Characters:
Let me start by stating that there isn’t a real main character in this anime. Which I quite liked . For once everyone get their fare share of screen-time and character development. The Characters are linked in a very impressive way. you will see that the character’s are quite solid , attractive and unique . They have depth , dimensions and great character development . You have the guy who seems reckless and restless but can easily be tamed by logic, The girl who seems mighty and unshakable who’s in fact have the heart of a teenager that can be swayed by passion, the guy who seems kind and indifferent but has his own deep dark secrets . Those who are considered to be traitors but have their reasonable motives etc ...I have to say that it’s one of the strongest points in the anime.
First Half:
For a 24 episode anime, it’s expected for the first 5-8 episodes to be invested on characters introduction and story establishment . ZNT is an exception. It throws you right in the middle and gradually reveals its story. This should be an advantage but it turns out to be quite the opposite .. Because the first half of the show sat a very high standard, The second half had a problem keeping up with it., but let’s save that for later ..
ZNT is a character driven anime so, psychology plays an important part in it. The story is simply amazing . You can see that all possibilities were considered , every detail was well thought out and explained reasonably. Every action had a logical internal drive . Although action plays an important part in it ,I wouldn’t recommend this for people who don’t want to use their brain or want a straight forwarded action anime. ZNT is not about pure action . there is no good or evil in it .It’s about logic , reasoning and standing for your beliefs you can say that it has a literary feel ( only natural since it’s inspired from Shakespeare’s plays) It may not appeal for all viewers.
Second Half:
This is where the anime starts to struggle, It seems as if the anime no longer knows what it wants to be. It switches between slice of life, romance and even teen drama. Luckily for me, I had the choice to watch as many episodes as I want but I can understand where those -who had to wait a week after the other for a single episode - are coming from. It’s not entirely bad but when you compare it with the intensity of the first half it simply falls short.(if it was set in the beginning of the show I doubt anyone would’ve minded)
Many people disliked what had come of characters (mostly Hakaze). I don’t want to give spoilers so I’m going to address this briefly , you people need to put in mind that these characters are created to simulate humans who are NOT perfect. You can’t expect them to be cool and awesome- or whatever- all the time. Hakaze spent her life between the country and a deserted island . Her actions are only natural for a teenager going through ( .. ) for the first time. And giving all she’s been through.. anyways, it pays to be patient. The show does redeem itself unlike other shows .. cough~ .. SAO.. The last few episodes are on fire. It will blow your mind . All the masteries are uncovered beautifully and the end is very satisfactory.
Enjoyment : I truly enjoyed this anime. It had its flaws but it’s a great watch after all . It’s worthy to give it a chance . I guaranty that you’ll end up with at least a good watch .The art and sound are incredible . The animation is top notch . The story is -no matter what- original and the characters are memorable.
