Death Note has been around since 2006, but America is getting a complete set for the first time. Packed with all 37 episodes of the hit anime classic, as well as bonus features from both the dubbed and original Japanese cast, this is a set that every fan should have added into their collection, regardless of the previous Death Note home release incarnations that you may own.

Death Note is a 2006 crime, drama, and dark fantasy anime series based on the manga of the same name. It is produced by Madhouse and licensed by Viz Media, it is currently available on VOD services and DVD.

Main Character Light Yagami grasps the Death Note.

Death Note is perhaps one of the greatest anime series within the last decade, having crossed crime & drama with the supernatural, it gave a unique blend that hadn’t really been seen in recent anime releases. The story of Light Yagami was a rather complicated one, as the viewers want to cheer for Light,  due to his original ideals in using the Death Note, it becomes clear that his sense of justice becomes twisted, and reality of Light becoming a cold blooded killer begins to set in as the story progresses.

L; Light’s nemesis for a majority of the series.

THE GOOD: One of the key elements in Death Note is it’s excellent character development. Light Yagami’s transition from an honest young man looking to turn the world into a pure utopia, into nothing more than a blood thirsty murderer is an amazing journey to go through. The beautiful animation and amazing OST are also signature attributes to Death Note’s large fan base. Shinigami Ryukk, despite his horrific appearance provided most of the light comedic tone featured in the series, though rare it may be.

Ryukk and his love for apples was one of the highlights of Death Note.

THE BAD: Some of the pacing is a little fast, but due to the 37 episode limit this is somewhat expected. Another problem is that some of the final latter episodes lose some of the magic in the early parts of the series.

Misa, like Ryukk also provided light comedy for the series.

OVERALL THOUGHTS: Death Note is an amazing journey full of character development, with a fantastic OST and great animation sprinkled on top. Some of the pacing could get a little fast from time to time, and the latter episodes lose some luster, but the overall experience provided by Death Note makes for an instant anime classic. Otaku Dome gives Death Note: The Complete Set an 90 out of 100.