7 Powerful Reasons Why Crunchyroll Originals Are Worth Watching
What Are Crunchyroll Originals? Crunchyroll Originals are anime series that Crunchyroll has either produced itself or co-produced; setting them apart from licensed hits like Attack on Titan.
These shows often come from webtoons, unique scripts, or partnerships with well-known studios. For example, Tower of God, The God of High School, and FreakAngels are all Crunchyroll Originals.
Wondering Why Crunchyroll Originals Are Worth Watching? They bring fresh stories and styles you can’t find anywhere else, thanks to Crunchyroll’s direct role in creating them.
The Rise of Crunchyroll Originals
Crunchyroll transitioned from merely streaming anime to actively producing it, aiming to compete with giants like Netflix. Collaborations with studios such as MAPPA and Production I.G. have been pivotal.
This shift allows for more creative control and the opportunity to cater to Western audiences while preserving anime’s essence.
Strengths of Crunchyroll Originals
1. Fresh Stories
Unlike adaptations, many Crunchyroll Originals offer unique narratives. For instance, Tower of God introduces viewers to a mysterious tower where each floor presents new challenges, keeping the storyline unpredictable.
2. Global Appeal
These originals often come with multilingual dubs and subtitles like hindi, making them accessible to a broader audience. The diverse genres cater to various tastes, from fantasy to sci-fi.
3. High Budget Production
Collaborations with top-tier studios ensure quality animation. Fena: Pirate Princess, for example, boasts stunning visuals and fluid animation sequences.
Weaknesses of Crunchyroll Originals
1. Inconsistent Quality
While some series shine, others falter. Ex-Arm faced criticism for its subpar CGI, contrasting sharply with the success of Tower of God.
2. Pacing Issues
Certain series, like The God of High School, have been noted for rushed storylines, leading to disjointed plots.
3. Lack of Source Material
Original stories risk unresolved endings, which can leave viewers unsatisfied if a series doesn’t receive a continuation.
Top 5 Must-Watch Crunchyroll Originals
- Tower of God: An epic fantasy filled with mystery and complex characters.
- Fena: Pirate Princess: A steampunk adventure with captivating visuals.
- Onyx Equinox: Delving into Mesoamerican mythology, it’s a unique cultural experience.
- FreakAngels: Set in a post-apocalyptic world, it offers a fresh take on survival narratives.
- High Guardian Spice: Despite controversies, it presents a unique blend of fantasy and slice-of-life elements.
Crunchyroll Originals to Skip
- Ex-Arm: Notorious for its poor animation quality.
- The Junji Ito Collection: Criticized for not capturing the essence of the original horror manga.
- Meiji Gekken: Sword & Gun: Received mixed reviews for its storytelling and character development.
How Do They Compare to Netflix Anime?
While Netflix boasts a vast anime library, including titles like Demon Slayer and Cyberpunk: Edgerunners, Crunchyroll Originals offer niche stories with faster simulcasts.
Crunchyroll tends to take more creative risks, resulting in unique narratives, though sometimes at the cost of consistency.
Why Some Fans Are Skeptical
Concerns arise over the “Westernization” of anime, fearing a loss of its Japanese essence. Past failures, like Ex-Arm, have also impacted the reputation of Crunchyroll Originals.
Additionally, some viewers prefer stories rooted in manga, finding comfort in familiar narratives.
Who Should Watch Crunchyroll Originals?
- Fans of Experimental Anime: Those seeking fresh, unconventional stories.
- Viewers Tired of Isekai Tropes: Looking for narratives beyond the typical “transported to another world” theme.
- Binge-Watchers: Many originals are short, making them perfect for weekend marathons.
Final Verdict: Are They Worth It?
Yes, but selectively. While not every Crunchyroll Original hits the mark, titles like Tower of God and Fena: Pirate Princess showcase the potential of original anime productions. It’s advisable to check reviews and ratings before diving in, ensuring a satisfying viewing experience.
External Link: For a detailed comparison between Crunchyroll and Netflix anime offerings, check out this comprehensive guide.
Note: This article aims to provide an overview of Crunchyroll Originals, highlighting their strengths and areas of improvement. Viewer discretion is advised, and it’s recommended to watch trailers or read reviews before committing to a series.
