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Spring is here and that means another anime season is around the corner. The spring season this year is slightly larger than it has been for the past couple years. While nowhere near as large as the amount shown during the years of 2005 to 2008, the variety is certainly wider than before. Whether or not they may be worth watching is something that you must read on to find out. The spring anime season begins with a few OVAs in March with the main lineup beginning April 1, 2011. I have also added a section to accommodate those interested in knowing whether or not a show from a previous season will be continuing throughout the upcoming season. Notable staff section has been removed. I've also removed like Dororon, YuruAni?, Suzy's Zoo, 30-Sai, Happy Kappy, and Fujilog, etc... as I'm sure no one will release these let alone watch them. OVA section was removed since many of you probably don't have the attention span to follow OVAs that leave gaps of around 2 months per episode.
As I, Shana-chan, personally watch almost everything that airs in a season, I will list out my personal expectations and opinion of each show. They in no way reflect the anime community's review of the show as a whole. I set my bar pretty high for solid shows so do not let it deter you from trying anything that may be lowly rated here.
PLEASE NOTE that any dates listed below are likely to be off due to the recent disaster in Japan. Shows and releases may be postponed, canceled, or suspended. The information below do not necessarily reflect any of these changes.
Legend (this only applies to Weekly Series):
US License Status: red = Full US market license (streaming, DVD, etc...), Orange = Streaming License, Green = Unlicensed
Expectations: red = poor, orange = mediocre, green = decent, blue = must watch
Guessed episode counts will have a "?" denoted next to them
Weekly Series
Yes, you read that right. Cardboard War Chronicles is the title of this show. It's based on a children's game set in 2050 where collecting plastic models have now become a competition instead of a hobby. The player controls tiny robots called Little Battles eXperience (LBX) that battle in dioramas built from cardboard. Yamato Ban, who has never been able to play the game due his mother's disapproval meets a girl one day who hands him an LBX case and immediately leaves after telling him: "Within this lies both humanity's hope and despair." Naoihito Takahashi, the director of To Heart, Berserk, and Figure 17 is directing the work. Atsuhiro Tomioka is in charge of the series composition and has done compositions for Chrno Crusade, Vandread, and Yu-Gi-Oh! 5D's.
Premier Date: March 2, 2011
Genre: RPG, Mecha
Episodes: ?
US License Status: Unlicensed
Expectation: Poor -- Naohito Takahashi may have directed a fair share of solid works in the past, particularly classics, but his recent trend hasn't been too good. Not to mention that he's always been inconsistent. Atsuhiro Tomioka is also in the same boat. While the three mentioned titles are relatively decent, he has also composed shows that were far from satisfactory. 
The third of four Marvel Comics and Madhouse Studio (Death Note, Dennou Coil, Akagi) collaboration. The first two were Iron Man (Fall 2010) and Wolverine (Winter 2010/2011). With the sudden death of a member of the team and the abduction of Hisako Ichiki (Armor), the X-Men and are summoned to Japan by Charles Xavier. There, they confront another team of mutants, the U-Men. The U-men is a group that steals and transplants mutant organs. Their purpose remains all but a mystery. Fuminori Kizaki, the director of Afro Samurai, Basilisk, and Super Street Fighter IV is in charge of directing the series
Premier Date: April 1, 2011
Genre: Action, American Comics
Episodes: 12
US License Status: G4
Expectation: Poor -- Iron Man was bad. Wolverine was worse, do they really expect to do any better with X-Men? While the director has changed each time thus far, Fuminori Kizaki isn't exactly a good director either. Kizaki has only directed one solid work in his career and that was Basilisk back in 2005. Since then, he's done Afro Samurai and Super Street Fighter IV, both of which are more catered to the western audience but sucked regardless. 
That's right, after disappearing for 5 years, the Hamtaro franchise is making a return in Japan. The original series spanned over almost 7 years so god knows how long this will go on for.
Premier Date: April 2, 2011
Genre: Comedy
Episodes: ?
US License Status: Unlicensed
Expectation: Poor -- Yeah, not watching this. I hope all of you have heard of Hamtaro at least....If not, it involves the story of a moe hamster. The accompanying image says it all.
The sequel to Jewelpet Tinkle featuring new heroines but the same Jewelpets since the original series in 2009. No other information is available at this time.Takayuki Inagaki, the director of Rosario to Vampire, Koharu Biyori, Sunabouzu, will be directing the third series in the franchise
Premier Date: April 2, 2011
Genre: Magical Girl, School-Life, Fantasy, Shoujo
Episodes: 52
US License Status: Unlicensed
Expectation: Poor -- So considering there was no way to watch the original 2009 series, I ended up skipping the ongoing sequel as well. I'll likely skip this too unfortunately. Yes, I know, it's a shocker that I'm not watching something. I may watch the first few episodes to see if it requires prior knowledge and may continue if it doesn't. Either way, if you were considering starting this show, you're probably better off watching the more successful Precure franchise. Considering the staff behind Jewelpet Sunshine, you probably won't be missing much anyways.
Princess Millhiore of the Biscotti Republic constantly worries about an invasion from the neighboring fiefdom of Garrett. She therefore decides to summon a brave warrior from an alternate world, Sink. Keizou Kusakawa, the director of Mahou Shoujo Lyrical Nanoha A's, Inukami, and Asura Cryin', will direct Dog Days. Seven Arcs, as expected, will therefore provide the animation to this show.
Premier Date: April 2, 2011
Genre: Action, Adventure, Fantasy
Episodes: 12?
