Higurashi: When They Cry: A Psychological Horror Anime You Should Watch!
Studio Deen's adaptation of Ryukishi07's Visual Novel series, Higurashi no Naku Koro ni, is often overlooked, making this an underrated Anime. This blend of mystery anime and horror anime offers something unique for viewers, along with chilling moments of Psychological Horror. The series uses storytelling methods that give a special and multi-layered journey that isn't typical of your standard anime.
How Can You Understand the Story?
Higurashi: When They Cry has an unorthodox structure. It's often referred to as "question arcs" which set the stage for mysteries, and "answer arcs," that unravel what those mysteries are. In between, you might see a blend of Time Loops, as the characters might end up repeating parts of the story, as well as dimensional jumps that alter the course of the story.
Is there a Connection to Other Anime Shows?
While the show focuses on Hinamizawa and Hinamizawa Syndrome, it's linked to an even larger storyline that ties it into Umineko no Naku Koro Ni, another visual novel and Anime show called When the Seagulls Cry! In Umineko, a witch known as Frederica Bernkastel has a powerful presence. This ties into the events in Higurashi where a new, almost more ominous side of Furude Rika is revealed in parts of the series, giving the audience a small look at how the two storylines connect.
What Kind of Supernatural Powers are There in Higurashi?
You'll find all kinds of unsettling twists! The characters have moments of extreme supernatural powers as a result of Hinamizawa Syndrome, giving viewers a look into a bizarre reality.
What is the Main Plot?
The story focuses on a young man, Maebara Keiichi, who moves to Hinamizawa to learn the origins of a brutal tragedy that affected the town. But this isn't just your average Horror show! It eventually gets revealed that Furude Rika, who initially appears as a schoolmate, is actually a much larger and more pivotal main protagOnist. This show is unlike others that feature a single main protagonist and Rika's actions in the show bring it together as one giant puzzle to piece together.
Where Can I Find More Information About the Higurashi Anime?
There's a lot more to discover. It's possible you could find detailed information for other works by Ryukishi07! For instance, a recent update mentions how characters and events in Higurashi: Gou, Higurashi: Sotsu, and Ciconia: When They Cry make more appearances and connections. Also, be sure to follow anime reviews online as this show, along with When They Cry's overarching narrative, is really an amazing series for those who love to see more unique Storytelling Methods. Fans who love to explore even more aspects of this story will be pleased to see how the anime's influence has grown, and even see if there's any interest in Higurashi cosplays!
Where Can I Watch Higurashi?
Higurashi can be found on a variety of platforms. Amazon Prime Video streams the original two seasons (Higurashi and Higurashi: Kai), while you can see the later seasons on Crunchyroll (which features Higurashi: Gou and Higurashi: Sotsu).
