Disclaimer: This is a SPOILER-FREE review of Hyperdimension Neptunia's 2013 anime adaptation.. Rather than a review, this is meant to serve as an elongated personal impression. I bring up very subjective points, however, I hope you enjoy reading this nonetheless.

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Hyperdimension Neptunia’s anime adaptation is generally regarded as a "for the fans" anime. While this may be true, the anime adaptation can bring a decent amount of enjoyment for newcomers. Its story isn't complex by any means; however, that does not hinder its enjoyment factor. Hyperdimension Neptunia's anime may not fare well with the big shots of anime, but it truly is a gem for those who enjoy its niche. It may not be the best game-to-anime adaptation, but it most certainly is not the worst.

The Neptunia games are known for having a digestible plot, and the anime adaptation is no different. Its story is easy enough to grasp without prior knowledge of the series. Albeit so, the show may still require information from its source material. In terms of being a standalone product, Neptunia's anime adaptation provides a minuscule amount of knowledge. The exposition is just enough for viewers to infer how the world of Gamindustri operates. Even with this small amount of knowledge, the show manages to stand on its own. Rather than directly adapting the source material, Hyperdimension Neptunia's anime adaptation adapts concepts. It would seem absurd to adapt three video games into one twelve-episode anime, and, to a degree, that is true. As it only adapts major elements from the trilogy, it surprisingly works. Sure, some parts of the show were weaker than others; but, it still manages to stay entertaining through and through. Though, for the sole reason of seeing their beloved characters, fans of the original series may enjoy this over newcomers. Speaking of characters, Hyperdimension Neptunia's characters are mostly pleasant.

In the same manner as the original games, Neptunia's characters are easily distinguishable and unique to each other. Personally, I find the character designs charming. In the anime adaptation, these characters do not have much of an introduction. Even so, the audience will easily be able to differentiate and understand their charms. Most of these characters fall under a certain character archetype.

As Neptunia is a meta series, there is a plethora of popular video game and animanga references. Throughout the series, I constantly found myself finding a massive amount of references to other works. Actively watching the show and understanding the many hidden references is rewarding. Considering the primary cast are personifications of major video game consoles, it was bound to have "easter eggs." Some of these references are glaringly obvious, while others are subtle.

By 2013 standards, Hyperdimension Neptunia's animation is just decent. However, I can't say the same about today's standards. For today's standards, its animation is evidently subpar. Throughout the entirety of the show, there are rarely any moments that stand out as good animation. Furthermore, the repetition of scenes for evidence gets bothersome at some moments. For instance, if something dramatic happens, the scene will repeat itself three times or so. While it may be on occasion, the fact that it happens throughout the series more than once can be seen as irritating. In some scenes, the animation can be similar to the studio Shaft's signature style.

While the Neptunia series is known for having bits of lewd fanservice, the adaptation steps it up. It's not as lewd as ecchi series such as High School DxD or To LOVE-Ru, but it is lewder than the source material. By no means is this entirely bad; however, it does feel strange and out of place coming from the original games.

Hyperdimension Neptunia's anime adaptation's soundtrack is cheerful and welcoming. Some of these tracks emphasized the playfulness of the series and brought life to anime Gaminudstri. On occasion, the anime would play songs from the games. For anime-only viewers, these songs most likely will not stand out. However, the inclusion of those songs can be interpreted as fanservice for players. The opening sequence is wonderful; it was memorable and catchy. For me, it had a strange hint of nostalgia. As for the ending sequence, it is my favorite anime ending sequence of all time. Personally, it always puts me in a good mood.

As someone who watches anime almost exclusively in Japanese audio, the English dub is spectacular. No characters lose their charm, and the voice actors' performances are massively entertaining. Personally, I'd say that the English dub is on par with the original.

To sum it up, Hyperdimension Neptunia's 2013 anime adaptation can provide a decent amount of enjoyment to newcomers. While it may only be decent for newcomers, it is a welcomed treat for fans of the source material. It has a digestible and straightforward plot, delightful characters, video game and anime references, and charming music. Although it may contain some negative aspects, the adaptation still provides entertainment. As a massive fan of the series, I give it a:

9/10, kuma!

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