An Anime Within Another Anime, Taking Place During an Anime, That's Gintama Anime

When we start talking about Gintama, it’s hard to escape that feeling of "Why is this anime so out of the box?" For those who have watched it, this question is almost a compliment, but for those who haven't, Gintama is an experience that definitely doesn’t go unnoticed. The anime is a crazy mix of everything action, comedy, parody, and even well-placed drama. And if you think this description sounds generic, it’s because Gintama goes far beyond typical standards.

Let’s start with the basics: Gintama is set in an alternate Japan where aliens, called Amanto, invaded the country during the Edo period and basically put the samurai out of business. But instead of being a historical drama full of honor codes, it’s a show packed with jokes and absurd situations, led by the famous samurai Gintoki Sakata, who seems not to care about anything but has a sense of justice that comes out at the most unexpected moments. Now, speaking of Gintama’s humor style it’s an anime that isn’t afraid to be bizarre. You never know what to expect from each episode one day, they’re facing a serious alien threat, and the next, they’re discussing the "nobility" of constipation struggles. It’s a series that enjoys playing with its own conventions, mocks clichés, and breaks the fourth wall constantly. It’s that kind of humor that can make fun of itself while still telling an interesting story.

And it’s impossible to talk about this anime without bringing up One Punch Man. Fans who enjoy the absurd humor of One Punch Man, with Saitama taking out everyone with a single punch, will find equally bold humor in Gintama, but with a different twist. While One Punch Man plays with superhero themes, Gintama pokes fun at just about anything. Seriously, the humor in this anime knows no bounds. They’ve parodied other anime, manga, TV shows, and even Japanese cultural events. Nothing is too sacred for Gintama to make fun of.

What also makes Gintama stand out, and something I particularly love, is the sheer amount of cultural references and inside jokes it uses. If you have a decent grasp of Japanese culture, the humor becomes even more interesting. But even if you don’t, the way the anime delivers its jokes helps you get the essence of them.