Season 1's had two big problems, main characters and pacing. Riko is an inconsistent, insane character, she just keeps going into her suicide mission without a second of doubt despite being nearly dead a few times. This is not the behaviour of a child, and yes Riko is implied to be a special monster but the fact that Reg being such a beta dog obeying all her wishes, enabling her selfish and dangerous behaviour just adds fuel to the fire. The duo is like a train speeding down a cliff, which would be an interesting formula if only they weren't the main characters granted the highest plot armor. They just won't die even when they actively tried.
Nanachi appeared in the last four episodes. Her story with Mitty was not impactful for several reasons. First, they were children with very little backstory and personality. Second, their interaction happened in a confined setting with repetitive routine. Third, not enough screentime. Mitty's end rather than tragic felt more like reading horrible news about child abuse. It's disgusting and pitiful, but I do not resonate with them as I do not know them deeply.
MiA 2 on the other hand... is a MASTAPEECE! *HERE COMES THE MONEY* Ohhh! Look at the OP! Look at the ED on that thing!
It's like the storyline of MiA but with the writing of Gundam.
Vueko has to find the Golden City, okay? So she can trade a compass to adopt a daughter. OKAY?? MiA 2 even has a new move! Cradle of Desire! Trans Am Reg! Getting Over Mitty!
Season 2 has a whole season to build up Vueko x Irumyuui. Their backstory ties to the present major event of S2 while still hidden behind layers of mystery to keep you intrigued. Something that Nanachi x Mitty lacked. Oh, don't forget they're side characters too so you don't know if they will die, or do you? *Vine boom*
While not entirely good, as Riko is still in the story to spout her MC speech then pass out whenever it's morally convenient, I feel MiA S2 fixed a lot of mistakes in S1 and does a better retelling of "Two Girls One Abyss". It doesn't have as many banger OSTs(literally only Vueko's theme is memorable) and its art is less impressive, but it's a good trade for better storytelling.
