“One-Punch Man” is a 12-episode anime that first aired in America in the summer of 2016. I am extremely picky with the anime I watch. I have seen many, but there are only a few that I can say that I thoroughly enjoyed. “One-Punch Man” is one of them. From the animation quality to its unique comedy, “One-Punch Man” has punched itself into mine and everyone’s hearts. I highly recommend this anime to anyone who wants a good laugh and good time.
“One-Punch Man” follows bald hero Saitama who is the most powerful superhero in the universe…. Yeah I’m not exaggerating; Saitama has defeated all his enemies in one punch. While it seems like this concept would get old after the first couple episodes, I assure you there are never any dull moments. Caped Baldy keeps us engaged and entertained throughout, starting with the genius comedy.
“One-Punch Man” is an anime that, unlike many others, does not take itself too seriously. This is where the humor begins, it has no issue making a joke about itself and other animes. For example, it is a common theme in many animes for one major plot to develop over five or six episodes *cough the Frieza Saga in “Dragon Ball Z” cough*. With this technique, it seems like dialogue drags on forever, “One-Punch Man” was aware of that and uses it to its advantage. I won’t disclose any details, but this is just an example of the show using common anime tropes as a punch line. Dead-pan comedy is also a reoccurring motif in the anime. Saitama’s nonchalant attitude is so bizarre that it comes off hilarious. With so much carnage and destruction happening in the cities around him, you’d think he would be stressed. But he isn’t. In fact, his biggest worry is making sure he has time to go to the super-market. Saitama’s apathy is a beautiful contrast to everyone in the anime that takes everything so seriously. “One-Punch Man” is an anime that can survive on its comedy alone.
The animation quality is remarkable; reminiscent of “Dragon Ball Z” and “Attack on Titan,” this anime is beautiful, to put it simply. The fight scenes are crisp and concise. However, it is not an anime that tries to load up every scene with super intense fight scenes, it gives you what you want when you want it. “One-Punch Man” truly recognizes that less is more. Character designs are also a primary focus in “One-Punch Man.” The shine on Saitama’s bald head glistens in the sunlight perfectly. Genos’ armor is designed in such a detailed way, but has a way of being simple and if I was into cosplay I’d be all over it. Each villain (there are a lot of them) are designed their own unique way. All in all, the animation is some of the best I’ve seen in anime and it is easy to get sucked away in the beauty of the scenes and the zany cast of characters.
Too put it plainly, if you haven’t watched “One-Punch Man” you are robbing yourself of an experience of a lifetime. I have not watched an anime that I like as much as I like this one, and I look forward to season two.
