As we reach the mid-way point of Summer 2016 for anime, I have had a good look at the shows taking over the season. Although the pickings aren’t as brilliant as the last season, there are still a few gems out there that I would love to introduce to you guys, if you aren’t already following them. Here are my Top 5 Anime Picks for Summer 2016!
91 Days
Episode Count: 6 (On-going)
Studio: Shuka (Durarara!!x2 Shou)
Genre: Drama
Set in the prohibition era, back when alcohol was restricted all across America and mafias ruled the streets, 91 Days is an original TV anime. Meant for a more mature audience, the show carries a darker theme and violent tone. The story, however, is gripping and realistic, making it a must-watch for fans of shows like Baccano!. Plus, the opening theme sung by Ling Tosite Sigure is not to be missed.
Mob Psycho 100
Episode Count: 5 (On-going)
Studio: Bones (Full Metal Alchemist, Noragami, Soul Eater, Boku No Hero Academia)
Genre: Action, Comedy, Supernatural
With a story penned by the famous ONE (author of One Punch Man) and art inspired straight from the manga, Mob Psycho 100 is a unique experience, to say the least. The main protagonist is Kageyama Shigeo a.k.a. Mob, who is an 8th grader with psychic powers whose only goal appears to be befriending a girl in his class (who he also has a crush on). With his trusty “mentor” by his side, he walks down a slippery road paved with insanity whilst trying to keep his abilities in check.
If you’re looking for a fun action-filled anime to watch, then this one’s for you. Don’t expect it to be similar to OPM though, because it feels like it’s in a whole different category.
Handa-kun
Episode Count: 6 (On-going)
Studio: Diomedea (Mayoiga, NouCome)
Genre: Comedy, Slice of Life
Sort of a prequel, since it takes place 6 years before the events of Barakamon (one of my all-time favorites). It follows the daily high school life of Seishuu Handa, who is popular among all his classmates as a master calligrapher. However, through some strange circumstances, to Handa-kun it appears as if everyone is indifferent towards him and that he is being bullied by those around him. Despite attaining a large fan following and a group of dedicated stalkers/friends, Handa navigates the trials and tribulations in the life of a high school student dosed with an unhealthy amount of misunderstandings and coincidences.
If you’ve watched Sakamoto desu ga? or Tanaka-kun Is Listless last season, Handa-kun is basically their spiritual successor.
ReLIFE
Episode Count: 13 (Completed)
Studio: TMS Entertainment (D.Gray-man, Detective Conan)
Genre: Romance, Slice of Life
ReLIFE is one of the gems of this season and I’m both glad and unhappy that it released all its episodes at once. It is a beautifully crafted story about an unemployed man who appears to have pretty much lost all hope of bringing his life back around but is given a second chance by a mysterious stranger offering him the opportunity to go back to high school and do things the right way.
Sadly, I could not get enough of this anime and binge-watching 13 episodes in one day left me craving for more. Thankfully the web comic is still on-going and I’ll definitely be giving it a read soon.
Amaama to Inazuma (Sweetness and Lightning)
Episode Count: 6 (On-going)
Studio: TMS Entertainment (D.Gray-man, Detective Conan)
Genre: Comedy, Slice of Life
Amaama to Inazuma is a special anime that has captured my heart with its simple yet poignant story. Right from the get go, you’re treated to well-written characters and a strong mix of feelings. Or perhaps that’s just me. I’m a sucker for these kind of shows.
Kouhei Inuzuka is a teacher who has to care for his young daughter by himself ever since his wife’s death. Eating from the convenience store all the time, he wants to try cooking amazing meals for his daughter but fails miserably. With the help of one of his students, he learns to cook as well as deal with the daily problems of being a single parent.
Special Mentions: Days, Orange and Food Wars! The Second Plate
