Name: Peace Maker Kurogane
Genre: Action
Year: 2003
Rating: Recommended
Set in the chaotic Edo Era (1603-1868) before the Meiji Restoration Tetsunosuke a young buy with great will power joins the Shinsengumi to avenge his parents. His desire to become stronger motivates him through hard training and allows him to endure his dark past. He is given the opportunity to join the Shinsengumi given that he is able to display talent against Okita Souji. Although being knocked down repeatedly Tetsunosuke perseveres and manages to earn the admiration on Kondou Isamu. However the vice captain Hijikata Toshizou is against the idea of vengeance and refuses Tetsunosuke’s membership. Although being persistent Hijikata in the end allows Tetsunosuke to join after seeing the courage he possesses.
This series is based on true characters that existed in the Japanese Edo Era. Having allot of historical background is a bonus in this series. Although Tetsunosuke’s past is left unclear even until the end you are still given hints along the way. The series isn’t big on action but it makes up for it with its characters and story events. Its quite enjoyable watching the main character struggle with battles. Unlike many other serials out there that have the main character saving the day and always overpowering the enemy, Tetsunosuke is an exception. Tetsunosuke struggles with his past and is unable to help his friends for most of the series. Although he does finally get a piece of the action at the end it isn’t much. If your looking for action Samurai Champloo is more worth your time but if you’ve already seen all the great samurai anime serials out there and still want more this is probably your next best bet.
