-Minsc-
Member
Gintama - 1-7
The pilot two-parter was great, and really whetted my appetite. The only problem now is that these early episodes before everyone's been introduced properly aren't anywhere near as zany as the pilot.
Nevertheless, I'm sticking with it, because I know it's supposed to get pretty good in just a few more episodes.
Oh wow, you are one of the odd ducks. Most people dislike the filler pilot episodes and recommend skipping them. Welcome to the Gintama club, you're in for a ride.
Up to episode 15 or so. Surprised people say sket dance is inferior,when I can never recall sket dance being as dull as some of these episodes have been when introducing new characters.
For anyone here who has a hard time getting in to Gintama, feel free to scout out the arcs and single out pieces that seem interesting. Why torture yourself? While I like to watch a show in episode order, it doesn't mean you have to .
Arcs
Memory Loss - Episodes 31-32: Haven't watched this one in ages. If I recall it gives a glimpse at what Sorachi can do in a non-comedy/semi-serious/non-action arc.
Umibozu - Episodes 40-43: We get more exposure to the power of the Yato, lots of heavy hitting.
Plus it Kagura's pappy!
Infant Strife - Episodes 51-52: Introduces a character featured in the Benizakura arc. Semi-serious at times with some cute baby interaction.
Mother - Episodes 54-55: Dat Afro.
Benizakura - Episodes 58-61: Not my favourite serious major (by Gintama standards) arc but it holds the candle as being the first. It gave me the feeling, "am I even watching the same series". I haven't watched the movie retelling so I can not say how it compares. From what I've read I recommend watching the TV version first. I get the impression the movie version is Gintama porn for existing fans.
Fuyo - Episodes 69-71: A semi-serious arc with some touching moments. I believe there were GAFfers who shed tears over this one.
Okita Mitsuba - Episodes 86-87: Watch it. I had a very hard time not shedding man tears by the end of this arc.
Owee - Episodes 98-99: Yes, a parody of the great Wii explosion. Hilarious.
Other singular episodes I'd recommend watching:
17 - Sons Only Take After Their Fathers' Negative Attributes
25 - A Shared Soup Pot Is A Microcosm Of Life
27 - Some Things Can't Be Cut With A Sword
Going through the first 100 episodes that should give a person a good taste.