Fortune Arterial

Fortune Arterial is a captivating anime series from Kadokawa Pictures Inc. that first aired in 2010. Based on an adult visual novel game by August, this series belongs to the genres of romance, supernatural, and harem, with an engaging mix of school aspects, friendship, humor, romance, and mystery. Primarily set in a school environment, Fortune Arterial successfully captures the essence of high-school, particularly the dynamics between friends, classmates, club activities and the revelries of school festivals, albeit with an atypical supernatural twist.

The series kicks off with the introduction of the protagonist, Kohei Hasekura, who transfers to Shuchikan Academy on Tamatsu Island off-shore from mainland Japan. Having been moved around to several different schools throughout his life due to his parents' work, he has become used to being the “new student" and the intricacies of settling down in a new environment. However, his latest shift to this seemingly ordinary academy proves to be anything but normal. The island and the academy are not just like any other; they hide an incredible secret that is waiting to be discovered.

Within the academy, Kohei meets an assortments of vibrant characters, including the assertive student council vice-president, Iori Sendou, his kindhearted sister, Shiro Sendou, the charming yet mysterious twins Erika and Iori Sendo, and the perky student council secretary Kiriha Kuze. Each person is unique, capturing the quintessential diversity and eccentricities of any school environment, thereby adding layers to the narrative.

As the series unfolds, it becomes evident that the charismatic Sendo siblings, Erika and Iori, are actually vampires. Despite the initial horror one might feel towards being in close contact with vampires, these characters are paradoxically quite humane, struggling with their otherworldly identity while trying to maintain a semblance of normalcy. The portrayal of vampires in this anime is far from the typical villainous depiction, adding a poignant touch to the narrative.

The relationship dynamics in Fortune Arterial make it an engrossing watch. Romance is very much in the air. However, the series is about much more than just a love story. It incorporates elements of friendship and the different kinds of relationships formed within the walls of a school. The experiences, difficulties, bonds, and rivalries faced by the characters reflect on the quintessential high school experience, making it relatable to viewers.

Fortune Arterial also maintains a balanced and smooth mix of seriousness and happy-go-lucky strides. Apart from presenting the characters' associations with one another, the narrative beautifully intertwines the regular school life with disturbing and incongruous events, creating a captivating contrast between the supernatural and the ordinary. The story's arcs are fascinating, and the show's playful brand of humor and heartwarming moments maintain the momentum.

Suspense is a significant part of Fortune Arterial's appeal. As Kohei discovers the school and its secrets, the audience travels with him through this twisted journey where each revelation and mystery throws him further into the bewildering world he has unwittingly joined. This suspense makes the series an engaging watch, and the viewers would find themselves captivated to see what comes next.

In terms of art and music, Fortune Arterial doesn't disappoint. The anime has a vivid and colorful palette with meticulous attention to detail, immersing the viewer into its vibrant school setting, lush sceneries, and dynamic characters. The series' music heightens the emotions, playing effectively with your feelings during intense, romantic, or funny moments, enhancing the overall anime experience.

Overall, Fortune Arterial is a comprehensive package of engaging storytelling, fascinating characters, suspenseful plotline, beautiful animation, and fitting music. Its unique blend of supernatural with conventional school life offers a distinctive anime viewing experience. It is more than just a vampire story. It's a tale about friendship, love, self-discovery, youthful exuberance, and the delicate balance between the ordinary and the extraordinary. Every episode leaves the viewer longing for more, making it a must-watch for anime enthusiasts.