Story - 9. Great. The animation was emotionally investing. I've always stuck firmly with the idea that if a writer can hook the target audience emotionally, then the writer will have an easier time getting compliments on his work. It was certainly suspense worthy in that the threat was introduced in the beginning, and what the threat would do was left to our imagination until the very end. The reason I gave a nine rather than a ten is because I felt it was too short, this story had potential to grow for a very long time; sadly, it was left short. That's not to say the ending wasn't satisfying, I just felt as if there COULD be more.
Art - 10. The artwork and animation was smooth. In fact, quite fluent, facial expressions did great, body motions showed strain, it was as real as real could get for anime.
Sound - 9. Very well placed. Starts off with an eerie tone, which is to be expected considering the threat is being introduced right off the bat, has slow instrumentals for the sad parts, and intense instrumentals for the fights. The sounds also match and are well timed. I took a point off here though because I really did NOT like the opening or ending credit selections. I felt as if they had nothing to do with the anime.
Character - 10. The first episode hints towards some drastic character development from our main character and those around him. I was very right to assume that, as the some characters DID change drastically. To my surprise, the main character actually STAYED the same as he started though, in terms of psyche that is. Which actually strengthened the impact of the ending, because it was his immovable will and mind that really brought home the end. The character who was meant to change though did so very drastically, it was actually really cool to see, because his goals did not change, but they way he perceived and pursued took a huge turn, some would even say for the worse.
Enjoyment - 9. I very much enjoyed this series, the sequence of actions were very easy to follow, with no fluff or filler, as every part had its place and reason for being there. It kept me wanting to watch to see what would happen and when. I took a point off here again, because of the short story though, I really believe this type of story has potential.
Overall - 9. Overall, I am satisfied. Sadly, the average was a 9.4 rounded down to 9.0, but I feel with good reason. I personally believed that the writer was a master at manipulating emotion. He could make make sad when he wanted, making me mad when he wanted, and make me continue watching everytime. I just wish he would continue it, develop more, and pursue this series.
