Story - 10: Amazing. Ping Pong the Animation sets itself apart from other sports animes by not delving into the mechanics of the sport itself; you don't learn about the ancient Chinese penhold or the western-forehand-grip-with-two-pinkies-in-your-nose. Neither will you hear any jargon nor technical terms about the sport that the inexperienced would never hope to understand. The story is at its core about two boys' lives which only /happen/ to involve Ping Pong. They could just as easily be playing Basketball or Rock-Paper-Scissors and the story would remain intact and beautiful.
Art - 6: This is quite unfair to judge, since in a way, it is drawn well, yet to some people, they'd just say it plain looks bad. I have to admit that the first episode was a huge turn-off for me simply because I wasn't used to the animation style. Remedy is simply sticking to it and then you'll come to appreciate the art style sooner or later. At least you know for sure it's not like cardboard cutouts with moving mouths.
Sound - 9: When a guy hits a ping pong ball, you damn well know he's hitting a ping pong ball. Beyond the sport, the karaoke and dialogue and voice work in general is very very good. I can't think of another show that does specific emotions like lethargy, insecurity, joy or ecstasy as well as this show.
Character - 10: These guys. This is the real hook. Halfway the through the show I was just like "This is it" because every single character you encounter is round and dynamic. You see that dude with the funky hair? His personality changes. That guy without hair? His personality changes. That dude without a name? Yep, he changes too. The show doesn't restrict itself to fleshing out the two main men in the story, but really makes great and welcome strides to developing the numerous characters that make appearances in these people's lives. I cannot stress how beautifully this was done. I'd give it a 20/10.
Enjoyment - 10: I just generally had a great time watching this series. You will leave each episode with a mix of anticipation and pleasant satisfaction, I assure you.
Overall - 10: This show has no shortcomings. None. Like, none at all.
