Golden Kamuy [Season 1-2]

Golden Kamuy Seasons 1-2: A Hidden Gem Worth Digging For

Let’s cut to the chase—Golden Kamuy is the kind of anime that sticks with you like campfire smoke in your clothes. Produced by Geno Studio and hitting screens in 2018, this historical adventure dives into early 1900s Hokkaido, where Russo-Japanese War vet Saichi “The Immortal” Sugimoto hunts for hidden Ainu gold tattooed on escaped convicts’ skins. It’s wild, weird, and way more underrated than it should be—seriously, why isn’t everyone talking about this?

First off, the show’s blend of history and chaos is chef’s kiss. Set after a brutal war, Sugimoto’s quest isn’t just about gold; it’s about keeping a promise to his dead comrade’s wife. Along the way, he teams up with Asirpa, a sharp Ainu girl with survival skills that make Bear Grylls look like a tourist. Together, they chase leads, outrun maniacs, and even square off against a CGI bear (more on that later). The historical bits feel real—you’ll learn about Ainu culture, Hokkaido’s harsh winters, and the messy aftermath of war—without feeling like a textbook.

Now, let’s talk fan vibes. Over on MyAnimeList, viewers are losing it over how slept-on this series is. One user called it “top ten material” and “the best historical fiction anime,” which checks out. Another begged, “Golden Kamuy deserves FAR more attention than it gets!” Preach. The show balances humor (yes, there’s a “fap battle” episode—don’t ask, just watch) with gut-punch moments, like Sugimoto’s flashbacks to his friend’s death. It’s the kind of mix that makes you laugh one second and grab tissues the next.

But let’s address the elephant in the room: the CGI bear in Season 1. Some fans groaned about it, with one hoping new viewers would “get past the CGI bear of s1.” Fair—early 3D animation can be jarring—but trust me, it’s a small blip in an otherwise stellar show. The rest of the animation? Gorgeous. The snow-covered landscapes feel cold enough to make you reach for a blanket, and the fight scenes are raw and intense—no over-the-top superpowers, just gritty survival.

Seasons 1 and 2 lay the groundwork for something epic. We meet a crew of chaotic characters: a tattooed serial killer, a former soldier with a grudge, and even a guy who collects human ears (creepy, but weirdly compelling). The plot twists keep you guessing—just when you think you know who’s good or bad, someone switches sides. It’s like a historical heist movie with more bears and better one-liners.

Sure, there are nitpicks. Some fans noted that the anime skips manga details—like Sugimoto’s full backstory, which hasn’t made it to the screen yet. One user worried, “Season 4 had breakneck pace… this story deserves to be wrapped up properly.” But Seasons 1 and 2? They take their time. You get to know the characters, feel the stakes, and get invested in their weird little found family.

If you’re on the fence, here’s the tea: ignore the CGI bear hate. The show’s heart is in the right place—its respect for Ainu culture, its unflinching look at war’s cost, and its ability to make you care about a bunch of misfits chasing gold. As one fan put it, “Banger freaking series… probably the best historical fiction anime as well.”

So, what are you waiting for? Grab some snacks, bundle up, and dive into Golden Kamuy. It’s a wild ride that’ll make you laugh, gasp, and maybe even Google “Ainu traditions” afterward. And hey—if you end up loving it, join the club. We’re all just over here wondering why more people aren’t obsessed with this show.

Golden Kamuy Seasons 1-2 are streaming now—don’t sleep on the gold.

— A Fan Who’s Still Thinking About That Bear Scene

P.S. Stick around for the OVAs if you can—they fill in some gaps, even if Sugimoto’s backstory is still MIA. Trust the process.