Anime of the Year 2023-III Summer - Seija Musou: Salaryman, Isekai de Ikinokoru Tame ni Ayumu Michi (2024)

2.Mushoku Tensei II: Isekai Ittara Honki DasuMushoku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation Season 2無職転生 II ～異世界行ったら本気だす～[Studio Bind] (Finished 12/12)

After his relationship with Eris Boreas Greyrat reaches new heights, Rudeus Greyrat is ecstatic. Unfortunately, his joy is short-lived, as Eris suddenly abandons him to embark on her own journey. Believing that Eris has lost all interest in him, a heartbroken and depressed Rudeus sets forth to the Northern Territories. With his sole goal being to locate his mother on the vast continent, Rudeus wonders if persisting through daily life is worth the pain, falling into a robotic routine as he endlessly ruminates on his lost love.

However, the dangers of the North soon prove that one cannot survive with a dulled mind. While on a quest with the party Counter Arrow, with whom he recently became acquainted, Rudeus has a brush with death—an experience that forces him to finally snap out of his despair. With his newfound teammates, Rudeus rediscovers the pleasure of daily adventuring and moves forward with his original goal of living his second lease on life to the fullest.

Sequel.

Overall Rating: 6/10

3.Zom 100: Zombie ni Naru made ni Shitai 100 no KotoZom 100: Bucket List of the Deadゾン100～ゾンビになるまでにしたい100のこと～[BUG FILMS] (Finished 2/12)

After graduating from a top university with an impressive extracurricular record in the rugby club, Akira Tendou has nailed every step of the way to securing his dream job. On top of that, a beautiful and kind co-worker always brightens his day in the office! Life seems to be going very well for Akira until he slowly realizes that sleepless nights and brutal work are his new reality.

Due to three years of mind-numbing labor in an exploitative company, Akira is unable to recognize the tired, unaccomplished person he has become. On track to losing all passion in life like several of his overworked colleagues, Akira finds his saving grace in the most unexpected way possible—the breakout of a zombie apocalypse.

With the free time he finally has, Akira decides to complete a bucket list of a hundred things he wants to do before he eventually gets turned into a zombie. Although he is surrounded by the dead, Akira has never felt more alive!

So the only plot is doing things that always wanted to do. The only comedy here is... wait, where? So we're supposed to watch for post-apocalypse and for characters who aren't particularly great. That just won't do.

Overall Rating: 6/10

Sidequel.

Overall Rating: 5/10

5.Bleach: Sennen Kessen-hen - Ketsubetsu-tanBleach: Thousand-Year Blood War - The SeparationBLEACH 千年血戦篇-訣別譚-[Pierrot] (Finished 1/13)

After a brutal surprise attack by the forces of Quincy King Yhwach, the resident Reapers of the Soul Society lick their wounds and mourn their losses. Many of the surviving Soul Reaper captains train to battle without their Bankai, the ultimate technique wielded by the fiercest warriors.

In the previous assault, Ichigo Kurosaki narrowly managed to help fend off Yhwach's fearsome wrath. However, to ultimately defeat his godly adversary and save his allies, Ichigo must now undergo severe training that will push him beyond his physical, emotional, and mental limits.

Though Yhwach already holds the upper hand in this ongoing blood feud, he also successfully recruits Uryuu Ishida, Ichigo's close friend and rival, to be his successor. Yhwach strikes out once again at the weakened Soul Society, intent on finally obliterating his long-standing enemies. As Ichigo struggles to attain new power, the Soul Reaper captains fight for survival and borrowed time.

Sequel.

Overall Rating: 5/10

6.Watashi no Shiawase na KekkonMy Happy Marriageわたしの幸せな結婚 [Kinema Citrus] (Finished 1/12)

Misery seems everlasting in Miyo Saimori's life. Born from an arranged marriage, she was quickly discarded after her mother's tragic death. Her father remarried, and her younger half-sister Kaya received all the affection, while Miyo was degraded to a lowly servant. Lacking the strength to fight against her family's abuse, Miyo loses hope that her luck will ever turn.

Unexpectedly, Miyo's father summons her to deliver surprising news: she is to marry Kiyoka Kudou, the head of the distinguished Kudou family. Despite his noble background, Kiyoka is known to be a callous man who has thus far dismissed all of his former fiancées.

Upon arriving at the Kudou household, Miyo expects coarse treatment and to be tossed aside. However, contrary to her assumptions, Kiyoka shows her the kindness and love that she has desperately needed. Marrying Kiyoka may be Miyo's one chance to break free from her neglectful family and embrace a life of happiness.

Some Josei to emphathize with or something.

Overall Rating: 5/10

7.Masamune-kun no Revenge RMasamune-kun's Revenge R政宗くんのリベンジR[SILVER LINK.] (Finished 1/12)

With the tumultuous cultural festival behind him, Masamune Makabe continues his efforts to carry out his revenge: to make the "Cruel Princess" Aki Adagaki deeply fall for him and then immediately dump her. As his class is going on a trip to Paris, widely known as the City of Love, Masamune has the perfect opportunity to get even for his childhood heartbreak.

Before Masamune can impress Aki, the two meet Muriel Besson, a French high school otaku who aspires to create a romantic comedy manga series. Muriel believes Masamune is the ideal model for the protagonist and asks for his help. The boy reluctantly agrees, dragging Aki along to provide inspiration for the love interest's character. But to do so, the two must show Muriel what Japanese love is like.

To make matters more complicated, Kanetsugu Gasou is masquerading as Aki's childhood friend, Masamune, to trick and use her. With mix-ups and love rivals galore, Masamune's revenge is proving to be quite the difficult task.

