Okay, let's talk about something truly special: the anime March Comes In Like a Lion! You might be thinking, "An anime about shogi? Sounds kinda...dry." But trust me, you're in for a surprise. It's like finding a five-dollar bill in your old winter coat – a totally unexpected and delightful discovery.
The Feels Train: Destination, Your Heart
Forget action-packed battles and explosions (though, mentally, there *are* battles happening). March Comes In Like a Lion hits you right in the feels, and it does it with such grace and sincerity. Think of it as a warm cup of cocoa on a snowy day, but that cocoa also makes you think about your life choices.
The protagonist, Rei Kiriyama, is a professional shogi player who's struggling with, well, *everything*. He's lonely, he's got family issues, and he's basically a walking, talking embodiment of teenage angst. But, hey, we've all been there (or are currently there!), right?
Enter the Kawamoto Sisters: Sunshine in Human Form
This is where things get REALLY good. Rei meets the Kawamoto sisters – Akari, Hinata, and Momo – and his whole world starts to change. They're basically the embodiment of sunshine and good vibes, and they just radiate warmth.
Akari is the older sister, a total sweetheart who takes care of everyone. Hinata is the middle sister, a bubbly and energetic girl who's always looking out for others. And Momo? Momo is a tiny ball of adorable chaos.
Seriously, Momo is so cute she could probably solve world hunger just by smiling. You watch these girls care for Rei, and it’s like your own heart is getting a hug. Think of it as someone handing you a plate of freshly baked cookies when you are feeling down.
Shogi? More Like a Metaphor for Life!
Okay, so there is shogi. But don't let that scare you off! You don't need to understand the rules to appreciate the show. It's used cleverly as a way to explore themes of strategy, competition, and personal growth.
Each match is a little battle of wits, representing Rei's internal struggles. The show does a great job of making even non-shogi players invested. It's like watching a chess match, but instead of pawns and knights, you're seeing people's hopes and dreams on the line.
And the visuals during these matches? Amazing! They use beautiful imagery and symbolism to convey the tension and emotional weight of each move. Even if you do not like strategy, you will appreciate the artistic aspects of the game.
Beyond Shogi: A Story About Healing and Connection
Ultimately, March Comes In Like a Lion isn't *just* about shogi. It's about finding your place in the world, overcoming adversity, and the importance of human connection. It is a story about finding family where you least expect it, and about supporting each other through tough times.
The show tackles some pretty heavy topics like bullying, grief, and depression, but it does so with sensitivity and care. It's not afraid to show the messy, complicated sides of life. Think of it as a comforting hand on your shoulder, reminding you that you are not alone.
So, if you are looking for an anime that will make you laugh, cry, and maybe even think a little bit, give March Comes In Like a Lion a try. You might just find your new favorite comfort show! Prepare to have your heart warmed, and maybe invest in some tissues. You've been warned!
