[amps11]

Just started Shinkenger, and I'm at episode 12. I'm impressed so far with the show overall. However, I'm not drawn as much to the characters as I have been in other Sentai. I don't like the villians, and I feel like I'm having to endure the interludes where they're plotting and talking in the underworld or on that river they're on.

The mecha are a little bit strange and confusing, but after attempting to watch Ninninger, it's a breath of fresh air.

Back to the characters, I find everyone is a bit too stuck in their character development and it seems like the only one that isn't overdoing it is Kotoha. Her bravery is clear and she plays it the right way. However, Ryu's constant apologizing is getting on my nerves, Chiaki is a jerk most of the time, and Mako just feels almost invisible.

Takeru just feels like a downer all of the time. I understand he's the lord and everything, but my goodness....he's yet to really crack a smile. I figured he would be over this whole act in the first few episodes sort of like how Utsusemimaru was standoffish for a while until he was comfortable showing his true caring self. I'm sure this is all leading up to something, but it is hard trying to get into the characters and enjoy them if I don't LIKE them.

I had just finished Go-Onger before this and I find the serious nature is so thick with Shinkenger. I probably should have watched something else in-between...this has been a real shift in tone for sure.

Also, does anyone know how many people work for the Shiba clan? I'm talking about the folks that run around with the maps and the white banners. There must be a lot of folks that make that operation run!!

Overalll, I'm liking it, but I'm hoping for something more to deepen my emotional connection.