The first season of Baki.. I really had a tough time watching it. It was so.. gross(?), crude, fleshy. But what disgusted or turned me down at first made me enjoy the second season and the most recent third "season" all the more. I actually reaaallly see Baki as one if not the most enjoyed anime this season now. And i think what you said - about the way that the series doesn't really have this archetype character that only .. well .. is successful in his world seemingly bc he has some honor and stubbornness or so.. - kinda exlpains this feeling xD. But also the blood, gore and splatter part became more and more appealing to me the more i watched the show tbh. Which kinda makes me scared at the same time. (the show also reminded me of Kenichi.. the way martial arts become godlike powers in these shows/mangas. But i haven't red Baki. I also don't think it would happen any time soon.) Thanks for the awesome diversion! :D