Ling Qi

This is based on a chinese Manga(Manhwa). It is actually really good(THe manga) but the anime adaptation kind of is not really good because of the voice actors and the weird art and the change in the original plot. this anime can be qualified as Shounen-Ai but it is more on the relationship of a master and his servant though they do have to kiss sometimes for the special skill to work on the servant(Can't say it or I will spoil it). But if you are interested in this, I advise you to read the manga because Chinese manhwa are colored and it is really ... awesome. (But it is kind of hard to find it, since not much of it has been completely translated.)

But of course, this is a Chinese version of the now Japanese version of Spiritpact. The animation is still the same except the voice actors are Japanese. If you want to give it a try, you should go ahead. The anime did kind of cut out a few important parts of the manhua, especially some parts where they honestly should not have....

Beware: This is a shounen-ai! And a good one on top of that!

I thought I'd start with that as the genre is not listed on MAL.

As probably most of you have figured out by the name, this is a Chinese animation, the second in my life, but I have to say definitely not the last one!

Overall Ling Qi is a beautifully drawn anime with a deeper story from what you'd expect of 20 short episodes. It engages the viewer straight from episode 1 with its perfectly proportioned combination of sweet humour, action, art, BGM, few parodies of other anime and unexpected development.

While the ... story left many things unexplained(which probably the manga will explain), this did not really ruin the pleasure of watching Ling Qi, I did not feel it left me hanging and questioning plot-holes or scratching the back of my head wondering what it tried to convey.

The Chinese setting/language was a very refreshing break from the good ol' Japanese anime and the characters' behaviour or way of speaking is something I enjoyed immensely as it (especially the voices) felt much less forced than most Japanese animes.
I do pay a lot of attention to voice actors, way of talking etc and I can't hide how much I hate forced voices like in many animes (no normal Japanese person talks like that) and speech in Ling Qi did not strike me as forced or overreacting (I did live with and communicate with a group of Chinese for a whole year)

Overall, 8 from me, very pleasant animation, beautiful artwork, nice BGM, engaging story, and most of all a Chinese shounen-ai.

Because I'm Chinese-American, I've always had a connection to Chinese culture however, never have I really been interested in the Chinese "anime." I started reading Chinese light novels such as Quan Zhi Gao Shou (waiting for the anime this month!) but other than that, not much else. Recently however, I was impressed by Shuangsheng Lingtan and decided that I wanted to see what Chinese anime is like. So, I picked Ling Qi by random (I think it's recommended if you like Shuangsheng Lingtan) and started watching. I was not disappointed at all.

Story (7/10) - Good: The story is not particularly fascinating or unique, however the ... way the characters are portrayed made it worth following. I liked seeing some of the Chinese traditions and customs to honor the dead/death. There were some points where I felt like I'd missed something though. A character would mention something and events would take a direction that seemed like it came from nowhere even though I'd given it my full attention. Whether this is me just being stupid or the story actually missing pieces is something you can decide for yourself.

Art (8/10) - Very Good:
The colors are nice and vibrant and the shading seems more in depth than in most anime. I was impressed by the detail that was put into it and the special effects were great. Every so often though there were some minor problems with continuity; sometimes certain details would be omitted but then reappear later. Overall though the coloring felt more sophisticated than typical anime.

Sound (8/10) - Very Good:
Since this is technically the first Chinese anime I've watched (completed) then I don't have much experience with judging Chinese voice acting, but basing it off what I hear in Japanese voice acting then I'd say they're pretty consistent. I didn't hear anything I thought was particularly awful to say in the least. The soundtrack was cool for sure though. If there is one thing that can surpass language and culture barriers, it's music and I really enjoyed Ling Qi's soundtrack.

Character (8/10): Honestly, I liked all the characters and how they were portrayed. There were a lot of silly moments that were just kind of nice to see and it didn't ruin the story or break the pace. It felt natural and seemed fitting for the show. If I could see this same cast in another season, I don't think I'd mind.

