It was great.
I'll admit that the first episode was pretty goddamn confusing, and it was especially hard to keep all the names straight in the one-hour first episode. And even though I had a very faint idea of the premise of the Holy Grail war, I was still goddamn confused. For those of you like me, just think of it as a big magic Battle Royale for a miracle.
As I kept watching, Fate/zero just kept getting better. The story was normally paced when introducing characters and starting up; then completely bursts into action, keeping you on edge to make the most out of only 13 episodes. There are plot twists and jaws hitting the floor galore, and it is remarkably entertaining to watch.
The characters are great instruments to the plot. Each is incredibly interesting, from the scrawny Master who'd like to defy the odds, to the twisted, faith-filled psychopath Servant. Above all, they are all noble in their own respect (even Caster for a couple seconds), and the way they are portrayed in Fate/zero truely demonstrates their heroic nature. All Servants have a good sense of respect, even if their Masters do not, and it is very refreshing to watch. The Masters are usually equally as likeable; but of course, they have their underhanded moments. Sometimes it's a moment of badassery; other times it's a coldhearted bitch move. Nevertheless the characters are exceptionally likeable.
I've said this before, but I cannot critique art for my life. All I can say is that the art looks beautiful. It's all very realistic and pretty, especially during the fighting scenes. Well
Yuki Kajiura is an amazing composer and one of my favorites, and it's wonderful to see her working with this series. Each track is perfectly suited to its setting, with spine-tingling movements tailored to climaxes and emotional scenes. The arrangements, with an orchestra feel and coupled with guitar, vocal, and electronic influences, just make a kick-ass OST.
I thoroughly enjoyed Fate/zero and am continuing to look forward to the second half. It is worthy of much praise and I highly recommend it to all fans interested, especially action fans and those in search of a good, gripping plot. It is very hard to give this series anything but a 10.
