How is this so underrated? The characters are very relatable, and each have an integral part in the story no matter how small their role is. The music is simple, but enhances each scene ( I especially liked the outro song, it’s so catchy). The cinematography is excellent. The friendship is so sincere and the hints of comedy are well placed.

The series introduces the game of go without any unnecessary info dumps, and kept me invested even though I had no idea what was going on. I could tangibly feel the passion the characters had for go, and it made me want to learn it myself.

The pacing is great. So much was pact into each episode, but it never felt tiring. After episode 26 the focus shifts towards Fang Xu and Xiao Yang, which allowed for more character development and commentary about the old and new generation of go. I enjoyed this section, but I definitely preferred the first two thirds of the show which more closely followed Shi Guan on his journey of discovering and wielding his love of go.

My main complaint would be with the ending. I wish we would’ve been able to have more closure with Chu Ying, but I did appreciate Shi Guang and Yu Liang coming full circle and becoming friends. So while the last few episodes could’ve been stronger, I’m satisfied with how the story left off.

All in all, “Hikaru no Go” was a surprisingly enjoyable and funny watch. If you love bromance and don’t mind a lack of romance, please give this a try!