Watch Ninja Slayer

Ninja Slayer is a stylish, action-packed anime series that premiered on FUNimation in 2015, based on a light novel series written by Bradley Bond and Philip "Ninj@" Morzez. The show is set in a dystopian, cyberpunk world dominated by ninja warriors who engage in underground battles over control of the city. The series is a homage to classic '80s anime, with a blend of old-school and modern elements that creates a unique and exciting viewing experience.

The protagonist of the show is a man named Kenji Fujikido, a salaryman with a wife and children who becomes embroiled in the world of ninja warfare after his family is slaughtered by a group of assassins. The brutal experience triggers Kenji's inner Ninja Slayer, a powerful alter ego whose sole purpose is to exact revenge on the ninja responsible for his family's death. As the story unfolds, Kenji discovers a vast network of ninja clans and factions battling for dominance in the shadows, and is forced to confront his own past as he becomes embroiled in a complex web of alliances and rivalries.

One of the most striking aspects of Ninja Slayer is its visual style, which is heavily influenced by classic anime like Akira and Fist of the North Star. The character designs are bold and angular, with exaggerated physiques and dynamic movements that capture the intensity of the show's action scenes. The animation is also notable for its use of 2D art and digital effects to create a vivid, immersive world full of bright colors, neon lights, and ominous shadows. The show has a distinct retro-futuristic aesthetic that feels both nostalgic and fresh.

The action in Ninja Slayer is fast-paced, brutal, and full of surprises. The ninja battles are frequently staged in unexpected locations like decrepit industrial complexes, underground nightclubs, and abandoned warehouses. The combatants use a variety of weapons and techniques, from traditional samurai swords to high-tech gadgets like cybernetic arms and plasma guns. The fights are choreographed with a keen eye for kinetic energy, with characters leaping, flipping, and dodging around each other as they exchange blows. The show also features some spectacular set pieces, like a showdown in a crumbling skyscraper or a high-speed car chase through the city streets.

Despite its emphasis on action, Ninja Slayer also balances its drama with humor and satire. The show is full of tongue-in-cheek references to classic anime tropes and pop culture, as well as clever wordplay and visual gags. The characters are often exaggerated and eccentric, with over-the-top personalities and quirks that make them memorable. There's a sense of playful irreverence throughout the series that keeps the tone from becoming too heavy or self-serious.

Overall, Ninja Slayer is a thrilling and entertaining anime series that blends classic and modern elements in a unique and stylish way. The show's intense action and dystopian setting will appeal to fans of cyberpunk and martial arts anime, while its humor and satire add a layer of depth and complexity to the story. The series is a visual feast, with dynamic animation and bold character designs that capture the energy and excitement of the ninja battles. If you're looking for a show that combines old-school anime charm with modern production values, Ninja Slayer is definitely worth checking out.

Ninja Slayer is a series that ran for 1 seasons (26 episodes) between April 16, 2015 and on FUNimation