Every season of anime has its gems. The 2016 spring season of anime is no different as a few titles standout from the rest. These titles range from the mystery thriller to the classic shojo with elements of action, mecha, and romance inserted. All these shows have amazing animation combined with unique plot elements that separate these titles from the countless new shows that have made their premier this season. As a result these are the 3 anime titles that if you don’t watch you should.
Lost Village:
It is no surprise that the Lost Village is a gem of the 2016 Spring anime season due to its unique plot. The basic plot of the anime involves a group of people who come to an uninhabited village and are exposed to supernatural events that lead to a variety of mysteries. The anime is divided into three intertwining mysteries that all play a part in a bigger mystery. The first mystery establishes the creepiness of the show as the village is in near perfect condition with working water, shelter, and food yet appears uninhabited. Thus the question becomes what happened to the inhabitants of this village. This is only further compounded by the second mystery as members of the group began to disappear as they explore and look for any clues to find out what has happened. As a result the anime’s creepiness rises as the group attempts to discover the truth and a force is working against them to lessen their ranks. The final mystery is how the darkest fears of these people are being used to keep them in the village, as the village knows people’s backgrounds. These three mysteries lend them selves to answering the bigger mystery of why these characters came to this village. Thus the anime utilizes an interesting concept of having smaller mysteries prove answer and provide clues for a bigger mystery at the same time. This concept along with the creepiness and thrilling elements of the anime make it an exciting show to watch.
Mobile Suit Gundam Unicorn Re 0096:
Despite Gundam Unicorn Re : 0096 is the televised version of the OVA with the same name, it is a truly amazing anime. This is due to the plot and animation style that is utilized throughout the show. The plot is similar to other Gundam series as it focuses on a normal kid who becomes subjected to war and is able to pilot a Gundam that has a profound effect. In particular, this Gundam differs from others and the main character, Banagher Links, wants peace but realizes fighting is going to occur and if he is doing the fight there will be less deaths. This shows that Sunrise is recognizing that they have smart fans that understand the different aspects of war. They are not only adding a new element to the disgust about war but also showing the idea of why a person might choose to fight. In many ways this makes Banagher an interesting as it establishes a character that will be constantly challenged due to the nature of the anime. Furthermore, the animation style is unique and gives off a futuristic style, which is complimentary to the plot. The televised version has added some new animation including a new opener and ending as well as some new scenes to help transition the series. As a result the show has a smoother, less choppy feel towards it, which makes it easier to follow. With all these elements working at the same time Gundam Unicorn Re: 0096 proves itself to be one of the top animes of the Spring 2016 anime season as it adds onto an already great OVA title of the same name.
Sailor Moon Crystal Season 3:
Sailor Moon is one of the most recognizable anime names to all people. So it is only natural that Sailor Moon Crystals Season 3 would be one of the best anime’s in Spring 2016. This is due to updating the animation style, smoothing out the plot, and the show being aimed at an older audience. Now the animation style utilizes crisp smooth lines with rich colors combined with unique graphics creating a unique anime style. Furthermore, the anime with its plot utilizes a direct approach as the enemy’s objectives are established quicker and more concise. This leaves less room for the enemy’s actions to be misconstrued and it allows for the plot to move in one direction. While these elements help to elevate this anime it is really the introduction of adult elements that make this one of the best animes of 2016. In particular, addressing the sexuality of Haruka and Michiru and making it clear that they are lesbians. This not only stays true to the original manga but also modernizes Sailor Moon as the world becomes more accepting of diversity. Furthermore, the anime shows the growing relationship between Usagi and Mamoru as they are becoming closer and more intimate. The show understands that it has older fans due to Sailor Moon being around for over 20 years and has new fans growing up in a faster paced world. The older fans can be subject to more adult themes as they have experience and knowledge on those topics.. This allows the show to play to both new and old generations, benefiting the show as both groups understand what is occurring for different reasons. Sailor Moon Crystal Season 3 is a unique anime as it places trust with its audience to understand the adult elements of the show, which works for the show as it is recognized as part of pop culture.
