On the eve of a new era, Kyoto was in chaos. Different factions were moving at cross-purposes, and with the clash of different ideals, many were resorting to violence to enforce their views. To bring back order to the streets of Kyoto, Shinsengumi – the supposed guardians of peace – were formed. A chosen group of hot blooded youth, on a mission to save Kyoto, and to prove their worth… This is a tale of proud young Samurai mercenaries, who lived and died by the sword, in a turbulent period of political upheaval. To them, a man is defined by the way he dies.

Upon first glance, we couldn’t help but roll our eyes at another Shinsengumi-themed anime. From Hakuoki to Touken Ranbu, it’s hard to really come up with an anime about all boys that will top this list. Then you remember there’s Gintama. Chiruran: Nibun no Ichi is more like Gintama in its stupid comedy and lack of seriousness, playing upon the characters of the Shinsengumi. It is an anime short that reminds us of Nobunaga no Shinobi in which they take something of historical significance and make a joke out of it, taking the seriousness out of it. The characters are hardly memorable so far and done in chibi style, much like Nobunaga no Shinobi, but not in a cute way. They are rather crudely done and the farthest thing imaginable from Hakuoki and Touken Ranbu. There is no plot thus far as it seems to be a slice of life anime and nothing of significance has happened. Upon watching the first three episodes, we have to say Chiruran is rather unappealing and doesn’t hold your attention well unless you want something silly and casual to watch.