This time, the story was consistant and enjoyable. It wasn't overdone, nor too slow and boring. 12.5 was merely a comedic episode, a way to diffuse the tension from the original series, told from an interesting point of view. As usual, the story isn't told from the typical perspective of a main character, but from a side character, making a charming little side-story that helped lighten the mood. The overall way it was done solidified my enjoyment. Episode 25 was only just a little more serious. Though it really didn't tie up any loose ends or further the plot, but instead was once again, a comedic relief in the grand city of Ikebukuro. There was a humorous twist throughout the whole thing, but plenty of action and some romantic aspects as well. Episode 25 left a better taste in my mouth than the official ending of Durarara! did, so expect good things.
The art and sound I'll clump together, because as usual, the art was stellar and the sound spectacular. The characters' facial expressions were perfect, every sinew and fiber drawn into exact detail. OP and ED aside, the music again was great. I love the way the music is subtle yet prevalent, always riding on the coattails of the current storyline.
Overall, these were very well-done pieces of art-work. I heavily enjoyed these specials, more so than the actual series. It provided a relief from the bleak world of Durarara and instead focused on each character and their personal interactions with others around them. This made for an ideal deviation from the main storyline and more towards personal viewpoints and struggles. Great way to end an anime.
