Art and Sound [9/10]
Both top-notch. They can sometimes feel like they could be better in some ways (though I wouldn't be able to tell you why), but overall they manage to be very amazing in AKB0048. The moments where the characters appear 'on stage' are especially spectaculair.
Story and Characters [7/10]
As for the characters and story, these are also really enjoyable to watch. However, it's here where I can spot one of the few flaws I see with AKB0048. There's a little bit too much 'training arcs' for my liking. It feels like the character development is given way too much priority, which leaves me feeling like the actual story is moving too slow. In addition to this, I think they could inject a lot more scenes where the characters just engage in simple, funny and cute goofing around. I feel like there's way too much seriousness and brooding, and while they certainly have their place here (especially in an anime like this), it could also very much do with a lot more light-hearted moments to highlight their cute and heartwarming aspects and really show them like idols even more. But even though I'm pointing out these things, I still think the story and characters are good enough to be enjoyable.
Enjoyment/Overall [8/10]
Overall, I very much enjoyed AKB0048, and I'm certainly planning to watch the sequel too. Episode 13 was definitely the highlight of this anime for me. I was planning to give this anime a 7, but man, that episode gave me enough chills to boost it to an 8 all on its own. Anyway, despite the overabundance of 'training arcs' and seriousness, and the sometimes slow-feeling story, I would certainly recommend others to give this anime a try.