Sequel.

Overall Rating: 5/10

8.Suki na Ko ga Megane wo WasuretaThe Girl I Like Forgot Her Glasses好きな子がめがねを忘れた[GoHands] (Finished 1/13)

Kaede Komura is in love. After being seated next to the airheaded Ai Mie for the past three days, Komura cannot help but be attracted to his bespectacled classmate. Although he has yet to have a proper conversation with Mie, Komura dreams of the day when she will look his way.

One day, Komura notices that his seatmate is not wearing her glasses, learning by questioning Mie that she forgot them and has a tendency of doing so. When he sees her struggle, a concerned Komura takes it upon himself to help his crush. As the boy offers his assistance to Mie day by day, her reasons for constantly losing her glasses slowly evolve from the answer she initially gave.

Without proper protagonist romance is unwatchable for me.

Overall Rating: 5/10

9.Bungou Stray Dogs 5th SeasonBungo Stray Dogs 5文豪ストレイドッグス[Bones] (Finished 1/11)

The Armed Detective Agency is still on the run from the Hunting Dogs, but not all hope is lost. Detective Ranpo Edogawa has a plan to prove the Agency's innocence and save the world from chaos: to find and capture Kamui—the leader of the terrorist organization Decay of the Angel.

In order to determine Kamui's whereabouts, Ranpo and his colleague Atsushi Nakajima must convince Ouchi Fukuchi, the renowned captain of the Hunting Dogs, for amnesty. Although Fukuchi was tasked with arresting the members of the Agency, his past with the Agency's president, Yukichi Fukuzawa, may be the key to earning his trust. But unbeknownst to them, Fukuchi might not be as honorable as he proclaims.

Sequel.

Overall Rating: 5/10

10.Kanojo, Okarishimasu 3rd SeasonRent-a-Girlfriend Season 3彼女、お借りします[TMS Entertainment] (Finished 1/12)

Sequel.

Overall Rating: 5/10

11.Yumemiru Danshi wa GenjitsushugishaThe Dreaming Boy is a Realist夢見る男子は現実主義者[Studio Gokumi, AXsiZ] (Finished 2/12)

Wataru Sajou is infamous in his school for persistently seeking the attention of his crush, Aika Natsukawa. His usual day revolves around shadowing her and confessing his undying love at every turn. However, a moment of epiphany leads Wataru to relinquish his childish behavior and face the reality that she will never return his one-sided feelings. He distances himself from Aika and spends his newfound spare time with his friends and in the company of other lovely girls.

As Wataru moves on, Aika starts approaching him in unusually suggestive ways—making him question whether giving up on his love was the right decision after all.

Basically what you expecto of school romcom, so it's rather typical though of high enough quality.

Overall Rating: 6/10

12.Jitsu wa Ore, Saikyou deshita?Am I Actually the Strongest?実は俺、最強でした?[Staple Entertainment] (Finished 1/12)

A 20-year-old shut-in is suddenly transported from his apartment, only to appear in front of a goddess who offers him a second chance at life. Although she grants him overpowered magical abilities in this new world, when he awakes as the newborn Prince Reinhardt, his talents are only measured at Level 2. Thinking their child to be an abysmal failure, his royal parents abandon him in the woods. There, the prince, who names himself Haruto, encounters Flay, a Flame Fenrir who decides to devote her life in service to him. Haruto's relative, Gold Zenfis, meets them both in the woods and decides to adopt the child as his own.

Nine years pass with Haruto under the care of the Zenfis family. His mastery over his overpowered barrier magic increases by the day, though Haruto would rather not use it to help others. He practices his magic in secret, preferring to have his family believe that he is weak. However, his younger sister, Charlotte, discovers his strength, and with the assistance of Flay, Haruto protects her and the rest of the Zenfis family from harm. With a shifty plot stirring in the kingdom, Haruto only wishes to stay inside and watch anime, but it seems he will have to use his magic to keep the family that took him in safe.

Now one day old baby moves mountains and defeats anyone... this is probably the pinnacle of OP MC cringe.

Overall Rating: 5/10

13.Nanatsu no Maken ga Shihai suruReign of the Seven Spellblades七つの魔剣が支配する[J.C.Staff] (Finished 1/15)

Impressed by Nanao Hibiya's skill with a sword, Kimberly Magic Academy instructor Theodore McFarlane saves the samurai from certain death amid a fierce battle. With his encouragement, Nanao enrolls in the academy, where she instantly becomes a celebrity after she and four of her peers save a student from an enraged troll. Under the leadership of Oliver Horn, a young man who seems to hide a troubled past, Nanao and her newfound friends start their magical apprenticeship at Kimberly—where only four out of five students make it to graduation in one piece.

It does not take long for Oliver and his friends to experience the dangers of the academy firsthand, as a near-death encounter in the labyrinth under the school leaves Nanao grappling with her bloody past. The inexperienced yet determined students must stick together if they want to have a chance to survive and uncover the mysteries that the academy holds.

Slow magical academy burn. Don't see it going anywhere.

Overall Rating: 5/10

14.Undead Girl Murder FarceUndead Murder Farceアンデッドガール・マーダーファルス[Lapin Track] (Finished 1/13)

Vampire detective mystery has nothing I can enjoy.

Overall Rating: 5/10

Hiroto Shinohara is a new transfer student to Academy Island, where games determine student rankings. The more games won, the more stars a student has, with the highest ranking being that of a Seven Star. On Hiroto's first day, he accidentally antagonizes Sarasa Saionji, the so-called Empress of Academy Island and granddaughter of the island's head director. Forced into a game fueled by misunderstandings that he somehow ends up winning, he is thrust into a major bluff where he must lie about his ranking or risk expulsion from the school and island.