Enjoyment (9/10) - Great: For my first completed Chinese anime, I had a lot of fun watching and comparing it to Japanese anime and it's fun to see and compare the cultural differences. I've been trying to branch out into other anime media such as manwha (the Korean webcomics) and manhua (Chinese manga) and I plan on continuing and learning more about Northeastern Asian culture from every point. Even though a lot of it may be romanticized.

Overall (7/10) - Good:
Ling Qi isn't the best show I've ever seen and I wouldn't say it particularly stands out from anything I've ever watched but it's still enjoyable. I wouldn't call the series "deep" or poignant in any way, but there were moments that were very touching and I recommend watching it for a quick source of fun. Even though I give it an average score (to me- 7=70%/C/Good), I actually do think very highly of it.

As a quick side note though, it is worth knowing that Ling Qi is considered a shounen ai (homosexual romance). There is nothing "heavy" or explicit, but it is apparent that the main characters have romantic feelings for each other and is implied and shown in a few ways. I, myself, actually did not find out about this fact until after I'd already started the series. I'm not against shounen ai at all, but it isn't exactly a genre that I pursue or have at the top of my priority list. There's nothing too explicit like in Sekai-ichi Hatsukoi or Junjou Romantica, but if the topic makes you you uncomfortable even in the slightest, then it might not be the show for you. (You're missing out though.)

Bonus: Oh yeah, there is one Attack on Titan (ep 7) reference and one Sailor Moon (16 ep) reference so if you find sightings/references of other shows funny, you'd most likely be amused by it.

This 10-episode shounen-ai anime is the Japanese edit and dub of the Chinese anime Ling Qi (Soul Contract).

In it, a young You Keika is living in poverty as a fortune-teller when he is hit by a bus and killed. In death, he chooses to become contracted to the human demon-hunter Tanmoku Ki as his spirit shadow, a partner to protect Tanmoku and give him strength. Unbeknownst to both of them, they are connected more deeply than they realized. Along with Tanmoku’s ignored fiancée Shin Shiyou, the three team up to uncover the sinister plot going on at Tanmoku’s family home.

The anime packs a ... lot into its 10 episodes with lots of supernatural hurt/comfort elements and a gentle shounen-ai between You and Tanmoku, with some humor and very pretty art and character designs as well.

While the supernatural elements are a bit stereotypical and aren’t explained well, and the characterizations are a bit one-note, it’s interesting to see the different motivations of the characters, particularly the “evil” ones who are all vying for power behind the scenes and constantly testing Tanmoku and You’s relationship.

Tanmoku is difficult to read as a typical tsundere, but You makes for an appealing lead with his innocence and occasional frustration with his situation. I felt really bad for Tanmoku’s fiancée, Shiyou. Her character is actually fleshed out but it’s still hard to determine her reasons for sticking around when Tanmoku overlooks her constantly. She seems to have more meaningful interactions with You than with her fiancée.

Where the anime really shines, though, is in the evolving relationship and powerplays between Tanmoku and You. The two have great chemistry, the light fan-service moments are fun, and it’s wonderful to see how they slowly get to know one another and how they react to seeing each other in danger. I loved seeing how they were evolving into a team.

Unfortunately, after just 10 episodes it feels like it’s just getting into the good content when it ends. Would love to see more!

This review is based off the Chinese version, because the Japanese version of the show combines 2 episodes into 1 episode, making it very rushed and cutting scenes out. I tried to watch the JP version, but it doesn't really feel the same as all of the cultural references made in the OG Chinese version. The plot has potential to be good, but the execution of it really fell flat with me. Not sure if it's because each episode was only 15 mins long, but it really deserved more time on screen. Although I suppose that may be an issue with budgeting.

STORY: 6/10 - ... Could be better execution from the directing side, but again, budgeting issue I guess because season 2 is LOADS better in terms of storytelling and art even though it's the same guy directing the show. Most dialogues and events felt rushed and I got confused with how fast paced it was going.

ART: 7/10 - I love chibis. They're cute, but the art isn't anything that's too consistent with frames missing.

