Anime of the Year 2020-I Winter - Infinite Dendrogram
Entry posted by kivandopulus in Anime of the Year
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Infinite Dendrogram was an interesting MMORPG-like experience for me and it even wins over Goblin Slayer: Goblin's Crown by the right of novely in my evaluation. Itai no wa Iya nanode Bougyoryoku ni Kyokufuri Shitai to Omoimasu. , Oshi ga Budoukan Ittekuretara Shinu and Made in Abyss Movie 3: Fukaki Tamashii no Reimei are minor masterpieces for me.
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1. Haikyuu!! To the Top Haikyu!! To the Top ハイキュー!! TO THE TOP [Production I.G] (Finished 1/13)
Tags: Shounen School, Team Sports
After their triumphant victory over Shiratorizawa Academy, the Karasuno High School volleyball team has earned their long-awaited ticket to nationals. As preparations begin, genius setter Tobio Kageyama is invited to the All-Japan Youth Training Camp to play alongside fellow nationally recognized players. Meanwhile, Kei Tsukishima is invited to a special rookie training camp for first-years within the Miyagi Prefecture. Not receiving any invitations himself, the enthusiastic Shouyou Hinata feels left behind.
However, Hinata does not back down. Transforming his frustration into self-motivation, he boldly decides to sneak himself into the same rookie training camp as Tsukishima. Even though Hinata only lands himself a job as the ball boy, he comes to see this as a golden opportunity. He begins to not only reflect on his skills as a volleyball player but also analyze the plethora of information available on the court and how he can apply it.
As the much-anticipated national tournament approaches, the members of Karasuno's volleyball team attempt to overcome their weak points and refine their skills, all while aiming for the top!
Sequel.
Overall Rating: 6/10
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2. Jibaku Shounen Hanako-kun Toilet-Bound Hanako-kun 地縛少年花子くん [Lerche] (Finished 1/12)
Tags: Shounen Mythology, School Supernatural
The famous Seven Mysteries that every school seems to have are a staple of Japanese urban legends. One of the most well-known of these tales is that of Hanako-san: the ghost of a young girl who haunts the school's bathrooms.
Kamome Academy has its own version of Hanako-san's legend. Rumors claim that if one successfully manages to summon Hanako-san, she will grant her summoner any wish. Lured by the gossip, many people have tried to call upon her, yet every attempt has failed. However, when Nene Yashiro, a girl hoping for romantic fortune, dares to summon Hanako-san, she discovers that the rumored "girl" is actually a boy!
After a series of unfortunate events involving Yashiro's romantic desires, she is unwillingly entangled in the world of the supernatural, becoming Hanako-kun's assistant. Soon, she finds out about Hanako-kun's lesser-known duty: maintaining the fragile balance between mortals and apparitions.
I don't like art or humor here and seriously detest school ghost stories.
Overall Rating: 5/10
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3. Darwin's Game ダーウィンズゲーム [Nexus] (Finished 11/11)
Tags: Shounen High Stakes Game, Super Power, Survival Action, Mystery, Sci-Fi, Suspense
High school student Kaname Sudou receives an invitation from a classmate to play Darwin's Game, a mobile game he has never heard of. However, as soon as he opens the application, a green snake suddenly pops out from his phone screen and bites his neck, leaving him unconscious. Waking up in the infirmary without any signs of a snake bite, he is told by the school to take the rest of the day off. Although he is puzzled by what has happened, he dismisses the surreal experience as a hallucination and boards the train home.
Unfortunately, his curiosity gets the better of him and he uses the application once again. As the application appears to be just like any other battle game, Kaname breathes out a sigh of relief and decides to start his first match. However, the pleasant surprise is short-lived, as his in-game opponent unexpectedly appears right in front of him and attempts to hunt him down with a knife.
As he desperately runs for his life, Kaname puts two and two together and realizes that Darwin's Game is not an ordinary game, but rather, it's a brutal fight for survival.
Remember finishing it, but it's a typical gamified survival challenge, not bad or outstanding.
Overall Rating: 6/10
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4. Dorohedoro ドロヘドロ [MAPPA] (Finished 12/12)
Tags: Seinen Gore Action, Comedy, Fantasy, Horror
Hole—a dark, decrepit, and disorderly district where the strong prey on the weak and death is an ordinary occurrence—is all but befitting of the name given to it. A realm separated from law and ethics, it is a testing ground to the magic users who dominate it. As a race occupying the highest rungs of their society, the magic users think of the denizens of Hole as no more than insects. Murdered, mutilated, and made experiments without a second thought, the powerless Hole dwellers litter the halls of Hole's hospital on a daily basis.
Possessing free access to and from the cesspool, and with little challenge to their authority, the magic users appear indomitable to most—aside for a few. Kaiman, more reptile than man, is one such individual. He hunts them on a heedless quest for answers with only a trusted pair of bayonets and his immunity to magic. Cursed by his appearance and tormented by nightmares, magic users are his only clue to restoring his life to normal. With his biggest obstacle being his stomach, his female companion Nikaidou, who runs the restaurant Hungry Bug, is his greatest ally.
Set in a gritty world of hellish design, Dorohedoro manages a healthy blend of comedy and lightheartedness with death and carnage. Taking plenty of twists and turns while following the lives of Hole's residents, it weaves a unique world of unearthly origin and dreary appearance not for the squeamish or easily disturbed.
It started in a very unusual manner, but the more I watched, the less it appealed to me as it goes nowhere and does not even try to reach anything.