US License Status: Unlicensed
Expectation: Mediocre --As much as I love the Mahou Shoujo Lyrical Nanoha franchise and while I enjoyed Asura Cryin', Keizou Kusakawa isn't all that great of a director. He's really a hit or miss type of guy. Inukami! and Sekirei are the other works he has done over the past 5 years. As most fans know, 3 of the 4 listed shows were hit or miss with of course the Nanoha franchise being the sole exception (StrikerS was also hit or miss); you either liked the above series or you didn't by the end of the first episode. On another note, Kusakawa clearly has a fetish for animating wolfs/dogs. In Nanoha A's, he had Arf and Zafira, Inukami! was a show about dogs, and Asura Cryin' had wolf familiars...and now Dog Days is about....dogs. Can't say I'm overly excited about Seven Arc's or Kusakawa's new work. Just hoping they get to Sekirei 3 or spend more time on Nanoha A's movie.
Tiger and Bunny
An original superhero anime. The story centers around a certain race called Next, people with supernatural powers. Each Next in the city have a corporate sponsor, whose images are improved when the respective heroes help the city overcome disasters and save people. They also earn points for themselves, which are displayed via a special Hero TV program where the title "King of Heroes" is granted to the one with the most Hero points. The show will focus on the titular mechs: Wild Tiger and his newbie sidekick Barnaby Brooks Jr.
Premier Date: April 2, 2011
Genre: Action, Adventure, Mecha, Supernatural
Episodes: 12?
US License Status: Viz Media
Expectation: Mediocre-- The concept sounds plain stupid. While the show will likely look very pretty since it's Sunrise (Gundam franchise, Crest/Banner of the Stars, Cowboy Bebop), the director Keiichi Satou, has no experience. He's done mechanical and concept designs for Mazinkaiser, Karas, and the upcoming C anime, but has never done a show by himself. Nevertheless, the show seems to be designed to target a western audience so we'll see how things go.
A recently announced sequel to the Duel Masters Franchise. Each episode is only scheduled to be 10 minutes long and will be coupled with a live-action segment promoting Bandai's products.
Premier Date: April 2, 2011
Genre: Proxy Battles, Card Games
Episodes: 25?
Expectation: Poor -- Right....Duel Masters was dead before it began. It's a simple rip off of Yu-Gi-Oh! Duel Monsters, and at this point, you're better off watching that instead. No comment
Kyoto Animation's (Clannad, Full Metal Panic! The Second Raid, The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya) next gag comedy work. First it was Lucky Star in 2007 then followed by K-ON! in 2009 and 2010 and now Nichijou. If anything, Nichijou is closer to Lucky Star than K-ON! with the typical slice-of-life comedy aspect. Episode 0 is released with the 6th volume of the manga as a preview to the series. No further description needed. Tatsuya Ishihara, director of AIR, The Disappearance of Haruhi Suzumiya, and Kanon 2006, will be directing Nichijou while Jukki Hanada, the series composer for Level E, Sola, and Seitokai no Ichizon, will be in charge of the series composition.
Premier Date: April 2, 2011
Genre: Comedy, Slice-of-Life
Episodes: 26?
US License Status: CrunchyRoll
Expectation: Mediocre -- okay, so while the works of Jukki Hanada and Tatsuya Ishihara have so far been very exceptional, having seen the "Episode 0" I can't exactly say I was impressed. If anything I was very bored with the show. This show is certainly no Hidamari Sketch or at least from what I've seen so far. The promotional video found on Nico Nico Douga was certainly an interesting one, but I'm going to remain conservative about this show as I personally disliked Lucky Star. If it chooses to go down that path, I can't say this show will get a good review from me.
Expectation: Poor -- Haven't watched Beyblade since the original in 2001.
Metal Fight Beyblade 4D
A direct sequel to Metal Fight Beyblade: Baku, a part of the Metal Fight timeline. No other details is known.
Premier Date: April 3, 2011
Genre: Proxy Battles, Shounen
Episodes: 51?
US License Status: Unlicensed
TorikoToriko is a Bishoku-ya (luxury food providers) who lives in a world where he believes the taste and texture of food is extremely important. He dreams to find the most precious foods in the world and create the ultimate dinner course. As one of the most skilled hunters in the world he is regularly hired by restaurants and the rich to seek out new ingredients and rare animals. He utilizes his incredible strength and knowledge of the animal kingdom to capture ferocious, evasive, and rare beasts. An OVA promoting Toriko was released in October 2009 and again in October 2010. A 3D crossover special with characters from One Piece was announced to promote the series prior to its premier.
Premier Date: April 3, 2011
Genre: Action, Comedy, Cooking, Shounen
Episodes: ?
US License Status: Funimation
Expectation: Mediocre -- Since no one released the October 2010 OVA, my only exposure to Toriko is the 2009 OVA. I must admit, I laughed pretty damn hard in that OVA for its ridiculousness. To be honest, however, I feel that this show can only do so much. The premise is very bizarre and hilarious, but when comparing to other shounen shows. It can certainly compete with other ongoing shounen shows, but I personally feel it will fall short to Fairy Tail for its wackiness and epicness. Nevertheless, I will certainly give this show a chance after having decent memories of it. Those of you who enjoy One Piece however will likely enjoy this. It has a very similar feel
Hana-Saku Iroha
Hana-Saku Iroha is an original work by P.A. Works (True Tears, Angel Beats!, Canaan) and is a part of their 10th anniversary work. Ohana Matsumae is a 16 year-old working at a hot spring inn who hopes and dreams of the future. Many other girls working at the inn also share the same logic. Masahiro Andou, the director of Canaan and Sword of the Stranger, will direct the work while Mari Okada, the series composer for Gosick, Toradora!, and Otome Youkai Zakuro, will compose the series.
