What a great anime we have here.
When I first started watching this I was a bit hesitant on whether or not I would enjoy this. I was mainly put off by the art in the anime. After watching this I haven't learn't not to judge an anime by looks and how long it has been around.
Higurashi no Naku Koro ni (When they cry) was what I was looking for in a horror anime. It was the first anime that sent shivers down my spine and made me want to look away from the screen during some scenes.
Story: Maebara Keiichi moves to a village that goes by the name of Hinamizawa. Hinamizawa is known for it's small population and horrifying secrects. Keiichi meets four girls, Mion Sonozaki, Satoko Houjou, Rika Furude and Rena Ryuugu. They become very close friends and Keiichi ends up joining their club at school. Peace comes to an end as Keiichi learns about the current and pass secrets of Hinamizawa. This is spilt up into six arcs that range from two to six episodes long.
Art: Higurashi's art is pretty good. It definitely a lot different than current art styles in anime but it really was good. No heavy colours were used and the flow throughout the anime was superb.
Sound: I felt the voice acting was amazing, characters can go from being in a really good and jolly mood to sounding like they have muderous intentions. Background music was nice really went with the animation. The OP wasn't that bad, I skipped the OP for 11 episodes and then realized it wasn't that bad. The ED however I didn't like too much.
Character: What I really like about the characters in this anime is that each of the main characters get an arc explaining their story and how it contributes to the main plot. If I had to pick a favourite character I would have to say Rika Furude was mine. She is so young and says the cutest things but if someone messes with her she has a whole different side to the cute little girl.
Enjoyment: To begin with I wasn't really interested in the first two or three episodes but after I really did have fun watching the anime. Each episode had a cliff hanger which lead me to wanting more and more. I'm a really big fan of mysteries and stuff that messes with your head and I think that is what really stood out about Higurashi.
Overall: If you really are into the whole murder, mystery and psychological, Higurashi no Naku Koro ni is a must watch.
For all those who are wondering yes there is a sequel to Higurashi which i'm yet to watch but when I do I will definitely write a review on it!
