Gangsta [Season 1 Episode 1 to Episode 12]

Gangsta. Season 1: A Gritty Ride with No Easy Endings

If you’re into dark, no-nonsense anime with morally ambiguous characters and a world that feels like it’s constantly on the edge of collapse, Gangsta. might just be your next obsession—or at least a wild ride you won’t forget. The 12-episode first season, which aired in the summer of 2015, follows the exploits of Nicholas Brown and Worick Arcangelo, the infamous “Handymen” of Ergastalum, a city drowning in crime, corruption, and a whole lot of bloodshed.

The Premise: Dirty Jobs for Dirty People

Produced by Manglobe (the studio behind Samurai Champloo and Deadman Wonderland), Gangsta. wastes no time throwing you into its grimy underworld. Nic and Worick are mercenaries who take on jobs too messy for anyone else—whether it’s dealing with rival gangs, crooked cops, or the city’s twisted power dynamics. Nic, a deaf swordsman with superhuman strength (thanks to being a “Twilight,” a genetically enhanced human), and Worick, a smooth-talking gigolo with a sharp mind, make for an unlikely but deadly duo.

The first episode, Naughty Boys, sets the tone: brutal action, shady deals, and a city that feels alive in its decay. From there, the season dives deeper into the lives of the Handymen, their pasts, and the people caught in their orbit—like Alex, a former prostitute who becomes their ally, and the various gangs and factions vying for control of Ergastalum.

What Fans Loved (and Hated)

Scouring forums like MyAnimeList and Reddit, the reactions to Gangsta. are a mixed bag—but that’s part of what makes it interesting.

The Good:
– The Characters: Nic and Worick are fan favorites, with their dynamic balancing brutality and brotherhood. Nic’s silent intensity and Worick’s charm (and hidden trauma) make them compelling leads.
– The Atmosphere: The show nails its noir vibe. The city feels like a character itself—gritty, oppressive, and full of secrets.
– The Action: When the fights hit, they hit. Nic’s combat scenes are raw and visceral, and the animation (when it’s on point) delivers.

The Not-So-Good:
– The Pacing: Some fans felt the middle episodes dragged, especially with flashbacks that, while adding depth, slowed the momentum.
– The Animation Inconsistencies: Budget issues were apparent in later episodes, with some scenes looking noticeably rough.
– That Cliffhanger Ending: Oh boy, this is the big one. The finale leaves everything unresolved. Worick’s fate? Unknown. The bigger conspiracy? Still brewing. Fans were pissed—especially since a second season was never confirmed.

The Final Verdict: Worth the Ride?

If you’re looking for a neatly wrapped story, Gangsta. isn’t it. The ending is abrupt, and the lack of closure stings. But if you’re here for the journey—the characters, the world, and the sheer audacity of its storytelling—it’s a ride worth taking.

Fans on MyAnimeList summed it up well:
– “Solid show, but that ending… man, I need Season 2.”
– “The art dipped, but the characters kept me hooked.”
– “If you love dark, morally grey stories, this is gold.”

Final Rating: 7.5/10. Flawed, but unforgettable. And hey, if you’re desperate for more, the manga’s still out there—just be prepared for even more pain.

Would I recommend it? Absolutely—just don’t say I didn’t warn you about that ending.