Overall Rating: 6/10
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5. Itai no wa Iya nanode Bougyoryoku ni Kyokufuri Shitai to Omoimasu. BOFURI: I Don't Want to Get Hurt, so I'll Max Out My Defense. 痛いのは嫌なので防御力に極振りしたいと思います。 [SILVER LINK.] (Finished 12/12)
Tags: Video Game Action, Adventure, Comedy, Fantasy
After an enthusiastic invitation from her friend, Kaede Honjou reluctantly agrees to try New World Online: a very popular VRMMO played by thousands of people across Japan. Naming her in-game character Maple, she sets out on her journey. As a complete novice to such games, she allocates all of her stat points into vitality, desiring to not get hurt. With not a single point in any other stat, Maple has extraordinarily high defense, but she can't move quickly or hit hard.
This does not end badly for her, however. Due to her high defense, Maple acquires overpowered skills such as Total Defense, Poison Immunity, and Devour. These skills, along with the incredibly powerful items she obtains, allow her to obliterate most enemies in a single hit. After only a few days of playing the game, Maple claims third place in a server-wide event, gaining a reputation as a player who is both unkillable and absurdly powerful.
Despite her overpowered character, Kaede has much to learn. As she progresses through the game, she meets new friends and acquaintances, helping her complete new levels and events. Through all of her adventures, she may even pick up some other crazy skills that exceed all expectations.
Of course I'm biased here, but this is a very nice cozy MMORPG experience with little girly stuff and enough otaku stuff. It's a bit cheesy, but that's why it's only a small masterpiece. Not sure if it got enough firepower for second season as masterpiece, but I'll definitely watch it later.
Overall Rating: 7/10
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6. Kyokou Suiri In/Spectre 虚構推理 [Brain's Base] (Finished 1/12)
Tags: Shounen Adult Cast, Mythology Mystery, Romance, Supernatural
Hidden in plain sight, spirits known as youkai inhabit the world. While most are benign, a certain subset threatens the tenuous peace between youkai and humanity. Ever since she agreed to become their "God of Wisdom," Kotoko Iwanaga has served as a mediator between the two realms, resolving any supernatural problems that come her way.
At a local hospital, Kotoko approaches Kurou Sakuragawa, a university student whose long-term relationship ended with an unfortunate breakup. Kotoko harbors feelings for him and suspects that something supernatural lurks within his harmless appearance, so she asks Kurou for his assistance in helping out youkai.
Two years later, news of an idol who was accidentally crushed to death by steel beams flooded the press. However, months later, sightings begin to tell of a faceless woman who wields a steel beam. As is the case for any supernatural problem, Kotoko and her partner set out to stop this spirit from wreaking havoc—but this case may prove to be far more sinister and personal than they could have ever thought.
Spiritual mystery is only good as a lullaby for me, and I don't intend to sleep that much.
Overall Rating: 5/10
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7. Plunderer プランダラ [Geek Toys] (Finished 3/24)
Tags: Shounen Military Action, Fantasy, Romance, Ecchi
Alcia is a world governed by "Count": numbers engraved on a person's body, representing any number related to their life. These Counts determine a person's social status and power in Alcia. If a Count reaches zero, the person is sent to the Abyss, a place rumored to be worse than death.
Hina, a traveler whose Count is based on the distance she traveled, witnessed her mother get dragged down into the Abyss. Determined to fulfill her mother's last wishes, she sets off on a journey in search of the legendary Aces—heroes of the war that happened three hundred years ago, bearing a white star next to their Count.
While wandering around, Hina encounters Licht Bach, a mysterious masked man with negative Count, and Nana, the owner of a tavern. In the midst of having a good time, Hina is tricked into a battle with a military soldier. However, despite his negative count, Licht rescues Hina and reveals that he has another count, one with a white star, one of a legendary Ace.
Plunderer follows the journey of Hina and other inhabitants of Alcia as they discover the truth about their world, the Abyss, and the legendary Aces.
Ecchi does not need good plot or high scores to be watched, and this is far from the worst.
Overall Rating: 6/10
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8. Id:Invaded ID:INVADED イド:インヴェイデッド [NAZ] (Finished 1/13)
Tags: Adult Cast, Detective, Psychological Mystery, Sci-Fi, Suspense
The Mizuhanome System is a highly advanced development that allows people to enter one of the most intriguing places in existence—the human mind. Through the use of so-called "cognition particles" left behind at a crime scene by the perpetrator, detectives from the specialized police squad Kura can manifest a criminal's unconscious mind as a bizarre stream of thoughts in a virtual world. Their task is to explore this psychological plane, called an "id well," to reveal the identity of the culprit.
Not just anyone can enter the id wells; the prerequisite is that you must have killed someone yourself. Such is the case for former detective Akihito Narihisago, who is known as "Sakaido" inside the id wells. Once a respected member of the police, tragedy struck, and he soon found himself on the other side of the law.
Nevertheless, Narihisago continues to assist Kura in confinement. While his prodigious detective skills still prove useful toward investigations, Narihisago discovers that not everything is as it seems, as behind the seemingly standalone series of murder cases lurks a much more sinister truth.
Detective.
Overall Rating: 5/10
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9. Rikei ga Koi ni Ochita no de Shoumei shitemita. Science Fell in Love, So I Tried to Prove It 理系が恋に落ちたので証明してみた。 [Zero-G] (Finished 2/12)
Tags: Adult Cast Comedy, Romance
It is widely believed that science can provide rational explanations for the countless phenomena of our universe. However, there are many aspects of our existence that science has not yet found a solution to and cannot decipher with numbers. The most notorious of these is the concept of love. While it may seem impossible to apply scientific theory to such an intricate and complex emotion, a daring pair of quick-witted Saitama University scientists aim to take on the challenge.
