.hack//SIGN
"The World", the hottest online RPG game around, with more than millions of registered users logged in at any time of the day. Tsukasa is just like most users, seeking their own fun within "The World". The only thing is, Tsukasa can no longer log out...
In the real world, a person is now in a coma while playing "The World"...
Rumors is now spreading that there are monsters roaming around "The World" that cannot be killed...
As Tsukasa and his new friends search for the answers, they will uncover the secret within "The World": the long rumored "The Key Of The Twilight"...
.hack//SIGN is created as a back story to the .hack PS2 video game. First aired in 2002, it leads to a sequel, .hack//黄昏の腕輪伝説 (.hack//Legend Of The Twilight). A new series, .hack//ROOTS, is aired in 2006, and acts as the back story for the newest PS2 game entry: .hack//G.U..
Link:
Official Site (Japanese Only)
.hack//SIGN
26 episodes TV series (2002)
It is a rather interesting show, as the production staff managed to mix in personal problems into the main characters. This gives the story much more depth than one would expect. Of course, the "is Tsukasa a he / she?" theme sure makes the idea of a virtual identity much more interesting...
Dino's Rating: 6
Will Girls Like It: Possible
.hack//黄昏の腕輪伝説
12 episodes TV series (2003)
Four years has passed since the "Twilight" incident, which by now only a handful of people know of its turth amid rumors and denials. "The World" has also become a much safer place to play. Shugo, and his twin sister Rena, are the newest to join the game. Not only that, Rena managed to win in a contest for the limited edition characters of Kite and Black Rose! While the twins get to spend time together online while living apart, and making new friends along the way, mysterious forces are once again working behind the scenes to bring chaos to "The World"...
It is more of a "let's dumb it down so that kids can enjoy it too" show, which is fine, but anyone older than thirteen, better be prepared... otherwise, a decent short sequel. Of course, the extremely cute character designs helps.
Dino's Rating: 5
Will Girls Like It: Maybe