Story: 8/10
The story has a simple premise, but the way it is introduced to the viewer is what make it so interesting. Thru the anime, you see how the facts have an affect in Rei's life, leaving him in a hole that seems hopeless. Not only that, but you see how different characters interpret the changes that Rei made in their lives, for better or worse, leaving a history that feels heavy, emotional and very real.
In the end, it's clear how much Rei grew, and how much he has to grew, he learns how to deal with some things, and, with help of his new friends, he learns to be a better person overall. (And i don't even know how to play shogi)
Art: 9/10
Shaft is a great studio with great animes, and this one is another one of those. The art and animation is what you expect from Shaft, it's not as radical as Monogatari, for example, but still very unique and clever used.
Sound: 8/10
There's not much to talk about it, it's nice, the wind sound in some parts is cool, the original dub of the characters are great, there are times when Rei's voice is penetrating, like he's talking directly to you. I loved Momo's and Kawamoto's dub.
Character: 10/10
I can't remember the last time i saw something like that, every character in this anime is deep, with a great story that tells you how he got where he's now and why he fights to be even better. The characters are more than just generic flat characters, every thing they do and reflect they past and beliefs. Even the characters i hated in the beggining begin to grow into me, to the point that i couldn't decide who was right, or if even there's something as right or wrong. The anime is not afraid of descontruct every character, with vulnerable and serious moments. And, of course, Kiriyama Rei is phenomenal unlucky guy, and i can't stop myself from feeling excited for what the future reserves for him.
Enjoyment: 9/10
As a said before, the anime speaks deeply with some of my past experiencies, and, because of that, it feels extremely real sometimes, it talks about serious stuff and it has always a great lesson to be learned from it, i think it's one of those that should be watched by everyone at least once, just to see what they can take out of it.
Overall: 9/10
Great anime, with phenomenal characters that feels overall as a project passion from everyone envolved. cool.