One day the bold and beautiful Ayame Himuro outwardly declares that she is in love with Shinya Yukimura, her fellow logical and level-headed scientist. Acknowledging his own lack of experience with romance, Yukimura questions what factors constitute love in the first place and whether he is in love with Himuro or not. Both clueless in the dealings of love, the pair begin to conduct detailed experiments on one another to test the human characteristics that indicate love and discern whether they demonstrate these traits toward each other.
As Himuro and Yukimura begin their intimate analysis, can the two scientists successfully apply scientific theory, with the help of their friends, to quantify the feelings they express for one another?
Couple episodes of such conceptual comedy is all I can tolerate as I don't find it funny.
Overall Rating: 6/10
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10. Eizouken ni wa Te wo Dasu na! Keep Your Hands Off Eizouken! 映像研には手を出すな! [Science SARU] (Finished 2/12)
Tags: Seinen Otaku Culture, School Adventure, Award Winning, Comedy
Midori Asakusa sees the world a bit differently. Always having her nose in a sketchbook, Asakusa draws detailed landscapes and backgrounds of both the world around her and the one within her boundless imagination. Even the simple act of doodling on a wall evolves into an emergency repair on the outer hull of her spaceship. She is only brought back to reality by her best friend Sayaka Kanamori. The pair are stark opposites, with Asakusa's childlike wonder contrasted by Kanamori's calculated approach to life.
After a chance encounter where the two "save" the young model Tsubame Misuzaki from her overprotective bodyguard, a connection instantly sparks between Asakusa and Misuzaki, as both share an intense passion for art and animation. Whereas Asakusa is interested in backgrounds and settings, Misuzaki loves drawing the human form. Sensing a money-making opportunity, Kanamori suggests that they start an animation club, which they disguise as a motion picture club since the school already has an anime club. Thus begins the trio's journey of producing animation that will awe the world.
From the brilliant mind of Masaaki Yuasa, Eizouken ni wa Te wo Dasu na! is a love letter to animation, wildly creative in its approach, and a testament to the potential of the medium.
I did not understand the merits of this anime in first episodes, so probably should stop there. Very bland.
Overall Rating: 5/10
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11. Somali to Mori no Kamisama Somali and the Forest Spirit ソマリと森の神様 [Satelight, HORNETS] (Finished 1/12)
Tags: Childcare Adventure, Drama, Fantasy
In a world inhabited by demons, cyclopes, and other fantastic creatures, humans stand apart as the outcasts. Quick to anger, the human race engaged in a war that all but wiped them out. The few humans that remain are seen as a delicacy, serving no purpose but to be hunted down and eaten.
One day, Golem, a wandering protector of nature, encounters a lone human child while patrolling. Inspired by her enthusiasm, he takes the girl, named Somali, under his wing. Together, the duo embarks on a journey to find Somali's parents and bring her home.
A childcare travel show with demons! This kind of concept is horrible for me, so drop was inevitable.
Overall Rating: 5/10
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12. Isekai Quartet 2 異世界かるてっと2 [Studio PuYUKAI] (Finished 1/12)
Tags: Isekai, Parody Comedy, Fantasy
Despite completing all the tasks given to them, Ainz Ooal Gown, Tanya Degurechaff, Kazuma Satou, Subaru Natsuki, and the other members of Class 2 are surprised to find out that their role as students is far from over. With no means of returning home, the class of eccentric personalities is still mysteriously stuck in the unfamiliar world. Although, as they are becoming quite fond of each other, spending more time together does not sound that bad.
With the unexpected arrival of new transfer students, the comedic antics of our beloved characters continue to grow. Thus, their bizarre yet nonchalant school life continues.
Sequel.
Overall Rating: 5/10
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13. Toaru Kagaku no Railgun T A Certain Scientific Railgun T とある科学の超電磁砲[レールガン]T [J.C.Staff] (Finished 1/25)
Tags: Super Power Action, Fantasy, Sci-Fi
The Daihasei Festival has begun, and that of course means that Tokiwadai Middle School—a prestigious all-girls' middle school—is competing too. Despite the participation of the "Ace of Tokiwadai," Mikoto Misaka, the other students who are participating are still putting their utmost effort into winning, no matter how impossible the feat may seem against her overwhelming might.
However, not all is fun and games. Due to the festival, Academy City opens to the outside world, and various factions have begun plotting ways to infiltrate the city. Misaka appears to be on their radar, and as the festival proceeds, people lurking from the shadows begin to emerge...
Toaru Kagaku no Railgun T brings back the Tokiwadai Ace and her friends as they dive deeper into the dark side of Academy City. From terrorist attacks to ruthless underground projects, anything is possible in this city.
Sequel.
Overall Rating: 5/10
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14. Murenase! Seton Gakuen Seton Academy: Join the Pack! 群れなせ！シートン学園 [Studio Gokumi] (Finished 1/12)
Tags: Anthropomorphic, School Comedy, Ecchi
Seton Academy is a place attended by a plethora of interesting and diverse animal species. Jin Mazama is one of the few humans there, who also happens to vehemently hate animals from the bottom of his heart! One day, he stumbles upon the rowdy and assertive girl Ranka Ookami, a small "lone wolf" without a pack, who has not a single friend.
