Warning! Spoiler alert!
Story
The adventures of Yuuichirou and friends' continue as they are assigned a new mission that might change the course of the war. Meanwhile, Mikaela is more determined than ever to save Yuu, even if that means succumbing deeper and deeper into his vampire instincts. I have to say, the struggles of both Yuuichirou and Mikaela to retain their humanity are perfectly contrasted with one another across this season, what with Yuu obtaining more demonic power while Mikaela being forced to drink human blood for the first time since he became a vampire. There's a lot of payoff in this season, both for the character arcs and the larger narrative.
The world-building is more noticeable with this season, as we learn more about the inhuman experimentation that caused the human-vampire war in the first place and the role the Hiiragi family plays in military affairs. This season really dwells on the "humans can be just as cruel and monstrous as vampires" theme, as both sides resort to dirtier and more underhanded tactics to win the war. The show also ups in the ante in regards to the battles, with vampiric and demonic powers in full display. If you came here to watch incredible action scenes, you won't be disappointed. (8/10)
Characters
The character development in this season was outstanding. The characters we see at the end of this season are not the same characters we saw at the beginning of the first, and that deserves no shortage of praise. Yuu becomes nobler and more heroic in this season and we see him stop grieving about the family he lost and start caring about the family he has now. The show is also really good at delivering a sympathetic portrayal for Mikaela, who does his best to keep his vampire side at bay and navigate the treacherous vampire landscape in an attempt to survive and see Yuu again. Yuu and Mika have the best relationship in this show, and they have some beautiful and poignant moments together.
I also liked how close Yuu has become with his other friends, especially Shinoa, who stops acting arrogant and cavalier about life and shows some overt affection for their friends. Like I said before, there's a lot of payoff in this season and overall, the character are in a much better place than they were in the beginning. (9/10)
Art
Studio Wit delivers outstanding visual quality for Seraph of the End, as was the case in previous seasons. The battles look magnificent and the characters move fluidly and seamlessly across shots. Since I'm no animation expert, there's not much I can do to pick the show's art style and animation apart, but I'm still pleased with the results. (9/10)
Sounds
The soundtrack was fine. Not great, just fine. I did like the closer, though. It gives the show a rare sense of levity and tranquility. The vocal performances were amazing. Micah Solusod, Justin Briner and Felecia Angelle do an amazing work, no thanks in small part to the strength and dramatic effect of the script. (9/10)
Overall
In closing here, Battle in Nagoya was an excellent way to conclude the Seraph of the End, at least for now. It double-down on the first season's strengths and corrected several of its flaws. Since the manga is still ongoing, I really hope we get an adaptation in the future. There are still battles left to be fought. (8/10)
