Episodes: 50

Year: 2000

Status: Complete, Licensed by ADV Films

Saiyuki Official Site (U.S)

Review: Gensou Maden Saiyuki tells the story of four unlikely companions out on a journery to maintain peace in the land. It is a time when demons and humans have lived together in peace. However, there are those who seek to gain power by resurrecting the most powerful demon of them all - Gyumao. To this end, they employ forbidden arts and magic which has sent a streak of madness through all the demons of the land. Thus breaking the balance, demons have begun to attack and devour humans. The gods have summoned the highest ranking Buddhist priest, Genjou Sanzo and entrusted him with the task of preventing the revival of Gyumao. Sanzo has three other sane demons who will accompany him on this mission: Cho Hakkai, Sha Gyojo and Son Goku. Together, this group of misfits face danger, adversity and the burden of their pasts. Amidst the fighting and bickering, they will get around to saving the world!

Saiyuki has an interesting plot with even more interesting characters. The vast difference in each of the companions makes for an unusual and somewhat amusing dynamic amongst them. I mean look at it … a Buddhist priest who smokes?! Saiyuki has its fair share of action too - although I personally thought some of the sequences could have been done better. Overall, it is a fun and entertaining anime to watch which strike a good balance between the seriousness of the story and the comical nature of the group out to save the world.

If you liked Saiyuki, check out:

Get Backers: Get Backers is a highly entertaining action-packed anime with the familiar theme of the good guys - forever broke and forever hungry. Like Saiyuki, Get Backers follows the journey of friends in confronting their pasts and overcoming hardships for the future.