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Advice #1: If you don't like one-shot stories...get over it.
Advice #2: If you can't do that than at least watch the first 4-5 episodes which introduce the main characters. Then pick different arcs to watch listed at: http://www.yorozuyasoul.com/gintama/arcs
Advice #3: There is a deeper meaning to the crazy stories, for those who like that sort of thing (like I do)


Advice #1: If you don't like one-shot stories...get over it.
There are many who are impatient and need a plot right away (actually I consider myself to be one of those people) however, with Gintama it was different for me.

Gintama is mostly one-shot stories each with individual ... plots. However, when an arc does come up (they are usually between 2-4 episodes) they are touching and interesting with good and very funny fight scenes.

Some of the one-shots introduce different characters (there are hundreds of characters in Gintama; however, some of them appear more than others). It reminds me of Katekyo Hitman Reborn where the first 20 or so episodes merely introduce the main characters and develop the relationships they have with each other.

Advice #2: If you can't get over the one-shots than at least watch the first 4-5 episodes which introduce the main characters. Then you can look up the different arcs which have a story line, touching scenes, and awesome fight scenes.
LIST OF ARCS: http://www.yorozuyasoul.com/gintama/arcs

The actual arcs at first start with something random but quickly develop into action-based scenes with an actual goal.

The first arc is arguably the memory loss arc (episodes 31-32). I thought it was hilarious and yet very touching, as is the Umibozu arc (Episodes 40-43). There are many other arcs that I love that comem later in the show. Another Arc I will mention is the Benizakura arc which was adapted into a movie: (Episodes 58-61). This arc is very action-packed and it is the favorite of many people.

Advice #3: There is a meaning to the show.

It may appear there is no point in the TV show, no greater message, but that is incorrect. In my opinion the show is about letting go of the past and living in the present. It is about protecting those right in front of you, whether they be strangers or very close friends, rather than trying to change the big picture. Don't get me wrong it's important to think that way, but gintama has made me aware of the problems with thinking like that: it leads to casualties and the loss of innocent lives. See? Among the random and frankly extremely strange yet funny comedy there is a message.

In conclusion, Gintama is Awesome! And Gintoki (the main character) is without a doubt one of my favorite anime characters.

Advice: don't skip the beginning even though it seems like an ad

I thought the movie was really touching and I enjoyed it immensely. The beginning confused me, I thought it was simply one of those warnings not to pirate movies that typically come at the beginning of the movie, but instead it was part of the plot! I love how Gintama has the ability to throw the viewer off. However, it is probably not something enjoyed by everyone. Some people like things to be straightforward.

This movie embodies what I love about Gintama. Mixed in with all the comedy is a very touching and exciting story!

It was the art that prevented me from starting this anime, however, I'm so glad I got over that. I actually really enjoy unique style now.


This anime is definitely action-based as opposed to character based. However, I love the characters, my favorite being Luffy and then Zoro. Though it isn't focused on developing the characters, the characters are one of the reasons I really enjoy this anime ( I still re-watch it). I love Luffy's determination, as well as how he is not the stereotypical calm, cool, collected pirate captain. The way he surprises other characters is very enjoyable to me.

Another reason why I love ... the anime is the intense devotion the Strawhat Pirates share with each other.

Though sometimes the plot is predictable - Luffy meets strong character, he has to fight, then eventually (after struggling) he wins - I still love it. Once you get past the first several episodes, it becomes addictive. (For me it was actually around episode 32 that I watched it straight through!!!).

All in All, this, HunterxHunter (2011), Naruto / Naruto Shippuden, are my favorite animes, and always will be!

If you want a summary there are plenty of other reviews or online summaries to choose from. I gave this anime a 7/10 overall. I liked the art and sound, and, while the main characters, Kirito and Asuna, are traditional / stereotypical characters, I still enjoyed them.

Kirito is the typical cool and calm hero who has a huge amount of strength. Asuna is the typical very beautiful, yet strong heroine - who however, often must rely on the male lead to stay safe.

The problem I had was with the plot lines. At first I was rather confused at what was going on in the world ... and what the rules were. I would have loved had the rules been integrated more into the plot, rather than have them simply stated by the main characters.

Additionally, in my opinion they skipped over much of Kirito's character development as well as his character relationships at the start of the anime. As the anime continued, they did slow down the relationship building, especially between the two main characters.

Instances of skipping over Kirito's character development include certain tragedies that befall him. In my opinion, the anime glosses over the emotional turmoil he would have had.

This anime's appeal therefore, lies in the sword fights.

If you are looking for an anime with character development, this is not the anime for you. But the anime was enjoyable once the rules of the world were established.