Fortunately, with the help of the mysterious Company headed by Shirayuki Himeji, Hiroto is not alone in his bluff. The Company will do everything in its power to help him cheat his way through the game challenges sent his way by students wanting to beat him. Though he is a One Star student, he must fight as though he is actually a Seven Star, and overcome insurmountable odds in his quest to search for a missing girl from his past.

Gamified settings are usually either genius or commonplace, and this one is defintiely the lower breed.

Overall Rating: 5/10

16.Dark Gatheringダークギャザリング [OLM] (Finished 1/25)

Spirits have always been attracted to Keitarou Gentouga due to his strong spiritual presence. A traumatic encounter with one had caused his right hand to be cursed, forcing him to wear a glove at all times. Now a college freshman, Keitarou is trying to live as normal a life as possible. With the encouragement of his childhood friend Eiko Houzuki, he becomes a private tutor. Since he is at the top of his intake class, his first client is the tutoring firm's most promising student, Yayoi Houzuki.

To Keitarou's surprise, Yayoi is Eiko's cousin, and she possesses two pupils in each eye—allowing her to see into the spirit world and purposely seek vengeful spirits to exorcise. Ever since a car accident killed both her parents, Yayoi has been searching for the powerful spirit that kidnapped her mother's departed soul. Seeing that spirits are so attracted to Keitarou, she ropes him into helping her collect other evil spirits that will assist in her future fight. Although her quest is dangerous, Keitarou reluctantly decides to join her, even as each new spirit they meet has him questioning his resolve at every turn.

Supernatural horror with spirits sounds pretty bad to me already, and finishing first episode does not help to dissipate worries even a little.

Overall Rating: 5/10

17.Hataraku Maou-sama!! 2nd SeasonThe Devil is a Part-Timer! Season 2 Part 2はたらく魔王さま！！[Studio 3Hz] (Finished 1/12)

Following the revelations of the archangel Gabriel, Ente Isla hero Emilia Justina—who lives on Earth under the alias Emi Yusa—starts doubting the validity of her mission to slay the Demon Lord Satan, now reduced to a modest employee of MgRonald's as Sadao Maou. At the same time, Sadao's high school-aged coworker Chiho Sasaki pursues a new dream with hopes to protect not only herself but also her friends. Secretly training with Emi and Suzuno Kamazuki to develop telepathic powers, Chiho's training is cut short when a group of demons abducts her.

As angel and demon attacks threaten the fragile peace between the two worlds, Sadao and Emi need to put their troubled past behind them if they want to have a chance to find their new purpose in life.

Sequel.

Overall Rating: 5/10

18.Jidou Hanbaiki ni Umarekawatta Ore wa Meikyuu wo SamayouReborn as a Vending Machine, I Now Wander the Dungeon自動販売機に生まれ変わった俺は迷宮を彷徨う[Studio Gokumi, AXsiZ] (Finished 1/12)

A man with a passion for vending machines awakens to realize that he has not only died, but he has also been reborn as one of his beloved machines! Although he is a modern appliance in a fantasy world, he requires money in order to keep functioning. He is stuck in one location until a young girl named Lammis stumbles upon him. Amazed by the drinks and food he sells, Lammis uses her "Blessing of Might" to lift him with ease and take him back to the village of Clearflow Lake. There, she officially dubs him Boxxo.

Despite his inability to converse with the villagers, Boxxo becomes an essential part of the community. His goods provide nourishment, and, as he gains new abilities and products, he becomes a staple of daily life. Nobody is as loyal to Boxxo as his first and best customer, Lammis. The more time he spends with her, the more he tries to help her elevate her skills as a young hunter.

Absurd does not cut it for me. Clearly just waste of time.

Overall Rating: 5/10

19.Rurouni Kenshin: Meiji Kenkaku Romantan (2023)Rurouni Kenshinるろうに剣心 -明治剣客浪漫譚-[LIDENFILMS] (Finished 1/24)

In the late 19th century, as the cruel times of the Bakumatsu period came to a close, a new Meiji era marked the age of restoration for Japan. With the war over, its infamous hero Hitokiri Battousai disappeared into thin air, leaving only his legend behind.

Years later, a seemingly plain wanderer named Kenshin Himura encounters Kaoru Kamiya, the owner of a struggling local dojo in Tokyo. Kaoru pursues a self-proclaimed Battousai who roams the streets, indiscriminately killing citizens and police officers. Furthermore, the warrior professes to use the Kamiya Kasshin-ryu—a sword style developed by Kaoru's father deeply rooted in the essence of life, not death.

Kenshin decides to help Kaoru take down the impostor and restore her father's dojo. Unbeknownst to all, Kenshin is none other than the real warrior whose name still terrifies the people. Although Kaoru eventually learns the truth, his oath to atone for his murderous history by bloodlessly protecting the weak moves her, and she welcomes Kenshin to stay at her dojo. However, Kenshin's ideals are soon challenged by ghosts of the past and enemies of the present.

Remake.

Overall Rating: 6/10

After defeating the Demon Lord, the great hero Blade finds himself on the brink of death. Though he miraculously survives, he loses a significant portion of his strength. Being stripped of his immense power frees Blade from the obligation of being humanity's savior. He chooses to spend his newfound freetime embarking on a new quest, making friends.

