This is because as aforementioned, the character development. Yet, there leaves more room for improvement like communication. Most of the communication is through body language, (so mad props to the animators cause the facial expressions and the scenes are just breathtaking) I want the characters to express more of their feelings. Its just that at times, they can appear a bit cold. But in the end you get used to it as you do grow an attachment to them and even can recognized the characters feelings through the actions and facial expressions.
As for the soundtrack, it was so-so. The opening and closing are the same for all the 26 episodes but they were great. I rather have a song repeated than get it replace by something far worse. But the background songs aren't memorable though.
For this anime it could have been so much more. I wanted more in depth background on Balsa or the hunters or even on Shuga. But you could only do so much on 26 episodes. Despite its drawbacks I still had a great time watching this. If your looking forward to anime that has that historical fantasy feel or don't mind the somewhat slow-pace, then this is for you. I rated this around a 7.9 since it does have its charms and there's nothing like this. So give it a try.