Premier Date: April 3, 2011
Genre: Slice-of-Life
Episodes: 26
US License Status: CrunchyRoll
Expectation: Decent -- Okay, this show is really up in the air. I love the cast set up for this show and Masahiro has done a relatively solid job for the two works he's directed. Animation will likely not be an issue. The real issue lies with Mari Okada. Despite doing a solid job on the three aforementioned titles, she's had a bumpy ride. In the Winter 2010/2011 season, she composed the series for Fractale and Hourou Musuko in addition to Gosick. Hourou Musuko ended up being rather decent for a show that started in the middle of the manga while Fractale was really average despite all the preliminary hype. Not to mention that Okada was a roller coaster throughout her career. Failure with Kuroshitsuji II and Mamoru-kun ni Megami no Shukufuku o! but success with True Tears and Sketchbook: Full Color's.
The story will follow the drama and daily life of the Yamazaki family in Tokyo of Showa 39 (1964). The family is usually in a state of disarray. However, tt is the year when Tokyo hosts the Summer Olympics and as the time approaches, the family's bond gradually grows stronger. The show is meant to target seniors and the older generation of Japan. The series also had a movie that premiered in theaters on January 29, 2011.
Premier Date: April 3, 2011
Genre: Slice-of-Life
Episodes: 13
US License Status: Unlicensed
Expectation: Poor -- lolwat 
Based off Navel's (Shuffle!, Soul Link) 2009 visual novel of the same title, the series is a coming-of-age drama set in Yanagihara. Within the city resides: Takashi Haneda, Shuusuke Chitose, Hayato Narita, Kobato, Asuka Watarai, Hiyoko Tamaizumi, and Naru Ootori. Yanagihara is known for its countless people where crossing paths means anything can happen...Each one have mysterious encounters with their "supposed partners." Shinji Ushiro, the director of Shukufuku no Campanella, Da Capo I.F., and Omamori Himari, is directing the show. Nomad (Rozen Maiden, Sola, Kampfer) will provide the animation work for this show. An OVA is also slated for this show on May 27, 2011.
Premier Date: April 3, 2011
Genre: Slice-of-Life, Ecchi, Romance
Episodes: 12
US License Status: CrunchyRoll
Expectation: Mediocre -- I did not forget to mention Takamitsu Kouno for a reason. He may be the screenwriter, but has only written for 3 shows in his career, the last two being in 2008; 2005 was his other one. That said, I had hopes for this show when I saw that it was a Navel work...and then I saw the director. Shinji Ushiro is just bad. He's had a bad trend of works since his debut in
Based on the manga by Hideaki Sorachi, Gintama 2011 is a direct sequel to Gintama, which ended around this time last year. Gintoki Sakata (Gin) lives in an era where samurais are no longer needed along with Kagura and Shinpachi Shimura. Together, the three take on odd jobs to try and pay their rent. Staff and cast of the original series are expected to reprise their respective roles.
Premier Date: April 4, 2011
Genre: Action, Comedy, Shounen, Parody, Slapstick
Episodes: ? (Numbering begins at 202)
US License Status: CrunchyRoll
Expectation: Must Watch -- This is one show that I will watch....once I finish the first season. I actually never got around to watching it, but loved the first 2 episodes of the series. This was back when it began in 2006 and boy was it an epic show for a period where about 60-80 series were premiering a season.
The sequel to the joint 3D CG project between Walt Disney Japan and Jinni's Animation Studio. The series is comprised of 2 minute shorts set in a future with two robots: Drossel von Flugel and Gedachtnis.
Premier Date: April 4, 2011
Genre: Action, Comedy, Shounen, Parody, Slapstick
Episodes: 13
US License Status: Unlicensed
Expectation: Decent -- The original 2008 Fireball was certainly an interesting piece of work. For 2 minute shorts, the jokes were quite funny compared to a certain Hetalia. The show is short, so I'll watch it anyways. I'm just surprised that for a Walt Disney show, the show is unlicensed...
Sengoku Otome ~Momoiro Paradox~
Sengoku Otome is based on the slot machine game of the same name. Hideyoshi is a normal school girl living a normal life. One day, however, she is transported to the Japanese Sengoku Era where the leaders are all women. She meets the Oda Nobunaga of the land who seeks the Legendary Crimson Armor to unite the land under her rule. Hideki Okamoto, the director of Da Capo II, Nagasarete Airantou, and Nana to Kaoru, is the director of the show while Touko Machida, the series composer of Lucky Star, Allison to Lillia, and Ookami Kakushi, is the series composer of this show.
Premier Date: April 4, 2011Genre: Action, Ecchi, Comedy
Episodes: 12
US License Status: CrunchyRoll
Expectation: Poor -- Japan needs to learn that pachinko/slot games cannot be turned into an anime. This has failed various times already. The premise of Sengoku Otome also reminds me of the recent horrendous Hyakka Ryouran Samurai Girls. Not much to say except stay away from this one unless you want the fanservice. The fact the composer is the same as that of Ookami Kakushi gives me more reason to say stay away.
A continuation of the one-minute comedy episodes pertaining to the Japanese Sengoku era. You are better off watching Sengoku Basara even though the latter is longer for each episode.
Premier Date: April 4, 2011
Genre: Comedy, Parody, Slapstick
Episodes: 12
US License Status: CrunchyRoll
Expectation: Poor -- if you didn't watch the first set or you somehow sat through and saw the OVA, then there's no reason to watch this.
Kaiji 2After the OMG cliffhanger back in 2008, Kaiji finally returns with a second season. Kaiji Itou is a bum who slashes tires and steals car emblems for a living. To turn around the debt he was suddenly left with by his "friend," Kaiji resorts to gambling, a form of gambling that involves constantly risking his life. The second season is expected to adapt the "Chika Chinchiro" and "Pachinko Numa" arcs of the manga. Staff and cast are expected to reprise their roles.