Blade enrolls at Rosewood Academy, an institution that trains prospective heroes to become bonafide champions of justice. He quickly fits in, befriending his fellow classmates and helping them through the trials and tribulations on the path toward becoming a hero.

Obligatory ecchi harem of the season. It did not feel funny or interesting to me.

Overall Rating: 5/10

21.Level 1 dakedo Unique Skill de Saikyou desuMy Unique Skill Makes Me OP Even at Level 1レベル1だけどユニークスキルで最強です[Maho Film] (Finished 1/12)

As a corporate slave, Ryouta Satou experiences the worst forms of stress, overwork, and loneliness. Even after he is hospitalized due to exhaustion, his days of toil only become worse. Soon enough, the sheer fatigue catches up to him and kills him in his sleep. However, Ryouta is given a second chance at life: he wakes up in another world as a slime drop—much to the surprise of Emily Brown, the petite blonde girl who defeated said slime.

Acquainting himself with the rules of this RPG-like world, Ryouta finds out that he will never grow past level 1. However, he also discovers that one of his skills is at the maximum level: the skill which determines the rarity of monster drops. This allows him to acquire not only items of the best quality, but also some that are unheard of.

Ryouta sets out to make the most of his ability—meeting new friends, grinding through dungeons, and acquiring unique items along the way. Reveling in his new life seems to be the long-awaited and much-deserved reward for all the tribulations he had suffered.

For those who can still care about cheat skills.

Overall Rating: 5/10

22.Uchi no Kaisha no Chiisai Senpai no HanashiMy Tiny Senpaiうちの会社の小さい先輩の話[Project No.9] (Finished 1/12)

"My senpai from work... is tiny and cute."

Shinozaki is an office worker who is taken care of and coddled by his senior team member Shiori Katase: a gorgeous, profoundly kind, loving, and diminutive woman.

Shinozaki certainly hopes that she's not doing it out of duty... but her joy of doing so increasingly exposes her feelings!

Workplace romance comedies usually manage to surprise with just moderate amount of tedium, but this one is rather weak and typical devoid of uniqueness.

Overall Rating: 5/10

23.Seija Musou: Salaryman, Isekai de Ikinokoru Tame ni Ayumu MichiThe Great Cleric聖者無双[Yokohama Animation Laboratory, Cloud Hearts] (Finished 12/12)

Right as he is about to earn a promotion, a salaryman meets an untimely demise. Taking pity, a mysterious being grants him a second life in the land of Galdardia as a teenager. Choosing the name Luciel for himself and a role as a healer, the young man sets off for the nearby town of Merratoni. There, he learns that healers are a coveted resource, yet they often take advantage of others for monetary gain. Vowing to be different from other healers, he joins the local branch of the Healers' Guild and begins unlocking his magical potential.

After failing to save someone with his magic, Luciel is determined to get stronger. To improve his physical strength and hone his magic skills, he registers as an adventurer and takes rigorous training under Brod, the chief instructor of the Adventurers' Guild. Soon, Luciel gradually finds his way through Galdardia, gaining a reputation as a selfless healer who aids others regardless of expense.

It took years to achieve this feat - isekai without cheat skills or OP MC again! Nice slow growth into power, and I have to admit that I favor healers. It lacks epic scale or party interaction, but gives hope for a good second season.

Overall Rating: 7/10

24.Dekiru Neko wa Kyou mo YuuutsuThe Masterful Cat Is Depressed Again Todayデキる猫は今日も憂鬱[GoHands] (Finished 1/13)

Heard about it abruptly as an example of Japanese craze, and was starting to worry that I've missed it somehow, but here we are - huge cat just handles home chores. Can't take it seriously or enjoy in any way, though.

Overall Rating: 6/10

Three months have passed since the Demon King was defeated by a hero. Mankind rejoices over their victory, but dwellers of the demon world do not share the same sentiment. With the loss of their king, they must now hold a tournament to decide who will become his successor.

Monitoring the competition is the hot-headed yet powerful Vamirio—one of the Four Heavenly Kings. Among all the participants, she is extremely distrustful of one: Helck, a human hero who claims to hate humanity. As much as she wants to get rid of him, it is impossible due to Helck's incredible strength and popularity.

Amidst the competition, Vamirio discovers that humans have vanished from various towns. As a result of this puzzling turn of events, Vamirio grows desperate to reveal Helck's true intentions by carefully crafting a plan to make Helck lose. If she proves to be successful, she might uncover where his loyalty truly lies before the demon world is endangered.

Simpleton somewhat OP MC, repetitive jokes, normal shounen action story development dont leave room for excitement or even interest for me.

Overall Rating: 5/10

From a young age, Akemitsu Akagami was taught by his father that people can never live alone. But underneath the seemingly prudent advice lies a truth that corrupts it—sons of the Akagami lineage are infamous for being heinous playboys. Determined to clear the notoriety of his family name, Akemitsu keeps his distance from girls throughout his life, only to become a victim of his bloodline's instincts, as he falls in love at first sight.

In a last-ditch effort to rid himself of these desires, Akemitsu travels to a nearby temple in hopes of receiving Buddhist training. However, chaos ensues when the girl he had fallen for greets him at the door. After the commotion settles, he discovers the temple is actually a nunnery from which his father had borrowed millions before fleeing. Now working at the nunnery to repay the outstanding debts, Akemitsu tries his best to compose himself and stay celibate while being surrounded by lovely girls of all kinds.

Rather normal ecchi harem.

