Unfortunately Psycho-Pass 2 isn't an exception to the rule. It didn't quite live up to the success it garnered back in 2012/2013..
Story: 4/10
One of the most noticeable flaw starts with unresolved tension build up from season 1. Instead of following up on the friction between the collective entity of the Sibyl System and Akane, it places in on the back burner. Even going as far as making Sibyl passive as appose to the hands on approach the fans would have been used to. Instead we follow Akane as she investigates the new and rather bland antagonist who stirs up trouble in the system. the 11 episode runtime also further dampers the story, giving it less time to be fully fleshed out.
With a new writer behind the helm, PP2 feels rather alienated from it's predecessor. The absence of Gen Urobuchi's knack for chair gripping thrill rides is ever present. The new writer isn't bad per say, but lacks the flare for the dramatic that the Butcher is known for. This shift in tone makes the story of PP2 feel more like a run of the mill tv cop drama than a dystopian/cyberpunk neo noir experience.
Art: 7/10
Luckily the art for PP2 doesn't go through studio changes. Making the transition with no noticeable hickups. The color pallet also remains the same, which in turn gives the city and surroundings it's familiar atmosphere. But it isn't all well, as there's a obvious dip in aesthetics and cinematics. Some frame shots felt devoid of any substance. These problems won't be something apparent to the untrained eye and shouldn't ruin your experience.
sound: 6/10
The soundtrack is very forgettable. With none demanding any attention of the viewer, they simply play in the background for added effect. The voice actors retained their roles, so those familiar with them won't find any complaints. They also introduce 3 new parties to the cast line up but we'll talk about those later. The opening made for an enjoyable listen and keeps the pace set by the other 2 of season 1.
Characters: 4/10
This is where things go to shit. The new characters introduced range from being bland to borderline annoying (I'm looking at you Mika!).
Shou Hinakawa: smart shy guy
Sakuya Tougane: deranged lunatic
antagonist (unnamed for spoilers): no personality to speak of.
and then there's Mika Shimotsuki, ohhh God MIKA... for the sake of not going off on a tangent I'll leave it at that. Akane was also a disappointment, her unchangeable plot device "Psycho-Pass" holds her back from getting any development and because of that she remains stagnant throughout the show's duration.
Enjoyment: 5/10
Other than seeing the continuation of Psycho-Pass, season 2 dropped the ball. It lost all the charm that made the show great to begin with and I was left more disappointed than satisfied.
Overall: 4/10
From being a show I hold in high regards to one I won't bother acknowledging, Psycho-Pass 2 failed on many levels. If you were a fan of the series and have yet to watch this, I suggest you skip it and go on in ignorant bliss. A decision I wish I had follow for myself.