Premier Date: April 5, 2011
Genre: Horror, Yakuza
Episodes: 26?
US License Status: Unlicensed
Expectation: Must Watch -- This show was literally a last minute announcement. Whether or not that bolds well is another issue. Regardless, it was a very good thing since the spring lineup was looking rather grim. The 2008 Kaiji series was amazing. While extremely slow paced similar to Akagi (same creator), the show has a really great premise as it shows a more realistic version than that of Akagi...a world where people are greedy and can't win at everything they gamble.
Steins;Gate
Premier Date: April 5, 2011
Genre: Sci-Fi, Mystery
Episodes: 24+1
US License Status: CrunchyRoll
Expectation: Must Watch -- Chaos;Head wasn't a complete disaster, but it was pretty bad. However, Steins;Gate seems prepared to done by a more experienced staff. The plot is also really hard to screw up. If the show is really 24 episodes, it has the potential to develop its mystery aspect very strongly. Despite being a dating-sim like visual novel, the main focus of the game at least does not emphasize this. Hopefully the anime adaptation will follow this.
Sket Dance
Based on the school-life, comedy manga title of the same name by Kento Shinohara, a school club known as the Sket Team has a mission of helping people. Bossun is the leader, Himeko is a blonde girl with a kansai-accent, and Switch is an intellectual otaku. Of course, things don't go all to well for the club as they are usually just lazing around and performing odd jobs and searching for lost items. Is there anyway for the club to turn themselves around? Keiichirou Kawaguchi and Shinichi Inotsume, the director and series composer of Hayate no Gotoku!, Nyan Koi!, Kowarekake no Orgel, will be directing and composing respectively.
Premier Date: April 7, 2011Genre: School-Life, Comedy, Shounen
Episodes: ?
US License Status: CrunchyRoll
Expectation: Decent -- While this show will likely pale in comparison with Gintama, if you're looking for something more "realistic" than Gintama, this may work better. Kawaguchi has done a really great job with comedy works, so this shows some strong potential of being a solid show. However, the recent trend has shown that shounen shows tend to be on the lower end of the totem pole in terms of quality, so judgement will likely have to be reserved until the first episode. There are 17 volumes of the manga available to animate and because it's an ongoing source, I'm being weary on filler material and possible original endings.
Hyouge Mono
Premier Date: April 7, 2011
Genre: Historical, Seinen
Episodes: 39
US License Status: Unlicensed
Expectation: Mediocre -- We don't need much more Sengoku/Warring States shows. While this will likely be the best of the set, it probably won't be very interesting. And considering Bee Train (Phantom, El Cazador de la Bruja, Murder Princess) is behind this show, it's likely to progress slowly at the beginning and have a rushed ending.
Expectation: Decent -- While the first season wasn't exactly great, it definitely had its moments. Maria Holic Alive is unfortunately not directed by the staff of the prequel and instead directed by Tomokazu Tokoro (Hellsing Ultimate and Haibane Renmei). Akiyuki Shinbou (Mahou Shoujo Lyrical Nanoha, Mahou Shoujo Madoka Magica, Bakemonogatari) will instead supervise the project. SHAFT (Mahou Shoujo Madoka Magica, Bakemonogatari, ef) will remain as the animator.
A-Channel
If you thought Nichijou was enough, then here's another show that kinda falls in the same boat. A-Channel is based off a 4-koma (or 4-panel) manga. The story revolves around 4 high school students: Run, Nagi, Yuuko, and Tooru, each one having a unique personality. Studio Gokumi (Koi de Oshigoto) will provide the animation production while Manabu Ono (Saki, Dragonaut, Transformers: Galaxy Force) will direct the show.
Premier Date: April 7, 2011
Genre: Slice-of-Life, School-Life
Episodes: 12?
US License Status: Unlicensed
Expectation: Mediocre -- This show has some potential...or rather "had." As awesome as Saki was, Dragonaut was more than just on the opposite end of the spectrum, it really should not have existed. The ray of hope for this show is the series composer, Tatsuhiko Urahata (Monster, Strawberry Panic!, Card Captor Sakura). Of course, Urahata's track record isn't exactly perfect either. In fact, lately his composition skills seems to have deteriorated, so this show is really a coin toss.
Maria Holic Alive
After roughly 2 years of absence, Maria Holic returns with a sequel. Kanako Miyamae is a high school girl who has hopes of find a female romantic partner, and thus decides to attend an all girls school. In addition, Kanako is unable to even touch boys as she breaks out in hives upon contact. It turns out that Kanako's "ideal" candidate happens to be Mariya Shidou, a boy who currently cross-dresses and attends the all girls school. Mariya now makes Kanako his slave after discovering Mariya's secret.
Premier Date: April 7, 2011
Genre: Comedy, Traps, School-Life, "God"
Episodes: 12?
US License Status: Sentai FilmworksExpectation: Decent -- While the first season wasn't exactly great, it definitely had its moments. Maria Holic Alive is unfortunately not directed by the staff of the prequel and instead directed by Tomokazu Tokoro (Hellsing Ultimate and Haibane Renmei). Akiyuki Shinbou (Mahou Shoujo Lyrical Nanoha, Mahou Shoujo Madoka Magica, Bakemonogatari) will instead supervise the project. SHAFT (Mahou Shoujo Madoka Magica, Bakemonogatari, ef) will remain as the animator.
