Name: Kaze no Stigma
Genre: Fantasy
Year: 2007
Rating: Enjoyable
The Kannagi Clan’s members are best known for their ability to control fire. These fire mages are considered the most powerful out of all the clans. Although born into the main branch of the Kannagi Clan, Kazuma is one who is unable to wield the power of fire. As a child he was defeated by Ayano and after great humiliation he was disowned and banished from the house of Kannagi. Although unable to master the art of fire magic Kazuma doesn’t give up. Four years later, though Ayano has inherited Enraiha a sword symbolic of the leader of the Kannagi Clan, Kazuma has returned with a new skill. Although not blessed with the ability to use fire Kazuma has become a skilled wind master. The Wind clan has always served the Kannagi clan by specialising in reconnaissance as they don’t hold the offensive power anymore. However Kazuma is an exception, by making a contract with the spirit of the wind Kazuma is able to fight on the same level as the fire mages. Kazuma is still bitter about his past experiences with the fire clan however he soon finds himself in the position of assisting Ayano in defending against the real enemy of their world.
I had pretty high expectations for this series and that is probably why I felt a little bit let down. I do enjoy the wind and fire effects as they do look quite cool, the action is quite good and the animation isn’t bad either. However the series didn’t really appeal to me plot wise. It has its moments like all other anime but I found it lacked a more complex plot. After viewing the first few episodes I found that it reminded me of Naruto. Defeating random enemies that pop up, trying to work out whats going on with clans, and a protagonist with a neglected and sad past. However Kazuma’s personality is very different from the typical shounen character. He is quite cold hearted in a sense though he does have a “soft” side. It’s not the best or most popular series this year but its still worth a watch over some other shows.
