Saikano can get you to really feel for the characters if you're a sensitive individual but don't expect to really feel anything for the cast. There are a few select moments that will get to you and surprisingly, those moments do not revolve around any drama between Chise and Shuji. In fact many scenes involving Chise and Shuji that should normally be quite romantic, dramatic or saddening are actually kind of annoying because it always turns into the exact same conversation. Chise's a weapon and therefore cannot love nor should she be loved, then Shuji loves her anyway, then Chise has to go off to destroy another city and Shuji is left contemplating their relationship until her return. This happens repeatedly through out the series. For a short time, the two of them get romantically involved with other people and it makes for interesting drama but nothing truly note worthy comes from it.
Saikano is a great tragedy based anime when it focuses on the war and it's effect on both the soldiers and civilians. This part is probably the most interesting thing about this series but I only think that way due to my obsession with war documentaries. The psychological impact of the war (in which Japan is losing) plays the most important role in the development of the characters. The lives of the main cast are brought under stress as the battle makes its way to Shuji and Chise's home town and really everyone undergoes a major change in response to the war and the increasing number of earthquakes. Overall, Saikano is an okay show. Nothing horrible and nothing exceptional.
