Ashita no Joe is a anime that aired in the 1970's and is arguably one of the founders of sports anime as a whole. But calling this series just a sports anime would not be doing it justice. While yes the story does mainly focus around Joe's boxing career, intermixed with this is fantastic drama, superb character development, and absolutely gripping suspense.

The biggest selling point for this series has to be its characters and plot. A lot of shows have tried to make the arrogant asshole lead work but to no avail, but Joe is one of those rare exceptions. Joe's massive over confidence, seeming indifference, and his arrogant attitude just seem to work.

I constantly went between cheering him on as he fought to wanting to reach into the screen and smack some sense into him. Watching Joe grow is a wild ride, but well worth it. And the supporting characters are all well fleshed out too. Every character feels like they fit into the world with real problems, relationships, and goals.

Ashita no Joe is not a story where the main character experiences nothing but victory. Joe suffers humiliating defeats and struggles with real issues. Because of this there are some parts of the story that are frustrating for the viewer as Joe enters a slump. But at no point is a episode wasted. These bitter defeats Joe suffer make victory all the more sweet and we see Joe develop as a person and a boxer through these slumps.

The issues this anime suffers from are direct results of its age. While the animation and sound is certainly great for its time period, it just cant compare with modern standards. But while it may not be as smooth as modern anime, once you get used to it you will find the rough gritty art style fits the nature of the anime perfectly.

One problem I had with the series was the cartoonish design of the seven kids who act as Joe's entourage, including one little girl, Sachi. When Joe comes back from prison, after at least two years, the kids look exactly the same, not having aged or grown an inch at all. I'm sorry, but young children tend to look noticeably different after two years. I assume this was a conscious choice on the part of the animators, but the rationale for it eludes me.

Ashita no Joe is a absolute classic with a story as or even more epic than Rocky. If you have even a passing interest in sports anime I urge you to give this show a shot. If you can get past the dated art style you may just find a real gem.

It really is a shame how tiny attention people give it these days, although I suppose that's inevitable. Not to sound up myself, but most people tend to only watch series that started in the 00s and after. I hope that more people broaden their horizons and search for some old but gold series.