Ranked #81

Rurouni Kenshin

Rurouni Kenshin is one of the more well-known 90s anime series out there, and I'd heard lots of great things about it. On that premise, I decided to begin watching it.

RK can be divided into three major parts. The first part, the first 30 or so episodes, is basically an introduction-type of thing, where we get to know the characters and learn about them. It's not any continuous story here, just a new event every episode, or maybe small 2-3-episode arcs. Every time, Kenshin and/or Sanosuke ends up saving the day, or Yahiko manages to prove himself just a little bit more. It's not extraordinary in this part, but it's still very good - I'd give it a 9.

The second part, which is from episode 28 to 62, is where the story finally begins to develop. Now it's a continuous story, much like what most shonen anime series does. It is in this part that Rurouni Kenshin shows its best side, and there's a lot of pasts to look on, tons of emotions and resolves to change, and great action. Te pacing is just right too; it's not too fast, nor too slow. Everything about this part is perfect story-wise, if you ask me. This part also has an ending (since the remainder of the show is filler), which you may or may not like. Everyone, including the bad guys, get their story wrapped up, and for me, that's fine, but not everyone may share my opinion. All in all, I'd give this part a 10, and the story ends on a 10.

The remaining 32 episodes are filler as far as I've heard, and I haven't watched them yet. I don't think I will, since I thought the story ended so nicely; it'd kinda ruin the end if I watched more.

The animation is very good - considering the time it was made, that is. The coloring is a bit dull, and drawing style of the eyes and hairs of the characters is a style I don't really like a lot. However, aside that it's really good - the environments are lovely, and at times the animation is really smooth, even when comparing to anime of today. Lighting effects are good too, but I noticed one or two failed attempts in that department. One more thing - during sword fights, I got a bit let down every now and then. They don't always show when the sword hits someone. Instead, a a blue beam of light is shown and the character who's been hit is flying from the impact. It may create a "final blow" effect, but I didn't like it that much, really. All in all, I'm settling on a 8 score for the animation.

Character-wise, Rurouni Kenshin is a real masterpiece. The characters - even some of the bad ones, have pasts which have deeply affected how they act in the present. These pasts which serves as a motivation for their present actions adds depth to the characters, and it's easier to sympathize with them - even the bad ones. In addition to that, there's tons of character development; Yahiko evolving as a swordsman, Sanosuke turning from a fighter-for-hire into a person for fights more for his friends, bad guys questioning their being bad, and not to mention, Kenshin fighting against his past as a manslayer. I'm pretty much tied between 9 and 10, so I'll leave it at 9.

The soundtrack is, in my opinion, awesome. The background music is moody, fits right in with the setting of RK, and the songs are awesome. However, this is highly subjective, so you'll have to experience it for yourself. Unfortunately, the fansubs I watched didn't have the OP and ED themes included, so I just had to listen to them on Youtube. None of them really appealed to me, but you might think otherwise. Again, it's subjective, so you'll have to listen for yourself. Sound effects are good; from explosions to swords clashing against each others to cicada chirping. The voice acting is very good too, and I really enjoyed Kenshin's voice and his "gozaru". Due to not liking the OPs and EDs, I'll settle on a 9 (I've only heard them once, so for me it wasn't a big problem).

All in all, I really enjoyed RK, and take my word: If you like shonen, RK is a must-see for you. Which means, most of the anime fans out there should see RK.

To 'Not Helpful' voters (and you 'Helpful' voters too): Feedback greatly appreciated =) read more

Story - 10
The story in Rurouni Kenshin is set in the Meiji era of Japan. The story follows protagonist, Himura Kenshin, who begins as a wanderer. Throughout the anime, Kenshin's dark past is revealed, showing that he was a once notorious assassin, the Hitokiri Battousai. As a wanderer he meets a woman who owns a local dojo, a boy forced into theft, and a fighter-for-hire hired to kill him, who all come together to form some type of a family. The group faces many enemies, where usually Kenshin and Sanouske (the fighter-for-hire) fight to maintain peace. The story is original and great which is one of the strong points of the anime.

Art - 9
The art in the anime is a bit older than most, however, it is very well-done. The characters are well drawn as well. But most importantly, it is the battle sequences in this anime where the art explodes and enthralls. This is not due to any special effects, as the sword fighting is somewhat realistic, but it is because of how well motion is captured and then presented that the art thrives in this anime, making it truly spectacular.

Sound - 8
The sound was mediocre. Sound effects throughout the anime were done well. The opening and ending songs were nothing special. The background music during the anime was actually pretty good at times, which was a good change. However, the music did not really have much effect on the anime.

Character - 9
The characters in the anime are great. Amongst the characters Kenshin meets throughout the anime, many are interesting.Also, some of them are based on historical figures, giving them even more depth. Characters also develop, and we see a lot feelings expressed from each character throughout the anime. However, there are some typical and predictable characters, which exist in all animes, so although there can be some nuisances, they won't take away from the show.

Enjoyment - 9
There are so many aspects of this anime that are great, however, depending on your taste, they could be canceled by other aspects. For example, if you like action but not romance, or if you like romance but not comedy, etc. This is because the anime consists of many themes, which is good and bad, but most audiences can enjoy it because of that. The main character is likely to drive the anime the most, since the anime is fixated on him, you will want to figure out more about his mysterious past, and be drawn into this long anime.

Overall - 9
Although it is one of my favorite animes, I must admit that it has some flaws, again just like most animes. However, this anime is still a masterpiece in its genre. This anime is truly a great one, so you should at least give it a shot. read more