barbz4lifee

What came across to me as very intriguing was the executed scenarios at the beginning of the series, especially how the effect was greatly caused at the very start of the series, and how it lasted for the rest of the series.

First, let's talk about the beginning parts of the series, which in my opinion, were the strongest amongst all the other parts. 

The situations and scenarios that had taken place in episode 1 struck to me as a very exciting, intriguing, and as a hella interesting drama and mystery filled story. When Shion saves Nezumi, it still remains as my most favourite and memorable part out of the whole series. No doubt the first episode had caused a major effect on my willingness to continue the series. The first episode was very well executed, and I am more than sure it can capture anyone's attention throughout the whole span of the episode, despite the general plot of No. 6 to be quite generic. But episode one exceeded my expectations greatly, and as it progressed into episodes 2 and 3 the same intriguing effect was still very apparent in me. I especially also loved the progress of when Shion was transforming into his new physical self, the character growth between the two protagonists. The story development was quick in these three episodes, (calmed down a bit in ep 4), but still at a good pace for the viewer to take it all in, and be entertained and remain interested. I had expected a bit more romance in it, due to one of its distinguishing themes is romance/lgbtq, but however I didn't mind the lack of it. All in all, the beginnings of the series (about 1st ep - 4 ep) remain as my favorite parts, the absolute thrilling mystery and dystopian feel struck out to me very much due to the excellent execution of each event and situation the protagonists were found in.
My favorite parts of the beginning: When Shion saves Netzumi, Shion's discovering and travel with Nezumi to the regions beyond the wall. Shion's situation of almost dying and soon later transforming into a new look that would remain consecutive throughout the rest of the series.
Least favorite parts: None

My next analyzation is in the midst of the series (I'd say ep 5 - 8): 

This part of the whole series was alright, it kept me entertained but it didn't raise as much excitement nor drastic emotions I felt throughout the beginning of the anime. I think they could've utilized this from the created potential in episodes 1 - 4 way more throughout the midst of the series. It still felt entertaining but didn't ignite the same emotions the beginning did. I recognize that the general element of mystery was still there, but not many events/discoverings in such events fulfilled that mystery.

Favourite parts of the midst: We got to see Shion and Nezumi's individual growth, and of course, their relationship growth!
Least favourite parts: the lack of discoveries and situations that helped construct the story.

Now let's talk about the worst/most poorly executed part of the series (of course, in my opinion): The last episode.

God, whew chile I truly dislike the ending. (Spoiler alert) : It's a happy ending, however the way the ending was constructed, executed, and how too fast-paced it was negatively impacted the ending, and also its effect on the viewer. The episodes that were near the end (about ep 9 - 11) had all the answers and drama we were needing after the feelings ignited from that striking encounter from episode one (etc). I think episode 9 and 10 were good, but episode 11 was strange and weak. But there were very thrilling and surprising parts of episode 11, due to the surprise of Shion's change of sweet nature, which was especially shocking (well, to me at least) due to all the events and development Nezumi and Shion had and how they impacted each other with their own individual personalities and beliefs. But anyway, the final ending was sweet, just poorly constructed+executed and I'm contemplating if they should've gone for a different ending and if that would've made more of an impact. But still, nonetheless, it was sweet, also Shion and Nezumi's parting was very bittersweet to me... had me bawling of confusion and emotions

Favourite parts of the ending/near ending: The construction of episode 9 and 10, and the characters shared situations/moments. 
Least favourite parts: The too fast pace of execution which is mostly found in the absolute last episode. 

There were also some loose ends in the story, such as when Shion was very keen on finding the available pieces of equipment to formulate a serum as the cure for the victims of those weird bee attacks. However, the ultimate result of those attempts was never shown (I think?); yes it was shown that Shion wasn't able to get the pieces of equipment, but it wasn't stated whether he wanted to keep going with the search for a serum or discontinue after all. Another loose end is when Shion's mother was approached by apparently a 'worker' for No. 6. Not sure if that scenario did actually need to have executed results/follow-ups, but it just strikes odd to me that we never did find out who that elderly person was. I think there were a few more loose ends but for now, I cant remember.

I saw someone else say this and I fully agree, the music for the anime was not well picked, the intro and outro music didn't particularly fit with the anime elements. Other music included in the show was alright, just nothing striking to the viewer.

In conclusion, the best parts of this anime were definitely the beginning parts in my opinion. That was the absolute peak of its mystery and drama. After that, the show remained so-so on mystery, action, and drama till the end, ep 9 ish to the final episode; 12. The weakest part of the anime for me was the VERY end of the series, which was episode 12. 
       I think this anime is still a good anime that I can recommend to... practically anyone. It follows a generic plot of an illusion clashing with reality, however, some striking attributes on making this anime a must watch despite its poor ending is the beginning of the series and the emotional coaster ride. The scenarios and situations the protagonists are in in the leaning beginnings of the anime ignite so many emotions and the character development is very prominent and captivating to watch unravel. The series is a wild ride that peaks in thrill at the beginnings, but ultimately, in the end, you will end up a bit disappointed, and in a bittersweet feeling.