hearts, though, because its preorder rankings are so dismal that it's kind of depressing for such a sweet, soothing show.

[Glamrgrl104]

Clannad episode 11-13- These episodes made me laugh and cry too just such a touching sweet series. I'll get the 2nd season when I am done with the first season.

[Buckeye]

Up next is Utena, and this will be a rewatch with the recent Nozomi release that I bought.

I just finished watching Revolutionary Girl Utena, and since I am watching this show from start to finish without any yearlong gaps that this time, I am getting a more complete experience of the show. This is one of the all-time classics and the show makes its mark through character development. There is Utena and Anthy whose yuri relationship is well-established, there are the student council members who learn a lot about themselves through dueling Utena, and how all of this was some part of a greater scheme. Having all those extras really enhance the experience this time around as this time, I actually understand things from Ikuhara's perspective.

Next up is Nodame Cantabile, a show that totally eluded me because of the way Sony handled this series, but now that it is back on Crackle that I will be watching this show next.

[Buckeye]

It took a while to get a chance to take a look at all the titles that I am interested in for the spring season, but I have gotten through it. I have watched at least two episodes of most of my to-do list for this season, and now I will give my first thoughts about the season's new shows that I watched. Since I had been very busy this season between long work days and preparing for several weekend trips that I pretty much only had time to watch the simulcasts that I had been planning to follow, and I chose to limit it to five this season after watching seven last season.

Continuing from last season:

Fate/Zero - This show continues to be great. Great attention is paid to character development much more so that with Fate/Stay Night. This show tells a more complete story, and that leads to me understanding the events of Fate/Stay Night better.


Watching:

Accel World - This was the show I was looking forward to the most, and it definitely delivers. Lots of info dump in the beginning, but unlike with another Sunrise show that was slow out of the gates, this one gets it out of the way after three episodes and whatever info dump that happens later on is in bits and pieces. The characters are great, especially Kuroyukihime and Yuniko, and the whole concept of being able to accelerate your brain and be a part of a fighting game is just really interesting.
Haiyore Nyarko-san - I got really interested in this show with the Flash shorts and the characters were nice in the opening sequence with normal animation. So in watching this show, it was really funny and full of craziness. Forget for a moment that there is not much of a storyline since it's all about the parodies and the stuff that is total nonsense that makes this show nice to watch.
Kids on the Slope - Shinichiro Watanabe and Yoko Kanno as the famed duo that produced Cowboy Bebop are back with this show, and the results are awesome. The story is developing quite well using jazz music as a backdrop for the story. The character development has been great so far, and jazz fits the theme of many of the characters since that kind of music is freestyle as opposed to the classical music that Kaoru has been playing right before the show starts.
Eureka 7 AO - This is the sequel to Eureka 7, and the approach to this show is much different that the original season. Things start out fast out of the gate whereas E7 took its time with lots of silly side stories and other stuff before the main problem at hand is shown, which was expected given that this series has only 24 episodes as opposed to the 50-episodes E7. So far it has been very good, but now it's hitting a rough spot after building so much momentum.

On Hold for now:


Dusk Maiden of Amnesia - This was the last show that was cut from my simulcast schedule. With this show, it is a mystery combined with other stuff where Yuuko is somehow able to not only be seen by Teiichi and Kirie, but can also be touched. She is such a great character who acts like a ghost, but is a fun character to be around. Nevertheless, I enjoyed what I watched so far, but out of time constraints, this show was put on the back burner for the time being.
Hyouka - It's a show about small-scaled mysteries, and the artwork is just unbelievable gorgeous. KyoAni delivers once again as Tomoya and Sunohara are back, well sort of as their seiyuus are back and reviving a club that had been previously dissolved. These mysteries are pretty silly, but they are well-done. This is a show I would like to continue watching at some point, and I will wait until it finishes airing or it is picked up for licensing.
Medaka Box - It's Gainax doing what Gainax does best. The first couple of episodes were enjoyable, but at the same time it seems like it's humor I have seen time and again.
Hiiro no Kakera - This show is not bad, but at the same time it's nothing groundbreaking. It's just another weak adaptation of a visual novel.
Upotte - This show has silliness written all over it. It's about a twist regarding girls with guns as these girls are actually guns. Innovative, but very dumb I must say.
Mysterious Girlfriend X - This show has a decent background to it, but at the same time I was put off by the animation style and a relatively dull storyline. Seeing some guy having to taste some girl's saliva to stay upright is innovative, but at the same time just not mesh with my tastes.

