Yu Yu Hakusho Season 2 (Episodes 29-56) + Digital Copy [Blu-ray]

Yu Yu Hakusho really hits its stride during the Dark Tournament Saga - probably the best example of the Shonen 'tournament' trope, filled with amazing showdowns, behind the scenes machinations, great characters and some sombre moments.That said, its baffling to call this 'season 2' when it picks up several episodes 'into' the dark tournament itself, and worst - episode 56 is only part way into the final series of fights, which does not wrap up until episode 66! Baffling oversight or cynical attempt to get you to buy season 3 (and lets face it, you've already seen the series, I doubt there are many first timers here), either way, calling it a 'season' is a strange misdemeanour.Anyway, season 2 is a great series of shonen battles, while not quite all of them are hits (the mind-controlled dudes and the crazy doctor is kinda yawnsome), its all worth it to see incredible moments like the 'Dragon of the Darkness Flame'! Animation is broadly good (for the time), and is far more charming then some modern, CGI assisted animation, there are several highlights such as the aforementioned dragon and some of the more emotional high notes of this box set. Music is trademark Yu Yu Hakusho - that is to say that it gets the job done without being intrusive.As always, an extra special shout out has to be given to the mad dubbing team. Not only are the English voice actors excellent, but the dub actually ADDS to the action, by making numerous changes (and some are quite dramatic), practically re-writing characters to make more impact. Who ever thought Jin the wind demon should be redubbed with a strong Irish accent - please take a bow. Side-characters also get a lot of extra detail, all of Kuwabara's sisters scenes with Sakyo are massively enhanced in English. Its one of the few anime I would highly recommend going with the dub, over the (still great) Japanese voice cast.Box collection and all the rest is lovely, good stuff. Roll on season 3 and Chapter Black.

Good anime