Review of Gintama

Advice #1: If you don't like one-shot stories...get over it. Advice #2: If you can't do that than at least watch the first 4-5 episodes which introduce the main characters. Then pick different arcs to watch listed at: http://www.yorozuyasoul.com/gintama/arcs Advice #3: There is a deeper meaning to the crazy stories, for those who like that sort of thing (like I do) Advice #1: If you don't like one-shot stories...get over it. There are many who are impatient and need a plot right away (actually I consider myself to be one of those people) however, with Gintama it was different for me. Gintama is mostly one-shot stories each with individualplots. However, when an arc does come up (they are usually between 2-4 episodes) they are touching and interesting with good and very funny fight scenes.

Some of the one-shots introduce different characters (there are hundreds of characters in Gintama; however, some of them appear more than others). It reminds me of Katekyo Hitman Reborn where the first 20 or so episodes merely introduce the main characters and develop the relationships they have with each other.

Advice #2: If you can't get over the one-shots than at least watch the first 4-5 episodes which introduce the main characters. Then you can look up the different arcs which have a story line, touching scenes, and awesome fight scenes.
LIST OF ARCS: http://www.yorozuyasoul.com/gintama/arcs

The actual arcs at first start with something random but quickly develop into action-based scenes with an actual goal.

The first arc is arguably the memory loss arc (episodes 31-32). I thought it was hilarious and yet very touching, as is the Umibozu arc (Episodes 40-43). There are many other arcs that I love that comem later in the show. Another Arc I will mention is the Benizakura arc which was adapted into a movie: (Episodes 58-61). This arc is very action-packed and it is the favorite of many people.

Advice #3: There is a meaning to the show.

It may appear there is no point in the TV show, no greater message, but that is incorrect. In my opinion the show is about letting go of the past and living in the present. It is about protecting those right in front of you, whether they be strangers or very close friends, rather than trying to change the big picture. Don't get me wrong it's important to think that way, but gintama has made me aware of the problems with thinking like that: it leads to casualties and the loss of innocent lives. See? Among the random and frankly extremely strange yet funny comedy there is a message.

In conclusion, Gintama is Awesome! And Gintoki (the main character) is without a doubt one of my favorite anime characters.