[Glamrgrl104]

SHIKI-eng dub -episodes 1-14- AWESOME. This is a really good series, it took awhile to get into the plot, but it turned out to be worthwhile so far.

The Twelve Kingdoms- Disc 2- This is such a good series and a good rewatch. I haven't watched the whole series yet, but I watched up to the 10th episode so far. A unique series in itself and wonderful character development.

My Bride is a mermaid- episode 11-13- This is hilarious no matter how many times I watch.

[pianocello]

Currently watching (episodes watched up to in brackets):

Outstanding
None


Very Good
Seikon no Qwaser 1st season (8)
My guilty pleasure. This is turning out to be real fun to watch.


Good
Ano Matsu de Matteru (finished)
While the ending could be better, the last few episodes were quite strong.

Amagami SS+ (2)
While this show isn't one of my favorites, I did like the girls well enough to want to see more. Episode 2 annoyed me though - whoever heard of a dating couple in real life where the girl slaps a guy just because she accidentally sees him naked?


Average
Last Exile: Fam the Silver Wing (8)
I'm losing my motivation with this show.

Tiger and Bunny (16)
This is one show that I keep hanging on despite how long it's taking me to finish.

Below Average
None

[Glamrgrl104]

Sgt frog season 1 episodes 1-15- Hilarious as ever. This is such a funny show.

Clannad After story episode 1 and 2- Sweet yet melacholy. I love this series soo much.

Deadman Wonderland episodes 1-4- This series just gets better and better. It is a shame it is only 12 episodes :P action packed, gorey, and mystery makes this a show worth watching. Also it is something other than Naruto or DBZ.

[Buckeye]

Next up is Nodame Cantabile, a show that totally eluded me because of the way Sony handled this series, but now that it is back on Crackle that I will be watching this show next.

I just finished watching the first season of Nodame Cantabile today, and it took a while to complete since I had been busy with other things, plus the fact that Crackle's website is such a pain to navigate through that I ended up on the wrong episode too many times. This show is great to watch, if only because Nodame's antics were really funny. It's the story of two people who are complete opposites of each other living next door to each other, and it was great to see how Chiaki is a great person, not just as a conductor, pianist, and violinist, but also as someone who knows when he has to open up. The characters are well-developed, which has become typical trend of josei adaptations.

Next show to finish will be Puella Magi Madoka Magica, followed by numerous simulcasts that will be ending within the coming week. The final show that I will be watching for this season from the start is Chaos;Head.

[Buckeye]

Next show to finish will be Puella Magi Madoka Magica,

And I just finished watching Puella Magi Madoka Magica last night on BD in English. The fight scenes and everything look much more impressive on BD, and this show is just great all around. The show is very complex and inspired by several European plays, and everything comes out great.

Next up, Haiyore Nyarko-san is finishing up this week. In the meantime, I will be starting on Chaos;Head.

[Buckeye]

Next up, Haiyore Nyarko-san is finishing up this week.

Just finished watching Haiyore Nyarko-san today, and this show makes its money through craziness and parodies. It was all great, although I felt that when the show turned serious that something felt off about it. In any case, the show was fun to watch and certainly after watching the flash shorts that it got me really interested in this show.

Right now, I am watching Chaos;Head. The next simulcast to conclude is Kids on the Slope on Thursday.

[Glamrgrl104]

Clannad after story-episodes 2-7- Wonderful series. I am really loving it so far. It had a unique perspective and concept in one of the episodes which was heartwarming and yet sad.

[pianocello]

My belated Winter 2012 roundup (including holdovers from Fall 2011) from best to the worst:
Outstanding
Rinne no Lagrange
It started off with some dumb moments and then started to ramp up the yuri to become THE yuri anime of the season. Add in some good character designs and interactions, quirky humor, decent music and you have a winner.

High School DxD
Fanservice aside, I'm glad we finally have a male lead that doesn't freak out at nudity and works hard for his harem. Not to mention, this show has a great use of pole dancing.

Very Good
Senki Zesshou Symphogear
Dramatic premise. The last few episodes were a little wobbly but overall, this was a great show with some decent yuri flavor. The show would have scored higher had the last few moments been more emotional.

Ano Natsu de Matteru
To be honest, I thought the middle episodes were so-so but when the characters started to be more open with their feelings, this show became a clear winner.

