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I completed Bakemonogatari last week.
I found it way too similar to Rascal Does Not Dream of Bunny Girl Senpai (or perhaps the other way round since the Monogatari series got published first).
The themes are similar: supernatural phenomenons, suspense and coming-of-age. But what made the similarities stood out are the characters and their story arcs.
mild spoiler for Bakemonogatari and Rascal Does Not Dream of Bunny Girl Senpai
The protagonists of both series are seemingly normal dudes who are in fact carrying hidden burdens. They both saved girls afflicted with supernatural effects and ended up going out with each other thereafter, early in the series. Both main girls are strong with a cold, logical exterior but are also very loving towards the protagonists in their own ways.
After handling the first incident, the troubles continue. More girls (for whatever reason, it’s always girls) continue to be affected and the MCs play the role of the knight in shining armour coming to their rescue.
In either case, at least one of these girls is a junior of the protagonist. At least one girl cannot be seen by anyone but the protagonist. At least one of these girls would fall in love with the MC after the MC is already in a relationship, causing a supernatural phenomenon.
Given how similar they have been, I won’t be surprised if there’s an arc involving Araragi Koyomi’s family. In fact, the potential trouble has been alluded to when Araragi was being avoidant of his family on Mother’s day.
My favourite arc is Mayoi Snail.
Bakemonogatari spoiler
There have been plenty of clues that something is up - such that one can make a fair guess at what’s going on - but the twist still felt so well-executed regardless.
Overall I rate Bakemonogatari one point lower than Rascal Does Not Dream of Bunny Girl Senpai - 8 / 10 - because this protagonist exudes too much loser aura.
This may be because of selective memory but it feels like male protagonists of older anime series tend to be on the denser, weaker side of things. I prefer the current era of protagonists who have more self-confidence.
The original Evangelion TV series started a fashion for wimpy loser male MCs. I’m also glad that it seems to have at least somewhat run its course.
I watched Bakemonogatari first (well, the entire Monogatari Series) then Bunny Girl Senpai. I was surprised by the similarities. I prefer Bakemonogatari just because it’s more enjoyable to watch thanks to the unique animation style.
Go watch the rest of it :D The rest of the series doesn’t follow the same formula or structure as Bakemonogatari