Synopsis
Gintama° (often referred to as Gintama Season 4) is widely celebrated as the definitive turning point in the long-running series. Known for its seamless blend of comedy, action, and heartfelt storytelling, this season goes beyond being a simple continuation—it becomes a full-fledged emotional rollercoaster that defines why Gintama holds a special place in anime history. While the earlier arcs were largely episodic with parody-driven humor, Gintama° elevates the narrative by combining its signature comedy with dramatic arcs that shake the very foundations of its universe.
The story continues to follow Gintoki Sakata, a former samurai turned freelancer, along with his companions Shinpachi Shimura and Kagura. Together, they form Yorozuya, an odd-jobs trio that takes on everything from mundane household chores to outrageous alien-related requests. On the surface, this may sound like lighthearted fun—and indeed, many episodes still overflow with satirical humor, meta-jokes, and clever parodies of other anime and pop culture. However, Gintama° stands out because it balances this comedy with some of the most gripping, serious arcs in the series.
Among the most notable storylines is the Shogun Assassination Arc, which thrusts viewers into political turmoil and forces characters to confront their deepest loyalties. Here, the Yorozuya find themselves in the middle of a deadly conflict involving the Shogun, the Shinsengumi, and powerful underground forces. This arc doesn’t just provide spectacular action; it also highlights the weight of Gintoki’s past and his connections to former comrades like Katsura and Takasugi. The seamless transition from lighthearted comedy to high-stakes drama is one of the main reasons fans consider Gintama° a masterpiece.
The season doesn’t stop there—it continues with the Farewell, Shinsengumi Arc, where beloved characters face life-changing choices. Emotional stakes are raised as the Shinsengumi are forced into exile, tearing apart the bonds that have carried them through countless battles. The gravity of this arc cements Gintama° as more than just a comedy anime; it’s a layered narrative that explores friendship, sacrifice, and the harsh realities of a world under oppressive rule. These storylines add depth and permanence to the series’ universe, making viewers realize that even in a parody-filled world, actions have consequences.
By the end of Gintama°, fans are left with a series that feels both complete and open-ended. It perfectly embodies the duality of laughter and tears—one episode can leave you laughing at ridiculous slapstick humor, while the next brings you to the verge of tears with heartbreaking sacrifices. This contrast is precisely what makes Gintama° a one-of-a-kind experience in anime. It is not simply entertainment; it’s a story about resilience, loyalty, and the ability to find humor even in the darkest times.
Pros and Cons of Gintama°
Pros
-
Seamless Balance of Comedy and Drama
One of the greatest strengths of Gintama° is its ability to switch effortlessly between lighthearted parody and emotionally intense storytelling. The transition between comedic filler and serious arcs like the Shogun Assassination is handled masterfully, ensuring that the humor never undermines the gravity of the drama. -
Deeply Emotional Story Arcs
Unlike earlier seasons that leaned heavily on comedy, Gintama° delivers high-stakes, emotionally resonant arcs. Viewers get to witness shocking betrayals, heartfelt sacrifices, and character growth that elevates the story beyond its comedic roots. This layered narrative is one of the reasons fans often rank Gintama° among the best anime seasons of all time. -
Strong Character Development
Gintoki, Kagura, and Shinpachi each receive meaningful development, while supporting characters such as Katsura, Takasugi, and the Shinsengumi gain more depth than ever before. The emotional weight of these developments makes the arcs unforgettable, as viewers witness long-running character arcs reach their climactic turning points. -
High-Quality Animation and Direction
Sunrise, the studio behind the series, gave Gintama° noticeably polished animation. Fight sequences are dynamic and visually striking, whether it’s Gintoki clashing swords with formidable foes or large-scale battles featuring the Shinsengumi. The crisp direction and emotional pacing elevate the viewing experience. -
Cultural and Meta-Humor at Its Best
For fans who love parody, Gintama° continues to deliver. The meta-humor, satirical jabs at other anime, and fourth-wall breaks remain sharp and relevant. This kind of comedy not only keeps viewers entertained but also makes the series timeless, as the jokes resonate even years after release.