The desperate Ranka tries to invite Jin into joining her pack; Jin, who hates animals, naturally refuses. Amid this situation, Jin meets Hitomi Hino, a fellow human, and promptly becomes infatuated with her. After getting to know each other, the two decide to create a cooking club, and after a few bad-blooded misunderstandings, Ranka soon joins the club as well.
Thus begins the howl-some and howl-arious story of two normal humans; an adorable wolf; a cheerful koala; a sluggish, blonde sloth; and a feline with cattitude in their newfound club—in a story that teaches that friendship can be forged by creatures of different kinds.
Antropomorphism only makes things worse for me, because this additional beast level takes so much time to play around that there's often not enough time left for anything worthwhile. And this is a great example of it.
Overall Rating: 5/10
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15. Infinite Dendrogram <Infinite Dendrogram>-インフィニット・デンドログラム- [NAZ] (Finished 13/13)
Tags: Video Game Action, Fantasy
In the year 2043, <Infinite Dendrogram>, the world's first successful full-dive VRMMO was released. In addition to its ability to perfectly simulate the five senses, along with its many other amazing features, the game promised to offer players a world full of infinite possibilities. Nearly two years later, soon-to-be college freshman, Reiji Mukudori, is finally able to buy a copy of the game and start playing. With some help from his experienced older brother, Shuu, and his partner Embryo, Reiji embarks on an adventure into the world of <Infinite Dendrogram>. Just what will he discover and encounter in this game world known for its incredible realism and infinite possibilities?
It took some time remembering this one, but I definitely enjoyed it more than hoped to. Good serious MMORPG fantasy with slightly flawed setting.
Overall Rating: 8/10
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16. Nekopara ネコぱら [Felix Film] (Finished 2/12)
Tags: Anthropomorphic Comedy, Slice of Life
The siblings Kashou and Shigure Minazuki enjoy the company of six catgirls. Chocola and Vanilla assist Kashou in his job as a baker at the patisserie La Soleil, while the others—Coconut, Azuki, Cinnamon, and Maple—accompany Shigure in her daily life back at their home.
One afternoon, when Chocola goes out for an errand, she notices a green-haired kitten alone by herself at a park and decides to bring her back to the patisserie. Soon after, the Minazuki household adopts her and gives her a name: Cacao. With a new member in their family, the members of the Minazuki household continue their everyday lives—bound to become livelier than ever.
Better than games since it's SFW, but I'm not impressed in the least.
Overall Rating: 5/10
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17. Magia Record: Mahou Shoujo Madoka☆Magica Gaiden Magia Record: Puella Magi Madoka Magica Side Story マギアレコード 魔法少女まどか☆マギカ外伝 (TV) [Shaft] (Finished 1/13)
Tags: Mahou Shoujo, Psychological Drama, Fantasy, Suspense
Rumor has it that if a young girl strikes a bargain with a white fairy, it will grant any wish her heart desires. However, in exchange, she will become a magical girl and must put her life on the line to slay fearsome and ferocious witches.
Iroha Tamaki, a kind-hearted middle schooler from Takarazaki City, is living proof that these rumors are true. Armed with a magical crossbow and the ability to heal injuries, Iroha seeks out the labyrinths where witches hide and defeats them before they can prey on humans. Yet Iroha has no memory of her wish, and even Kyuubey, the white fairy himself, seems to have no idea what Iroha requested of him.
One day, Iroha hears rumors of a city where "magical girls can be saved," and finds herself on a sunset train to Kamihama City. Unfortunately, she discovers that the witches in Kamihama are far more powerful than usual. After veteran magical girl Yachiyo Nanami is forced to save her, Iroha vows to never return. But when a chance encounter with a tiny Kyuubey seems to trigger distant memories, Iroha is compelled to investigate the mysterious city despite the danger.
The amount of abstract stuff in first episode seriously appalls me...
Overall Rating: 5/10
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18. Runway de Waratte Smile Down the Runway ランウェイで笑って [Ezόla] (Finished 1/12)
Tags: Shounen School, Showbiz, Visual Arts Drama
Being the daughter of a modeling agency owner, Chiyuki Fujito aspires to represent her father's agency in the prestigious Paris Fashion Week, shining under the spotlight as a runway model. However, although she is equipped with great looks and talent, she unfortunately lacks a key element in becoming a successful model—height. Stuck at 158 cm even after entering high school, her childhood dream seems out of reach.
Meanwhile, Ikuto Tsumura is a high school student with a knack in designing clothes; however, without the resources to pursue the necessary education, his ambition of becoming a fashion designer remains a mere dream. But as fate brings Chiyuki and Ikuto together, the dim hopes within their hearts are ignited once again. Together, the two promise to rebel against convention and carve out their own paths in the fashion world.
Kind of spokon of showbiz. Maybe if it was closer to some otaku stuff like cosplay at least...
Overall Rating: 6/10
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19. Pet ペット [Geno Studio] (Finished 1/13)
Tags: Seinen Psychological Mystery, Supernatural
Despite endless research, the human mind remains a mystery to this day. Unknown to the public, there exist special individuals who are able to dive deep into the minds of people and even manipulate their memories.
Gifted with this ability, Hiroki, Tsukasa, and Satoru are among those who use their power to commit crime under the orders of their leader, Katsuragi. The three step into the dangerous territory of the human mind in order to destroy their assigned targets while striving to keep their own minds and memories safe.
Detective.
