This show actually originated from the half-hour short called "Death Billiards." That small OVA was successful enough to run this anime series, which is pretty amazing! The anime series lasts for 12 episodes, which is one cour, though I hope to see further development later on if successful.
Story: 9/10
From episodes 1 - 9, every single episode is someone and something new. Each time, there'd be a couple that would be judged based on their life and to see whether they will go to heaven or go to hell. Of course, this is accompanied by the various games rolled in the roulette, which makes everything super interesting! Each episode also unveils something new about the show, which is definitely something to look out for because from episodes 9-12, the show really starts.
The pacing is quite slow, but instead of being a drag, I think it makes the show better overall! It allows for tremendous character build-up and allows the audience to explore the different memories of those being judged as well as the characters that stay throughout the show. At first, you might find yourself questioning with what is the point of all these random couple judgment coming through, but Death Parade really shows its true colors in the later episodes. It collects all the previous episodes and creates something new to make you gape in awe. Its beginning and ending is superb and the storyline itself makes sense in the end!
Art: 9/10
At a first glance, the art seems average or simply normal. That maybe true for the first few episodes, but as the show progresses, you'll come to realize that the art factor here is pretty above average if not really well done. Every detail from the smallest wrinkle to the animation of the explosions and sweat of the anticipating moment is detailed so perfectly that you feel that you're part of it too! The environment's atmosphere was able to change according to context, and the artwork definitely helps. From sad moments to intense games, the art does not disappoint you here!
Sound: 8/10
First and foremost, I'd like to apologize for my hasty "judgment" for the soundtrack of DP; I am at fault, so here's what I honestly think after finishing this show: I think that it really does fit with it. The OSTs in the games were pretty loud and gives a suspenseful life-or-death atmosphere and the OSTs in the more sadder moments do move my heart. It does contribute a whole awful lot. At first, the OP made no sense to me due to its happy and exuberant tune, but now it does: Death Parade is not aiming for a dark future to all whether heaven or hell; it aims to create fulfillment and to send you off with no regrets. I believe this is why the OP is happy and joyful. It is also very catchy.
Character: 9/10
The small cast that stays consistent throughout the show as well as the myriad of people coming through for a judgment is one of the main foundations of this anime series. First, the people who come for judgments (victims if you will for typing's sake) come with a variety of backstories and problems, regrets, and unhappiness. Even if they had lived a happy life, the game played with Decim and KnO bring out their true feelings. This creates the diverse aspect of DP; showing how different people get judged and where they go. This really reflects the society we live in.
However, the main cast is small, consisting of around 5 people. (depending on how you look at it.) The slow pacing of the anime allows the characters to take shape and form; it does not rush them and potentially flaw them. Their depth and their personalities synergize so well with each other that the intense moments of DP was super suspenseful and very cliff-hanger-like. Sometimes, they'll do stuff that makes us question why, but that really what makes DP such a unique anime.
Enjoyment: 9/10
I typically look forward to the anime series each week; waiting to see what'd happen next. I admit that at first I was getting tired of the series, wondering what will happen or what was the point. However, please do not give up dear readers! DP is an anime who blooms late, and it blooms quite grandly too! The last few episodes truly gave this anime colors and I was unable to wait for the next episode after that! Everytime I watch it, I always give it a positive outlook. At first I thought I was wrong and should drop it, but I began to enjoy it more after pay more closer attention to the main plot being constructed before its unveiling.
Overall: 9/10
Death Parade makes me think of a linear group of people walking around, bringing death to all those around. However, DP disproves that. The fusion of the mystery of the afterlife as well as the memories of the living creates a series that will succeed in showing you the diversity and stories of the dead and the true meaning of life. One thing I have to highlight is its ending. It is by far one of the most excellent endings I've ever seen. I am looking forward to a continuation of this anime if not some similar works by Madhouse. Thank you!
I personally recommend this series to everyone. Despite the name, it does hold any major, graphic scenes, but there are some scenes of gore and blood. (mild to medium) I specifically recommend this to watchers of a comedic-but-dark series as well as those who love a slow-paced anime.