Softenni
Based on the manga by Ryou Azuchi, the show is a tennis comedy that focuses on a middle school female tennis team that decides to aim for the national championship. The show is directed by Ryouki Kamitsubo (Hidamari Sketch's chief director and Hen Zemi OVA director) while animated by XEBEC (Soukyuu no Fafner, Break Blade, Pandora Hearts)
Premier Date: April 7, 2011
Genre: Comedy, Ecchi
Episodes: 12
US License Status: UnlicensedExpectation: Poor -- This just spells K-ON! with ecchi all over the place. Having seen this done once already and done right, the expectations are going to be pretty high, meaning for a show that looks as cheap as this, it's not going to do so hot. The fact that it has an ecchi genre attached to it doesn't help it much more. The director behind this show doesn't have much overall experience and hasn't really done a strong independent work (Hidamari Sketch was done by Shinbou's team).
Yondemasuyo, Azazel-san (2011)
Akutabe is a detective and at the same time, he's a devil summoner. Because work has been piling up recently, he hired an assistant, Rinko Sakuma. Once Rinko learns of Akutabe's way of doing work as a devil summoner, Rinko begins to learn the harsh reality of dealing with unfamiliar devils. Two OVA episodes were released in 2010. Each episode is supposedly 15 minutes long. The show will be directed by Tsutomu Mizushima (Dai Mahou Touge, Shinryaku! Ika Musume, xxxHolic) and animated by I.G. Production (Blood+, Bungaku Shoujo, Kimi ni Todoke).
Premier Date: April 8, 2011
Genre: Comedy, Black Humor
Episodes: 13?
US License Status: Unlicensed Expectation: Decent -- I saw the first episode of the OVA...and it was funny. If each episode is only 15 minutes long, I feel that they can keep this up considering the variety of jokes they did in the single OVA episode. Mizushima has also directed a variety of comedy works not limited to those listed, so the show has some potential of being absolutely hilarious. While the show will definitely not be a gem in the end, it certainly will at least erupt some decent laughter at some point in time.
Hen Zemi (2011)
Based on Tagro's comedy manga, the series revolves around Nanako Matsutaka, a normal university student, who takes the Abnormal Physiology Seminar. Little did she know, the seminar was meant for students who had extreme fetishes (e.g. growing fruit flies in ears). Nanako tries to stay sane while taking the class but she gradually starts to have a behavioral change thanks to her classmates. Takao Kato (To Love-Ru OVA, Rio -Rainbow Gate-, Busou Renkin) and animated by XEBEC.
Premier Date: April 8, 2011
Genre: Comedy, Ecchi
Episodes: 13?
US License Status: UnlicensedExpectation: Mediocre -- This show can be rather disturbing if you're unprepared. There were 2 OVA episodes released within the past year for this title and having only seen one, it was funny, but potentially scarred me mentally. This show is not for everyone as it depends on how you interpret the jokes in the context they are made. In other words, don't watch this show while eating food.
Sekai-Ichi Hatsukoi
Ritsu Onodera has just transferred from his father's publishing company to Marukawa Shoten. Assigned to the shoujo manga division, he meets editor-in-chief, Takano Masamune. Their "relationship" seems to start off on the wrong foot when Takano unexpectedly kisses him. However, Ritsu later discovers that Takano is actually Saga, Ritsu's senpai and high school love. Saga is whom Ritsu had thought to have played him for a fool by taking his affections for granted when he confessed and summarily dumped him. Kon Chiaki (Higurashi no Naku Koro ni, Nodame Cantabile Finale, Otome Youkai Zakuro) is the director while Studio DEEN (Giant Killing, Kore wa Zombie Desu ka?, Fate/Stay Night) will animate.
Premier Date: April 8, 2011Genre: Bishounen, Shounen-Ai, Romance
Episodes: 12
US License Status: CrunchyRoll
Expectation: Decent -- So if you've seen and enjoyed Junjou Romantica, you'll probably enjoy this as it's a spin-off series. I personally will not be watching this as it falls in an area that I prefer not to touch, but out of respect for those that plan to watch this, this will likely have some potential as the same staff is behind this show.
Based on a rhythm arcade game, Pretty Rhythm follows a group of performers known as Prism Stars that perform on the show Prism Show, a show for super idols. Aira and Rhythm are two of the many performers who wish to become the Prism Queen.
Premier Date: April 9, 2011
Genre: Comedy, Shoujo
Episodes: 12?
US License Status: Unlicensed
Expectation: Poor -- The director is someone who I haven't heard of and the series composer is Deko Akao (Asura Cryin' 2, Arakawa Under the Bridge, Astarotte no Omocha!). It's one of Tatsunoko's many new animation projects, so I can't really say it's good or not, but this is basically screaming Idolmaster all over the place. Note, games and anime unfortunately don't go well together for the most part, especially when they are rhythm/dance games.
The sequel to Ring ni Kakero 1: Shadow, which premiered in April 2010. After defeating Black Shaft's makeshift Team USA and proving their worth to the Shadow Clan, Team Golden Japan Jr. will finally enter the World Jr. Boxing Tournament. In order to fulfill their goal of a perfect victory they'll have to take on teams from countries like Mexico, Italy, France, Germany, and the mysterious and godlike Team Greece. (Source: ANN)
Premier Date: April 10, 2011
Genre: Boxing, Sports, Action
Episodes: 6
US License Status: Unlicensed
Expectation: Poor -- Considering I didn't watch all the prequels, no I will not watch this show. In addition, considering how people have heard about this it's probably not as good as say Hajime no Ippo.
Set in Alfheimr there exists a succubus princess, Astarotte Ygvar. Having just turned 10, it is necessary for them to have a male harem. The succubus feast on Sauzfryma (i.e. semen) in order to maintain their body and preserve their beautiful appearance. Unfortunately, Astarotte hates men and will only agree on forming a male harem if a human male agrees. Fumitoshi Oizaki (Romeo x Juliet and Ontama!) will direct while Diomedea (Shinryaku! Ika Musume, Nogizaka Haruka no Himitsu, Shinkyoku Soukai Polyphonica Crimson S) will animate. Deko Akao is in charge of the composition.
