If you’re new to the world of anime and manga, Bungo Stray Dogs is a series you won’t want to miss. This unique and engaging series features supernatural powers, complex characters, and intricate plotlines that make it a must-watch for any fan of the genre. In this beginner’s guide to Bungo Stray Dogs, we’ll take a closer look at what makes this series so special and give you everything you need to know to get started.
One of the key aspects of Bungo Stray Dogs is the supernatural powers, or “Gifts“, possessed by many of the characters. These Gifts are inspired by the works of famous literary authors and poets, and each character has a different ability based on their literary inspiration. Some examples include the ability to manipulate gravity, control fire, transform into a were-tiger, and summon a powerful demon. The Gifts play a significant role in the series, and they often drive the plot forward, making it a key aspect that should not be overlooked.
Beginner’s Guide to Bungo Stray Dogs: A Brief Overview of the Plot
Bungo Stray Dogs is a popular anime and manga series that follows the adventures of a group of detectives and their supernatural powers in modern-day Yokohama, Japan. Here’s a brief overview of the plot, broken down into several key subheadings for easy reading.
The Armed Detective Agency
The story of Bungo Stray Dogs centers around the Armed Detective Agency, a group of detectives with supernatural powers who take on cases that are too difficult or too dangerous for the police to handle. The agency’s members include Atsushi Nakajima, a former orphan with the ability to transform into a were-tiger; Osamu Dazai, a former member of a notorious criminal organization with the ability to cancel out other powers; and many others.
The Port Mafia
Opposing the Armed Detective Agency is the Port Mafia, a group of criminals with their own supernatural abilities. The Port Mafia is led by the ruthless and powerful Mori Ougai, and its members include Akutagawa Ryuunosuke, a cold-blooded killer with the ability to manipulate his coat into sharp blades, and many others.
The Guild
As the story progresses, the Armed Detective Agency and the Port Mafia find themselves facing a new threat: The Guild, a mysterious organization that seeks to control the world through their own supernatural powers. The Guild is led by Francis Scott Key Fitzgerald, an American author with the ability to manipulate illusions, and its members include many other famous writers and poets.
The Story Arcs
Bungo Stray Dogs, a captivating seinen manga, has been serialized since 2012. The story unfolds when Atsushi Nakajima, an orphan, is expelled from his orphanage. Let’s explore the arcs in both the manga and anime adaptations:
1. Bungo Stray Dogs Season 1 (2016): The initial season introduces us to the world of gifted individuals with supernatural abilities. We meet the Armed Detective Agency, a group that solves crimes, and the notorious Port Mafia. The season sets the stage for the unfolding mysteries.
2. Bungo Stray Dogs Season 2 (2016): Continuing the saga, this season delves deeper into the characters’ backgrounds, their abilities, and the intricate power struggles between the various factions. The season is divided into two arcs: The first arc, “Dark Era,” takes us back in time to explore the origins of the Port Mafia, while the second arc, “Cannibalism,” follows the conflict between the mafia and the detective agency.
3. Bungo Stray Dogs: Dead Apple (Movie, 2018): The movie takes the story to new heights, exploring a mysterious phenomenon known as the “Dead Apple.” Our protagonists face formidable challenges, and secrets are unveiled. The movie serves as a bridge between seasons 2 and 3.
4. Bungo Stray Dogs Season 3 (2019): The third season continues the gripping storyline, revealing more about the characters’ pasts, their abilities, and the ever-present tension between the detective agency and the mafia. The season is divided into two arcs: The first arc, “The Tower of God,” follows the agency’s investigation into a deadly virus, while the second arc, “The Guild,” introduces a new antagonist organization and their conflict with the detective agency.
5. Bungo Stray Dogs Wan: A spin-off anime that offers a lighter, comedic take on the characters. It’s a delightful addition for fans who enjoy humor and chibi-style animation.
6. Season 4 consists of three main arcs:
–Arc 1: “The Lone Swordsman and the Famous Detective” (Episodes 38-39): In this arc, we delve into events that took place several years before the main series. The story follows Yukichi Fukuzawa, a former military man, as he investigates a crime scene involving murder. Along the way, he meets the intelligent detective Ranpo Edogawa, whose brilliant deductive abilities surprise him. This arc explores Fukuzawa’s past and introduces us to the world of gifted individuals.
– Arc 2: “The Day Is a Dream, The Night Is Real” (Episode 40): This arc centers around Fukuzawa and Ranpo as they work together on a play that involves a faked death and mysterious events. Throughout the arc, Ranpo’s admiration for Fukuzawa grows.
– Arc 3: “The Secret Founding of the Detective Agency” (Episode 41): This arc sheds light on the origins of the Armed Detective Agency. We learn how the agency was established and witness pivotal moments in its formation.
Moving on to Season 5, we have the first arc, “Vampire Infection Outbreak”. This arc kicks off the season with a new threat related to vampires. The Armed Detective Agency faces a dire situation as they grapple with the outbreak and its consequences.
These arcs continue to weave together the intricate plotlines, character development, and supernatural elements that make Bungo Stray Dogs such an engaging series. Whether you’re a fan of mysteries, action, or unique abilities, there’s something captivating for everyone in this show!
The Themes
Bungo Stray Dogs explores several themes throughout its story, including morality, justice, and the consequences of power. The series challenges its characters to confront their own beliefs and motivations, and it often blurs the line between right and wrong.
