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ABOUT

If you love getting lost in a good book, bingeing a gripping TV series, or exploring vast game worlds, then we think you'll really enjoy anime. This art form combines the best storytelling elements from different mediums - immersive narratives, limitless animation, every possible genre and compelling characters that'll keep you hooked. Join us and discover a whole new way to experience stories that you love.

LATEST REVIEWS

Dead Dead Demons Dededede Destruction

When you look up at the sky, what do you see? A blue sky? Freedom? A hopeful future? The people of Tokyo see none of these. Instead, an ominous alien mothership looms overhead, engulfing the city skyscape

Demon Slayer S5

A vengeful journey of a brother to turn his demon sister back into a human, battling through a world infested with demons.

Go Go Loser Ranger

A disillusioned foot soldier infiltrates the Dragon Keepers to expose their corruption, but his mission takes an unexpected turn as the lines between good and evil blur. Will he fulfill his goal, or will his allegiances shift? The k-popish dancing outro is gold!

Kaiju No 8

A 37-year-old, determined to join the defense force and battle Kaiju, defies weakness and hilariously embraces the challenge.

Laid Back Camp S3

While the perfect getaway for most girls her age might be a fancy vacation with their loved ones, Rin Shima's ideal way of spending her days off is camping alone at the base of Mount Fuji.

Mom, I'm Sorry

"Mom, I'm sorry. Please don't die." When Henry realizes death is at his mother's doorstep, he strikes a deal with a lifespan dealer to give years of his own life to his ailing mother.

One Piece

Embark on an epic journey that spans over two decades and a over one thousand episodes.

Spice and Wolf: Merchant Meets the Wise Wolf

A shrewd traveling merchant encounters a wolf deity disguised as a beautiful young woman, and together they embark on a journey filled with trade, adventure, and a blossoming romance.

That Time I was Reincarnated as a Slime - S3

A man dies and reincarnates as a slime in a fantasy world, but with unique abilities and a kind heart, he unites diverse monster races to create a harmonious nation where all can thrive.

The Fable

This anime masterfully blends yakuza crime with the humor and struggles of a retired hitman adjusting to normal life. Its strength lies in its witty contrast of violence and introspection, elevated by exceptional voice acting.

The Kings Avatar S3

The King's Avatar S3: Witness Ye Xiu's epic comeback and team Happy's rise in the Glory Professional Alliance!

SuMoKO
CHOICES

MASTERCLASS

MUST WATCH

GREAT WATCH

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Masterclass, Must Watch, Great Watch, Hidden Gems, Bingeworthy

All the Lists

Read reviews on Anime Compass.
 

 

 

CURRENT SEASON

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Do you cover anime movies, OVAs, and specials too?

Yes, we do! Our coverage extends beyond just anime series to include anime movies, original video animations (OVAs), and special episodes. We believe these formats offer unique storytelling opportunities and deserve equal attention.

How often are new reviews added?

We aim to deliver a steady stream of fresh content! We typically post new reviews on a weekly basis, covering a diverse range of anime titles. You’ll see ‘Hot takes’ posted weekly as well, generally covering news and current season watches.Follow us on social media to stay updated on the latest releases and reviews.

Can I submit my own reviews or recommendations?

We encourage you to share your passion for anime! While we currently don't have a formal system for user-submitted reviews, we're always open to hearing your recommendations. You can reach out to us through the "Contact Us" page or engage with us on social media to share your thoughts and suggestions.

Hey! My favourite anime isn't here.

Yup, there are thousands of anime and we haven't watched them all. A few potential reasons why your favorite may not be here: Our reviewers' preferences and areas of expertise may lie more with other genres, themes, or eras of anime. We strive for in-depth critical analysis over simply covering the most popular titles. We may be focusing more on standout new/recent releases and haven't circled back to do a fresh re-review of an older classic series. If your favorite isn't here yet and you think we should review it, please feel free to request it - our review calendar is shaped by audience interests and it could already be in the works.

How Do You Rate The Animes?

