A3! is a story about friendship, overcoming hardships and chasing your dreams. Please keep in mind that if you're looking for an idol anime, A3 is not the one for you since this is about a theater group – no singing and dancing involved (unless you count the opening). The first season focuses on the characters of the Spring & Summer troupes and offers some lighthearted slice of life moments. While each of them got their own issues and problems, they all grow over time while gaining experience; be it on the stage or in their private life. Thus, one of the biggest strengths A3 has to offer is the dynamic between the troupe members and seeing them interacting with each other.
Don't expect an anime packed with action, because it's a slow-paced show with lots of conversations about the fears and wishes of the cast members, including drama and arguments. However, A3 is nothing short of comedy scenes, so you'll eventually come to love all the characters with all of their quirks and drolleries.
I've been playing the game for a while now and I immediately fell in love with the story, the characters, the music and the art. While the anime is very close to the game story-wise, they added some little easter eggs and bonuses for the fans, which, obviously, you might not spot if you're not familiar with the source material. Not all game scenes are included, but they did a good job picking the ones that bring the story forward. That way, it never feels like as if they're skipping important parts or rushing through the story.
Unfortunately, there is one thing I can't only say good things about. The art of the characters in the game is pretty and I’m always amazed about how much details they add to the costumes and cards. The anime, however, has some issues with the art and animations going on, even after they reworked some of it. Movements are a bit stiff and lacking in flow at times, faces are often kind of deformed. That shouldn't ruin the enjoyment for you, especially since the characters are pretty enough once zoomed on their faces, but it can still be irritating in some scenes.
All in all I can say that A3 Spring & Summer is very well-made and deserves to get a chance. THE SHOW MUST GO ON!
