Hakkenden: The Eight Dogs of the East- Anime Review

I got this series from a Sentai sale and it just seemed interesting to me so, I got it. This anime is another series based on Nanso Satomi Hakkenden. It doesn't seem to be connected to the previous Hakkenden anime and just is its own story. Can this series be different enough to stand out?

Plot

5 years ago, the residents of Otsuka Village all died in a plague, all but 3 that is. Shino Inuzuka, Sosuke Inukawa and Hamaji survived but people are suspicious how they lived through such tragedy.

Now, the imperial Church is in search of Murasame a sacred sword that Shino processes in his body. Unwilling to give it up, Shino finds they kidnapped Hamaji, together, Shino and Sosuke travel to the Imperial City to save her. In order to do so however, they must find the other 6 dog warriors.

Review

Not only is this series different, but it's far better than the last Hakkenden series. The characters are fleshed out, the interesting fact all of them not only have the marks and the marbles but also all have been dead once and saved by a spirit or demon adds a new layer to the story. Shino is once again the main character, but this time is a 18yo in a body of a 13yo. I also love how the Murasame is a crow spirit that transforms into a sword. There are a lot more spirits in this series that are treated as if it's an every day occurrence. If you wanted an interesting twist on the Hakkenden legend with characters to love and a world that has its own magic then check it out.