Our rating system takes a thorough approach by evaluating numerous objective and subjective criteria. The overall score is out of 10, but the review itself breaks that down across many different areas (check out the criteria here). Ratings are a good starting point, but they don't tell the full story. An amazing anime isn't just about ticking all the right boxes. It's about that special spark that resonates with viewers on a deeper level. That's where our goal comes in - to provide insightful analysis that goes beyond the numbers. We want to enhance your viewing experience by exploring the nuances, highlighting the strengths, and even addressing potential flaws. It's an enthusiastic but balanced perspective. While scores give you a quick rating summary, the real value is in our reviewers' passionate yet analytical dissection of what makes each anime unique or noteworthy. Numbers are straightforward, but truly great anime taps into something more elusive that we aim to capture. So get ready to be informed and engaged beyond just a rating! FYI Other Anime Rating Sources MyAnimeList (MAL) -A fantastic resource with a huge community of anime fans. It gives a good pulse on general opinions. IMDB - Offers a broader perspective, including those less familiar with anime and will often cover other animation series

What criteria do you use when choosing which anime series to review?

We prioritise anime based on a few factors: Popularity and Trending Titles: We strive to cover highly anticipated new releases and series generating significant buzz in the anime community. Reader Requests and Suggestions: We value your input! We often select anime based on requests and recommendations from our readers. Critical Acclaim and Awards: We pay attention to anime that have received critical recognition, awards, or accolades for their storytelling, animation, or cultural impact. Genre Diversity and Representation: We aim to represent a diverse range of anime genres to cater to varying tastes and introduce viewers to new subgenres.

Are there spoiler warnings for the reviews?

We understand the importance of preserving the element of surprise! We try to write Spoiler free reviews, but sometimes, it can't be helped. Have no fear, they are all clearly labelled.

Do you cover both newer and classic/older anime titles?

Absolutely! We believe that great storytelling transcends time. We cover a blend of both new releases and classic titles that have left a lasting impact on the anime world. Our goal is to offer a comprehensive library of reviews for anime fans of all generations.
FAQ
 
 
About Reviews
Tropes

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Mostly Positive Tropes

Add a Title

The Hidden Power

Sudden power revelations without proper build-up, leading to predictable, convenient resolutions.

The Bury Your Gays

LGBTQ+ characters disproportionately experiencing tragic outcomes compared to heterosexual ones.

The Protagonist-Centered Morality

The story's moral compass revolves solely around the protagonist, excusing their questionable actions.

Quick Character Introductions and Deaths

Lazy way to force emotional moments instead of organic development.

Filler and Recap Episodes

Episodes that don't advance the main plot, often seen as a waste.

Deus Ex Machina

A sudden, improbable solution to a conflict that feels contrived and unsatisfying.

Damsel in Distress

Overused trope where female characters are constantly needing rescue, reducing their agency.

Mostly Negative Tropes

Potentially detrimental

Amnesia

A plot device that can create mystery and suspense, but can be a lazy way to create conflict.

Love Triangle

Adds drama and conflict, but can be frustrating if drawn out or poorly resolved.

The Weak Mc

A classic Shonen trope where a bulk of the story is a character levelling or getting stronger.

Harems and reverse harems

The main protagonist is surrounded by multiple love interests who are inexplicably attracted to them. This can be unrealistic wish-fulfillment, while others enjoy the romantic comedy aspects. Just be prepared for some typical male, female tropes and potentially shallow character development.

Nosebleed

Exaggerated reaction to sexual attraction or excitement (mostly comedic)

Hot Springs or Beach Episode

A chance for relaxation and character interactions but can also be used just for fan service and tired pervy jokes.

Death of Mentor Figures or Parental Figures

The death used as motivation for character growth, can become a cliché if overused, especially when multiple characters share heartbreaking backstories involving this trope within the same anime.

The Over Powered MC

An overpowered protagonist needs meaningful weaknesses and purposeful utilisation of their strength to prevent an unsatisfying, conflict-free narrative.

