1st paragraph= opinions for people who have never watched the show
2nd paragraph= opinions as a sequel
3rd paragraph= opinions as an adaptation of the manga
As a starting point for newcomers this season left a lot to be desired. A vast amount of characters are introduced to the season's detriment as the number of supporting characters already meant that some were struggling to stay relevant. This coupled with very few lasting effects from the final battle of two of the three story arcs leaves the season very disappointing. Compared to the stakes or tension of the fights from previous seasons, the fights this season felt like they were filler to the much heavier and darker story unfolding in the background. I highly recommend you watch the previous seasons before this one or at the very least watch the ending song fully as I feel like it recaps the story so far decently enough. That being said, why is anyone watching a show starting at its third season?
As a sequel, this season felt like a lot of set up for what is to come, feeling more like a interlude rather than an actual continuation, like a calm before the storm. Hopefully the next season will provide the pay off for all the investment put in this season. The music for this season is by far the best the series has had, the OP perfectly captures feeling of the series and the themes of the season, accompanied by visuals that hint at whats to happen in the season without spoiling anything. The ED feels like a tribute to the previous seasons with its farewell sounding lyrics and visuals of every dish ever made in the series and highlight scenes of the previous seasons.
As someone who knows what is to come, this season is everything I expected, I was a little disappointed with the 12 episode length but with the next season coming out 3 months from now instead of a year I can wait for the next season. The season adapted the source material faithfully and there is nothing left to say without spoiling upcoming events as my disappointment stems from the season finishing too soon and nothing about the season.
