Adapting the ‘Stone Wars’ arc from the manga, this season runs less than half the length of the previous season. It makes sense given the amount of storytelling from the manga. Any more than that would actually make the show less consistent. And speaking of consistency, Stone Wars drop us right into the main story with Senku and his scientific mind. It takes a genius like him to think of ideas such as making space dried food and with help takes the fight right to Tsukasa. Again, I have to emphasize that Senku is a very intelligent individual with the characteristics of a leader. Plus, it also helps that he has the trust of his allies such as Kohaku, Chrome, Gen, Kaeski and among others. He’s a guy who is bold enough to take risks but also responds accordingly to different situations. Such traits makes Senku ideal to carry out dangerous operations.
With the arc in full motion, there’s always time to also remind us the importance of the Stone War. Obviously, the show wants to prove a point and that is to showcase what science can really do in their timeline. Senku’s ability to craft complex inventions also shows that anything is possible. A prime example of this includes the steam engine. Dubbed as the Steam-Gorilla, it stands as a testament of scientific innovation. Sure, it’s not something mind-blowing that can change the fate of mankind. However, you have to admire that these characters were able to create something so complex with the tools they have. Of course, Senku is not the only character that embraces the love of science. Even Chrome, a guy with little scientific experience, preaches his newfound interest to characters such as Tsukasa. And really, I hope you’re a fan of Chrome this season because Stone Wars really puts him into a compromising position.
With each episode progressing, it’s shown through the Stone Wars how characters fight their battles. Most noticeably is Senku and his ability to also use psychology as a source of weapon. He plays mind games with his opponents and throws them off with calculated moves. This show isn’t just superficial about science fiction. It also deals with the way characters execute their plans to keep fan engaged. Senku, Tsukasa, Hyoga and even Chrome are prime example of this. From the first half of the show, you can just see how much the author prepared for the big fight and even the aftermath. And indeed, one of the later episodes throws in together all the prominent characters into a physical clash and science warfare. It’s quite impressive to actually see inventions being put to use. The author could’ve easily had characters clash in a generic physical confrontation but Dr Stone is known for its creative innovations. Not everything is overly complex either such as dynamites and gunpowder being used as weapons. The key selling point is how every episode had its meaningful purpose in some way or another and not wasted. It does that by showing what characters can achieve through science.
Because of the pacing and momentum, you may be wondering if there’s any concrete character development. The answer is sort of yes and no. On one hand, we do know more of about Tsukasa’s reason for fighting and even sees glimpses of his past. However, there are some characters this season that can easily be forgettable despite being there from the start. Oh yes, I’m talking about Tajiu and Yuzuriha. Does anyone even care about either character as pair anymore? Not me. The Stone Wars has been central point of this season that any sort of romantic development is practically null.
It’s just 11 episodes but Dr. Stone: Stone Wars serves as an example of dazzling storyteller. It sells us what it advertises and remains faithful to the manga. With its established cast, we get to see first-hand on how much they put their skills to use. In the end, I didn’t even have a side to root for because the war itself isn’t just about who wins. It’s about making a world and how science can change mankind. And that’s an achievement I can’t help but praise for.