Innocent or Pure Characters

Killing off these characters can feel manipulative if not done well, but it can also effectively evoke empathy when handled properly.

Evil All Along

When a seemingly good or neutral character is revealed to be the villain, it can feel manipulative if not properly foreshadowed or executed. It can undermine trust in characters and the story itself.

The Angry MC

Can lead to one-dimensional, predictable characters if not handled carefully. When done well, adds compelling complexity.

Redemption Arc

A villain or morally gray character changes for the better. This can be compelling if well-developed, but if rushed or poorly executed, they can feel unrealistic and undermine the weight of the villain's past actions.

Mixed Tropes

Dependant on Execution

THE HUB

All the bits you need to know to watch Anime plus more lists

Hot takes incoming! Prepare for some spicy, unfiltered opinions on your favorite (and not-so-favorite) anime.

From calming Iyashikei to intense mecha action, pick your anime genres and we'll give you the lowdown.

Get ready to unpack all those clichés you secretly love! We're diving deep into the wild world of anime tropes.

Dust off those nostalgia goggles, because we're revisiting legendary classics with a fresh perspective!

So many visually stunning masterpieces with award-winning selections!

New To Anime? We'll set you up with the freshest, most binge-worthy starter anime and animation, 

HOT TAKES

Small Impressions of consideration

Where Your Fitness Goals
Become Reality

  • Youtube
  • Instagram
  • TikTok
  • Spotify

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Matching our 
Anime Vibes

WHO

As a team of passionate, ramen-slurping, coffee-fueled anime enthusiasts spanning multiple generations - Gen X, Millennial, and Gen Z - we bring a beautifully messy mix of perspectives to the table. Our varying life experiences allow us to dive into these captivating stories from different angles, unpacking the nuances that each of us connects with differently. It's an unexpectedly hilarious yet insightful mashup of viewpoints that reminds us the real magic isn't just the boundless creativity of anime itself, but the diverse lenses through which we consume it - be it the wide-eyed wonder of a newcomer or the seen-it-all jadedness of a veteran. Ultimately, our generational divides only enrich our anime obsession.

WHAT

These are our opinions, forged in the fires of countless anime marathons and fueled by a lifetime of ramen consumption. We're gonna give it to you straight, like a katana through a cardboard box. We'll dissect each anime with the precision of a surgeon and the bluntness of a brick to the face. And hey, if our tastes don't align with yours, don't stress, it's anime, not a judgement on your soul. We've all got our own weird preferences, right?
We also don't discriminate if it's got good animation and a killer story, we're all in. Don't matter if it's from Japan, Korea, Timbuktu, or your weird cousin's basement. We'll watch it, judge it, and tell you if it's worth your time. Wanna know any more? Check the FAQ. 
 
Right! Grab your Pocky, sit down and enjoy because regardless of opinions at least we are all watching our anime.

Musical Score

 

Visual Aesethtic

 

 

 

 

Story/Narrative
Relationships
Animation Directive
Audio Design

Impact/Sucess

 

 

 

 

Art Style

 

 

 

Character Development

Inspiration

 

 

 

 

Integration of Animation & Art

Themes

Character Designs

Origin

Social Commentary
 
 

Sound Effects

Cutural Influence and Influences

Animation Quality

Perspective

 

 

Studio/Production

Intro/Outro

Historical Context

Creators

Voice Acting

 

World Building

Context

 

 

 

 

Pacing/Structure

HOW
About Anime

What are some essential anime terms I should know?

There are a few, so go here to check them out.

Do you have lists of best anime, underrated anime and more?