Overall Rating: 5/10

27.Higeki no Genkyou to Naru Saikyou Gedou Last Boss Joou wa Tami no Tame ni Tsukushimasu.The Most Heretical Last Boss Queen: From Villainess to Savior悲劇の元凶となる最強外道ラスボス女王は民の為に尽くします。[OLM] (Finished 1/12)

Eight-year-old Pride Royal Ivy suddenly recalls her former life as a fan of the otome game Our Ray of Light. While on her way to replay it, she tragically died, reincarnating as the game's final boss and firstborn princess of Freesia. Her knowledge of the game's events leads everyone to believe she has the power of precognition. But unlike the game's original princess, this new Pride does not wish to torment those around her, such as her younger sister and adopted brother.

Haunted by nightmares of her other self's atrocities, Pride resolves to protect her family and country while progressing the story. As the world around her changes, she prepares for the day she will have to die at the hands of the game's main characters. Nevertheless, before that happens, Pride will either transform her kingdom for the better or fall under the weight of her possible crimes.

Villainess has evolved into a new genre... the genre that I need to block, but leaving just for the sake of openings. Can't empathize here even for a little bit.

Overall Rating: 5/10

When a genius patissier dies in a tragic accident before achieving his dream of creating the world's greatest sweets, he is reincarnated as nine-year-old Pastry Mille "Pas" Morteln. Now in a medieval world brimming with swords and magic, Pas enjoys a peaceful life in the Fief of Morteln under the authority of his father, the military hero Lord Casserole. However, scarce ingredients render sweets a luxury, so Pas can only dream of baking.

Once news arrives of approaching bandits, Pas must learn magic and fight to defend his land, all to one day create a confectionery paradise!

I thought I might tolerate gourmet/farming side of it if it really transformed into action at some point, but if failed to grasp interest in three episodes. MC knows replication magic, so just uses it to get out of any dangerous situation. And it's moving so slowly that it will hardly move to anything worthwhile.

Overall Rating: 5/10

29.Shinigami Bocchan to Kuro Maid 2nd SeasonThe Duke of Death and His Maid Season 2死神坊ちゃんと黒メイド[J.C.Staff] (Finished 1/12)

The duke, full of love and kindness, treads carefully around every living being, be it a tender flower or his seductive maid, Alice Lendrott. Were it not for the devotion Alice shows him and the fondness that grows ever stronger between them, the duke would have barely paid heed to his mother's demand: to either lift the dreadful curse placed upon him or lose his family inheritance. Although the duke has no greed for riches, he yearns to be rid of his frightful powers—which cause all he touches to die—for the sake of those closest to him.

As the duke, Alice, and their friends enjoy spirited days filled with the ridiculous affairs of the supernatural, the spring deadline looms heavily over them. Nonetheless, the duke refuses to take any shortcuts in this endeavor if it means betraying the trust of his cherished friends.

Sequel.

Overall Rating: 5/10

30.Shiro Seijo to Kuro BokushiSaint Cecilia and Pastor Lawrence白聖女と黒牧師[Doga Kobo] (Finished 2/12)

In a small church atop a hill, Pastor Lawrence looks after Saint Cecilia. Her presence is a beacon of hope for the villagers, as her mysterious powers protect them from the weakness of their minds and outside evils. While she appears dignified in front of the villagers, Cecilia allows her lazy side to show when alone with the pastor. Although Cecilia is the guardian of the people, Lawrence is determined to shield her from harm.

Unbeknownst to Lawrence, Cecilia harbors a huge crush on him. She accompanies him on his shopping trips and provides him with divine protection every day. Despite Lawrence remaining oblivious to her true feelings, Cecilia continues to shower him with obvious displays of affection as the bond between them grows.

Just a boring pastorale.

Overall Rating: 5/10

After the climactic battle to decide the fate of humanity, the hero Max, alongside his party, emerges victorious against the formidable Demon Lord. As he draws his last breath, the defeated Maou vows to return more powerful than ever to take his revenge.

Ten years later, although Maou has resurrected, the process is incomplete, resulting in him taking on the form of a child. Nevertheless, not wanting to waste another second, Maou pays his nemesis a visit—but the hero who once gallantly protected humankind from the demon's clutches is now a pitiful slob bearing no resemblance to a man of his former caliber.

Despite his disappointment, Maou moves in with Max in hope of building him back up into a worthy adversary. But as the demon learns more about the events that transpired in the decade of his absence, he realizes that there is a story behind Max's downfall that he knows nothing of.

Concept close to The Devil Is a Part-Timer, but comedy is not bad, so deserves a raise. Third episode that introduced serious fantasy drama actually won me over, and then stage moved from the apartment and it became more story-driven. But did I really enjoy it or find it worthy of recommendation? Still no.

Overall Rating: 6/10

32.Ryza no Atelier: Tokoyami no Joou to Himitsu no KakuregaAtelier Ryza: Ever Darkness & the Secret Hideout The Animationライザのアトリエ ~常闇の女王と秘密の隠れ家~[LIDENFILMS] (Finished 1/12)

From her hometown to her daily life on Kurken Island, everything surrounding Reisalin "Ryza" Stout is painfully ordinary. Despite being the daughter of a hardworking farmer, she would rather go on pretend adventures as she explores almost every corner of the island. However, the fact that it is against the local customs to venture off Kurken Island irritates her to no end.

One day, wishing for something interesting to finally happen in her life, Ryza escapes on a boat with her two good friends: the bookworm Tao Mongarten and the aspiring warrior Lent Marslink. Arriving at a nearby forest, the trio stumbles into Klaudia Valentz, the daughter of a visiting merchant who also wandered off into the woods.

