As an expert in anime and someone who has watched Gintama, I can provide you with a detailed answer to your question. Gintama is a long-running anime series with over 350 episodes, and I understand that it can be daunting to commit to watching the entire series. However, I would advise against skipping the first 25 episodes completely.
While it is true that the first 25 episodes of Gintama are considered by some to be a bit slow and less engaging compared to the later episodes, they still serve an important purpose. These initial episodes are dedicated to introducing the main characters, establishing the setting, and setting up the overall tone and humor of the series. Skipping them entirely might leave you feeling disconnected from the characters and unaware of certain plot points or ongoing jokes that are referenced later on.
That being said, I understand that not every episode may be to your liking. If you find the first couple of episodes to be filler or uninteresting, you can skip them without worrying too much. However, I would recommend watching at least a few episodes within the first 25 to get a better understanding of the world of Gintama and its characters.
If you are concerned about the quality of these early episodes, it is worth noting that many long-running anime series tend to have a slower start as they take their time to develop the story and characters. Gintama is no exception, and it gradually builds up its plot and character dynamics over time. The humor and comedic elements also become more refined as the series progresses.
To summarize, while the first 25 episodes of Gintama may not be as exciting or captivating as the later episodes, they are still important for character introductions and establishing the overall tone of the series. I would advise against skipping them entirely to ensure a better understanding and connection with the story and characters.