[Spoilers]
This show had the potential to be a masterpiece right from the first episode and obviously it didn’t turn out that way. In no means is it a bad show, just one that didn’t live up to it’s full potential.
Story 8/10
The concept of the story is a 10/10, and the first episode is of perfect execution of this concept. But it didn’t stay that way. The story is in no way bad, but it does lose its way a bit in the middle. In each arc has a purpose to give Fushi different experiences or "stimulation" and pushes Fushi to continue learning what it means to be human. But of course, the execution wasn't perfect. The time skip in Gugu's arc was a little awkward, but at the very least I could see the intent behind it. But Tonari's arc was the one that had the most bumps. The purpose of this arc was for Fushi to struggle with human death or more specifically, killing humans, and to bring back Hayase. But the characters in this arc were the weakest and this was by far the worst arc. Most of the characters didn't get enough exploration except for Tonari, and that made their deaths way less meaningful. In each of the other arcs, the characters that died had left a big imprint on him. But because the ones that died were kinda just side characters, their deaths shouldn't have impacted him on a deep personal level. But yet, when Fushi is reflecting in the last episode, their deaths are talked about as if they were as meaningful as Gugu's death, which just isn't the case.
Animation 8/10
The animation is nothing bad and does the job, but just very average. It’s nothing more than that. I would’ve hoped to see some better visuals or something but sadly nothing. It doesn’t harm the story whatsoever but it would’ve improved it to have some beautiful visuals to go along with a beautiful story.
Sound 9/10
I love the opening and ending. They both fit perfectly with the show and are also unique. The rest of the soundtrack doesn’t stand out very much though.
Character 8/10
The characters are the best part of this show. No matter how many episodes each arc is, you always end up getting so attached to the characters, only to have your heart crushed after each one. Well at least for the most part. The other group members in Tonari's arc didn't receive enough exploration and therefor their characters seemed underdeveloped which made their deaths have little impact. The only character that got enough exploration was Tonari, and half of the time she was a very unlikable character. But Fushi’s character is exceptional. Each experience and “stimulation” he receives changes him and helps him grow in such a purposeful way, even with some for the bumps in the storytelling.
Enjoyment 9/10
I immensely enjoyed watching this anime, even with its few faults with the plot and characters. It never failed me to immerse me into every episode and feel for the characters.
Overall 9/10
As much as I wish this could be a 10/10, the average animation and the faults in the storytelling and characters prevent it from being a masterpiece. It is not a bad show by any means and I will absolutely be recommending this to everyone. But it just did not live up to the hopes I had for it.