Absolutely, we've got you covered with plenty of curated anime lists and recommendations! While lists are inherently subjective, we strive to provide diverse selections that cater to different tastes and moods. If you vibe with our perspective, definitely check out our lists for the best anime of all time, underrated gems flying under the radar, or ultra-bingeable series. (We can't put something on a list unless we've watched it). We also release lists tailored to specific genres, themes, and audiences - like mind-bending sci-fi, quirky slice-of-life stories, action-packed shonen battles, and mature psychological thrillers that will really make you think. Our team is constantly updating these lists as new shows drop and we revisit older titles with fresh eyes. So whether you're a veteran fan or an anime newbie, our curated selections can guide you to new favorites perfectly suited to your viewing preferences. So feel free to explore and pick apart our lists! Even if you don't agree with every pick, we're confident you'll find plenty of promising personal recommendations to add to your watchlist.

Where do I start if I want to watch Anime?

Studio Ghibli movies is the perfect gateway to the enchanting world of anime. If you're new to this style of animation, their films offer a gentle and captivating introduction. Ghibli's animation is like stepping into a living painting. Every frame is meticulously crafted, with lush landscapes and charming characters that seem to breathe life. The stories they tell are just as captivating, weaving together themes of friendship, courage, and the beauty of the natural world. They'll make you laugh, cry, and everything in between. The best part? You don't need to be an anime expert to appreciate Ghibli. Their stories are universal, touching on themes that resonate with people of all ages and backgrounds. So if you're looking for a way to dip your toes into anime, start with Studio Ghibli. Their films are a masterclass in storytelling and animation, and they're sure to leave you wanting more. Ready to embark on your anime adventure? Start by picking your preferred genre, whether it's fantasy, sci-fi, drama, or romance. We have noted some good Starter Anime in our Collection and with our reviews as your guide, you'll be on your way to discovering the perfect anime for you!

Is Anime Just Adult Cartoons?

Anime, the vibrant and captivating Japanese animation art form, is often misunderstood as simply "adult cartoons." While there are certainly adult-oriented anime series, this reductive label fails to capture the depth, diversity, and rich storytelling that defines the medium. Anime spans a vast spectrum of genres, from epic fantasy and science fiction to heartwarming slice-of-life stories and thought-provoking dramas. Unlike traditional Western cartoons, which are often aimed primarily at children, anime caters to audiences of all ages, addressing mature themes and complex narratives that resonate with adults as well as younger viewers. The animation style, character designs, and visual aesthetics of anime also set it apart from typical cartoons. Anime utilizes a unique blend of traditional hand-drawn techniques and modern digital animation, resulting in a distinctive look and feel that is both captivating and immersive. In essence, while anime and cartoons may share some surface-level similarities as animated media, the depth, complexity, and creative expression found in the world of anime elevates it far beyond the simplistic "adult cartoons" label. It is a rich and diverse art form that deserves to be recognized and appreciated for its own unique qualities and contributions to the world of storytelling.
General

What are the usual tropes in anime, any problems one?

There are a few classic anime tropes and yesy, some 'interesting' tropes. Gohere for a review of usual Tropes.

Is there a forum or community section?

Look, we get the appeal of dedicated forums - they can foster some really meaty anime discussions. But managing active communities like that is a full-time job, and we're more focused on cranking out quality reviews and analysis right now. That said, we definitely want to engage with all you passionate fans out there. Social media is where it's at for us to interact in a chill, lower-maintenance way. Give us a follow on Twitter, Instagram, Reddit, wherever, and let's get that anime banter popping off. We'll share our latest hot takes, spotlight hidden gems, furiously debate best girls/boys - you know, the good stuff. Will we explore building out a proper forum eventually? Maybe, if there's enough demand. But for now, our social spaces are the move for all you anime nerds to hit us up, debate show rankings, or just geek out together without dealing with a million sub-forums and moderators. It's a more free-flowing vibe. So quit lurking and get your socials ready! We'll be over here serving up spicy anime opinions that are bound to trigger some heated conversations. Bring it on, fam.

Why are you doing this, there are tons of anime reviews sites, reddits etc?

