This is an anime about gambling in mahjong that takes some serious guts and insanity to win. Another brilliant series by Fukumoto about gambling, winning, high stakes, and a life/death situation.

The story follows Akagi Shigeru, a mature looking 13 year old, who has just escaped from a game of chicken on a rainy night while being tailed by the cops. He busts into a room where 4 guys, including some from the yakuza, are in the middle of a game of mahjong. Nangou who is losing quite a large sum lets Akagi take his place and thus the mahjong legend begins.

For viewers who have no knowledge about mahjong, it is totally acceptable because Fukumoto makes sure that all things are explained. This is where the dialogue becomes very important. it may be lengthy at times but I advise that you don't skip too much. Despite the lack of physical action in this anime, Fukumoto uses metaphors to add entertainment as well as explain the situation. He also does an excellent job in creating a tense atmosphere that leaves viewers asking for the next episode.

The animation is fluid but the artwork may be a bit bizarre for the first time. The character designs are surprisingly blocky but I personally don't find it distracting. In a way, it makes each character quite distinguishable with their characteristics. Character development is good. You may find that Akagi is insane and cold but you can't help but like this guy. He's a genius. (show less)