Premier Date: April 10, 2011
Genre: Lolicon, Ecchi, Comedy, Fantasy, Reverse Harem
Episodes: 12+1
US License Status: CrunchyRoll
Expectation: Mediocre -- A 10 year-old loli...in a romance show. The first thing that comes to mind is it better have Rie Kugimiya (Shana in Shakugan no Shana, Nagi Sanzenin in Hayate no Gotoku!, Taiga Aisaka from Toradora!) voicing Astarotte....CHECK! So that's the good thing about this show. The bad thing? Well, it's by Oizaki. Ontama! wasn't bad per say, but Romeo x Juliet was a train wreck and last I checked, Romeo x Juliet was a Gonzo show, which means this guy worked for/with Gonzo, which means more rushed endings. If it wasn't Oizaki maybe I would have had second thoughts, but this show pretty much went down the drain. He's good at character designs, but may want to stay away from directing. Who knows? Maybe he'll surprise us all.
Kazuma Hoshino and his brother Ayumu move to Yamabi Kochou, a town in the countryside, due to Ayumu's weak health. On their way to their new home, Ayumu's cap is stolen by a monkey. Kazuma and Ayumu desperately tries to retrieve it. During this process they encounter Ui Nakatsugawa. Gou Zapa (Myself;Yourself, Koihime Musou, Shin Koihime Musou) is in charge of the series composition while Doga Kobo (same works) is in charge of the animation production.
Premier Date: April 11, 2011
Genre: Harem, Ecchi , Comedy, School-Life, Romance
Episodes: 12
US License Status: CrunchyRoll
Expectation: Mediocre -- The show is based off the visual novel of the same name. I personally enjoyed Myself;Yourself so to see the composer and animation producer on the same team is at least a decent sign. Unfortunately, the director is new and unheard of and the fact that this show has relations with the horrendous Akane-iro ni Somaru Saka from Fall 2009 makes me shiver. That show was bad in so many indescribable ways that it hurts just thinking about it.
Yu-Gi-Oh! Zexal is the fourth TV series in the Duel Monsters franchise. The story is set in the near future in Heartland (unclear if it's a sequel to Yu-Gi-Oh! 5D's or any other Duel Monsters series) following Yuma Tsukumo, a student who strives to be the best duelist, but is currently the champion of being a loser. Yuma eventually challenges the top delinquent at his school where his fate is suddenly changed during that duel. A new form of duel monsters has arrived: Exceed Summoning.
Premier Date: April 11, 2011
Genre: Proxy Battles
Episodes: ?
US License Status: Unlicensed
Expectation: Poor -- This show goes back to the original dueling concepts, essentially what Yu-Gi-Oh! GX attempted to due but failed miserably. With no more card games on motorcycles, most hope for this show essentially goes down the drain. Also, don't expect a US license too soon now that 4Kids has filed for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy.
Kami Nomi zo Shiru Sekai II (The World God Only Knows II)
The World God Only Knows II is a direct sequel to the Fall 2010 series of the same name. Keima Katsuragi is still the same "Capture God" high school student contracted to the devil, Elsea. After the events of the prequel, has captured the hearts of four real girls, none of which remember now, and thus captured the loose souls within the four girls. However, his journey has only began. The sequel is expected to cover the appearance of a second devil, Haqua, and Keima's job of capturing the loose soul in a devil. All staff and cast are expected to reprise their respective roles.
Premier Date: April 11, 2011
Genre: Harem, School-Life, Comedy, Fantasy, Shounen
Episodes: 12?
US License Status: CrunchyRoll
Expectation: Decent -- The first season was okay at best. It was way over-hyped and overrated. Not to mention that we knew we were going to get a second season this spring a few days prior to the airing of the series in Fall 2009. If the show follows the same pattern, which I presume it won't at some point, the show will just end up being boring. However, the introduction of Haqua sounds interesting and compared to a lot of other shows this season, this show is at least entertaining and has potential.
Expectation: Must Watch -- It's actually really surprising to not see CrunchyRoll nor Funimation pick this up. This is potentially the biggest series this season. A completely original work that has not been mentioned too much but definitely contains a heartwarming story. What seems like a generic slice-of-life show is actually a dramatic, coming of age story that could potentially make this show one of the best, if not the best original anime. The entire Toradora! team (staff-wise) is behind this show with the replacement of J.C. Staff by A-1 Pictures, meaning that drama is definitely by no means uncharted territory. Let's just hope that this show doesn't bomb itself.
Expectation: Decent -- The first season was okay at best. It was way over-hyped and overrated. Not to mention that we knew we were going to get a second season this spring a few days prior to the airing of the series in Fall 2009. If the show follows the same pattern, which I presume it won't at some point, the show will just end up being boring. However, the introduction of Haqua sounds interesting and compared to a lot of other shows this season, this show is at least entertaining and has potential.
Seikon no Qwaser II
A direct sequel to the events of season 1 from 2010. Not much information is known about this show prior to its airing except the hints given in the final few minutes of the prequel where Hana and Katya have now transferred schools and the sudden appearance of what seems to be a female Sasha. Staff and cast are expected to reprise their roles
Premier Date: April 11, 2011
Genre: Ecchi, Action, Superpower
Episodes: 24?
