Anime: The Hakkenden: Shin Shou 26y3r

An unforgettable, beautiful, and bittersweet dream of an anime, directly addressed to the subconscious. This series demands that you watch it on its own . It will neither do what you hope nor what you expect.

This is the second time I've watched this, and it won't be the last. With the unforgivable exceptions of episodes 3 and 4 (self-indulgent drawing pisses me off), I love this series.

The opening is one of my top 3, if not my absolute favorite. It really sets the tone for the series.

This is the best samurai series in anime.

Yes, the animation is dated. Sorry kids. The show clearly suffered from budgetary restraints, so the animation quality ranges from strong to weak. They try to cover up the cheaper animation in some episodes by using a surrealist style, which I think works, but it still may be jarring to the viewers who started watching anime in the 21st century and are used to digital eyelash rendering. However, what the animation lacks in frame-rate or color it makes up for in style. It's artistic. It takes risks. Don't be afraid.

Still, even if the animation doesn't "work" for you, give this show a chance. You will be rewarded. The story is fantastic. The characters, while appearing cliche at first glance are well nuanced. The plot progression is deep and powerful. The life of a samurai and the warring states period have never better dramatized. And, the supernatural component is downright scary.

In continuity of the first ova serie in term of quality but even darker and bloodier at time. Very recommended!