As the naive and underprepared group ventures further, they run into dangerous monsters. Thankfully, they are rescued by the alchemist Empel Vollmer and his skilled bodyguard Lila Decyrus. This fateful encounter will lead Ryza to the key that will change her life forever—the creative and wonderful world of alchemy.

Don't understeand the appeal of Atelier games and byproducts at all.

Overall Rating: 5/10

33.Sugar Apple Fairy Tale Part 2シュガーアップル・フェアリーテイル [J.C.Staff] (Finished 1/12)

Despite having accomplished a lifelong dream of hers, Ann Halford faces further challenges ahead. Bridget Paige, the daughter of the Paige Workshop's owner, still possesses the wing of Shall Fen Shall, Ann's former fairy companion. In determination to save Shall from the obsessive Bridget, Ann decides to join the Paige Workshop, hoping at the same time to perhaps reunite with her close friend.

Having been appointed head of the workshop, Ann becomes entrusted with rebuilding it to its former glory. She quickly discovers that the Paige Workshop has a unique focus on tradition and individuality, and recognizes that she will need to learn about her team and completely revamp the workshop in order to succeed. Motivated by her strong desire to rescue Shall and her obligations as a sugar artisan, Ann wholeheartedly dedicates herself to her new position.

Sequel.

Overall Rating: 5/10

In the near future, 10 percent of the population will consist of Humanoids—machines with advanced functions and artificial intelligence resembling human personalities, easily recognized by their sideways pupils. These specialized patients likewise require a special doctor. By day, Dr. Hikaru Sudou runs a medical clinic for Humanoids; by night, under the moniker of Moggadeet, he performs illegal procedures and gathers information about his lost mother.

Hikaru encounters patients with varying problems unique to this society: a Humanoid struggling with the question of whether she and the source of her backup data are the same person, a teenage Humanoid who cannot improve athletically, and even a robot teddy bear with memories of multiple owners. As the world's technology constantly evolves, newer and more complex questions surrounding humanity arise. With each new advance, it becomes more difficult to define what truly makes one human or Humanoid.

All the usual android questions without answers with every episode a different story, so does not fit me.

Overall Rating: 5/10

Ten years ago, a volcanic eruption brought Japan's Ayaka Islands to the brink of destruction. Since then, Yukito Yanagi has lived with foster families on the mainland, but he has isolated himself from others following a disturbing incident. Due to the wishes of his late father, Makoto, Yukito is brought back to his birthplace on the day of his middle school graduation. There he meets Makoto's disciples and learns of the supernatural state of the region. Mysterious life forms known as Mitama inhabit the islands, but their potential to feed off humans' negative energy and turn into ferocious monsters called Ara-Mitama endangers the islanders' lives.

Yukito discovers that, like his father, he is a Ley Master—a special individual with abilities akin to magic, tasked with pacifying the Ara-Mitama. As he learns to overcome his trauma and control his powers, Yukito decides to follow in his father's footsteps and become a first-rate Ley Master to protect the peace of Ayaka.

Mythology bordering with occultism is definitely not my type, and first episode does not try to dissuade in that.

Overall Rating: 5/10

36.Synduality: Noir [8bit] (Finished 3/12)

In 2242, the remnants of humanity are forced to live in scattered bubble-like cities across devastated lands. Hiding from toxic rain and hostile lifeforms known as Enders, they survive thanks to a new source of energy from AO crystals. Those tasked with risking their lives to collect AO crystals are called drifters, piloting versatile bipedal tanks with the support of combat androids named magus.

While exploring remote ruins with his exceptionally gifted drifter friend Tokio, prospective drifter Kanata uncovers Noir, a seemingly intact magus in stasis. Although she wakes up by herself, Noir has lost her memories and is of no help in Kanata's work. However, amid an Enders attack, Kanata discovers that Noir possesses remarkable combat abilities. The pair now embarks on a journey to not only shed light on Noir's past but also to uncover the location of Histoire—the mythical city harboring secrets of the world that Kanata has always dreamt of visiting.

What looks like dark apocalyptic setting is a surprisingly colorful ecchi comedy with a lot of fooling around. Basically, there's no good plot, so a lot of time is wasted.

Overall Rating: 6/10

37.Spy Kyoushitsu 2nd SeasonSpy Classroom Season 2スパイ教室[feel.] (Finished 1/12)

Four members of the Din Republic's spy team Lamplight embark on a mission to capture an enemy spy. Although they struggle to work together due to their clashing personalities, Thea, Monika, Erna, and Annett complete their objective. While enjoying a short break, the four girls encounter a woman named Matilda, who claims to be Annett's mother. As they get to know Matilda, the team is dragged into an escalating conflict that tests their teamwork and allegiances.

Meanwhile, the remaining Lamplight members notice that the dispatched squad has yet to report back. Worried about their allies, Klaus and Lily set out on an emergency expedition to locate their missing teammates. As the two uncover troubling information about rising tensions in the area where their friends last were, they must act quickly to reassemble the team before the mission reaches the point of no return.

Sequel.

Overall Rating: 5/10

38.Genjitsu no Yohane: Sunshine in the MirrorYohane the Parhelion: Sunshine in the Mirror幻日のヨハネ -SUNSHINE in the MIRROR-[Sunrise] (Finished 1/13)

As a spirited young girl, Yohane ventured into the big city with ambitious dreams of becoming a star. Two years later, she has yet to pass a single audition. Since Yohane cannot support herself alone, her mother invites her back home to discover something new that only she can do. With limited options and an empty wallet, Yohane reluctantly returns to Numazu, her hometown.