SOUND: 9/10 - THE CHINESE OPENING IS A BANGER SOUNDTRACK. I LOVE IT. I HAVE IT ON REPEAT. IT IS POPPIN. IT IS SO CATCHY. You'll come to understand that it describes Jinghua and Duanmu Xi's relationship quite well. On another note, the ending theme is nice and soothing, also another one of my favourites from this show. Battle theme 2 is also very hype with the rapping in the background.

CHARACTER: 7/10 - Bruh everything was so rushed that it felt forced in the show. Couldn't find an attachment to the characters until ~season 2~, but that's excluded from this review. Jinghua is a bundle of joy and makes so many cultural references. I love his energy. Can't say much for Duanmu Xi though, since he's your typical stoic, mysterious MC (TBC in Season 2 hahaha). The side characters are shallow at most without much screen time, and Qin Siyao is just cast aside as a third wheeler for the majority of the show. With that said, I couldn't feel much of Jinghua and Duanmu Xi's bond. Their motivations are skimmed over real quick. Heck, I have more interest in Luoyue and YangNing's past instead. So. Many. Unanswered. Questions.

ENJOYMENT: 8/10 - Despite all the issues with animation, quality, storytelling, this was honestly so FUNNY. The comedy is great. Random insertion of various languages in Korean, Japanese, English, LOL references, Song Joong Ki, crossovers from other donghua like Fox Spirit Matchmaker, and our favourite quote "YOU CAN YOU UP. NO BB". Serious. This gets better. The minor fanservice we get is nice too. Like, literally this series has KISS scenes! It's a donghua too! Absolutely wild to see how loose the censorship laws back then when it came to media. RIP. Maybe that's also why season 3 is bust.

OVERALL: 7/10. I would just watch the show if you enjoy the comedy aspect. I recommend the Chinese version if you can still find it, despite how obscure it is. The drama gets touched upon briefly and continues in season 2. Or if you enjoy BL/Danmei, you may or may not like it. They kinda remind me of Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji with their own twist. Their love for each other is not overtly stated, but they truly do care for one another.

This series is all over the place.

My first thought after finishing this Anime was exactly that.
Don't guess though, I love this Anime despite all the chaotic flaws it presented me.

Ling Qi began fairly simple:
Two interesting characters have an encounter and thus their story begins. One of them dies in an accident and thus becomes the other one's Soul Contract / Partner.
These are supposed to aid their contractor in their battles against evil spirits.
Up to this point everything seemed fairly okay.
However, following 20 Episodes (China dub) (10 on Jap Dub), this anime goes all over the place, really.
It jumps from one setup to ... another and confuses you in it's purpose. From the get go, you might think it's purpose is for the two of them to fight together against evil Spirits.. But that's not really what they do.
You might get confused and lost because you don't know where this anime is going, what it is trying to show or tell. It has no absolute and clear aim.

It is confusing, and to my end it was even a bit frustrating and annoying.. But, nonetheless, it's positive traits kept me captivated, so let's get to them.

Their characters are simply charming, both have faults and virtues and their development is actually nice to look at, considering the small amount of time this anime covered. You will find yourself charmed and mesmerized by their strange bond and loyalty.
This series is strongly focused on the two maincharacters and their unique... bond. However, any other character merely serves it's purpose to help develop that bond/give backstory or whatever you need to make an anime interesting at all.

The atmosphere is.. fresh. I like the art style, as it is both soft and comfortable to look at, yet typical anime. You have the cool guy, the cute guy. They complement each other and both benefit nicely from this artstyle. It's not unique, not too much, and fitting it's supernatural theme.
Although Evil Spirits seem a bit lackluster. The whole appereance of the anime, the whole setting and picture of the anime is underlined an emphasized by fitting soundtracks. They provide another layer of immersion and do their job properly. It's nothing outrageous, but it's neatly done nonetheless.

