Plot Summary:
Natsume is the new kid in town, and boy is he weird. He talks to the empty air more than real people, he's withdrawn, and sometimes he takes off running for no apparent reason. As it turns out, he's not crazy, just spiritual. He was born with the spiritual powers that allow him to see youkai (Japanese mythical creatures). He inherited this ability from his grandmother, who was known among the youkai as a powerful, fierce fighter. His grandmother used her abilities to defeat youkai and take their names, thus binding them in servitude. Now it's Natsume's quest to set them free.
Story:
There is only one word to describe the tone of Natsume Yuujinchou: chill. Everything is very laidback, tranquil. The pace is much more deliberate than most anime, taking its time to fully stretch out a story over an episode. Yes, the pacing is slow, but it's the good kind of slow, where things take their time to develop. If you like fast-paced, nail-biting adventures, you're not going to find it here. However, if you don't mind waiting around for a story to blossom, then Natsume Yuujinchou usually delivers, with every vignette well thought-out and explored.
Unfortunately, that's all there is: vignettes. Natsume Yuujinchou is episodic in nature, meaning that there is no overarching plot. While this isn't horrible, it's kind of frustrating to see interesting youkai introduced, only to stick around for one episode and then dissipate after their story is done.
Art:
The animation is pretty cheap. Not bad, just cheap. Don't expect any more movement then is necessary. Also, I think the original author had a mask fetish, because many of the characters have their faces partially covered, meaning facial expressions are often a non-issue. The monster designs are for the most part simple but good looking. However, the action isn't always as crisp and fluid as it could be.
Sound:
Once again, the show differs from a lot of contemporary anime by being very subdued for the most part. All of the acting is good, it's just very toned-down. It tends to make most of the performances forgettable. Also, the background music is fairly bland, and the themes that do stand out sound suspiciously close to stuff you'd hear in Azumangah Daioh. I will say this, though: the opening and closing themes rock. Well, not in the literal sense. They are both quieter, softer pieces, but they fit the series very well.
Character:
Probably the most frustrating part of the show. The characters are usually very interesting, but so many of them are one-shots that it feels like a waste. This is partially remedied in the second season, where characters start coming back, but for this season, don't expect to see too much development outside of Natsume and Nyanko-sensei. However, both of these main characters are well-developed, and they are explored fairly well, which makes up for the other characters not getting screen-time. Although I will say this about Natsume: you could get that kid to do anything for you, if you mentioned you felt lonely. He is such a sucker for the lonely card.
Enjoyment:
This is not a party anime. It's not big or loud enough to watch with a lot of friends, but it is a nice, relaxing, thoughtful piece to watch on your own.
Overall:
This anime is definitely unique. If you don't like over-the-top, flashy anime like Gurren Lagan, then you might prefer Natsume Yuujinchou's approach to story-telling. Also, as a final note, the second season is better because it builds off what is established in this season. Anyways, if you're searching for an anime to watch after a stressful day, this is a great choice.