In the seaside town, Yohane reunites with her canine companion, Lailaps, and slowly settles in, opening a fortune-telling shop. She reconnects with old friends she had forgotten and meets new ones, all of whom help in her search for a unique purpose and meaningful path in life.

Unfortunately, all is not well for Yohane and the people of Numazu: a mysterious power is affecting the town and disrupting nature and wildlife. While forging stronger bonds with her newfound allies, Yohane devotes her summer to finding the magic that may help save Numazu.

No idea what to like here if you're not shoujo audience.

Overall Rating: 5/10

Although Hyouma Kunato has begun to feel comfortable around Botan Nagatsuki and her family of tsukumogami—objects possessed by spirits called marebito—he has not forgotten about his main goal in life: revenge.

Unbeknownst to Hyouma, while he is training in Kyoto under the supervision of the Kadomori family, the Bureau of Traditional Music, a group of three musical instrument tsukumogami, begins to enact its plan. The trio questions Botan's family about their intentions regarding Hyouma's presence near the person embodying the frontier between the human and marebito worlds. Soon after, the paper umbrella tsukumogami that Hyouma had been pursuing for years suddenly reappears and abducts Botan along with her university friends. Rushing to save the one he swore to protect, Hyouma might have to change his priorities if he wants to keep his promise to Botan.

Sequel.

Overall Rating: 5/10

Now this serialized kicking the dead horse is both CGI and ugly. Just pathetic.

Overall Rating: 5/10

41.BanG Dream! It's MyGO!!!!!バンドリ！It's MyGO!!!!! [SANZIGEN] (Finished 1/13)

In their last year of middle school, the five band members of CRYCHIC went their separate ways after an unpleasant disbandment. Each wrestling with their own regrets, the girls enrolled in different high schools, hoping never to hear from one another again.

Meanwhile, Anon Chihaya transfers to Haneoka Girls' Academy in the middle of the school year. As most students play in a band as a hobby, Anon desires to fit in and spends her first days trying to recruit members for her own band, envisioning herself as the group's vocalist. She befriends Tomori Takamatsu, a shy girl who seems interested but hesitant about joining. As it turns out, Tomori used to be part of CRYCHIC, an experience that has scarred her deeply.

Through Tomori, Anon meets Taki Shiina and Soyo Nagasaki, both former members of the same band. Although Taki detests the idea of playing with Anon, Soyo is delighted to help her out. Now with Soyo by her side, Anon's dream of forming a band is within reach—if only she could find a few more members.

Remake.

Overall Rating: 5/10

42.Cardfight!! Vanguard: will+Dress Season 3カードファイト!! ヴァンガード will+Dress Season3 [Kinema Citrus, GIFTanimation, Studio Jemi] (Finished 1/13)

Using high-level plays by strong fighters as its base, the “UNI app” allows beginners to quickly improve their skills and has brought about a drastic change in how Vanguard is played. Cementing its place as a dream program with global appeal, Vanguard has become dominated by the Uniformers.

Meanwhile, Masanori schemes in the shadows, the mysterious Shirogane has a string of tournament victories, Halona finally reveals her true capabilities, Sophie continues to hold the title of “The Strongest”, and Jinki aims to create the “ultimate fight” to fulfill his brother’s dying wish.

The ideal world envisioned by AI GUI is slowly coming to fruition – a world where everyone and anyone can become the strongest.

With the odds stacked against them, Yu-yu and friends must fight to reject this monotonous vision of Vanguard, and strive for the sake of enjoyable cardfights with individuality!

Sequel.

Overall Rating: 5/10

43.Shadowverse Flame: Seven Shadows-henシャドウバースF セブンシャドウズ編 [Zexcs] (Finished 1/25)

Sequel.

Overall Rating: 5/10

The attempt to capture the mysterious perpetrator who possesses people ends tragically: Lu Guang is rushed to the hospital in a critical state, while Cheng Xiaoshi is arrested for the alleged crime. In light of recent events, the father of Liu Min unleashes his skilled, ruthless lawyer—Qian Jin—after Police Chief Li Xiao, who is spearheading the investigation related to the photo studio owned by Qiao Ling.

It appears that no one is safe from the unpredictable and fatal attacks of the adversary who painstakingly hides their identity. As he tries to learn from his past mistakes, Cheng Xiaoshi must act swiftly and decisively to put an end to this devastating trail of death.

Sequel.

Overall Rating: 5/10

45.Bastard!! Ankoku no Hakaishin: Jigoku no Chinkonka-henBastard‼ Heavy Metal, Dark Fantasy Season 2BASTARD!! -暗黒の破壊神- 地獄の鎮魂歌編[LIDENFILMS] (Finished 1/15)

The Hero has defeated the Demon King, but the Princess he meant to save turned out to be a Prince. NEETdom, here he comes, but a life of relaxation surrounded by anime is a pretty sweet deal.

Unfortunately, he gets caught up in millennia old legends, curses, and a twisted plot involving multiple Kingdoms and many dragons. Through and through, though, he'll follow a path of whimsy, even if that involves him palling it up with "villains".

Sequel.

Overall Rating: 5/10

46.Hi no Tori: Eden no SoraPHOENIX: EDEN17火の鳥 エデンの宙[Studio 4°C] (Finished 2/4)

From time immemorial to the age of space colonization, there is one legend that has stayed unchanged in every history book—the tale of the immortal bird Phoenix. A being whose blood is said to grant eternal life or wisdom, the radiant figure ensures the continuation of sentient life in the universe as it oversees human civilizations and their development.

