Reader’s Question:
Can I watch anime I find difficult to enjoy at double speed?
Can You Really Enjoy Anime at Double Speed?
You know, I was recently pondering a question that came up in a discussion about anime: Can you watch something you find difficult to enjoy at double speed? It’s a
bit of a conundrum, isn’t it? I mean, on one hand, you want to make the most of your time, especially when there are so many shows out there that you’re excited to dive into. But on the other hand, can you really appreciate the nuances of a story if you’re zipping through it like it’s a highlight reel? I remember this one time, I decided to give a popular anime a shot. Friends wouldn’t stop raving about it, but honestly, I was struggling to stay engaged. So, I thought, “Hey, why not try watching it at double speed?” I loaded it up, snacks in hand (probably too many snacks, if I’m being honest), and hit play. The experience was something else. The characters were talking faster than my brain could process, and the emotional beats? Well, they felt more like a quick punch than a heartfelt moment. I ended up missing all those little quirks that make a show so enjoyable. In the end, I found myself skipping through scenes instead of really watching. It was a bit of a letdown, to be honest. But then again, I totally get where users like the one who shared their thoughts come from. They mentioned that if they’re not feeling a show, they’d rather move on to something else. It’s like trying to force yourself to eat a dish that just isn’t to your taste; it’s okay to not finish it and find something that brings you joy instead. I think about how much I love stand-up comedy or manzai, where timing and delivery are everything. If I were to speed-watch a comedy special, I’d lose all those punchlines and reactions that make it funny. There’s something about the rhythm of the storytelling that just can’t be rushed. And let’s be real—there are so many anime out there waiting to be discovered! It’s like a treasure trove, just waiting for us to explore. If I find myself struggling, I’d much rather switch gears and tackle something else. Life’s too short to spend time on something that feels like a chore, right? So, here’s my takeaway: if you find yourself watching something at double speed just to get through it, maybe it’s time to reconsider. There’s no shame in moving on to something that resonates with you. What about you? Have any of you tried watching anime at double speed? Did it work for you, or did you end up missing out on the good stuff? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments! I’d love to hear your take!