Sakamoto Days | Is The Animation Really That Bad?

Sakamoto Days | Is The Animation Really That Bad?

When Sakamoto Days first hit the anime scene, it quickly gained traction thanks to its unique premise and the comedic juxtaposition of its main character, Taro Sakamoto, who is a retired hitman turned family man. But while the series has earned a fair share of praise for its quirky humor and interesting storylines, there has been a noticeable amount of criticism aimed at its animation quality. With the rise of visually stunning anime like Demon Slayer and Attack on Titan, it's hard not to compare newer releases to those high production standards. But are Sakamoto Days really that bad when it comes to animation, or are fans being too harsh?

The Animation Style: Aesthetic or Budget Constraints?

First, let’s talk about the actual animation style. Sakamoto Days isn't aiming for the hyper-detailed, fluid animation you might see in blockbuster shonen hits. The animation leans more towards a simple, somewhat minimalist aesthetic. And that’s not necessarily a bad thing.

The show’s character designs are relatively clean, and the action scenes, though not always the most fluid, are still engaging. The comedic moments—particularly Sakamoto’s reactions to everyday situations or his surprising physical abilities—are often exaggerated in a way that makes them funnier. The art style, with its somewhat choppy movement and less-polished action sequences, seems to reflect the series' overall vibe: quirky, lighthearted, and not trying to be a visual masterpiece.

However, there’s no denying that some fans are disappointed by the lack of the fluid, jaw-dropping choreography that some anime are known for. With the rise of major studios and series pouring significant budgets into their animation, like Ufotable’s work on Demon Slayer, many fans have come to expect that level of visual excellence. It can be hard to accept anything less, especially when it's paired with action-packed scenes where animation could elevate the intensity.

The Truth Behind the Criticism

Despite the criticism, calling the animation bad is an oversimplification. While there are certainly moments where the animation seems stiff or rushed—particularly during the more intense fight sequences—the overall experience of Sakamoto Days is still engaging. The animation never detracts from the story, and in many ways, it adds to the charm of the show. The subtle visual gags and the quirky character reactions wouldn't hit as hard if the animation was too polished or serious.

It’s also worth noting that animation budgets are a real concern for production studios. "Sakamoto Days" isn’t backed by a massive production budget like some of its big-budget competitors, which naturally impacts the fluidity of animation. But this doesn’t mean that the studio cut corners—they simply had to find creative ways to make the animation work within their constraints.

What’s Important in Sakamoto Days?

At the end of the day, animation is just one part of what makes Sakamoto Days enjoyable. The core of the series lies in its characters, their interactions, and the overall tone. The story is an interesting mix of comedy, action, and heart, with Sakamoto's awkward attempts to balance his deadly skills with his new life as a husband and father. The pacing, humor, and character development are all solid, and these elements are often the key driving forces behind the success of an anime.

Sakamoto Days thrives because of its writing and character development, not just its animation. While the animation could be better, it doesn't overshadow the strength of the story and its lovable protagonist. Sometimes, the charm of an anime can lie in its imperfections, and Sakamoto Days certainly finds its own rhythm in that.

Conclusion: Is the Animation Really That Bad?

In short, no, the animation in Sakamoto Days is not bad. It may not have the breathtaking fluidity or intricate detail of some other modern anime, but it suits the show’s tone and its modest budget. If you’re coming into Sakamoto Days expecting a visual masterpiece, you might be disappointed. But if you can appreciate the humor, the charm of the characters, and the solid storytelling, you’ll find that the animation, while not perfect, doesn’t hinder the experience.

At the end of the day, Sakamoto Days is a quirky, fun, and heartwarming series that delivers an enjoyable ride from start to finish—even if the animation isn’t quite on par with the likes of other high-budget productions. Sometimes, a good story and lovable characters are all you really need.