US License Status: Unlicensed
Expectation: Must Watch -- An original work by Nakamura. Nakamura is known for starting off slow in his works and then really picking up the pace with a strong finish by the end of the series. While his experience seems limited, he is definitely a solid director. In addition, Takagi is definitely a mastermind for composing stories. All three works he's done in the past have been absolutely solid pieces that are all worth watching. While the trailer of this show seemed a little goofy and generic, it's a Noitamina show, so it's worth giving it a chance at the very least. In addition, I really like the cast for this show :3
Expectation: Poor -- I hated the first season. This show involves breast-sucking for superpowers. The fight scenes in this show are really cool as is the soundtrack, but the concept is dumb. The events of the first season more or less concluded and to see the source material and the series continue makes my eyes bleed. The only reason why I enjoyed the initial announcement of this series was because it came one day after the new Tokyo Youth Ordinance Bill was passed, almost as if this show as mocking Tokyo Governor Ishihara. It was a definitely an enjoyable moment. Nevertheless, that doesn't mean this series is good, in fact don't waste your time unless you actually enjoyed the prequel.
C: The Money of Soul of Possibility Control
The Japanese government was rescued from the brink of financial collapse by the Sovereign Wealth Fund. For its citizens, however, life has not improved, and unemployment, crime, suicide, and despair are rampant. Kimimaro, raised by his maternal grandmother after the disappearance of his father and the death of his mother, is a scholarship student whose only dream is to avoid all this and live a stable life. One day, however, he meets a man who offers him a large sum of money if he'll agree to pay it back. From then on his fate is radically altered as he's drawn into a mysterious area known as "The Financial District." (Source: ANN) Kenji Nakamura (Mononoke and Kuuchuu Buranko) is directing, Noboru Takagi (Koi Kaze, Durarara!!, Baccano!) is composing the series, and Tatsunoko is providing the animation.
Premier Date: April 14, 2011
Genre:
Episodes: 11
US License Status: Funimation EntertainmentExpectation: Must Watch -- An original work by Nakamura. Nakamura is known for starting off slow in his works and then really picking up the pace with a strong finish by the end of the series. While his experience seems limited, he is definitely a solid director. In addition, Takagi is definitely a mastermind for composing stories. All three works he's done in the past have been absolutely solid pieces that are all worth watching. While the trailer of this show seemed a little goofy and generic, it's a Noitamina show, so it's worth giving it a chance at the very least. In addition, I really like the cast for this show :3
Ano Hi Mita Hana no Namae wo Bokutachi wa Mada Shiranai (Ano Hana)
There use to be a group of six childhood friends that constantly got along. However, after a certain traumatic event, the six have grown further apart by the time they started high school. Jinta Yadomi (Jin-tan) is now a hikikomori, Naruko Anjou (Anaru) is attempting to live a normal high school girl life full of fashion, Atsumu Matsuyuki (Yukiatsu) and Chiriko Tsurumi (Tsuruko) are studious students, Tetsudou Hisakawa (Poppo) has decided to travel instead of attending high school, and Meiko Honma (Menma) is the one unchanged factor of the group. One day, Menma asks Jinta to grant her wish, but to do so, this requires Jinta to reunite his distant friends once more. Tatsuyuki Nagai (Honey and Clover II, Toradora!, To Aru Kagaku no Railgun) is directing while A-1 Pictures (Fractale, Fairy Tail, Sora no Oto) is animating. Premier Date: April 14, 2011
Genre: Coming of Age, Slice-of-Life, Drama
Episodes: 11
US License Status: UnlicensedExpectation: Must Watch -- It's actually really surprising to not see CrunchyRoll nor Funimation pick this up. This is potentially the biggest series this season. A completely original work that has not been mentioned too much but definitely contains a heartwarming story. What seems like a generic slice-of-life show is actually a dramatic, coming of age story that could potentially make this show one of the best, if not the best original anime. The entire Toradora! team (staff-wise) is behind this show with the replacement of J.C. Staff by A-1 Pictures, meaning that drama is definitely by no means uncharted territory. Let's just hope that this show doesn't bomb itself.
Set in a slightly futuristic Tokyo where high school students are advised to carry guns and swords/knives on them as a precaution. Tokyo Butei High School is a special school to train armed detectives ("Butei"). Kinji Tooyama is one of those students that originally wanted to quit that kind of lifestyle but trouble cam to find him sooner than expected. In that event, he becomes the next victim in an ongoing bombing incident where he meets one of the elite members of Butei High School's "assault" department, Aria H. Kanzaki. Takashi Watanabe (Slayers, Shakugan no Shana, Freezing) is directing, J.C. Staff (To Aru Majutsu no Index, Bakuman, Tantei Opera Milky Holmes) is animating, and Hideki Shirane (Isekai no Seikishi Monogatari, Yumekui Merry, Hayate no Gotoku!!) is composing the series.
Premier Date: April 14, 2011
Genre: Action, Girls with Guns, School-Life
Episodes: 12+1
US License Status: Unlicensed
Expectation: Mediocre --I recall myself have very high expectations of this show during its initial announcement back in October. That all changed a few weeks ago when I saw the trailer for this show. While the staff and cast look relatively solid on paper, the final deliverable looked horrendous. The show is clearly a low budget show coming from J.C. Staff where they seemed to have spent all the money on making the guns and gunshots accurate to the finest details, but forgot the rest of the show. The show's plot is also very generic from what it seems like. This show is by no means a Shakugan no Shana show despite having the staff of it here along with Rie Kugimiya voicing the lead heroine. Not to mention that Takashi Watanabe has been on a downward trend since the conclusion of Shakugan no Shana II. Seems like he's really just stalling for time until Shakugan no Shana III.
