What in space can I possibly say about Keroro Gunso?
I'll start by saying that there's not one character that I dislike in this whole series. Even ones I didn't warm to at first eventually have episodes that make me not just like, but adore them. And boy, does this show have a huge cast of main, secondary, and minute characters, all of whom are bursting with charm.
When I finished episode 358 -- yes, I watched every single one, my longest anime to date! -- my upper lip wobbled and my eyes genuinely filled with tears. Keroro Gunso is like watching a family grow all together, a flourishing friend group who all love and understand each other despite their many differences. And even though there's many situations that go unresolved in this show, like various unrequited romances and the like, it's one of those things I'll happy ponder on for as long as Keroro Gunso is at the forefront of my mind.
I don't think this is an anime about a group of frogs who try to invade planet Earth, as much as this show wants us to believe. I really do think at the heart, this show is about friendship. And I know that sounds cheesy, but I think this goofy little comedy about frogs and middle schoolers really does have a lot to say about how when it all comes down to it, we should focus more on the appreciation and love for one another that we have, rather than focusing on the negatives, or the details about someone that you don't like.
Every character in this show -- even the semi-one-note characters like Kogoro and Lavie -- have so much heart that they're impossible not to love. And when you put them all together, you get so many interactions that warm your heart, and make you laugh and cry. Even though pretty much everything has a comedic slant, you still feel so much for them. The story arcs that this anime takes you through may be simple, but they are incredibly engaging. Even after 358 episodes, I still felt like I could follow Gunso and the others all over Pekopon for 300 more. Heck, I miss them just writing this review.
I recommend this anime if you'd just like some simple joy in your day. Something funny, something sweet, something light-hearted, to take your mind off of things. Sometimes a little bit chaotic and (lovingly) obnoxious, but enough to make you smile! I loved it so much, I can't believe it's over. Truly a gem of the early 2000s.
Thank you Keroro, for all of the fun times!
