Title of series: Shin Mazinger Z-hen
Anime, Manga, or Game: Anime
Description: In the near future, a mineral known as "Japanium" is discovered under Mt. Fuji. This ore is discovered to produce a powerful energy source known as "Photon Energy". Dr. Juzo Kabuto and his associates have begun researching Photon Energy, planning to use it as a solution to the energy crisis plaguing the earth, when the nefarious Dr. Hell and his associate, Baron Ashura attack his lab. Along with this, the mysterious "Kurogane House" also has begun to become intwined with the affairs of these two parties. During all of this, Juzo's grandchildren, Kouji and Shiro, encounter one of Baron Ashura's robots on its way to attack Dr. Kabuto's mansion, where he has begun work on his greatest invention. Dr. Kabuto, seeing the danger at hand, sends out the Pilder to Kouji, allowing him to combine with the giant robot, Mazinger Z, to fight against Dr. Hell's forces.
Personal opinion: A great new retelling/new story of the Original Mazinger Z. Great plot, great music, great character design. Great Everything.
Personal rating (from 1 to 5): 5
Title of series: Basquash!
Anime, Manga, or Game: Anime
Description: The story takes place in the world of "Earth Dash", an alternate, futuristic version of Earth where human society split between the far more advanced lunar society and that of the planet's surface. A popular sport is BFB (Big Foot Basketball), where players ride mecha called "Big Foot" and play basketball in a giant arena. In the city of Rolling Town, Dan JD and his companions take the sport to the streets, rename it "Basquash", and then embark on a journey to overcome their past hardships and make their dreams come true.
Personal opinion: This show is absolutely crazy, Basketball playing Car headed Robots, Over the top hotblooded yelling, a man named Iceman Hottie. This is one show you have to see to believe. By the director of the Macross franchise.
Personal rating (from 1 to 5): 4