Good
Amagami SS+ Plus
Great and sexy character designs. You really do need a high tolerance for some of Junichi's antics though.

Another
The suspense was great though it did become too ridiculous at times.

Average
Last Exile: Fam the Silver Wing
The story has occasional unbelievable plot holes and just like its predecessor, it isn't pulling me in.

Black Rock Shooter TV
Too much angst at times. It did have a decent ending and the supposed-villain turned out to be one of the greater characters of the show.

Below Average
Guilty Crown
It sure wasn't dull but the storyline was so incredibly stupid and characters occasionally made me want to punch them.

Awful
Zero no Tsukaima 4th season
It had a good ending but that's not enough to redeem this awful which has one of the worst heroines in history.

Tantei Opera Milky Holmes 2nd season
This show has outstayed its welcome. Awful and cringeworthy writing.

[Buckeye]

Right now, I am watching Chaos;Head.

I just finished watching Chaos;Head, and I must say that while it starts off being a simple story, things get confusing really quickly once the whole delusion thing comes into play. It started off nicely introducing the Takumi being the hikkikomori that he is and the characters. The characters are really nice, especially Nanami being a nice sister to someone who needs one. The setup of this show is original and sets things up to have a nice story, but then things got way too ambitious. The plot was just a mess during the second half of the show where there is too much stuff that is not making any sense.

Next up, Kids on the Slope is finishing its simulcast.

[something]

My belated Winter 2012 roundup (including holdovers from Fall 2011) from best to the worst:
Just sayin', you are absolutely positively required to watch Mouretsu Pirates, a Winter show not on your list. I have no clue how much you'll like it but at least one thing you're just obligated to see.

[Glamrgrl104]

Deadman wonderland- episode 5- Outstanding. It is really dark, but I can't keep myself from watching it.

Clannad episode 9- Love this series sooo much~ :D

[Buckeye]

Next up, Kids on the Slope is finishing its simulcast.

I just finished watching the simulcast of Kids on the Slope, and so far this is the best show of the year. The famed duo that produced Cowboy Bebop bring their magic over to this show, and the result is an awesome show where the characters are developed nicely given the constraints of 12 episodes to cover three years of their lives. The music is a nice backdrop and serves are big purpose in the grand scheme of things. All in all, the results are great.

To finish off the spring 2012 season, the last episode of Fate/Zero is all that remains as the other two simulcasts are continuing.

[Buckeye]

To finish off the spring 2012 season, the last episode of Fate/Zero is all that remains as the other two simulcasts are continuing.
And I just finished off Fate/Zero, completing my viewing slate for the spring 2012 season. The second half picks up nicely and battles were becoming more serious. All the while, Kiritsugu's character was developed quite well, not to mention the way Kirei was portrayed is a sign of things to come. While Fate/Stay Night did a pretty good job in developing the characters, it was nowhere near as impressive as with Fate/Zero.

That's all for spring 2012. In the end, I ended up watching five simulcasts: Fate/Zero, Haiyore Nyarko-san, Kids on the Slope, Accel World, and Eureka 7 AO.

[Buckeye]

With another season of anime having just been completed, it is time I hand out grades and reviews as usual for all the shows I watched during the period.

[GRZ] Ga-Rei Zero: B+
The first two episodes were just a mess since it appears that this show is just a random hack-and-slash type of show against demons. But the real story begins on episode 3, and that is when the show really becomes something special. It tells the story between Kagura and Yomi, about how their friendship turns into a tragedy because of their occupation as demon slayers. How everything went down was just sad, and it was developed very nicely, which then leads to everything that happens during the first two episodes making a lot more sense. This show does an excellent job developing the two lead characters from the third episode on.

[WGK] The World God Only Knows: B
This show was quite enjoyable and certainly the characters are pretty colorful. There is the dating sim nerd who only cares about life in the 2D world, a demon who is actually there only to keep the world in balance rather than to torment, and a bunch of girls with problems where the only way to fix them up is to kiss them. The first season is pretty fun and I am looking forward to watching the season season.

[SRW] Sora no Woto: B+
This show is an awful lot like K-On! down to the character designs. It's about a group of girls in the military who are trying to keep the peace, and a girl who comes in only for the free music lesson on the bugle. Then most of the story is spent on daily life in the base as they do various things while maintaining their goals in life. It's all great stuff, and the characters are very nice, which is what made K-On! so great.

