It's never too late to get great anime!

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Christmas may be just around the corner, but it's never to late to give the gift of anime to an otaku or a newbie friend.  To help you out, we asked a few community members to help us out by suggesting their recent favorites, which are listed below. 


kirschy

Kirschy is a forum moderator for Anime Unleashed and huge Sailor Moon fan.

Last Exile
last exileI've been watching this series on G4techTV, and frankly I really enjoyed what I've seen of it so far. It’s a science-fiction title and has a compelling (and original) story, but that's not really why I picked it.  The visuals and CGI in Last Exile are amazing.  It has some of the best artwork I've seen in a series. 

Gundam Seed
Mecha title that Cartoon Network has been airing for a while. The DVDs just started coming out recently which is why I gave it the nod for the second new series slot.  Like Last Exile, the animation is crisp and probably some of the prettiest I've seen from a Gundam series.  The only thing I'm not too fond of in Gundam Seed is that it is basically a retelling of the original Mobile Suit Gundam.  However since Mobile Suit Gundam is a classic, I'm not going to complain too much.  However make sure that if you start this series you get the first DVD or it won't make sense.

Inuyasha
One of my favorite series. It's a fantasy/action/romance title with good art, a good story, a very good dub, and Viz recently released a box set of Inuyasha's first season which makes it a great buy for an anime fan who hasn't already seen Inuyasha on Cartoon Network or who wants to get the series on DVD. 

Robotech Macross Saga
Arguably the best of the three sagas in the Robotech series as far as story and action go.  And it's a classic (it originally aired back in the mid 1980s).  The animation has a dated feel, and by modern standards the dub is not so good.  But in its own way those features are part of its charm. Additionally, the story is well told and it’s something the whole family can watch together and everyone can enjoy. 

Love Hina's Christmas Special
I'm trying to think what I can say about this title without giving a lot of its plot away.  Love Hina is a comedy series about the adventures of a young man who is trying to get into Tokyo University.  And the Christmas Special is in many ways more of the same.  It has some very funny moments. It also has a bit of romance and a great ending thrown in.  If you have an Anime fan on your list who likes comedy, this is the title to get him/her (assuming (s)he hasn't beaten you to the punch).


DFarthing

DFarthing is a forum moderator for Anime Unleashed and a huge fan of various genres of anime.

Neon Genesis Evangelion: Platinum Edition
This is a must have for any anime fan.  Now with re-mastered video and surround sound, this classic has been made new again.  From giant fighting robots, complex relationships, to the dark side of human nature, this series runs the gambit of human existence and emotions.  This one definitely proves that anime is not just for kids.

Azumanga Daioh
For a fun romp through the truly absurd, this title delivers.  Follow these girls throughout high school for a fun, pure comic experience unlike anything I’ve seen in a while.  You will be laughing out loud.

12 Kingdoms
A beautifully drawn anime with a epic story, it’s a definite “Must See” title.  The rich world, deeply developed characters and fascinating story gives you a full experience that leaves you wanting more and then delivers it.  For a longer series, there’s not a single episode that is not intriguing.  This may be a little known title, but all who have seen it, love it. 

Last Exile
This series is just truly breathtaking.  From the great animation to the characters, this anniversary anime from Gonzo shows the true scope that animation can encompass.  An intriguing story also accompanies the series, with interesting characters that you get emotionally involved with.  Once the story gets going, it’s a wild ride with action and intrigue.

His & Her Circumstances (Kare Kano)
This older anime is a definite gateway title to get people into the genre.  This romantic comedy is truly accessible to all people.  Something to share with your loved one, or a group of friends.  This title rounds out any anime collection beautifully.

Voices Of A Distant Star
This remarkable short movie is one everybody needs to see, anime fan or not.  The CG art is just mind-blowing, and the story would tug at anyone’s heartstrings.  This film proves you can tell a great story in a short amount of time.  Makes a great little stocking stuffer.


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