As seasoned anime experts, we understand there are numerous review sites and online communities out there. However, we felt a need to provide a more comprehensive and nuanced approach to anime analysis. User-submitted reviews, while insightful, can often be overly subjective or swayed by passing trends rather than critical evaluation. Some sites rely heavily on ad revenue or AI-generated content, sacrificing depth for quantity. But anime, like any great storytelling medium, deserves more than just a simple like or dislike. It's a journey that evolves as you explore different genres and layers, akin to progressing from mainstream movies to more layered cinematic experiences, or delving into increasingly complex literary works. That's where our multi-generational team comes in. With diverse perspectives spanning decades of anime fandom, we employ a logical criteria that allows us to analyze series through various lenses - animation quality, narrative depth, character development, themes, cultural context and more. Our process goes beyond just personal tastes to provide a 360-degree assessment you can trust. We celebrate the strengths that make each anime unique while acknowledging potential flaws through a critical, yet impartial lens. So whether you're a newcomer or veteran fan, our comprehensive reviews act as a guided tour through the vast anime landscape. We don't simply judge if something is good or bad, but explore how and why it resonates (or doesn't) through insightful critique. In an oversaturated space of hot takes, our aim is to be a definitive resource for exploration and discovery by upholding robust standards of analysis. Because for true fans, anime is far more than just entertainment - it's an art form worthy of genuine appreciation and discourse.

Do you review the manga/light novels an anime is based on?

Quick answer is no, but some of us do read Light Novels or Manga and often need to understand the source material in anime reviews. Manga is it's own beast and we just don't have time to cover that too, sadly. There are plenty of sites out there that do.

What are these genre, Shonen, Seinen, and what are the usual categories or genres?

These are many different genres and sub genres in anime which cover every conceivable category of story. We have an in-depth explanation of all the main genres and ones we use on this site. Link here

What is the difference between Anime and Animation?

While they're both forms of animated content, there are some key differences in origins, styles, and cultural perceptions: Anime specifically refers to animation produced in Japan or by Japanese creators. It has its own unique aesthetics, storytelling approaches, and deep cultural roots that resonate strongly within Japan. In contrast, "animation" is a broader umbrella term for animated works from all over the world, including Western animation styles and influences from the US, Europe, etc. These can differ from anime's distinct Japanese flavors. That said, the globalized animation industry today involves lots of international collaborations. Co-productions between Japanese and Western studios are blending cultural influences in exciting new ways. Look, we know this topic can get heated among purists. But don't worry - our goal is simply to celebrate amazing animated stories and mind-blowing visuals, whether it's categorized as anime or animation. We'll guide you through both worlds with open minds and a fan's passion. Get ready for an awesome ride through some truly epic animated tales!

Sub vs Dub: A Matter of Personal Taste

Ultimately, sub vs dub is a matter of personal preference. We support both options, and the most important thing is that more people are enjoying the amazing world of anime, regardless of how they choose to watch it. Recognising the Voices. You'll become familiar with the voice actors and appreciate their unique styles and nuances. All versions have fantastic voice actors but t wasn't always the case and may be the reason some people don't like dub. Sub forces you to sit down and watch. Not an easy way to watch if you are doing something else, but watching Subs forces me to be fully present, soaking in every visual detail and emotional cues. So easy to miss if you are distracted. Translation Sub and dub translations are interpretations, not always literal. Both aim to enhance understanding for their target audience, sometimes making changes that aren't perfect. For instance, a dub might call a manga a "comic book," which isn't accurate but may be easier for some viewers to grasp. Dubs may be delayed Some animes have a delay when releasing the Dub version which is annoying but inevitable in the busy world of anime production. Where Dubs shine Dubs excel when multitasking, like cooking while watching anime. They're great for younger audiences, those who find subtitles challenging, or those who prefer their native language. While not always literal, dubs generally capture the original intent and context accurately.

How do I search for specific anime genres on the site?

Absolutely, you can search by Genre, Rating, List Type, Studio, Starter animes and more. Explore these Genres and Lists on the homepage for curated recommendations and you can also use the search bar on our site to look for specific anime titles or browse reviews. Enter the genre keywords such as 'action,' 'romance,' or 'fantasy.'
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