City Hunter [Season 1 episodes1-51, Season 2 episodes1-63, Season 3 episodes1-13, Season ’91 episodes1-13; Films: .357 Magnum, Bay City Wars, Million Dollar Conspiracy, Secret Service, The Motion Picture, Death of Evil Ryo Saeba]

City Hunter ’91 Episode 1: Chaos, Hammers, and That Timeless Sweeper Vibe

If you’re sick of overcomplicated isekai plots or dark, edgy fantasy and crave something with unapologetic old-school charm, let me put you on to City Hunter ’91 Episode 1—where action collides with slapstick comedy like a plane crashing into your living room (yes, literally).

First, a quick lowdown: City Hunter ’91 is the fourth and final season of the iconic Sunrise series, dropping back in 1991. For newbies, it follows Ryo Saeba, a suave “sweeper” (think private detective with extra flair) and his fiery partner Kaori Makimura as they tackle cases for desperate folks in Tokyo. Episode 1 jumps straight into their chaotic routine: Kaori wishes for a fresh job, and boom—one plane crash later, their apartment is in ruins, and a new case lands in their laps.

Now, let’s get to the fan tea because that’s where the real fun is. Over on MyAnimeList, viewers couldn’t stop meme-ing the aftermath: “Who’s gonna foot the bill for Ryo’s destroyed apartment?” one user asked, and honestly, same. Another joked about Kaori’s legendary 100-ton hammer: “I’m more worried about her leveling the whole building if she swings that thing too hard.” Fair—her temper is as massive as that weapon.

But it’s not all destruction. Fans ate up the classic Ryo-Kaori banter. One comment highlighted their “intimate moment” (don’t get excited—they didn’t share a bed, but the tension was palpable). And the new OP/ED? Mixed reactions, but most agreed they’re “stylish” enough to fit the series’ cool, retro vibe.

What makes this episode click for us under-20 folks? It’s unpretentious fun. No convoluted lore to memorize—just Ryo being his flirty self, Kaori whacking him with her hammer, and enough action to keep you glued. The animation feels retro, but that’s part of its charm; it’s like watching a classic action flick but with anime’s whimsical twist.

Sure, some fans weren’t into the slightly updated art style compared to earlier seasons, but let’s be real—slapstick gold is slapstick gold, no matter the year. Episode 1 sets the tone perfectly: more cases, more chaos, and that unbreakable (if bickering) bond between Ryo and Kaori that makes City Hunter so beloved.

If you want a casual watch that’ll make you laugh out loud and root for the good guys, give City Hunter ’91 Episode 1 a shot. It’s a throwback that still holds up—and hey, who doesn’t love a show where the main character’s biggest threat is his partner’s hammer?

Go stream it (Pluto TV has it free, by the way) and tell me if you think Kaori’s hammer could take down a mech. Spoiler: Probably.

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