Story: While there have been a few plot holes throughout the series, the overall consistency is pretty good. The humour, recurring themes, and consistent unexpected plot twists keep the viewer interested throughout. While the anime does go through some drier patches (as most 200+ episodes do), the universe and its development are very satisfying. I read some reviews that mention that Fairy Tail doesn't use foreshadowing - this is blatantly untrue. The series is littered with foreshadowing, but it is often so subtle that it would take a rewatch to understand its significance. Every battle has at the very least something to draw the viewer in, whether it's humour, romance, extreme circumstances, awesome magics, or just plain cheesy smack talk.
Art: There are definitely better drawn animes out there, but the animation for this is more than satisfactory. I like the fun style of the first 175 episode, much more than the animation of Fairy Tail 2014. It's bright, fits the characters, and works well with the overall tone.
Sound: THE GREATEST SOUNDTRACK OF ALL TIME (in my opinion). A mix of celtic and rockin' guitar. I can literally go months without listening to any other kind of music this OST is so good. So many amazing guitar solos and perfect vocals when they're incorporated. If you're a fan of intense battle music, emotional sad songs, or buoyant celebratory tunes, definitely check out this OST. I'd even recommend listening to it even if you don't watch the series - it is that good.
Characters: The characters are all very well done - especially the main four; Natsu, Lucy, Erza and Gray. Each member of the guild (as well as most members from other guilds) have their individual personalities outlined and develop in a consistent manner. Yes, Natsu does embody certain shonen protagonist characteristics, but he also disregards many of them as well. I've heard a lot of flak against Erza for winning every battle, though each is consistent with her character - if she had the same kind of character progression as the others, I feel it would only dull the diversity of the character arcs (as well, I doubt as many people would be sceptical of her if her character were male - then she'd just be the badass who trumps every time). Each character has their endearing quirks that make them loveable, and form relationships that feel genuine. Much of the series focuses on nakama power, and manages to make it enjoyable and believable within their situations. The gravitating factor for most of the characters simmers down to solidarity for the guild and why each character develops such an intense sense of it.
Enjoyment: I love the series - as I said before, I am thoroughly infatuated with it. The humour, fanservice, music, characters, and their stories all work in tandem to produce a series that manages to have you laughing one moment then crying the next. The fillers aren't as bad as most animes', and even the cringiest episodes have a few redeeming moments.
Overall: Watch this series if you enjoy nakama-based inspiration, exciting battles, awesome power ups, and jaw-droppingly awesome music. The series sometimes makes fun of itself, and it is very satisfying when that happens. Give the series a try. If it's not your cup of tea after the Phantom Lord arc, then you should drop it - but giving it up before then may very well mean you're missing out on something great.
