Fushigi Yugi 
A.K.A. The Mysterious Play Primer

"This is a story about a girl who got the Seven Seishi of Suzaku. She obtained omnipotent power and made her wishes come true. The story itself is an incantation. Whomever finishes reading it will receive this power. As soon as the page is turned, the story will become the truth and begin."

Quote from, The Book of Four Gods, sky and earth. And my fan-subs.

First off, let me say I am not too experienced with the Pioneer domestic releases. I do have all fifty-two episodes fan-subbed and have watched them at least ten times each. Some more then others so I know the series like the back of my hand.

I do know that the following were changed:
 

Note: Suzaku / Seiryuu no Miko loosely translates as, moderator between God and Mortals. Suzaku / Seiryuu being the god the people worship.

On to the story.
This anime follows the adventures of (family names first) Yuuki Miaka and Hongo Yui, both are ninth grade candidates.
One day Yui and Miaka (Miaka is a big time food addict) went to the National Library and while Miaka was there she saw a red bird. She was drawn into the "important documents reference room," room where normal visitors are not allowed to enter.

After Miaka went into the room Yui showed up and then an old Chinese book fell and Yui read it. (see quote at top) Soon Miaka and Yui were transported to a world much like ancient China. So the story begins.

Type of anime:
Well it's a shojo/martial arts (shojo is designed for girls because of romance aspects and this has plenty of them) with some comedy sprinkled throughout. But to some it is so suspenseful that some fast forward the credits and opening just to see what happens next when they get a new tape and soon to be DVD. I also talked to many FY fans who hate waiting a month for a new release.
The story is serious for the most part. But the characters do let loose. And some are just nuts.

Miaka and Yui:
These two are the main stars. The story revolves around their friendship. Not to mention their fights. They have known each other since they were little kids. Now their friendship is in turmoil and it was over a big incident when Yui was in the book. What happened, watch the show.
Note: Miaka is on the ditzy side but she may grow on you and although she is a tad flaky. However, she is a true friend to those around her. Yui has a lot of insecurities.

As to the Animation quality:
Simple but effective. Not all that jittery either. Good use of colors and a fully realized world. There are SD (Super Deformed i.e. miniature cutesy versions) moments, but not many. Character designs are fitting and well done. Their clothes are from simple to extravagant. With a fairly good amount of detail to them.

The Battles:
This is really the only problem point. I have talked to many fans of this series and most of them as well as I say that this anime is excellent for suspense but to much of it happens off screen. However each battle serves a purpose to further the story. Some of which were major blows and changes the outlook of the Suzaku Seishi and the Seiryuu Seishi. All I can say is stuff happens to the major characters in big ways.

Finally the villain:
What is anime with out a villain?
I have heard many say that Nakago (the head honcho of evil in this anime) is too powerful. I for one agree. He controls the Seiyruu Senshi behind Seiyruu no Miko's back for his own plans. However. His reasons for his deeds are different then your normal villain. A cool character and truly evil villain

What about the Suzaku / Seiyruu Celestial Warriors
There are seven of each and going into each character would make this longer. All I'll do is give their names because I want you to experience their personalities and emotions for your self.

Suzaku Seishi / Seiryuu Seishi
Hotohori - Nakago
Nuriko - Ashitare
Tamahome - Soi
Mitsukake- Amiboshi
Chiriko - Suboshi
Tasuki - Tomo
Chichiri - Miboshi

Overall:
I say give it a try. It's not for everyone. It's more of a love or hate anime. I for one think that it's the greatest show ever created. If you've never seen it before, rent it. It has a great story, memorable scenes, good animation and interesting characters. Lastly if you can stomach Miaka, it's a fun watch. My last words on this are this, rent the VHS to see if it's to your liking then buy the DVD.

-Joe Boeing