I recommend watching this anime if you are a fan of shounen ai/yaoi, as you are the most likely to love this anime. Anyone looking for something with good fights or awesome characters will have their fair share... but it's not what makes this anime fun to watch.
I did not think this anime was mainly focused on Shounen Ai, but reversely it's most fitting for those who like to watch this genre.

Thank you for reading, have fun watching. :)

I am still new to reviews, but I thought I had to do give my take on the show while it is still fresh in my mind, y'know?

The story, is in a sense, a mix of Ao Haru Ride and Tokyo Ghoul; that being, the not-quite lovers trying to open up, and our primary suspect has his fate stolen from him at a young age, eventually accepting the path they now traverse. I enjoyed it. It moved me in a way not many have. I have never felt such bliss from anything this precious, nor been swayed to tears ... so easily. However, I also was confused as to who was involved with who, and what schemes had been set, for the first eight episodes I mean. The last couple cleared everything up. If queerbaiting is an issue to you, so be it. I like the mystery. All in all, story gets a 7/10.

Okay. I have never seen a Chinese anime before, so the scenery was a nice change of pace. The attention to detail, both in the architecture, and flashbacks, is phenomenal. Each character (excluding Jiun and the Shito lady) each had a unique appearance that set them apart from everyone else on the show. While not every character is wholly original in the looks department, it still helps the anime to be more rounded with the cast, and I 100% would love to cosplay as Huayu Yin/ Kau(the leaf girl) if given the chance! The rain always gives it a nice touch (sorry, biased?) and the props had some time to detail as well. Shading, top notch in most scenes as well. Art gets an 8/10.

Sound sets the tone, and Ling Qi's soundtrack spares no one. Episode 5 in particular was the high for me, what with the soul contract, and episode 6 showing a moment of weakness. Or maybe I am talking about the 10 episode TV show where it patches two episodes into one? Probably that. Action scenes with intense music, touching scenes with more delicate ambiance, and the voice actors almost take the cake. Maybe it's the Japanese dub to blame, but from the tone of voice, I didn't hear such raw emotion that I expected the scene to bring to the table. This was especially apparent in the scenes Ki's fiancee was furious with Keika, as I thought she sounded mildly perturbed, rather than seething with rage at the fact he chose Keika over her. Sound gets a 7/10 from me.

Character... Keika is the one I see the most growth from, but that is understandable considering he can't take his money with him to the afterlife. He starts off as materialistic as a human could be, maybe even more. Over time, he starts to lose the sentiment he once held for such things, and eventually, choosing Ki over all else. I wouldn't say he is completely changed, but I see a new passion inside him he never quite had before. I can relate to Shiyou way better though, but I have my anger under control, I promise. :) While she is definitely jealous of Keika, she learns to care for his safety despite Ki's favoritism towards him. She eventually accepts the anger she is ashamed of, and shows initiative in troubling times. I feel like Ki has more time to grow in the following season, and I might review that too (but no promises). I was unclear of Yinzhe/Intetsu's intentions for the longest time, but in the end, he is just a strict teacher after all. I kind of wish I didn't hate him so much before. I also desire to learn of the others in time. I guess I just was not satisfied. For season 1, I give Character a 6/10.

Now, watching this was the best Sunday afternoon I've had in awhile. It may even rival Gunslinger Girl's enjoyment level (unbeknownst to you as of yet). There was never a dull moment for me. I said before that episode 5 was a high for me, but I feel that episode 9 is to be my favorite. Enjoyment is a 9/10 for me.

The characters are enjoyable, the story is wholesome and somewhat original, the setting was a nice change from the modern school anime, a memorable ending theme, and an enjoyable tale that touched my heart on more than one occasion. Overall, I total my score at a little over 7/10.

This showed up in several "Best Of" lists for Donghua and I had already seen a lot of shounen so I though I'd try something in a different vein.

