Welcome back to Geek Native’s Irregular Reconnaissance. In “Irregular Reconnaissance: Anime” we take a look at some episodic anime and share some mini-reviews.
What’s still worth watching? What got off to a strong start but has lost its way? This column is designed to keep you in the loop so you can make some informed decisions on which anime gets to compete for your time.
Thoughts of your own? Use the comments box below to share your own reviews on anime titles you’ve watched recently and are worthy of a mention.
Naruto Shippuden
Episodes 401 to 420
I think we’re getting flashbacks in flashbacks now. We’re seeing flashbacks and character histories of characters we’ve only just met. This happens so we can see what happens to them, and why its important, in the war.
In particular, we’re looking at some of the other ninja who have had to deal with Tailed Beasts in their own lives and at how some of the Leaf ninja finally past their exams.
We also have some favourite characters step up to the plate and get torn down by the baddies. Sometimes I wonder whether the flashbacks are just there to give you time to get over the latest defeat and prepare yourself emotionally for the next one.
Status: Okay
Where: Crunchyroll | Amazon UK | Amazon US
The Seven Deadly Sins
Episodes 16 to 21
I had a dip of faith in this anime for the last Irregular Reconnaissance but since then I’ve regained it. The Seven Deadly Sins simply takes a while to bring the back story to life, show the interesting aspects to the characters and start adding some danger.
I think it’s the danger that does it. In the opening episodes it feels very much as if The Seven Deadly Sins are pretty much untouchable – such is their reputation – but now we finally know that’s not true. While the Sins have been away there have been big and important developments.
Status: Recommended
Where: Netflix
The Irregular at Magic High School
Episodes 17 to 21
This anime keeps on getting better.
The secret history behind our ‘Irregular’ seems to go on and on and yet it still makes sense. There’s a secret history to the secret history.
It’s almost tempting to compare this to Ghost in the Shell (exept the lead isn’t so likable) even though one is all mech and cyberspace and this one is techno-magic. They feel a bit similar. It’s the same sort of power and drive in the plot. It just keeps on unfolding in ways that make sense, creating loops of interest that snare you and drag you in.
The sister is a bit weird, though.
Status: Recommended
Where: Netflix | Amazon UK
Aldnoah.Zero
Episodes 5 to 8
This anime rewards loyality by making things a little more interesting. There are two factions at war and factions within the factions. That allows for some plot surprises, character developments and plenty of action.
I get the feeling Aldnoah.Zero takes itself quite seriously. War isn’t a fun thing, although the anime doesn’t get angsty, it just keeps it real and deadly.
I think it’s very much the case that if you like a bit of military mech combat and tactics that you should tune in to Aldnoah.Zero.
Status: Recommended
Where: Netflix | Amazon UK | Amazon US
The Testament of Sister New Devil BURST
Episodes 6 to 10
The fan service in this show is crazy. It’s lazy too. Clothes shed for no reason.
I was told to watch this series as it was supposed to develop the mythology of the setting further. I suppose it kinda does. It certainly tells us a little more about the characters and it hints at what a plot that wasn’t distracted by jiggly boobs could have been like.
Status: Okay
Where: Crunchyroll
Terror in Resonance
Episodes 1 to 3
What a great start to an anime. You can’t accuse Terror in Resonance of pulling punches. We follow some would-be terrorists as they set about blowing stuff up… and wait, we’re supposed to be on their side?
We see this story through the eyes of Lisa, in part, who manages to get herself caught up in the blasts and the aftermath. It certainly feels like there’s a whole lot of trouble and back story coming our way and at pace.
Status: Strongly recommended
Where: Netflix | Amazon UK | Amazon US
Titles mentioned in Irregular Reconnaissance are available on Netflix UK, Crunchyroll or UK retail. Some titles have been made available as freebies for review and may become available a shortly after this summary goes live.
