Gintama is set in an alternate-history Edo period Japan that has been conquered by aliens called 'Amanto'. The story follows Gintoki Sakata, an eccentric silver-haired samurai and freelancer who runs the 'Yorozuya' (Odd Jobs) agency. Along with his friends Shinpachi and Kagura, they take on any job to pay the rent, leading to wild comedy, epic battles, and emotional drama.

The central trio is the Yorozuya: Gintoki Sakata (a lazy but powerful former rebel samurai), Shinpachi Shimura (the 'straight man' who wears glasses), and Kagura (a super-strong alien girl from the Yato clan). They are supported by a massive cast including the Shinsengumi police force (Hijikata, Okita, Kondo) and the terrorist Kotaro Katsura.

Watch in release order: Gintama (Episodes 3-201, skip 1-2 as they are filler), Gintama' (202-252), Gintama': Enchousen (253-265), Gintama Movie: Be Forever Yorozuya, Gintama° (266-316), Gintama. (317-328), Gintama. Porori-hen (329-341), Gintama. Shirogane no Tamashii-hen (342-367), and finally 'Gintama: The Final' movie.

Yes, it is one of the highest-rated anime of all time on MyAnimeList. It is unique for its ability to switch instantly from absurd, laugh-out-loud parody and toilet humor to incredibly intense, tear-jerking dramatic arcs. It rewards patience, as the character relationships build up to a phenomenal payoff.

This is debated, but Utsuro (the main villain) is generally considered the strongest due to his immortality and mastery of combat. Among the protagonists, Gintoki Sakata is legendary as the 'White Yaksha'. Umibozu and Kamui (Yato clan members) are also contenders for the strongest raw power.

Fan-favorite 'Serious Arcs' include the Benizakura Arc (first serious arc), Yoshiwara in Flames Arc, Four Devas Arc, Courtesan of a Nation Arc, Shogun Assassination Arc, and the Farewell, Shinsengumi Arc. These arcs define the core plot and emotional weight of the series.

Yes, there are three main animated movies. 1) 'Gintama: The Movie' (retelling of Benizakura arc). 2) 'Gintama: The Movie: The Final Chapter: Be Forever Yorozuya' (an original time-travel story). 3) 'Gintama: The Final' (adapts the end of the manga). There are also live-action films.

Gintama is widely available on Crunchyroll (which has most seasons). Hulu also streams parts of the series. The availability of specific seasons and movies can vary by region.

Gintama is written and illustrated by Hideaki Sorachi (often referred to as 'Gorilla' in the show itself). It was serialized in Weekly Shonen Jump from 2003 to 2019. Sorachi is known for his meta-humor and appearing as a gorilla avatar to answer fan letters.

Gintama is the king of parody anime. It fearlessly mocks other popular series (Dragon Ball, One Piece, Gundam), Japanese politicians, and even its own creators/animators. It popularized the 'manzai' style of comedy in anime (boke and tsukkomi) and proved that a series could be both a gag comedy and a serious battle shonen.