Overall Rating: 5/10
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20. Koisuru Asteroid Asteroid in Love 恋する小惑星〈アストロイド〉 [Doga Kobo] (Finished 1/12)
Tags: CGDCT, School Slice of Life
In a fateful childhood encounter, Mira Kinohata met a stargazing dreamer named Ao Manaka. Though their time together was short, Ao showed Mira the wonders of astronomy, from orbiting planets to distant stars. Before they parted, Mira learned that a star with her name exists, but there are none with Ao's. And so, she forged a promise: one day, she would discover a new asteroid and name it after Ao.
Years later, Mira is still fascinated with astronomy. Now in high school at Hoshizaki Academy, she tries to join the Astronomy Club. Unfortunately, she finds out that the club has been merged with the Geology Club to form a single Earth Sciences Club. She joins this new club and finds a pleasant surprise—she reunites with Ao after years of separation.
Alongside their new clubmates, Mira and Ao begin their journey together to fulfill their promise. How hard could it possibly be to find an asteroid?
Astronomy club SOL is one of the most boring concepts that I can imagine.
Overall Rating: 5/10
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21. Majutsushi Orphen Hagure Tabi Sorcerous Stabber Orphen 魔術士オーフェンはぐれ旅 [Studio Deen] (Finished 4/13)
Tags: Martial Arts Action, Adventure, Drama, Fantasy
In a world of magic and monsters, Krylancelo Finrandi and his foster sister Azalie Cait-Sith were once promising students of sorcery, prodigies at the famous Tower of Fangs. But an experiment gone horribly wrong warps Azalie's appearance, trapping her in the form of a dragon.
Elders at the Tower—more interested in preserving their reputation rather than their students' lives—drive off the transformed Azalie and cover up the incident. Outraged, Krylancelo strikes out on his own, taking the new name of "Orphen" and vowing to return Azalie to her normal state.
Five years later, Orphen's quest has stalled. A chance encounter brings him face to face with Azalie again, but he still has no way to restore her body. And with a hostile group of sorcerers hunting her down, he may be running out of time. The past and present collide as Orphen tries to find how to save Azalie from their former teachers and friends.
The start was rather good, but after some 4th episode it got boring for me, so could not care enough.
Overall Rating: 6/10
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22. Housekishou Richard-shi no Nazo Kantei The Case Files of Jeweler Richard 宝石商リチャード氏の謎鑑定 [Shuka] (Finished 1/12)
Tags: Adult Cast, Workplace Drama, Mystery
Possessing a deep knowledge of mineralogy, Richard Ranashinha de Vulpian is a young and handsome British jewelry appraiser who owns a small shop in Japan. One fateful night, Seigi Nakata, a righteous college student, saves him from drunks who were harassing him due to his good looks. Upon learning of Richard's identity, Seigi hires him to appraise a pink sapphire ring that was left behind by his deceased grandmother.
Before long, Seigi becomes a trusted part-timer at Richard's shop. Together, the duo solve various jewel-related requests from diverse clients of different backgrounds. Step by step, they unravel the hidden motives and feelings that lie within the gems in order to understand and empathize with the little stories behind each piece of jewelry.
Detective.
Overall Rating: 5/10
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23. number24 number24 ナンバー・トゥーフォー [PRA] (Finished 1/12)
Tags: School, Team Sports
Natsuza Yuzuki has been playing rugby as a left-winger ever since he was a child. After enrolling in Doushisha University, he quickly becomes a rising star in the Kansai University League.
His dreams are shattered, however, when a nasty motorbike accident leaves him with a spinal hernia—making him unable to be able to play rugby ever again. With no role available other than the position of manager, he accepts his new post and hopes his squad can obtain a league title.
Yuzuki's team is an unlikely group, including his stoic best friend and full-back Seiichirou Jingyouji; hot-headed first-year Yasunari Tsuru, who harbors a strong dislike for Natsuza, filling his senior's old position as left wing; and Yuu Mashiro, who is struggling to hold his ground as a scrum half.
Despite Natsuza putting his all into training his team for a league title, their squad still feels incomplete. A year ago, Ibuki Ueka, the genius fly-half that was once Doushisha's ace, suddenly quit rugby—and now Natsuza is determined to get him back.
Spokon.
Overall Rating: 5/10
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24. Boku no Tonari ni Ankoku Hakaishin ga Imasu. A Destructive God Sits Next to Me ぼくのとなりに暗黒破壊神がいます。 [EMT Squared] (Finished 1/12)
Tags: Josei School Comedy
In the distant past, Miguel, the God of Destruction, was sealed inside the knight who ruled over light and darkness, Sturmhurt. Alongside the knight was Gestöber, who accompanied him through countless battles. In the present day, destiny causes them to reincarnate as Kabuto Hanadori and Seri Koyuki, two classmates.
Their reunion should be a joyous moment, if not for the fact that these fantasied heroes are just products of Kabuto's delusions. As the fictional "Gestöber," Seri finds himself in various embarrassing situations due to Kabuto's antics that sometimes grow out of his control. Moreover, his classmate Utsugi Tsukimiya joins the fray with his absurdly accurate mind-reading abilities, slowly destroying Seri's social life.
Seri tries hard to stay away from them, refusing to acknowledge their shenanigans, however with Kabuto's chuunibyou and Utsugi's unpredictability, he is only bound to be swept by the craziness coming his way.
Male SOL is already daunting, and chuunibyou only adds cringe.
