NarkyOtic

*SPOILER-FREE REVIEW*

Story:

When looking at the story it's important to note that this is based on an ongoing manga, and only covers the first chunk of chapters (1 - 25). Unfortunately, you really feel it, especially toward the end.

On the plus side, the base of the plot itself is solid enough (see the synopsis for more details). The story is intriguing and while sometimes a little too pompous for its own good, the development of the characters alongside the maturing of the plot lends sufficient intrigue and keeps the viewer hooked on for the next piece of the puzzle to be revealed. The 'pompousness' mostly stems from the introduction of what was presumably supposed to be complex intricacies and new mysteries of varying sizes flecked throughout the episodes; which eventually feed off each other relatively effectively. However, these bits often feel as though they come too rapidly to germinate properly within their viewer's mind before the next one. As such, it sometimes becomes a little difficult to differentiate between new characters' place within the plot and what information is crucial and what isn't. While not overly exhausting, it means that this series cannot really be watched passively and may feel as though it's over-reaching itself at times.

As initially mentioned, the fact that the series essentially 'cuts off' at a significant storyline climax really bites. Much of my enjoyment was tempered by this, which is unfortunate considering the plot was still very much in its first 'wave' out of set-up.

(Much of the story lies within the characters - read on for more detail.)

Animation/Sound:

Nothing dazzling, but nothing cringeworthy.

Animation was to a good standard throughout. Action scenes, dream sequences and general backdrops were consistently well presented.

The VAs for the characters were a good fit. Sound quality and effects were quite good.

Characters:

One of the strongest aspects of this anime are the distinctive character designs. The individual appearances, quirks and other attributes carried much of the story forward, especially during the early stages of the plot. Trying to memorise and contextualise each character as they are presented and often retrospectively 'developed' with flashbacks or anecdotes from other characters.

A drawback to this was the unfortunate way that this sometimes made the characters appear almost like little individual universes. Their interactions were generally well handled but it sometimes appeared as though they didn't really belong on the same screen together, despite their common residence and histories. I can see why this might have been deliberately executed, but it added that edge of contrived linkages between some of the central forces.

Overall:

I enjoyed watching this anime overall. It did a lot right, even with the slightly lumpy bits I observed. The biggest kick in the nuts, though, was the abrupt (and unnecessary) sharp end to the animation of the manga. As a result I've bought the first 7 volumes to read, but it's disappointing that this anime hasn't been able to reach its zenith for anime viewers.