Despite being only 3 episodes only, Mai-Otome 0~S.ifr~ has a satisfying story with a beginning that gradually develops as the plot thickens and ends with a conclusive note. The story is balanced with both deep and comedic moments, and is filled with action-packed scenes.
Like the other Mai-Otome series, the art is the same. There is little CG effects. Despite this, everything is still sharp and clear. The movements of characters (especially in battles) are quite smooth. CG effects are used in battle scenes, and are quite effective. From the glowing beam from a gigantic rifle to Lena Sayers' duplication attack, the added effects bring up the level of excitement.
Background music could have been better. There were scenes that had pure silence in the background. The background music for other scenes didn't really add any extra effects. I found the music for battle scenes to be dull. The ED song, however, went great with the credits and pictures.
Character development was pretty impressive, considering this was a three-episode OVA. Both Lena Sayers and Sifr Fran were quite different at the end when compared to what they were like in the beginning. Both learned and adapted throughout the story. The minor characters were a bit boring, but their roles helped with the story.
Overall, Mai-Otome 0~S.ifr~ was a great OVA that greatly complemented the main series. I recommend watching this before the main series, since Lena Sayers... yeah.