[BMG-2] Nisemonogatari: B-
Bakemonogatari is a great show, but I found the sequel to be disappointing. It starts off with Koyomi doing random things with the other girls before focusing on the task at hand with his sisters. These stories are supposed to focus around them, but the other girls end up stealing the spotlight away, leaving the stories relatively full of potholes. At least all of the goodness that made Bake so nice are back.

[HKH] Hoshizora e Kakaru Hashi: C+
It's just another visual game adaptation that I have seen time and again. The male lead is a good guy, while the usual fanservice is there, though none of it is over-the-top that is the kiss of death for those shows. At least it kept me intrigued, where others would bomb at that.

[NCB] Nodame Cantabile: A-
I really like this show, as the main purpose that was laid out at the beginning was accomplished by the end of the first season. Chiaki is a great male lead for being the ideal husband type, albeit being one with low tolerance for imperfection. Then there is Nodame for being the exact opposite, and she is a pretty funny character that I liked. The orchestra that Chiaki conducts is very colorful as well, which makes this a great show.

*[HYN] Haiyore Nyarko-san: B-
This show is really fun to watch for the numerous parodies and the antics of the characters. For what this show was trying to accomplish, it does very nicely. There is not much of a plot, and what might end up being serious turns out to be not quite what it would otherwise be in another show. It's a lot of fun and the characters are great.

[CHH] Chaos;Head: C
This show started off pretty nicely with Takumi being the guy living in his own world up on a rooftop in a storage container with his collection of Seira figures. And then there was the whole string of murders and the stuff about delusions which is innovative. But this show got way too ambitious and it was pretty hard to follow since what the characters see is not what everybody else sees. At least this show tries to distinguish itself, but the execution was just off.

*[KSP] Kids on the Slope: A+
I was drawn to this show since it was produced by the famed Cowboy Bebop director and music artist, and this show is just flat-out awesome. It is, by far, the best show of the year at this point. It's unbelievable how a story like this is put together so well, and that the main topic is so symbolic about the way the characters are living. There is classical music where form is important and must adhere to the composer's intent, which is how Kaoru had been living before he met Sentaro. Then there is jazz that is freestyle music, and expression is the most important thing, which describes Sentaro. The story is unbelievable good from start to finish.


*[FSN-0] Fate/Zero (14-end): A-
While it helps that I have watched Fate/Stay Night to really appreciate this show, this series provides a deep and rich background in regards to the Grail Wars. Character development was just great and while FSN did a decent job at it, there was just something missing about it. This show fills in those missing components. For the second half of this show, things start to get really serious, and then there was a flashback about Kiritsugu's past which explains a lot about how he became the person that he is.

Ongoing

*[ACW] Accel World (1-12): A-
I am just loving this show so far. It has great characters in it as Kuroyukihime is the front-runner for my favorite character of the year, Yuniko is just awesome, and Chiyu has shown flashes of greatness. Then there is Haru who looks like he is a character out of South Park, but he is someone who is really growing considering how far low he was at the start. The whole Brain Burst fighting game is a real visual treat to watch. There is a ton of info-dump along the way that was at least handled very well compared to another Sunrise show, but the stuff is staggered rather than thrown at you continuously. The music is also great, which adds to the enjoyment.

*[EU7-AO] Eureka 7 AO (1-10): B
It's a pretty tall order trying to meet expectations set by its predecessor and while its beginning is stronger than that of the original, it has hit some momentum-killing turbulence. It starts out pretty fast with a lot of action right off the bat, and the characters are introduced at a nice pace with a storyline being established. But these past few episodes are sort of killing the mood following just about the exact same formula. Of course, the original season took its sweet time to establish itself, but it had twice as many episodes to do so. I just feel that this sets the stage for a rushed storyline

[BLE] Bleach (239-250): C-
More filler, as the plot has seemingly gone nowhere since the 167th episode. These episodes cover the Zanpakuto rebellion arc, and unlike the previous two fillers, this one is terrible (at the very least, the first 8 or so episodes are). The Bounts had a good storyline and it introduced some colorful characters while the Captain Amagai arc has a pretty good backstory to it. This arc had none of that and it is just about how a powerless Soul Reaper is battling against his main power source. I just want to get on with the main storyline as it seems like forever since Ichigo and company went to Hueco Mundo.