Story 7/10, Character 7/10

Went into this expecting the usual Exorcist bonds a special pet but it turned out to be so much more. Initially I thought it was going to be a friendship tale, but then
* the characters started to get to know each other and bicker, always a first sign
* ye olde obligatory love triangle springs into being
* family politics and rivals show up to complicate things
* they got caught in *GASP* Compromising Positions. LITERALLY
* ... there was a magical guy transformation sequence with some flashes of nude body parts!
* Swords! Blood! Talismans! Flying! Ghosts!! More blood!
* Super Saiyan sequences
I could not stop watching and was mentally putting spirit popcorn into my mouth.

Art 6/10.

Sadly this series was let down by the very average at best animation from Haoliners.

Sound and Enjoyment 8/10.

The OP is great, and the ED sounds like some trance spa song for sweet, slow, love making. Why did the ED put me in this mood? I don't know. Listen to it. It's basically music for the above but without using the f word we all know and love.

Overall 7/10

Opposites attract, this turned out to be a delicious scandal guilty pleasure any fan of BL can enjoy. Not for the salacious nature of the content (which is not really in your face) but the fact that there is a true emotional connection between the characters. And some yet to be revealed secrets and mysteries after. It was like the best evening drama with all tropes in full force for the audience to gasp at and enjoy. The scandal, the delicious scandal of it all!! I can't wait for season 2.

I felt compelled to write a review for this anime as I almost didn't watch it. After looking this up and was meet with some good reviews but also some really really bad ones that put me off.

You defiantly need to get past the first episode. I didn't hate it but it felt very rushed and I think they gives off a bad feeling to this anime from the start.

However the characters quickly become likeable and I really enjoyed the relationships that were build between the characters. It is a bit cheesy at times but did make me laugh quite a few times.

Although ... there is a serious story there it also has a lot of lighthearted comedy moments which I really enjoyed.

The overall story was a little rushed and the art felt a bit dated but it looks like that might be improved in the next season.

Overall the story was enjoyable and the characters were fun and likeable. It wasn't groundbreaking but I did really enjoy it and binge watched as in the later episodes the story really picks up

Ok, So I actually do not think this anime is as bad as people are saying it is. I mean yeah, the first episode was on the bad side but if you continue watching it, it is actually pretty good. I was satisfied after watching it.
I judge anime and shows based on genre and whether or not it was enjoyable.
First of all, this anime is shounen ai and the main characters do kiss throughout the anime. So stay away if you can't handle two dudes kissing. This anime also has a lot of light-hearted comedy which will have you laughing. The fight scenes keep ... you entertained all throughout. There is also unexpected plot turns in this anime. Overall this was a really good experience and I recommend it

If it were not for the poor animation quality and voice acting, I would be far more impressed with this anime. Now, I've never read the source material and I've heard this adaptation isn't very faithful to it, but even so, I found the story and the characters to be very compelling, to the point where I consumed all of it in a day without intending to. Needless to say, despite the poor quality of the animation and sounds themselves (all of the sound effects didn't sound right, a lot of movements were clunky or had no transition and I could sometimes spot unfinished frames ... in the animation, not to mention the art was inconsistent and the colors don't mesh nor blend), I found myself invested in the lives of the two main characters, as well as two characters whom we meet later on. The character designs are also beautiful, and I feel like they put a lot of effort into making specifically three characters especially beautiful in almost every frame.
This is a Chinese anime by Tencent though, they're not a big experienced company in animation, so I'll cut them some slack for that. I wouldn't be surprised if this was their second, third, or even first project. (And from the glimpse I caught, the animation and art improves in season two anyway.)

This show is so cute!!! I loved the main couple so much and literally wanted to binge this entire show in one sitting!!

The plot is incredible and exciting, but the character dynamics are what keep you watching. I literally love this show and wish there was a third season, but sadly there will not be one. However, don't let that stop you!!! This show is so funny, heart-warming, and bittersweet without a third season.

The music is gorgeous. I loved the opening theme so much, and whenever certain characters grace the scene, the sound gets much more beautiful.

The characters are all interesting and ... I can't find a single flaw. The main couple are one of the best developed I've ever seen.

As a BL lover, I was fan-girling very much. You will be very pleased if you like BL.