Overall Rating: 5/10
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25. 22/7 [A-1 Pictures] (Finished 12/12)
Tags: Idols (Female), Music
Miu Takigawa views the world from behind the safety of her bangs, content with peacefully passing unnoticed through life. Reserved and timid, Miu struggles to converse with or even smile at customers when at her part time job, but she works tirelessly to support her mother and precious little sister, Haru. It is a shock when a letter arrives from the entertainment company GIP, announcing that she has been chosen as a candidate for their new project.
Miu decides to accept the invitation and heads to the meeting spot where the eccentric ensemble of other candidates filter in, all summoned by their own letters. Not long after, the girls are escorted by a manager to a luxurious secret facility, where it is explained that they must follow the mysterious directions of "The Wall," whose orders are absolute.
The 24th of December, 2016, will see the birth of idols like no other; on that day, the group 22/7 will debut, whether or not Miu and the other members are ready to take the stage.
It tries to use best practice, but lacks soul and unique traits compared to Wake up, Girls and Zombie Land Saga.
Overall Rating: 6/10
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26. Kuutei Dragons Drifting Dragons 空挺ドラゴンズ [Polygon Pictures] (Finished 2/12)
Tags: Seinen Adventure, Fantasy
It has been half a century since humans took to the sky to hunt dragons. Although dragons present a great danger, every part of them is extremely valuable, and brave dragon hunters, called "drakers," risk their lives aboard special dragon-hunting airships to pursue them.
However, despite the thrill and excitement of hunting, the life of a draker is not easy. Ostracized by society, the drakers have no place to call home. Life in the air is not any easier either: maintaining an airship is dull and expensive—and dragons are even harder to catch, as each one is unique.
One of the last remaining such airships is the Quin Zaza. Its courageous crew includes Takita, an eager newcomer trying to earn her place on the ship; Mika, a reckless but highly skilled hunter; and Jirou, an earnest young man chasing both the dragons and his past. United by the same goal, these hunters face arduous aerial battles that involve daring feats of skill, strategy, and more than their fair share of danger.
Full CGI. There's no distinctive plot, so you either you can either settle with this slow fantasy SOL or move on.
Overall Rating: 5/10
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27. Oshi ga Budoukan Ittekuretara Shinu If My Favorite Pop Idol Made It to the Budokan, I Would Die 推しが武道館いってくれたら死ぬ [8bit] (Finished 12/12)
Tags: Seinen Idols (Female), Music, Otaku Culture Comedy
After receiving a flyer from Maina Ichii—a member of the idol group ChamJam—and seeing her perform at a local concert, Eripiyo falls in love with Maina and decides to devote her life to supporting the shy and reserved rising star. Eripiyo's charismatic presence and iconic red tracksuit soon give her recognition as Maina's one and only unrivaled fan.
Whether it be a performance or a small fan gathering in the middle of nowhere, Eripiyo is guaranteed to be at every event Maina participates in. Not even an injury or Maina's seemingly cold attitude toward her can stop Eripiyo from pursuing her dream of seeing her beloved idol perform at the world-famous arena Budoukan.
It's otaku stuff with memorable good characters, and it was cosy enough for not dropping it, so it deserves a masterpiece just for that. Concept is truly unique and a bit cringy, so I was worried if it could stay interesting for the whole season, but it succeeded, suprisingly. Good vibes. But can't rate it too high since a lot of stuff done here is pretty silly or simpleton, so it's not thought provoking or serious or super interesting as a story. It's just good unexpected SOL around idols.
Overall Rating: 7/10
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28. Hatena☆Illusion はてな☆イリュージョン [Children's Playground Entertainment] (Finished 1/12)
Tags: Comedy, Romance, Supernatural
Years ago, many magical "Artifacts" were stolen and scattered throughout the world. They fell into the hands of people who were not supposed to know of their existence, causing misfortune to those who abused their power. The Hoshisato family of magicians has special access to the Artifacts, and they take it upon themselves to return them to their rightful place.
Despite her inexperience, Kana "Hatena" Hoshisato wishes to aid her parents Mamoru and Maeve in their quest, doing her best to improve. Meanwhile, her childhood friend Makoto Shiranui has come to their mansion to study magic under her father's tutelage as part of a promise they made years ago. Hatena is excited to see her friend again, only to be utterly disappointed when the person she thought to be a girl all these years turns out to be a boy, leading to a bitter reunion.
Before long, Makoto comes to know of the Artifacts and the true identities of the magicians he admires. Unfazed, he continues to strive to fulfill his promises and stay true to why he learns magic—to ease the sadness of people around him and, most importantly, to become a person worthy of being Hatena's partner.
Nonsense plot and poor execution.
Overall Rating: 5/10
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29. BanG Dream! 3rd Season BanG Dream!（バンドリ！）第3期 [SANZIGEN] (Finished 1/13)
Tags: Music
As the all-girl band Poppin’Party continues to rise in fame, they find a poster for an event at the legendary Nippon Budoukan. Now determined to participate in the "BanG Dream," Kasumi Toyama and the other members of Poppin’Party aim to reach new heights and prove their worth by performing on that renowned stage.
Meanwhile, rival band RAISE A SUILEN dreams of changing the world with "the strongest music," but finds itself in dire straits without a guitarist. Though dozens of potential candidates audition for the role, band leader CHU² believes them to be amateurs and unsuitable for the band. However, there may be one guitarist that lives up to CHU²’s high standards.
BanG Dream! 3rd Season features multiple all-girl bands, including Poppin’Party, Afterglow, Pastel*Palettes, Roselia, Hello Happy World!, and now RAISE A SUILEN, as they work to astound fans throughout Japan with their spectacular performances. As the BanG Dream competition draws near, the band members are prepared to captivate audiences with their heartfelt music!
