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Confusion-inducing. Aside from the fact that there are hardly any women in this show, there’s also that little problem of the viewer being thrown into a fictitious world that doesn’t even attempt to explain its existence, not to mention having to relate to characters whose ideas of a backstory come off as stale, contrived monologues. Technically, though, Togainu no Chi is wonderful, just something you’d expect out of A1 Pictures. Although the blood is a bit too lipstick-red – probably intended to stand out against the dark, shadow-filled environment – the EDs are amazing, and the camera angles bring out the best from the relatively ... realistic fight scenes. Possessing neither a strong plot nor remarkable characters, Togainu no Chi’s selling point is its close resemblance to a scripted but still exciting boxing match.

Definitely not an anime for the weak-willed. It’s such a laughtrip that if you’re not careful, you could end up being amused by things you wouldn’t have found funny under ordinary circumstances. It’s also got enough perversion that if you’re the hormonal type, you might actually start finding black pantyhose turn-on-worthy in real-life. More than once, in between a few episodes, you might find yourself asking why you’re putting up with this show despite its far-out, penguin-censored lewdness. But if you persevere, and make it to the final twenty minutes, there’s at least a 80% chance you’ll congratulate yourself on making the right decision of ... watching all twelve sigh-cum-eyeroll-cum-curse-worthy episodes. Disturbing at times but always strangely hilarious, Onii-chan no Koto should be treated with extreme suspension of disbelief.

Shinrei Tantei Yakumo revolves around a strange college student with a cursed red left eye. Through his eye, Yakumo is able to see and communicate with spirits of the dead, helping them move on from their earthly dwelling.

The events unfold in an episodic format familiar to detective series fans, giving STY the double effect of being easy to follow while having a tendency to be repetitive. Personally, though, I liked the format. Despite the mini-cases, the plot still followed the main conflict, which is big and complex and absolutely mind-boggling. Technically, the art is so-so, but the sound is fantastic. BGM is perfectly timed ... and gives just the right feeling.

I love this show for its complex plot, and its excellent script. (You know those cheesy lines you only get out of detective stories with psychological drama tendencies?) I hate it for what I feel is its lack of attention on character development, given we only ever hear about Yakumo's life and nobody else's. Oh yes, and the stories aren't scary at all.

Shinrei Tantei Yakumo is recommended for lovers of old-style detective mysteries and ghost stories. Although there's admittedly less of the latter than the title implies. It's really just a police story with a paranormal flavor.