Another essential aspect of the series is the complex and dynamic characters. Each character has a unique backstory and personality, and the series explores their individual struggles, motivations, and relationships with each other.
At the heart of the series is the relationship between the two main characters, Atsushi Nakajima and Osamu Dazai. Atsushi is a former orphan with a Gift that allows him to transform into a were-tiger, while Dazai is a former member of a notorious criminal organization with a Gift that allows him to cancel out other Gifts. The two characters form an unlikely partnership and work together to solve various cases and mysteries in the city. This partnership is one of the most interesting and dynamic aspects of the series.
Another aspect worth noting is the intricate and well-crafted plotlines. Each season of the anime and volume of the manga features a new arc with its own set of challenges and mysteries. The series is full of twists and turns that keep the audience engaged and guessing until the end. Additionally, the series explores themes such as morality, justice, and the consequences of power. These themes add an extra layer of depth to the story and make the series more than just a typical action anime.
The stunning animation and fight scenes are also a highlight of the series. The animation is top-notch, and the fight scenes are intense and exciting. The series also features a memorable cast of villains and supporting characters, each with their own unique Gifts and motivations.
Cast and their voice actors in Bungo Stray Dogs:
Here’s a list of the main cast and their voice actors in Bungo Stray Dogs:
– Atsushi Nakajima: voiced by Yuto Uemura (Japanese), Max Mittelman (English)
The main protagonist of the series. He is a member of the Armed Detective Agency and has the ability to turn into a white tiger.
– Osamu Dazai: voiced by Mamoru Miyano (Japanese), Kaiji Tang (English)
A member of the Armed Detective Agency and one of the main characters. He has the ability to cancel out any ability used against him.
– Doppo Kunikida: voiced by Yoshimasa Hosoya (Japanese), Patrick Seitz (English)
Another member of the Armed Detective Agency. He has the ability to create an invisible “ideal” space that can be used for various purposes.
– Ranpo Edogawa: voiced by Hiroshi Kamiya (Japanese), Lucien Dodge (English)
A gifted detective who often assists the Armed Detective Agency. He has incredible detective abilities.
– Yukichi Fukuzawa: voiced by Rikiya Koyama (Japanese), Jamieson Price (English)
The leader of the Armed Detective Agency. He has immense physical strength and the ability to control a white tiger.
– Akiko Yosano: voiced by Yu Shimamura (Japanese), Cristina Vee (English)
A doctor who works for the Armed Detective Agency. She has the ability to heal wounds by simply touching them.
– Kenji Miyazawa: voiced by Hiroyuki Kagura (Japanese), Brian Beacock (English)
A member of the Armed Detective Agency. He has the ability to communicate with animals.
– Ryuunosuke Akutagawa: voiced by Kensho Ono (Japanese), Micah Solusod (English)
A member of the Port Mafia and one of the main antagonists. He has the ability to control and manipulate his cloak like a living entity.
– Chuya Nakahara: voiced by Kisho Taniyama (Japanese), Johnathan Young (English)
Another member of the Port Mafia. He has the ability to manipulate gravity and uses his power to control the movements of his opponents.
Is Bungo Stray Dogs worth watching?
Absolutely! Bungo Stray Dogs is a thrilling anime series with captivating plotlines, well-developed characters, and unique supernatural abilities. The series follows the Armed Detective Agency and the Port Mafia as they navigate through various conflicts and mysteries. From action-packed fight scenes to clever detective work, Bungo Stray Dogs has something for everyone. The series also explores deeper themes such as mental health, trauma, and the importance of human connection. The production quality of the anime is top-notch, with stunning animation and a fantastic soundtrack. Overall, Bungo Stray Dogs is definitely worth watching and is a must-watch for any anime fan!
Where can I watch Bungo stray dogs?
Bungo Stray Dogs is available on various streaming platforms. You can watch the anime series on:
1. Crunchyroll – This is a popular streaming platform that features a wide range of anime shows, including Bungo Stray Dogs. You can watch the series with English subtitles or opt for the English dubbed version.
2. Funimation – This is another popular streaming platform that offers a broad selection of anime shows. You can watch Bungo Stray Dogs on Funimation, with both English subtitles and English dubbed versions available.
3. Netflix – In some regions, Bungo Stray Dogs is available on Netflix. However, availability may vary depending on your location.
4. Hulu – Hulu is a streaming platform that offers a selection of anime shows, including Bungo Stray Dogs. You can watch the series with English subtitles or English dubbed versions.
These are just a few of the streaming platforms where you can watch Bungo Stray Dogs. You can also check other anime streaming platforms or purchase the DVD/Blu-ray releases.
As of now, there has been no official confirmation from Studio Bones regarding the release of Bungo Stray Dogs Season 6. While Season 5 was confirmed shortly after Season 4, it appears that the anime has caught up to the manga, which currently has a total of 110 chapters. Season 5 has covered events from all these chapters, so it may be some time before we see the release of a new season. However, fans can still enjoy the existing seasons and delve into the intricate plotlines and unique abilities of the characters.
In conclusion, Bungo Stray Dogs is a series that is both unique and engaging. Its supernatural powers, complex characters, intricate plotlines, and stunning animation make it a must-watch for any fan of the genre. We hope that this beginner’s guide has given you a solid foundation for exploring the world of Bungo Stray Dogs, and that you’ll enjoy the series as much as we do.
