My biggest problem with a lot of anime is that I have to force myself not to fast forward past a lot of scenes. Only a few animes I've seen can pride themselves with having me pay full attention to every scene, and Futakoi alternative is actually one of those! The key to this is a fast paced and unique story. When watching the first episode, I really had no idea where the story was going, but believe me, I wanted to know! Not only this, but the brilliant mix of action and comedy had me wondering where those 20 minutes had gone. The first episode was funny and filled with action provided by colorful characters. Even though I was stunned after the first episode, one question had me worried, would the remaining episodes be as enjoyable?
Don't get me wrong, the first episode's mix of action and comedy was perfect, but action and comedy only goes that far. A good show needs character and story development, and I was wondering whether Futakoi Alternative would provide me with that. However, after watching a few more episodes, this no longer had me worried. The pace was slowed down but instead a solid story replaced it. Even though Futakoi Alternative starts out as a cheerful series, it develops into something deeper, more heart gripping, however, it does all this without losing it's original feel.
Even though the story is brilliant, the characters are in no way to be underestimated. Because believe me when I say this, they are simply great. The main character Rentarou really is one of my favourite anime characters. He's tough and can be hilarious, but he has his inner demons and doubts which makes him into more than a simple harem character. You understand his problems, you know they are hard to solve. I guess you could say he feels REAL. Also, without spoiling too much, it really does feel like this anime wraps things up nicely in the end, something that a lot of good animes fails with.
Futakoi Alternative is a funny action-filled series which manages to maintain a deep, gripping story despite it's unrealistic setting. Comedy, action, drama and romance all together without getting too mixed up. This anime really has it all, I highly recommend it to anyone who wishes to see 13 episodes of pure brilliance.
