The protagonist is, sort of similar, but different from the generically wimpy main characters. I guess since it's easy to relate to his mind set as a semi-NEET myself, I really like how awesome he becomes as he acts out his game life. For characters in general, I really like how they come in a variety from middle aged salary man to high esteemed professionals to students to NEETs, etc. It's exciting to get different sneak peaks into their troubled lives and see how their perspectives change over time as they play the game. Comparing to most other shounen anime I've watched where each of type of character plays a specific role ( pilots are all old men, fighters are all bishounen, or everyone in the world is under 20, *it's exaggerated but you get what I mean ), this is one level above that. Annnnd, most importantly, the main characters are NOT THAT STUPID/USELESS. Finallyyyyy!
The story itself is full of fantastical elements, such as the setting and the game itself, but it brings out the morals behind and the growth in characters quite well. Surprisingly I didn't find any turning point unrealistic. As for what I think, the overall production is not disappointing at all. Being very picky on graphics and visuals in general, Btooom! does, at times, present alarming ecchi-ness that I find hard to take (not in terms of content but ..pinkness. *Hue Saturation is too high). Ahem.
The only, real problem I have is the pacing. For some reason I find the thoughts of the characters too slow (especially Himiko). On top of that the suspense are killed too quickly with the immediate revelation of the action strategies. I would be happier if more emphasis is brought out.
Lastly...I really hope there's a second season since a lot questions have left answered. The hardest part of putting all the developments together has only just begun. *Kekeke, quoting from op already. Anyway.
My suggestion is that if you are into gaming and don't appreciate your boring life, like I do, then watch this. Keep in mind, if you're the type to zoom over anime, to pay attention because there's not a lot of narration-like roles to explain all the details for ya like in Akagi or Death Note.
Thanks for reading all my shinanigans! //*run off to read the manga.
