All of this occurs in a quite interesting world where weapons range from flying robots to strange biological abominations. However while the setting and characters in it are all very interesting and well done, little is done to explain the actual mechanisms driving the world at large. Why is there a war, who's on a what side and why do things work the way they do is never fully explored.
This was the only weakness I could really point out in the show. And I can't truthfully say I miss the episode or two of pure exposition required by other similar shows to explain their world's internal workings. However it would be nice for some of the larger themes, like the cause of the war, to have been fleshed out more.
Beyond character and story, the show is one of the best examples of the anime form I have ever watched. The art and sound are perfection incarnate. The heated moments of battles, transformations and such are as invigorating as the more emotional moments of conversation, reflection and exploration. The soundtrack adds to the visual feast with a haunting score and some great poppy tunes for opening and closing credits.
All in all, if you want a gorgeous show with great character drama and heart-pounding action, watch Xam'd. If you're the kind of viewer that requires everything to be thoroughly explained and enumerated to you so you can immerse yourself in a show, don't expect much of Xam'd.
