Hanma Baki: Son of Ogre (Baki Hanma) Review – Entertaining, Explosive, and a Bit Ridiculous

Hanma Baki: Son of Ogre (Baki Hanma) Review : Entertaining, Explosive, and a Bit Ridiculous

Baki Hanma's journey involves confronting numerous adversaries in his quest to match his father's unparalleled strength and combat skills. Yet, a fresh and unprecedented challenge awaits him. This latest test will propel Baki into uncharted territories he could never have envisioned. In a daring move to confront one of the planet's mightiest warriors, Baki takes a bold step—he orchestrates the kidnapping of the President of the United States. In exchange for the President's freedom, Baki makes an audacious demand: he insists on being incarcerated alongside his formidable opponent. Can Baki hold his own against an adversary who wields more influence than the prison's director? Or will this be the ultimate showdown where Baki finally meets his match?

Despite its availability across multiple platforms, Baki has remained somewhat of a hidden gem within the world of combat-oriented series, boasting a dedicated yet modest fanbase. TMS Entertainment's unwavering commitment to delivering the complete Baki franchise has led to the recent launch of "Hanma Baki: Son of Ogre" on Netflix, marking the third installment in this enduring saga. The burning question is whether "Hanma Baki: Son of Ogre" packs a punch in terms of entertainment value or if it's a series that might not be worth your time. Dive into our comprehensive review of "Hanma Baki: Son of Ogre" to find out!

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It's challenging not to appreciate the fervent combatant, Baki, and his return for this third installment undoubtedly brings a smile to our faces. Baki's evolution into a more mature man and warrior becomes evident in this third narrative.

Although Baki retains his somewhat impulsive fighting style, demonstrating little concern for his personal safety—he doesn't hesitate to employ his own face as a weapon—he relies on his work ethic and dedication as his redeeming qualities. In "Hanma Baki: Son of Ogre," also referred to as "Hanma Baki," we witness our protagonist willingly placing himself in hazardous situations, rising to the occasion through strategic and cunning tactics. As Baki faces off against his new adversary, Oliva Biscuit, he recognizes the formidable nature of his opponent and begins dissecting his combat techniques and strategies. Similarly, when Baki engages in combat with Jun Guevaru, who might seem unassuming but holds the #2 rank in the Arizona Prison, the encounter highlights the unexpected challenges Baki faces.

Sensational Impact

"Hanma Baki: Son of Ogre" delivers intense and brutal fighting scenes, making it one of the more ferocious combat anime series we've encountered at Honey's Anime. The visceral nature of the battles, wherein fighters endure facial blows and endure bodily destruction, adds to the excitement even during the more lighthearted skirmishes. Nonetheless, we find ourselves wishing for a greater number of battles to lend this third entry a more substantial length.

Unseen Brawls

Baki's initial opponents in "Baki Hanma" might not be who you'd expect. Instead of facing formidable adversaries like his father, who once brought down a dinosaur-like elephant, Baki's first encounters involve a middle schooler whom he playfully slaps on the buttocks, an invisible Iron Michael—a supposedly deceased world-renowned boxer—and an imperceptible giant praying mantis. Admittedly, these first three fights in "Baki Hanma" may appear eccentric to those unfamiliar with the series' distinctive flair, but even we acknowledge that these confrontations possess a quirky charm.

Underwhelming Final Foe

The anticipation surrounding Olivia's character in "Hanma Baki" initially paints him as an almost flawless martial warrior capable of potentially ending Baki's life. However, the eventual outcome falls somewhat short of expectations. Serving as the climactic battle, Baki's showdown with Olivia indeed showcases impressive martial arts sequences, yet the swift resolution leaves an impression akin to a stalemate. The scarcity of impactful opponents in this third installment is evident, and Olivia's portrayal ultimately left us somewhat disappointed with Baki's new array of adversaries