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KIZNAIVER is a science fiction anime television series produced by Trigger animation studio, directed by Hiroshi Kobayashi, and written by Mari Okada. The show was first aired in Japan on Tokyo Broadcasting System on April 9, 2016. The plot of the show revolves around the concept of teenagers who are connected emotionally, thereby having their pain distributed amongst each other. The show is set in Sugomori City, where the city government tests a program called the Kizuna System, and the series focuses on the seven teenagers who are chosen to take part in the experiment.

The protagonist of the series is Katsuhira Agata, voiced by Yuki Kaji, who is a seemingly emotionless and indifferent high school student. However, Katsuhira was bullied in the past and has since shut himself away from others. One day, he is kidnapped by a group of self-proclaimed "Pain Collectors," who have an interest in testing out the Kizuna System, which connects people emotionally so that they can share each other's pain. Katsuhira, along with six other teenagers, is chosen to participate in this experiment.

The other six teenagers include Chidori Takashiro, voiced by Hibiku Yamamura, a hot-headed and bossy girl who is Katsuhira's childhood friend, and Noriko Sonozaki, voiced by Misaki Kuno, who is the head of the "Pain Collectors" and acts as the primary antagonist of the series. The other Kiznaivers include the easy-going Tenga Hajime, voiced by Tomoaki Maeno, the reserved but observant Tsuguhito Yuta, voiced by Nobunaga Shimazaki, the intellectual and curious Niiyama Niko, voiced by Rina Satou, and the sweet and insecure Maki Honoka, voiced by Kana Hanazawa.

Throughout the series, the characters are forced to confront their own emotional issues and traumas, as well as work together to complete various missions assigned to them by the Kizuna System. As they share their pain, they also grow closer and develop bonds with each other, leading to some romantic tensions and alliances formed in the group.

The animation style of the show is colorful and unique, featuring a mix of realistic and stylized character designs, accompanied by a lively and energetic soundtrack. The show's themes focus on the interconnectedness of human emotions and the power of empathy, as well as touching on issues such as bullying, mental health, and social isolation.

KIZNAIVER received mixed reviews from critics and viewers alike, with some praising its unique concept and character development, while others criticized the uneven pacing and inconsistent plot. Despite this, the show gained a dedicated fanbase and was nominated for several awards, including Best Drama and Best Character Designs at the 3rd Crunchyroll Anime Awards.

In conclusion, KIZNAIVER is a thought-provoking and emotionally charged anime series that explores the depths of human empathy and connection through its unique concept and well-developed characters. While the show may not be for everyone, it offers a fresh take on the traditional coming-of-age genre and provides plenty of character-driven drama and action for those willing to dive into its intricacies.

KIZNAIVER is a series that ran for 1 seasons (12 episodes) between July 22, 2020 and on Tokyo Broadcasting System