As a reward to you guys since this world reached 5,000 views, I allowed you guys to vote for my next review. However, since I ended up with a tie between Log Horizon and Space Dandy, I flipped a coin and ended up with Log Horizon. However, you can be assured that Space Dandy has come near the top of my to-review list.
Also, please note that this is only a review for the first season, as I have not finished the second season yet.
Plot Summary
When the MMORPG Elder Tale releases its twelfth expansion pack, thirty thousand players suddenly find themselves inside the game, taking the appearance of their virtual avatars. Shiroe, Naotsugu and Akatsuki decide to create a team and figure out this strange new world that they must now build their lives in.
Story
The plot of Log Horizon seems to be built around the idea of creating a buildup to to an event near the end of each arc. While it is often entertaining enough, at times the buildup can be slow and boring. However, when that moment strikes, it gets insanely exciting to see the awesomeness that all those slow moments were building up to.
8.7
Characters
The great thing about Log Horizon's characters is that they all seem real. They each have their complex, 3-dimensional, individual personalities. This makes them all a lot more interesting and likable. The interactions between the characters also seem to have a sense of reality to it, rather than ever feeling forced or unnatural.
While some characters don't get much development, there are some that are developed quite well.
9.3
Animation
While the Log Horizon's animation is solid, it does very little to stand out. The action scenes are more focused on strategy rather than actual action, which, while being a plus in certain aspects, doesn't help the ability for the animation to shine the way it could.
That being said, the colours designs are chosen well. The character designs are also incredible.
7.6
Music
Both the opening and ending are animated well. The songs themselves are catchy and energetic, and they bring the right sort of spirit to the show.
The background tracks are also great. A lot of the music could be listened to on their own fine, and fit in well with the world of Elder Tale.
9.2
Overall
Putting Log Horizon as one of my favorite anime isn't a mistake. It's incredible in the areas of characters and music, and while there are faults in the story and animation, it isn't enough to really bog it down. Though it may seem slow at points, continue watching and you may find yourself with a delightful anime.
Full Moon
8.7
Recommendations
Death Note
If you're looking for another show utilizing strategy and mind games, this one may fulfill your desires.
Fullmetal Alchemist
Though the premises are quite different, if you're looking for another show with a well-developed world and well-developed characters, this one's for you.
Other
My friend was talking about how much he liked Sword Art Online. I told him Log Horizon was better. He didn't believe me. Then, after much nagging on my part, he watched it. ...he agrees that Log Horizon is better.
...Seriously, why would someone pick Sword Art Online over this? Sure, the animation's better, but everything else is just worse...
And lastly... *ahem*
*sings* DATABASE! DATABASE! JUST LIVING IN THE DATABASE, WO-AH!
