Does fan service make anime better/improve it?

Does fan service make anime better

Oct 14, 2023 2:13 AM

Offline

Sep 2022

The impact of fan service on anime is a subjective and often debated topic among anime enthusiasts and critics. Fan service refers to the inclusion of elements in anime that are designed to please or appeal to the fanbase, typically through the sexualization of characters or explicit content. Whether fan service makes anime better or improves it depends on individual preferences and the context in which it is used.

Here are some perspectives on the role of fan service in anime:

Pros:

Entertainment Value: For some viewers, fan service can add an element of fun and entertainment to an anime series. It may be lighthearted and intended for humor, and some viewers enjoy this type of content.

Market Appeal: Fan service can attract a particular segment of the audience and contribute to the financial success of an anime series. It can help boost merchandise sales, DVD/Blu-ray sales, and overall popularity.

Character Development: In some cases, fan service may be used to develop characters and explore their relationships. It can be a way to delve into the personalities, desires, and vulnerabilities of characters.

Parody and Satire: Fan service can be used as a tool for parody or satire, where it pokes fun at common anime tropes and clichés, adding an extra layer of commentary to the story.

Cons:

Distracting: Excessive fan service can detract from the plot and character development, making it feel forced and distracting for viewers who are looking for a meaningful narrative.

Stereotypes: Fan service can reinforce harmful stereotypes, objectify characters, and perpetuate negative gender dynamics. It can contribute to the over-sexualization of characters, especially female ones.

Audience Alienation: Not all viewers appreciate or enjoy fan service. It can alienate some members of the audience who are looking for more substance in their anime.

Aesthetic Choices: Fan service may lead to inconsistencies in art styles and character designs, as they switch between fan service scenes and the regular story.

Ultimately, the impact of fan service on an anime depends on the individual's preferences and the way it's integrated into the story. When used in moderation and with a purpose, fan service may not necessarily diminish the quality of an anime. However, when it overshadows the plot and character development or becomes the primary focus of the series, it can negatively impact the overall quality and appeal of the anime.

Different anime series have different target audiences and themes, and fan service may be more or less appropriate depending on these factors. It's essential for creators and viewers to consider these nuances when discussing the role of fan service in anime.

Oct 14, 2023 2:38 AM

#102

DeadlyBiscu1t

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Feb 2020

All the no votes are from Reddit and Twitter sea cows and their simps.

Oct 14, 2023 11:44 AM

#103

Memore

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Feb 2021

7351

Sometimes yes, but most of the time no.

Oct 14, 2023 11:47 AM

#104

rohan121

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Sep 2018

10823

A basic problem with this poll is that fails to account that anime is made by demographics
Shounen/Seinen
Shoujo/Josei
Asking women if they like ecchi is like asking men if they like yaoi. Lol
It would be like a guy complaining about pretty boys in shoujo.

Oct 14, 2023 12:26 PM

#105

DaiKaizokuJidai

Offline

Sep 2023

Better, if the fan service is provided only when it is needed and not every other fucking second.
Worse, if fan service is the only reason one would watch a particular show for and the only thing that carries the show

Oct 14, 2023 12:30 PM

#106

YanYan

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Aug 2021

3376

it helps the anime using fan service

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Oct 14, 2023 12:48 PM

#107

monsta666

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Oct 2009

554

As others have alluded to; fan-service is very dependent on the genre and context on which it takes place in the anime. If the anime is trying to convey a serious point, then adding fanservice at the same time will detract from the scene and message. If you have a more lighted hearted series, then it is acceptable. If we are watching an ecchi or harem series, then a lack of fanservice would detract from the show.

Another point worth mentioning is the amount of fanservice. A little fanservice is not usually a problem but if it is a procession of ecchi scenes then it can get tiresome. It also raises the point that if there is so much ecchi why don't they go all the way and make it a hentai? Who likes half measures? Again, another potential pain point. Now the big issue here is what is too much which is very subjective; to some this one level of fanservice could be a good thing to others it will be a big turn off. One thing I will say is if the anime has a deep plot or then excessive fanservice can have a negative impact on either the pacing and/or mood of the anime.

Oct 14, 2023 2:45 PM

#108

Spunkert

Online

Mar 2023

2463

It improves the bad animes, but not that much.

Oct 14, 2023 3:13 PM

#109

Donkunsan

Offline

Aug 2017

385

Reply to rohan121

@rohan121 Apparently redo of healer was mostly watched and enjoyed by women, so yea fan service isn't such a turn off for women, heck even pervy game like Nikke is enjoyed by women.

Oct 14, 2023 6:36 PM

#110

delirific

Offline

Dec 2022

504

I feel like I can only enjoy fanservice if it's part of the story rather than a 4th wall thing. Example - if something provocative is shown because that's what some other characters sees as well, that is good. But if girls are just walking normally on the street and the "camera angle" just shows it from a super low angle from below their skirts, that makes zero sense and is pointless. Basically... it's not exciting at all if none of the characters are excited.

Oct 14, 2023 7:38 PM

#111

Acctra

Offline

Jan 2021

1029

At worst, it does nothing for the anime, but I don't think it ever makes it worse

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