Thematically, the series(the manga, to be precise) is more like something that must have inspired some long running Shounen. It also feels like a straightforward version of Samurai Champloo.
The storyline and the characters are interesting, no doubt about that but be more careful because only few things are explained through dialogues, most of the events are subtly unfolded through the Graphics(those included mostly gory things). So, if you have a short attention span, there are chances that you will get bored easily. Having said that I wish I had got to see some more explanations of the Bloodworms or why they were so perfect and suitable only for the Manji's and probably Shira's body. The characters, even though, each of them are very well written and totally fit the storyline, I thought could've easily had either multiple or entirely different purposes but almost each character is surprisingly very loyal, something not so Edo-like.
The soundtracks are skippable and while the animation is inconsistent, it seems it hardly matters when they reveal things through flashy Graphics. Moreover, the cinematography felt tricky as well. While the characters have conversation, the camera many a times points at the surroundings.
It is probably one of the best anime I have seen in recent times but it seems lot depends on the preferences because it felt so different compared to the other shows I have watched. I don't know how many people would prefer this type. Perhaps I would say 'don't expect much.'
