Gintama': Enchousen

Aliens have invaded Edo-period Japan, but instead of a grim dystopian future, everyone is just trying to make a living. Animated by Sunrise in 2012, this thirteen-episode television installment throws viewers right back into the chaotic, anachronistic world where samurai swordsmen share the streets with extraterrestrial immigrants. The series thrives on its utter absurdity, blending top-tier parody with surprisingly heartfelt character moments. Viewers follow a carefree, sweet-toothed samurai and his odd-jobs business as they take on tasks ranging from dealing with local gangs to fighting off bizarre alien threats. While the comedy is completely off the rails, the show frequently shifts gears into high-octane action sequences that display fluid, impactful animation. Boasting an impressive score of 8.8, it stands as a prime example of the franchise's unique ability to balance laugh-out-loud humor with genuine stakes. It is an unpredictable ride that constantly breaks the fourth wall.