Cons
-
Steep Entry Point for Newcomers
While Gintama° is brilliant, it heavily relies on viewers’ familiarity with earlier seasons. Newcomers jumping in here may find themselves confused by ongoing relationships, character motivations, and inside jokes. -
Tonal Shifts Can Be Jarring
Although the mix of comedy and drama is a strength, the abrupt transitions can sometimes feel disorienting. An emotionally heavy arc might be followed by absurd comedy, which may break immersion for certain viewers. -
Length and Pacing Issues
At over 50 episodes, Gintama° can feel overwhelming. Some episodes are purely comedic fillers, which, while fun, may feel like distractions during intense story arcs for viewers who prefer a more focused narrative. -
Niche Humor
Much of the comedy relies on Japanese cultural references, puns, and anime parodies. While hilarious for seasoned anime fans, international audiences or casual viewers may miss some of the nuance, making certain jokes fall flat. -
Emotional Arcs Require Patience
The payoff of Gintama°’s dramatic arcs is huge, but it requires viewers to stick through slower episodes. For those who aren’t invested in the characters yet, the heavy drama might not land as strongly.
Legal Places to Watch Gintama°
For anime fans eager to experience the emotional rollercoaster of Gintama°, there are several reputable platforms where the series is officially available. Watching through legal channels not only ensures the best video quality and subtitles but also supports the creators who brought this masterpiece to life.
-
Crunchyroll
Crunchyroll is one of the most popular platforms for streaming Gintama° and other anime titles. Known for its vast catalog, Crunchyroll provides:
- Full HD streaming with professional subtitles.
- Simulcast releases for other ongoing anime.
- Both free (ad-supported) and premium (ad-free, offline viewing, higher resolution) options.
For fans who want easy access and community features like episode discussions and reviews, Crunchyroll is often the go-to platform.
-
Hulu
Hulu offers Gintama° as part of its diverse entertainment catalog. While not strictly anime-focused, Hulu is a great option for viewers in regions where it’s available. Benefits include:
- Dual availability of subbed and dubbed versions (where applicable).
- Affordable monthly subscription that also includes TV shows, movies, and original content.
- Accessibility across smart TVs, mobile apps, and game consoles.
Hulu is especially appealing to those who want to mix anime with a broader entertainment library.
-
Funimation (Now Part of Crunchyroll)
Funimation, although now largely merged into Crunchyroll, still serves as a reliable source for anime streaming in certain regions. Gintama° is part of its library, particularly for fans who prefer dubbed anime. Key features include:
- Extensive library of English-dubbed anime.
- High-quality playback with customizable subtitle options.
- Exclusive extras for some anime titles.
Funimation is ideal for viewers who want a dubbed experience without sacrificing quality.
-
Netflix (Regional Availability)
Depending on your location, Netflix may carry Gintama°. While availability varies across regions, Netflix remains one of the most user-friendly platforms. Advantages include:
- Top-notch streaming technology with smooth playback.
- Download options for offline viewing.
- Multiple subtitle and language support depending on the region.
Netflix is a convenient choice for casual viewers who already subscribe for other entertainment and want to dive into Gintama° without switching platforms.
Episode Guide
| Number | Episode Title (English) | Date |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | You can never Pause at the Perfect Time | Apr 8, 2015 |
| 2 | Even a Matsui Stick Can't Handle Some Kinds of Dirt | Apr 15, 2015 |
| 3 | An Inspector's Love begins with an Inspection | Apr 22, 2015 |
| 4 | Forget Dates, Remember People / You Can't Hide Your Porn Mags but You Can't Hide Your *** | Apr 29, 2015 |
| 5 | A Mirror Provides a Frozen Reflection of Both Your Beautiful and Ugly Sides / Nobody Likes the Photo on Their License | May 6, 2015 |
| 6 | Arriving Late to a Reunion Makes it Hard to Enter | May 13, 2015 |
| 7 | A Reunion Also Brings to the Surface Things You Don't Want to Remember | May 20, 2015 |
| 8 | When Compared to Time in the Heavens, Fifty Years of Human Life Resembles Naught but Dreams and Lottery Tickets | May 27, 2015 |
| 9 | Guys with Big Nostrils Also Have Big Imaginations / You Never Accept a New Sentai Series at the Start, but by the Final Episode, You Don't Want It to End | Jun 3, 2015 |
| 10 | 9 + 1 = Yagyu Jyubei | Jun 10, 2015 |
| 11 | Calories Come Back to Bite You Just When You've Forgotten About Them | Jun 17, 2015 |
