Claymore is a very well thought out story that is presented in an effective way. Although the plot has exceptional moments, what makes Claymore so compelling is its dark setting and masterful use of reveals and plot twists.
Taking place during a medieval era, the world of Claymore is full of mystery, horror, and evil. Its this strange setting that keeps viewers watching, even after establishing the basic Claymore vs Yoma premise. Viewers want to know more about this world: What are Yoma? How are Claymores created? What is on Claymores' bodies that is so disgusting? What is the Organization? Its questions like these that stem from the setting of the story and entice viewers to continue watching.
The use of reveals (discovery of a previously unknown key element of plot or setting) and plot twists are what makes Claymore's story so addicting. Because Claymore is a dark and mysterious world, it provides many opportunities for secrets to be revealed and the unexpected to occur. Furthermore, none of these reveals or twists feel forced; all of the story's many surprises flowed within the narrative and made sense within Claymore's fictional world.
The plot, for the most part, is in typical shounen fashion. Claymores are sent to hunt monsters called Yoma. The main character, Clare, has an ultimate villain that she must destroy. She trains to get enough power to accomplish her task, and etcetera. However, Claymore contains many seinen aspects as well. There is a lot of blood and gore. The series is not afraid to kill off main characters, some in shocking fashion, and severed limbs are common. Furthermore the series contains hints of rape, abuse, and discrimination.
Unfortunately, during the later half of Claymore, the story slightly regressed back to its shounen nature. While it was still very entertaining, the story focused more on the battles rather than the mysterious world itself. Another issue is the lack of a concrete ending. Because the anime was produced faster than manga, its ending defers greatly from the manga and is very open-ended. Nonetheless, the story is excellent and easily the best aspect of Claymore.
===========ART/ANIMATION: 9===========
For a series made in 2007, Claymore's animation is top class. The fighting scenes are usually fluid and rarely is motion jagged. During battles, capes and hair can be seen fluttering to emphasize motion. Furthermore the variety and creativity in the fighting styles of each claymore is well animated. From Miria's phantom step, Irene's flash sword, Ophelia's rippling sword, to Galatea's yoki control, each power is smooth and looks amazing.
The art is excellent, not because everything looks pretty and beautiful, but because often characters look strange and flawed. This style actually fits perfectly with the dark and mysterious atmosphere of the story. Finally, I would like to add that Claymores have the sickest eyes I have ever seen in anime. During close-ups you can even see the silver or gold fibres in these eyes.
===============SOUND: 8===============
Claymore doesn't boast a very diverse musical repertoire, often relying on mysterious instrumentals throughout the series. However, although the music is limited, Claymore has an amazing OP and ED that truly reflected the medieval and dark mood of Claymore.
==============CHARACTER: 7==============
The characters are the weakest aspect of Claymore. For a show featuring a cast of femme fatales you would expect a lot of the characters to be deep and well developed. Well most aren't. Unfortunately there is very little character development apart from Clare and if a character does get some development it is miniscule. This is especially disappointing considering each character is unique and interesting, yet we never learn enough about their pasts, their goals, how they became claymores, and other aspects of their lives like family and friends. Another issue is that the characters are very "robotic" as they seem to live for the sole purpose of killing yoma and they do not interact with others unless its related to their jobs. As a result most Claymores are cold, calm, and show no form of emotion other than anger, surprise, or pain. This makes it extremely difficult for viewers to relate to these characters. For example, although Clare gets a fair share of development, its extremely hard to relate to her as she seems almost robotic in emotion. I dont recall ever seeing her smile. Nonetheless, what I do enjoy about the characters is their uniqueness. Each Claymore is unique in appearance and ability, and this is the sole factor that makes the characters interesting. This sense of uniqueness is emphasized by the symbols that each warrior is assigned.
Finally, I should mention that if you absolutely cannot stand useless and idiotic characters then avoid watching Claymore. Raki is the most frustrating character in anime I have ever seen.
==============ENJOYMENT: 10==============
Being more of a story driven person, I found this series to be extremely enjoyable. Once I picked up Claymore I just could not stop watching (I finished the series in 2 days). Not only were the fight scenes really enjoyable, but I also found myself so engrossed in the mysterious universe of Claymore. I watched to learn more about this intriguing world and its characters. The skillful use of reveals and plot twists kept me at the edge of my seat and always wondering what was going to happen next. I was addicted.
===============OVERALL: 9===============
The series had the potential to be a 10. It really did. However, the lack of character development outside of Clare was very disappointing, especially since there was so much potential for development. Nonetheless, Claymore, presents a very intriguing and addicting world that will definitely leave viewers thirsty for answers. The action is sick, the blood is plenty, and when you have a cast of femme fatales whats not to like?
Overall, if you are an action fan, or if you value a story-driven plot that uses reveals and plot twists to keep you at the edge of your seat then watch Claymore. Fans of Attack on Titan should end up liking Claymore as both series have extremely similar stories and both series rely on the same plot devices to move the story forward.
Finally if you do end up liking the anime and want more closure I highly recommend you read the manga. More of the anime's mysteries will be explained.
Feedback is welcome.