[PKM-BW] Pokemon Black and White (51-60): C+
It's a show for kids, but these episodes finally get really good. Certainly, it helps that most of these episodes are taking place in Nimbasa City and Driftveil City, where a sexy fashion model and a mine-digging cowboy enter the scene. It's "more of the same", but it's better "more of the same" than in previous seasons.

[DWL] Deadman Wonderland (1-6): B-
This show is really innovative being that it is about having death row inmates be the source of entertainment in an amusement park, which feels a lot like those concentration camps during World War II. And then there is the main lead in Ganta who is framed for a crime, and is trying to fight his way to freedom, while taking down the ringleaders behind this place who are using Deadman Wonderland for their own selfish reasons.

Rewatch

[UTE] Revolutionary Girl Utena: A
I watched this again with the recently-released Nozomi version, and this time I watched it without any year-long waits in-between. This show is a classic as it uses an awful lot of symbolism and crazy images to tell a story, with duels to develop the characters seeing how the only way to put their problems at ease is to duel Utena. And then there is a lot of hidden motives at work in this show.

[PMM] Puella Magi Madoka Magica: A+
All I can say about this show is wow! And to watch this on BD is a double wow! It's magical girls, but it's more about the dark side of them and how becoming a magical girl is essentially a death sentence. This show uses a lot of abstract artwork as well as motifs from folklore to base a lot of themes from this show on. Finally, there are the characters and they are all great (except for Sayaka, who I found to be, well I won't say anymore about it), especially Homura, and Kyubee.

On Hold

*[DMA] Dusk Maden of Amnesia (1-3): B-
This was the last show to be cut from my spring lineup due to time constraints this season. I liked what I watched so far, as it looks like a fun show to watch. I certainly enjoyed watching Yuko's antics and tendencies even though she really is a ghost, as well as how the rest of the club is handling business. The mysteries and stuff are quite intriguing to say the least.

*[MBX] Medaka Box (1-2): C+
It's Gainax doing what Gainax does best. It was fun to watch, but at the same time I feel that something was really missing from this show. It's a strong possibility that I will revisit this show later, but right now, I put it on hold.

*[HYO] Hyouka (1-2): B+
This show was placed on hold because it is usually my policy to wait until a streaming deal is reached or the show's airing finishes before watching beyond the first few episodes (though I plan on making an exception for Dog Days' if it is does not have a simulcast). In this case, I plan on watching more of this show when that happens as the animation is just great and as expected of KyoAni. The formula is pretty simple as the mysteries are pretty silly. The real draw are the characters, which is what KyoAni does best.

*[UPT] Upotte (1-2): D-
This show is terribly cliched and pretty dumb for my tastes. At least it's good dumb fun as opposed to a show like Majikoi, and it gets points for being innovative in using girls as guns.

*[NKX] Mysterious Girlfriend X (1-2): D+
I'll give credit where credit is due here as this show brings something new to the table. So a boy suddenly falls in love with a mysterious transfer student when he tastes her saliva (like anybody would want to do that). It is a good thing that the story development was the main thing at hand with this show. But what really did not sit well with me in this show is the style of artwork as it is not exactly my cup of tea. And while I do not usually have much of an issue with Japanese voice acting, in this show it was a problem (at least in what I watched, the seiyuu for Mikoto was trying to get used to the character as I found out that this is her first gig).

* Denotes simulcast title for the spring 2012 season.

[MelancholicMariya]

[BMG-2] Nisemonogatari: B-
Bakemonogatari is a great show, but I found the sequel to be disappointing. It starts off with Koyomi doing random things with the other girls before focusing on the task at hand with his sisters. These stories are supposed to focus around them, but the other girls end up stealing the spotlight away, leaving the stories relatively full of potholes. At least all of the goodness that made Bake so nice are back.


Well the stories aren't exactly supposed to be strictly focused on the Fire Sisters as people, but the stories certainly were all about them even when they were not on screen. It was about ways to help these characters.

And what do you mean "potholes"? Do you mean plotholes? I don't recall any plotholes whatsoever. What exactly are you referring to?

[Buckeye]

And what do you mean "potholes"? Do you mean plotholes? I don't recall any plotholes whatsoever. What exactly are you referring to?
Yes, I mean potholes. And by that, I just did not like the way the story flowed in this season compared to the first season. That's not to say it is a mess, it's just that I enjoyed Bake more so than this.