| 12 | 10 - 1 = | Jun 24, 2015 |
| 13 | All Mothers Pack Too Much Food Into a Lunch Box and Ruin the Shape | Jul 1, 2015 |
| 14 | The Reaper by Day and the Reaper by Night | Jul 8, 2015 |
| 15 | Human or Demon? | Jul 15, 2015 |
| 16 | Farewell, Reaper | Jul 22, 2015 |
| 17 | A Phoenix Rises from the Ashes Over and Over | Jul 29, 2015 |
| 18 | Amen | Aug 5, 2015 |
| 19 | Being a Leader Is Tough | Aug 12, 2015 |
| 20 | Love Is a Roach Motel | Aug 19, 2015 |
| 21 | A Sizzle Summer | Aug 26, 2015 |
| 22 | I'm the Mayo Guy, and He's the Sweet Tooth | Sep 2, 2015 |
| 23 | I'm a Failure as a Leader, and He's Also a Failure as a Leader | Sep 9, 2015 |
| 24 | I'm Odd Jobs, and He's Shinsengumi | Sep 16, 2015 |
| 25 | Always Leave Enough Room for Fifty Million in Your Bag | Sep 23, 2015 |
| 26 | Always Leave Enough Room for Pebbles in Your Bag | Sep 30, 2015 |
| 27 | Style Goes Out of Fashion the Moment It's Put Into Words / There Are Two Types of People In This World: Those Who Yell Out Their Attack Names, and Those Who Don't | Oct 7, 2015 |
| 28 | The Two Apes | Oct 14, 2015 |
| 29 | Afros of Life and Death | Oct 21, 2015 |
| 30 | Afuro and Wolfro | Oct 28, 2015 |
| 31 | Take the Initial Premise Lightly, and It'll Cost You | Nov 4, 2015 |
| 32 | Keep Your Farewells Short | Nov 11, 2015 |
| 33 | One Editor Is Enough / The G-Pen Is Capricious, and the Maru Pen Is Stubborn | Nov 18, 2015 |
| 34 | Strike When the Sword and Overlord are Hot / Oil Rain | Nov 25, 2015 |
| 35 | Shogun of Light and Shadow | Dec 2, 2015 |
| 36 | Ninja Village | Dec 9, 2015 |
| 37 | Ninja Soul | Dec 16, 2015 |
| 38 | And Then There Were Five | Dec 23, 2015 |
| 39 | Those Who Protect Against All Odds | Jan 6, 2016 |
| 40 | Sworn Enemy | Jan 13, 2016 |
| 41 | The Crows Caw After The Battle Ends | Jan 20, 2016 |
| 42 | Farewell, Buddy | Jan 27, 2016 |
| 43 | The Day the Demon Cried | Feb 3, 2016 |
| 44 | Heroes Always Arrive Fashionably Late | Feb 10, 2016 |
| 45 | Lost and Found | Feb 17, 2016 |
| 46 | Prison Break / Essay Manga Are Easy to Animate | Feb 24, 2016 |
| 47 | Stray Dogs | Mar 2, 2016 |
| 48 | Undelivered Mail | Mar 9, 2016 |
| 49 | Karma | Mar 16, 2016 |
| 50 | Nobume | Mar 23, 2016 |
| 51 | Farewell Shinsengumi | Mar 30, 2016 |
Reasons Why You Should Watch Gintama°
-
Perfect Balance of Comedy and Drama
Few anime can transition seamlessly between gut-busting comedy and heart-wrenching drama the way Gintama° does. One episode may parody popular anime tropes, while the next dives into political conspiracies and tragic battles. This tonal balance is a rare feat, making it a unique experience in the anime landscape. -
Deep, Character-Driven Storytelling
Although Gintama° is filled with slapstick humor, its strength lies in its characters. Whether it’s Gintoki’s haunted past, Kagura’s struggle with her Yato heritage, or Hijikata’s loyalty to the Shinsengumi, each character arc is layered with emotional depth. This makes viewers care deeply when the stakes rise. -
Epic Arcs That Redefine Shonen Action
This season features some of the most legendary arcs in anime history, including the Shogun Assassination Arc and the Farewell, Shinsengumi Arc. The battles are not only visually spectacular but also emotionally charged, leaving lasting impressions long after the episodes end. -
Clever Parody and Satire
Gintama° is famous for poking fun at anime clichés, Japanese pop culture, and even its own studio. This self-awareness keeps the show fresh, hilarious, and endlessly entertaining. Fans who enjoy witty satire will find endless gems throughout the episodes. -
Stunning Animation and Fight Sequences
With upgraded visuals compared to earlier seasons, Gintama° delivers beautifully animated fight scenes that rival the best action anime. The fluid choreography and striking cinematography make every battle feel cinematic and impactful. -
Strong Themes of Friendship and Loyalty
At its heart, Gintama° is about bonds—between friends, comrades, and rivals. The Yorozuya’s unwavering loyalty to each other, the Shinsengumi’s brotherhood, and even the tragic ties between Gintoki and Takasugi emphasize the importance of human connection amidst chaos. -
A Satisfying Blend of Episodic Fun and Long-Term Plot
Unlike many anime that stick to a single format, Gintama° blends episodic comedy with overarching story arcs. Viewers can enjoy lighthearted filler episodes without losing track of the larger narrative, making it suitable for both casual and dedicated viewing. -
Cultural and Historical Layers
Although set in an alternate-history Edo where aliens coexist with samurai, Gintama° is filled with clever nods to Japanese history, culture, and even politics. This depth not only entertains but also educates, offering insights into societal themes wrapped in parody and action.
