Do You Watch Baki Or Baki Hanma First

So, you're thinking about diving headfirst into the world of impossibly ripped dudes beating the snot out of each other? Excellent choice! But then comes the big question: Do you start with Baki or Baki Hanma?

Don't worry, you're not alone. This is a question that has plagued many a potential Baki fan. It's like choosing between chicken or the egg, except instead of chickens, we're talking about mountains of muscle that can punch through concrete.

The Case for Starting with Baki

Think of Baki (the original series) as your training arc. It's where you get introduced to the core characters, the bizarre fighting styles, and the general level of insane that permeates this universe.

You get to watch Baki Hanma, a teenager obsessed with becoming the strongest, fight his way through a gauntlet of increasingly absurd opponents. It's a wild ride, and it gives you the emotional groundwork you need to really appreciate what comes later.

Plus, there's a certain charm to the slightly older animation style. It's like watching a classic kung fu movie, complete with over-the-top reactions and sound effects that will make you laugh out loud.

The Argument for Jumping Straight to Baki Hanma

Now, some might argue that Baki Hanma is the way to go, especially if you're drawn in by the Netflix hype. It jumps right into the prison arc, where a group of death row inmates escapes to test their skills against Baki.

It's arguably the most visually impressive and action-packed part of the entire franchise. If you want pure, unadulterated fighting madness, this is your starting point.

And let's be honest, the animation is significantly more modern. Everything looks sharper, more detailed, and even more gloriously grotesque. The muscles practically ripple off the screen!

So, Which is the "Right" Way?

Honestly? There's no "right" answer. It boils down to personal preference.

If you value story and character development (as much as you *can* in a series where people literally bite each other's muscles), start with the original Baki. You'll have a better understanding of Baki's motivations and his relationship with his, uh, *complicated* father, Yujiro Hanma.

If you're all about the spectacle and want to be immediately thrown into the deep end of bone-crushing action, Baki Hanma will scratch that itch. Just be prepared to Google some characters later to figure out who's who!

A Word of Warning (and Encouragement)

No matter which path you choose, prepare yourself for a truly unique experience. Baki is not your typical anime. It's weird, it's over-the-top, and it's frequently hilarious.

Expect characters to survive injuries that would instantly kill a normal human. Expect philosophical debates about the nature of strength amidst scenes of brutal violence. Expect the unexpected!

But most importantly, expect to have a good time. Baki is, at its heart, a celebration of the human spirit, or at least, the human spirit's capacity to endure absolutely ridiculous amounts of punishment.