Denpa Onna to Seishun Otoko
Based on Hitoma Iruma's light novel of the same name. Makoto Niwa is a high school boy who lives with his aunt's family. Under the same roof he meets his mysterious couisn Erio Touwa, who happens to tie a futon mattress around her upper body and is a claims that she is an alien. Little did Makoto know, Erio had been missing for half a year before she was found floating in the sea. Unfortunately, Erio doesn't remember anything about what happened during that period of time. Yukihiro Miyamoto (Maria Holic, Mahou Shoujo Madoka Magica, Arakawa Under the Bridge) is directing the show with Akiyuki Shinbou (same works) supervising the project along with SHAFT (same works) providing the animation work
Premier Date: April 14, 2011Genre: Sci-Fi, Comedy
Episodes: 12+1
US License Status: Unlicensed
Expectation: Decent -- This show screams Arakawa Under the Bridge. It involves a girl who thinks she's an alien and it's a comedy series by SHAFT, Shinbou, and Miyamoto. No further description really needed here as we've already got a lot of comedy shows this season.
Deadman Wonderland
Based on the manga of the same name by Jinsei Kataoka. Ten years after a massive earthquake destroyed most of Tokyo, Ganta Igarashi is a survivor of the earthquake now attending Nagano Prefecture's middle school. Attempting to live a normal life, he soon encounters a strange man covered in blood and crimson armor. Smirking madly, the man massacres Ganta's entire class and, instead of killing Ganta, a red crystal is embedded into his chest. Unfortunately for Ganta, as the sole survivor, he becomes the sole suspect and following a suspiciously quick trial, he is sentenced to life imprisonment in Deadman Wonderland.Yasuyuki Mutou (Basilisk, Le Chevalier d' Eon, Sengoku Basara) will compose the series while Manglobe (The World God Only Knows, House of Five Leaves, Ergo Proxy) provides the animation.
Premier Date: April 16, 2011Genre: Action, Sci-Fi, Violence, Shounen
Episodes: 12
US License Status: CrunchyRoll
Expectation: Decent -- The show sounds decent, but the director is unheard of. This is one of the more anticipated series this season, but something seems off usually when a series is over-hyped, especially when the source material is ongoing. I expect the series to start off on a very strong note, but I feel it's going to pull a Highschool of the Dead and eventually end with a cliffhanger or simply fall short of many people's expectations.
Ao no Exocist (Blue Exorcist)
Based on Kazue Katou's manga. There are two worlds: Assiah and Gehenna, housing humans and demons, respectively. It is normally impossible to travel between the two worlds. However, demons are capable of passing through this boundary by possessing a human. Satan is the god of Gehenna but incapable of crossing the boundary because there is nothing that exists that can help "contain" him. He therefore tries to use his son, Rin, from a human woman. However, whether Rin will agree is another issue. Tensai Okamura (Darker than Black, Wolf's Rain, Project Blue Earth SOS) will direct, A-1 Pictures will animate, and Ryouta Yamaguchi (Digimon Savers, Kanon 2002, Sailor Moon Stars) will compose the series.
Premier Date: April 17, 2011Genre: Action, Adventure, Demons, Shounen
Episodes: 25
US License Status: Aniplex USA
Expectation: Decent -- Like Deadman Wonderland, the same expectations hold for this show. It's overhyped, so I'm being very cautious about this show
Moshidora
Moshidora is a short 10 episode series that will run once each day between April 25 and May 6, 2011 (skipping April 30 and May 1). The series is based off a business novel where Minami Kawashima is a second-year high school student. Her friend Yuuki Miyata is admitted to a hospital one day and so Minami decides to take over Yuuki's role as manager of the baseball club. Of course, she has no idea what a manager does and decides to go find a book, where she eventually finds one of Peter Drucker's books. The show will be directed by Takayuki Hamana (Prince of Tennis, Kemono no Souja Erin, Toshokan Sensou), composed by Junichi Fujisaki (Blood+, Kemono no Souja Erin, Loups=Garous), and animated by I.G. Production.
Premier Date: April 25, 2011Genre: Baseball, Sports, High School
Episodes: 10
US License Status: Unlicensed
Expectation: Mediocre -- Everything looks okay about this show except that it's literally crammed into 2 weeks. Whether or not these will be full length episodes or simply shorts is one issue, but cramming novel material in such a short time frame is probably not a good idea. It causes rushed work and thus unsuccessful results. Hence, I'm going to be cautious about this show as well.
Inazuma Eleven Go
The sequel to the 2008 Inazuma Eleven. The story is set roughly ten years after the events of Inazuma Eleven. Tenma Matsukaze enters Raimon Junior High because of how famous it became ten years ago for its soccer. However, a mysterious organization known as the Fifth Sector took control of the game a few years ago and now Raimon has lost the passion it once had. No staff information is currently available for this show.
Premier Date: May 4, 2011Genre: Soccer, Sports, Action, Shounen, Super Power
Episodes: ?
US License Status: Unlicensed
Expectation: Mediocre -- I'll be honest, I never though Inazuma Eleven was great, until someone referred me to it recently. It's not that bad of a show, but it's really slow. Therefore, if this series doesn't require the prequel, I'll pick it up, but otherwise, it's going to stay on my long list of things to watch "eventually."
Rollover TV Series
*does not include shows that have continued indefinitely for 2+ years. Also does not include OVAs/OADs, or movies. Parentheses = starting season.
**Mahou Shoujo Madoka Magica is excluded as it plans to end on April 21, 2011. Inazuma Eleven is also excluded since it plans to end April 27, 2011.
- Beelzebub (Winter 2010/11)
- Cardfight Vanguard!! (Winter 2010/11)
- Digimon Xros Wars (Summer 2010) -- under the sequel title Digimon Xros Wars: The Evil Death Generals and the Seven Kingdoms
- Fairy Tail (Fall 2009)
- Gosick (Winter 2010/11)
- Ore no Imouto ga Konnani Kawaii Wake ga Nai (Fall 2010) -- True Route Ending (webcast only)
- Pokemon Best Wishes (Fall 2010)
- Starry Sky (Winter 2010/11)
- Suite Precure (Winter 2010/11)
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