Ghost in the Shell is a show that I hold in the utmost highest regard. It is an anime series that is and was miles ahead of its time, it is a genre-defining series that has grown to be one of my favourites. This show deserves to be part of the anime we have yet to experience again, and I don't think anything could really succeed 2nd GIG's aspirations.

The original Stand Alone Complex was good in the sense that it focused on smaller little interesting stories from the universe. While I do recommend that you watch the first season, it is not necessary considering that it is contained to a certain extent. The context of the first season is mostly just small talk in 2nd GIG, however, you should watch it if you haven't.

The reason I hold the second season in such high regard is because of the overall plot focus. Taking place about two years after the first season, Section 9 faces new threats, political tension, and of course untrustworthy allies. Complex is a good word to use here because it weaves so many important elements into the story without sacrificing one thing over the other. 2nd GIG focuses a lot on the political and social aspects of the series; revealing a much darker side to the universe. There were points in which it is difficult to really label a certain person as good or bad, and it can even throw you into a loop at times. 2nd GIG plays off the "manipulation" of others, not just in the fact that the team consists of hacking cyborgs, but mostly because there is a genuinely intricate story.

Ghost in the Shell has a wide cast of characters, but one you'll mostly be seeing most often is Major Kusanagi who is probably one of the most badass females in the series (or in general). However it isn't just limited to her, the whole entire team of Section 9, and to some extent, the villains have their own quirks that you may like about them. Ghost in the Shell 2nd GIG explores a lot of the smaller stories but also gets the chance to show you the team's history before they ended up working where they are now.

Ghost in the Shell is something I have watched numerous times, there is always a certain satisfaction from both watching and completing the series. By the end, you'll just want more. It is definitely worth noting that the series has plenty of fun and interesting moments that retain a high re-watch value as you get can easily get invested in the plot right away. Over the years as an anime viewer, I have seen so many mediocre shows that get high praise. I have also seen a lot of other good anime set in the cyberpunk world, but nothing comes close to the fact that Ghost in the Shell Stand Alone Complex is a show of epic proportions. It is a must-watch for fans looking for something unique, but also those wishing for anime that goes toe-to-toe with mature television.