Review of part 1 can be found here link
Oh boy, what a return this was! If you are here from reading my review of season 1, welcome back! I did not see s2 happening to be honest. Season 1 finished in 2016 and met with an underwhelming reception (for the large part). Coupled with the health issues that the mangaka faced just after, I had no hopes of a future season materialising. And then I get the news that we would be getting s2 in 2021. I was quite glad, truth be told, as I had always liked the series, despite its underwhelming animation and art. But that’s enough of me fanboying (for now). Let’s get to the review!
S2 picks off where S1 finishes. Returning fans are given a recap on what happened in the last episode of S1 to ease us into the action. Our lead cast, is trying to grow in the organisation, Border, through combat drills and squad fights. Aka, a tournament arc! Now initiates to tournament arcs would know that this serves as the arcs where characters grow, both mentally and physically, in order to be prepared for greater challenges
The focus of this season, is therefore, more on the power system used and how to efficiently use it. Our trio must identify their own style of using this power (trion), in the context of a squad. Even the strongest opponent can be taken down by the weakest trion user, when the right tactics and conditions are laid. The series makes it a point to remind us of that. It is this incorporation of knowledge and data into battles, which adds a layer of depth to the fights.
It is also in this arc that the role of operators, aka individuals who handles the operations of a squad, comes to the fore. Though they have been present since S1, it is here that we really come to appreciate the influence they have over the success of a squad. Involved in aspects like logistics, strategy, supply, tactics and more, they are indispensable for the fortunes of a squad. The cast is solid as always, with character development getting richer and richer (if you are reading from my S1 review, you will understand what I mean).
But I think I would be doing a disservice if I didn’t talk about the visual upgrade that the series received. Switching to a seasonal schedule did wonders for the series. Having a lot more polish and finish, compared to S1, the series is a treat for the eyes. Lot of the colour contrast is vivid and lot of the animation is a joy to watch. It finally got the eye candy it deserved! The OST is the same from S1, which is more noticeable this time around, given the more hype nature of a ‘tournament’ arc
To summarize, a solid return to form, with a batch of new paint to reward the people who stuck with series. People who liked S1 for its positives will enjoy more of the same in S2. Onto the final review!
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Review of S3 can be found here__ link