My Viewing Experience
Watching Gintama° was nothing short of exhilarating. From the very first episodes, I was captivated by the sheer unpredictability of the show. One moment, I was laughing so hard at its outrageous parodies and absurd scenarios, and the next, I was holding my breath during the intense battles of the Shogun Assassination Arc. This constant shifting between comedy, drama, and action made my viewing experience feel like an emotional rollercoaster — in the best way possible.
What impressed me most was the balance between humor and heartfelt storytelling. The Yorozuya trio—Gintoki, Kagura, and Shinpachi—are not just comedic relief characters but deeply human figures whose struggles and growth felt real. Episodes that started with lighthearted jokes often transitioned into powerful reflections on loss, honor, and loyalty, leaving me emotionally invested. Few anime can juggle such extremes without losing coherence, yet Gintama° executes this flawlessly.
From a production standpoint, the animation quality truly stood out. The fight sequences, particularly those in the Farewell, Shinsengumi Arc, were breathtaking, with fluid choreography and emotional intensity that rivaled top-tier shonen anime. The soundtrack elevated the experience even further, with insert songs and battle themes that perfectly matched the mood.
Overall, I would confidently give Gintama° a 9.6/10 rating, which falls into the “Very Satisfied – Highly Recommended!” category. It’s not just an anime that entertains; it’s one that lingers in your thoughts long after you finish watching. For me, this season reaffirmed why Gintama is often considered a masterpiece and why it deserves a permanent spot on any anime fan’s watchlist.
Fan Reviews from Around the World
"Gintama° is a perfect blend of Japanese comedy and emotional storytelling. The Shogun Assassination Arc gave me chills—every fight felt like it carried the weight of history. Definitely one of the best anime I’ve ever watched."Lucas Meyer – Germany
"I laughed so much that my family thought I’d lost it! But then the serious arcs hit, and I couldn’t stop crying. The emotional rollercoaster is real. Gintama° deserves its legendary reputation."Isabella Torres – Argentina
"The way this season balances parody with jaw-dropping action is incredible. The Yorozuya trio are hilarious but also some of the most relatable characters I’ve seen in anime. Truly unforgettable."Ethan Parker – United States
"As someone who usually prefers short anime, I didn’t expect to get hooked. But Gintama° kept surprising me every episode. It’s witty, heartfelt, and visually stunning."Sofia Romano – Italy
"The battles were among the best I’ve seen in shonen anime. At the same time, the comedy and satire made it stand out from the usual formula. Gintama° is a must-watch for anyone who loves originality."Daniel Novak – Poland
"I grew up watching anime with lots of action, but Gintama° offered something new: comedy that doesn’t feel forced and drama that genuinely hurts. It’s rare to find such balance."Maria Delgado – Mexico
"The Farewell, Shinsengumi Arc was heartbreaking, and the animation quality blew me away. I haven’t been this emotionally invested in an anime since Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood. Brilliant work."Oliver Clarke – United Kingdom
"What I love most is how it makes fun of everything—even itself—without losing emotional depth. Gintoki’s story touched me deeply. I’ll never forget this season."Ana Carvalho – Brazil