Sequel.
Overall Rating: 5/10
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30. A3! Season Spring & Summer [P.A. Works, Studio 3Hz] (Finished 1/12)
Tags: Performing Arts Drama
Home to countless street acts and performances, Veludo Way attracts those interested in watching professional actors. After receiving a mysterious letter, Izumi Tachibana arrives at the venue where her father directed a once-popular theater group, Mankai Company, but learns that the building is about to be repurposed due to excessive debt. At the last minute, she convinces the debt collector to give the ensemble one more chance. He is willing to accept but on three conditions: their debut show must be successfully produced by the following month, the four all-male sub-troupes must be reinstated, and the debt must be paid off within a year. To top it off, Izumi herself must become the director.
With no time to lose, Izumi quickly gathers five people for the Spring Troupe: Sakuya Sakuma, an enthusiastic high school student; Masumi Usui, a boy infatuated with Izumi; Tsuzuru Minagi, an aspiring playwright; Itaru Chigasaki, a mature office worker; and Citron, a friendly foreigner. Though they have little or no experience in acting, it's up to Izumi to train and prepare them for a performance that will restore Mankai Company to its former glory.
Can't appreciate male idol shows.
Overall Rating: 5/10
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31. Uchi Tama?! Uchi no Tama Shirimasen ka? Uchitama?! Have you seen my Tama? うちタマ?!~うちのタマ知りませんか?~ [MAPPA, Lapin Track] (Finished 1/11)
Tags: Anthropomorphic, Iyashikei, Pets Slice of Life
The animals of Third Street are seen getting into many misadventures. Tama Okamoto, the curious feline, often goes missing from his home, causing his owner to have posters up looking for him. However, Tama's absence is his opportunity to visit all of his wandering furry friends around the neighborhood. From Tama's best friend Pochi Yamada to the stray alley cat Nora, these animals take human form to hang out, to cause various mischief, but most of all, to have fun!
Just a cute sol around antropomorphs and animal life situations. Too little sense for me to go on and zero points to enjoy.
Overall Rating: 6/10
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32. Oda Cinnamon Nobunaga 織田シナモン信長 [Studio Signpost] (Finished 1/12)
Tags: Seinen Anthropomorphic, Historical, Pets, Reincarnation Comedy, Slice of Life
In the "one-of-a-kind samurai-general-reincarnated-as-a-canine comedy," Nobunaga perishes at Honnouji as in history, and reincarnates in modern-day Japan as a dog named Shinamon. Other Warring States era warlords such as Takeda Shingen eventually join him, also as dogs.
Parody seldom sells it for me, but antropomorphic Sengoku reincarnation parody is just horrible.
Overall Rating: 5/10
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33. Show By Rock!! Mashumairesh!! SHOW BY ROCK!!ましゅまいれっしゅ!! [Kinema Citrus] (Finished 1/12)
Tags: Music Comedy, Fantasy
New Show by Rock!! TV Series featuring the new band Mashumairesh!!.
Sequel.
Overall Rating: 5/10
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34. Healin' Good♡Precure Healin' Good Pretty Cure ヒーリングっど♥プリキュア [Toei Animation] (Finished 1/45)
Tags: Mahou Shoujo Action, Fantasy
Sickly but optimistic middle school student Nodoka Hanadera has just moved to Sukoyaka City, a place famous for its healthy atmosphere. She immediately befriends two of her classmates: the gentle but athletic Chiyu Sawaizumi, whose family runs a hot spring inn, and the bubbly and fashionable daughter of a vet, Hinata Hiramitsu.
Soon after arriving, Nodoka finds an ill puppy in a forest, surrounded by three magical talking animals: Rabbirin, Penguitan, and Nyatoran. They tell her that the puppy, Princess Latte, can only be cured by defeating a nearby monster known as a "Mega Byogen" and purifying the land it has corrupted. Despite being powerless, Nodoka refuses to give up and let Latte suffer.
Moved by her determination, Rabbirin forms a pact with Nodoka, allowing her to transform into a hero known as a Precure. Assuming the persona of "Cure Grace," the energized Nodoka fights off the Byogen and heals the earth, curing Latte.
As the Byogen and their leaders continue their attacks, Penguitan and Nyatoran also find their partners in Chiyu and Hinata, giving them the powers of "Cure Fontaine" and "Cure Sparkle" respectively. Now, it's up to the three Precure and their animal friends to stop the Byogen and protect the earth from their infections!
New precure title.
Overall Rating: 5/10
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35. Shin Nippon History [-] (Finished 1/?)
Tags: Historical Comedy
-
Not translated, very crude and made in form of parody, so can't really recommend.
Overall Rating: 5/10
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36. Xian Wang de Richang Shenghuo The Daily Life of the Immortal King 仙王的日常生活 [Haoliners Animation League] (Finished 4/15)
Tags: Mythology, School Adventure, Comedy, Fantasy
Wang Ling is a high school student with a cool and carefree demeanor. Coming off as someone with a very low spiritual force, he actually possesses a power capable of destroying the world at a moment's notice. To mitigate the volatile force within him, his parents have resorted to using an amulet as a temporary solution. However, the amulet weakens over time and Wang Ling's emotions also accelerate its deterioration. Now with the amulet on the verge of breaking, Wang Ling and his father race against time in order to fix it.