Yet, mankind remains a slave to its habits; from happiness and sorrow, to wrath and love, a myriad of emotions continue to play an integral part of human life. Simultaneously, time and time again, certain beliefs and agendas persist over the centuries to disturb the fragile equilibrium of the world's preordained nature and principles. It appears that fate and its dynamic variables can manifest itself in many ways—and oftentimes exhibits a bizarre sense of humor...

Forced, cringy, aimless.

Overall Rating: 5/10

Obnoxious like any immortality seeking wuxia.

Overall Rating: 5/10

It stands out for just being normal fantasy iskeai in comparison to countless Chinese fantasy fakes. Watchable, but not appealing or particularly interesting as it's action situations centered rather than story focused.

Overall Rating: 6/10

It's very slow and pretty aimless, so we're supposed to get by just by interactions and characters and this superpower and worldview... which is not that good. And there's no decisive ending yet in these 16 episodes, so I'm not going to tolerate it futher as there's still no story setup as of episode 6.

Overall Rating: 6/10

50.Wangzhe Da Shixiong王者大师兄[Qiyuan Yinghua] (Finished 3/16)

Just being animated and non-silly makes this cultivation wuxia full head above CGI competitors. It gets worse as it goes, naturally.

Overall Rating: 6/10

CGI game adaptation about flying girlds is not enjoyable for me.

Overall Rating: 5/10

Very chaotic action.

Overall Rating: 5/10

Would not even add it if synopsis was present, normal CGI wuxia.

Overall Rating: 5/10

54.Alice to Therese no Maboroshi KoujouMaboroshiアリスとテレスのまぼろし工場[MAPPA] (Finished 1/1)

In the small rural town of Mifuse, time has crawled to a standstill. After an explosion at the city's steel mill, the townspeople realize they are trapped in a mysterious stasis—cutting them off from the rest of the world. With a local elite quick to declare the situation a punishment from God, the community adopts a variety of superstitions to preserve the delicate balance of their circumstances until normalcy is restored.

For middle school student Masamune Kikuiri and the other young people of Mifuse, returning to the real world has become nothing more than an illusion. Their senses have gone numb, and it has been years since they have shown any signs of aging. Masamune feels like he has become accustomed to his insecurities and empty existence. However, one day, his classmate Mutsumi Sagami guides him to the fifth furnace of the steel mill, where she shows him a feral young girl who resembles a wolf. This encounter proves to be the impetus in casting a light of change that dispels the shadows that have become Mifuse's reality.

Award winning equals sterile and boring for me. And Netflix equals fancy concept with subpar realization. And so far no exceptions

Overall Rating: 5/10

55.Kimitachi wa Dou Ikiru kaThe Boy and the Heron君たちはどう生きるか[Studio Ghibli] (Finished 1/1)

Three years into the war, Mahito Maki loses his mother in a tragic fire at the hospital. Shortly thereafter, his father marries Natsuko, the younger sister of Mahito's mother. They take Mahito out of Tokyo to seek refuge in his late mother's rural family home. There, Mahito is constantly taunted by a strange gray heron, who seems to have taken an interest in him.

Unable to come to terms with his loss and struggling to adjust to a new life in an unfamiliar place, the boy is shocked to discover that Natsuko is pregnant. To make matters worse, the pesky heron can speak—and claims that Mahito's mother is still alive. Luring him into a mysterious tower near the residence, the heron says that Mahito can save her from death, but the boy is not easily swayed.

When Natsuko disappears one day, however, Mahito watches her walk into the tower and becomes compelled to venture in to rescue her. He soon finds himself falling into another world below his, where life and death seem to be entwined. As he navigates through this foreign realm to find Natsuko, Mahito must understand what it means to live if he wants to safely return home.

Not fond of Ghibli, but at least it's not childish, thus above average among its works.

Overall Rating: 6/10

Biohazards are cool action and atmosphere, but they all look very much alike so blend together, which is definitely not trait of a masterpiece.

Overall Rating: 6/10

For martial arts shounen it's surprisingly decent because there's both silly kid MC Beelzebub and adult practiccal MC sheriff. In the end I could not enjoy such simple action-packed story with spontaneous resolution, but it's definitely not bad.

Overall Rating: 6/10

58.Crayon Shin-chan Movie 31: Chounouryoku Daikessen - Tobe Tobe Temakizushiしん次元! クレヨンしんちゃんTHE MOVIE 超能力大決戦 ~とべとべ手巻き寿司~ [Shirogumi, Shin-Ei Animation] (Finished 1/1)

One day, Shinnosuke Nohara and his sister Himawari are awakened to their psychic powers by a mysterious light. After that, they further develop their psychic talents under the guidance of Professor Ikebukuro, an advisor to the International Esper Coordination Committee, and Negiko Fukaya, an employee of the Saitama branch of the committee.

At the same time, Mitsuru Hiraya, a temporary worker distributing tissues, is chased by police when he is struck by a dark light and awakened to his psychic powers . He originally harbored a grudge against the world due to his tragic past and the marriage of his favorite idol, so he tries to use his psychic powers to wreak havoc as much as possible. Shinnosuke, who found his psychic powers amusing, also steps in to stop Hiraya as soon as he finds out about his evil deeds .

First CGI Crayon movie. Surprisingly, it does not bother much since characters look very similar. What troubles me more is the further instensification of antics and body movements that are probably supposed to be funny. Anyway, can't win me over with such simple concept, and comedy has been substituted by dubious action comedy a long time ago.

Overall Rating: 5/10

Cartoonish CGI instantly says that it's family friendly movie. For me it was a three hour drag. But if you fancy this so called poetry or lives of medieval field poets it might be good.

Overall Rating: 6/10