We are finally at the midway point of the spring season and so far, the shows airing for the most part are very enjoyable. (Image Source)
Nichijou – 6 Episodes Seen
Current Score: 7.8/10, C+
Nichijou is a rather different slice of life that focuses more on slapstick comedy oppose to character development shown in A Channel. At times, the jokes can be outright hilarious with scenes like the principal wrestling with a deer, which causes me to fall out of my seat. Also, Nano is definitely one of the cutest characters that drive these hilarious reactions from the Professor and Sakamoto, the talking cat. Out of those moments, the Professor acting like a cat girl is one of the most adorable moments thus far.
Like Sayaka from Madoka Magica, it seems that Yuuko has a share of bad luck at everything… On the other hand, Mai-chan is rather quiet and somehow her appearance reminds me of Homura-chan. I think it’s a coincidence.
Hanasaku Iroha – 7 Episodes Seen
Current Score: 8.8/10, B+
For the past few episodes, everything feels so cheery and I kind of expected it. While some of the little fanservice shots like Nako being wet and wearing a China Dress looks nice, it felt somewhat out of place at times. Eventually things will get serious as the producers focus on different aspects of Ohana experiences at the inn.
Also, Minko could be really annoying at times, but otherwise most of the characters appeal to me besides the perverted Jiroumaru. He seriously needs to go.
Hidan no Aria – 6 Episodes Seen
Current Score: 8.2/10, B-
While JC Staff shows tends to be generic with the typical tsundere girls, they always manage to make their shows into very enjoyable experiences. The mix of action and suspense with the Butei stuff along with the usual romantic comedy blended in rather nicely. Aria is a rather cute tsundere. In addition, I was glad that the male lead isn’t lame compared to other male leads. He is cool, especially when in Hysteria Mode. Not to mention, Shirayuki is also cute, even if she is axe crazy when it comes to him dating other women…
A Channel – 6 Episodes Seen
Current Score: 8.5/10, B
While this show somewhat resembles K-ON! with the “cute girls doing cute things,” it has different characters. The characters I have to say have really enjoyable personalities, especially Tooru, Yuuko and Nagi. Also the idea of having insert songs in most of the episodes is pretty creative and they are sung well.
Ore-tachi ni Tsubasa wa Nai – 5 Episodes Seen
Current Score: 6.2/10, D-
I don’t have much to say about Ore-tachi, but it tends to do better when it doesn’t throw gratuitous amounts of fanservice all at once. Then again, I cannot say I haven’t enjoyed this even if it’s extremely mediocre or poorly executed compared to the visual novel. Some of the comedy was pretty enjoyable and the girls are really cute. Otherwise, I have to say this is definitely my guilty pleasure for the season. ¶
I agree with you for the most part on the JC Staff issue of having their tsunderes being really similar. But then again, Biribiri from To Aru is one of a kind (shoot me).
And Hanasaku Iroha has been a happy anime for a long time and it looks to remain the same, with a little bit more drama from Ko and Ohana, methinks.
HanaIro and Nichijou are definitely my favorites of the season from those that you listed. I’m usually more a fan of darker series, but both have found a way to charm me. Then again, I was one of the few who enjoyed every minute of Cromartie High School, so liking Nichijou was a given.
HanaIro’s picked up again the melodrama again, which I’m thankful for.
Again, OreTsuba continues to frustrate me, considering that I actually want it to be decent. Yet… I can’t bring myself to hate it, despite its faults. It’s like Umineko in that regard. I may criticize the pacing and the plot threads brought up and dropped out of nowhere, but it has a fresh enough idea that I don’t dislike it.