That seems to be the main theme of Death Parade: How often we humans take the life we have and the relationships we form throughout it for granted. Quindecim is a bar where a pair of people are prompted by the bartender, Decim,to play a bar game with their lives at stake. What the two don't realize is that they have died and the games serve as a platform for Decim, who is actually an arbiter, to judge whether the person should be reincarnated or sent to the void. Thus begins the emotional roller coaster of a show that is Death Parade. The story is really interesting and relatively unique with plenty of twists that kept me hooked throughout. Most of the episodes introduce two new characters that are to be judged by Decim. We see these two characters pushed to the edge of their limits through these games, allowing us to see the "darkness in their souls". This allows for stellar character development through only the course of one episode. Unfortunately, this is not always the case for the reoccurring main cast. The major flaw of this anime is that it fails to flesh out major supporting characters. Decim, the main protagonist is actually very well developed and it was enjoyable to see the changes he went through throughout the series. Additionally Decim's assistant, Kurokami no Onna, who's memories are wiped after she comes to Quindecim with memory of her death, receives nice development as well. However, the rest of the character are lacking in this department. We don't know their motivations, their backstories, or what lead them to be the way they are. This is a bit of an issue when supporting character such as Nona play such a major part in the events that take place over the course of the story. However, an area in which this anime excels is creating atmosphere. The art and music always fit in with the mood the show is trying to create. And the opening is one of the best OPs I've ever heard. Overall, despite its flaws, Death Parade is still a really enjoyable show that is worth the watch for anyone who is looking for something different.
