English: Rurouni Kenshin: Meiji Swordsman Romantic Story
The legendary Battousai the Manslayer was the original name of Kenshin Himura. Everywhere he goes, he can be recognized by his long red hair in a pony tail and the cross-shaped sword scar on his cheek. And any man or swordsman who recognizes him either wants to get a piece to prove they are the better or scrams quick! But most like the idea of becoming know as the man who beat the legendary manslayer.
Kenshin is a wanderer who travels from town to town making amends for his bloodthirsty lifestyle in his past, yet as his foes increase in skill, so does his failing restraint to hold himself back and never break his vow to slay another man. Will he kill a man to save his loved ones?
This classic and epic anime is filled with mini adventures that build up characters and their backstories, as well as a much more serious plotline near the middle of the anime. This part was my favorite. The trials and tribulations that Kenshin and his closest comrades had to go through were quite daunting, yet they never gave up hope. They understood it was time to take action or face serous consequences for the people around them.
Ratings:
Story - 7, 10, 4 - I'll split this into three different arcs. The first arc is pretty soft but has it's really awesome moments where Kenshin is pushed to the edge. The second arc is super exciting and requires Kenshin to fight the other strongest men in Japan, and man are they strong! The third arc didn't make sense to me that it was part of the show, but it is filled with many side stories. The ending also felt very rushed.
Graphics - 8 - I think back in it's era, these graphics were really well done.
Soundtrack - 8 - From metal, to electronic, to classical Japanese culture tunes this anime does it all.
Character personas - 10 - I felt nearly every character had a strong sense of self and backstory. The characters were a highlight in this anime, as well as the pace at which their content was introduced.
Character voice acting - 10 - I watched this in English and prefer it over the Japanese actors. Kenshin's voice is on the lighter side most of the time, but once you begin to understand him and his way of life, it's very fitting.
Overall - 8 - There are some really cool scenes in this anime and great morals. It's a classic anime to watch and makes you feel good like you're along for the ride with the whole party.
Recommended - I would like to say yes if the show stopped at two arcs only, but I really dreaded the last arc :(