Basically, Chinese interpretation on One Punch Man with magical school instead of super heroes. As such, it provides some humor and parody, but it's definitely not to my taste, and I don't see real plot here.
Overall Rating: 6/10
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37. 7 Seeds 2nd Season [Gonzo, Studio Kai] (Finished 1/12)
Tags: Shoujo Psychological, Survival, Time Travel Adventure, Drama, Mystery, Romance, Sci-Fi
Second season of 7 Seeds.
Sequel.
Overall Rating: 5/10
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38. Mushikago no Cagaster Cagaster of an Insect Cage 虫籠のカガステル [Studio Kai] (Finished 1/12)
Tags: Action, Drama, Sci-Fi
In a near future, an illness called "Cagaster" made its appearance. It turns humans into insects. The story begins 30 years after the onset of the illness, in 2125. It follows the adventures of Kidou, a boy who fights insects.
Produced by Netflix, so we can foresee good CGI quality and silly action story. And so far Netflix fails to surprise in animation.
Overall Rating: 6/10
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39. Yao Jing Zhong Zhi Shou Ce Demon Spirit Seed Manual 妖精种植手册 [Big Firebird Culture] (Finished 2/14)
Tags: Action, Fantasy, Ecchi
On his way to a convention, Yuan Ding, an otaku, finds himself transported to another world—a fantasy world with magic and demons. After failing the entrance exam at Shuo Yue Academy, he decides to become a gardener where he learns about the fairy seed. Yuan Ding's life in another world begins, aiming to collect the fairies said to exist in the legends to change his destiny and become the protagonist of this new world.
I've seen three great Chinese anime already, so quality level is already on par with Japanese. But this is trash with no excuse.
Overall Rating: 5/10
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40. Zenonzard The Animation ゼノンザード THE ANIMATION [8bit] (Finished 2/9)
Tags: Strategy Game Action, Fantasy
Hinaria is unemployed, gaming every day. One day she decides to hack the servers belonging to the Beholder Group for some money, and she stumbles across a carefully secured record of two witches, Alice and Rimel. The two women wished to coexist with mankind, and the history they experienced is connected to the modern ZENONZARD.
Nine half-length episodes is not enough to substantially tell a story. But it's enough to advertise a mobile card game...
Overall Rating: 5/10
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41. Altered Carbon: Resleeved オルタード・カーボン: リスリーブド [Anima] (Finished 1/1)
Tags: Action, Drama, Sci-Fi
Set in the same universe as the live-action series. This work will explore new elements of the story mythology.
Live action was great. And Netflix takes setting and does with it what it usually does - some running away vs pursuit, plus fighting action. The setting still makes it worthwhile, but calling it a masterpiece would be an overkill.
Overall Rating: 6/10
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42. Microphone Soul Spinners: Kotodama Shoujo Microphone Soul Spinners ～言霊少女～ [-] (Finished 0/24)
Tags: Music
This is "Holy Hierarchy Academy," the world's best girls' high school that trains future stars. Here, the top dog students have all the control, and they possess a unique beverage: the Hierar Milk, extracted from the mythical bovine, the Hierar Beef. One swig from these divine drops bestows enough radiance and go-getter energy that nothing but the position of top dog will satisfy.
Getting it means winning in battle at the academy. This year will feature the highest form of competitive self-expression, the rap battle! This youth story is about four students at the bottom of the hierarchy who meet in a rap battle and climb to to the top!
Not found.
Overall Rating: 0/10
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43. Goblin Slayer: Goblin's Crown ゴブリンスレイヤー -GOBLIN'S CROWN- [White Fox] (Finished 1/1)
Tags: Gore Action, Adventure, Fantasy
Goblin Slayer and his party head up to the snowy mountains in the north after receiving a request from the Sword Maiden. A small village gets attacked, they encounter a mysterious chapel, and something about how these goblins are acting bothers the Goblin Slayer.
Can deduce one point for being sequel and another one for movie format that's under one hour, but it's a great page of good old Goblin Slayer, so can't deduce more.
Overall Rating: 8/10
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44. Shirobako Movie 劇場版 SHIROBAKO [P.A. Works] (Finished 1/1)
Tags: Adult Cast, Otaku Culture, Workplace Comedy, Drama
Four years after the production of Daisan Hikou Shoujotai, the once renowned Musashino Animation—commonly known as "Musani"—is in a dire state. The abrupt cancellation of an ambitious project left the company in financial turmoil, causing most of the staff members to resign. Since then, Musani has failed to create any remarkable works and gradually lost its luster. Despite her wavering optimism, producer Aoi Miyamori is unwilling to let this situation continue. Luckily, her opportunity comes in the form of SIVA, an original feature film scheduled to release in 10 months.
Meanwhile, Aoi's friends are also facing problems with their own professions: animation supervisor Ema Yasuhara is struggling to keep up with her tight schedule; reporter and voice actress Shizuka Sakaki is discontent with the lack of anime roles; screenwriter Midori Imai has been unable to find inspiration since her previous failure; and 3D artist Misa Toudou is concerned that her excessive passion hinders her career.
While the anime industry is one full of setbacks and uncertainties, the five girls are all hellbent on persevering through the arduous path ahead—which just might bring them a step closer to accomplishing their shared dream.
Sequel. Sort of.
Overall Rating: 6/10
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46. Kyochuu Rettou Movie The Island of Giant Insects Movie 劇場版 巨蟲列島 [Passione] (Finished 1/1)
Tags: Gore, Survival Horror
After an airplane crash during a school trip, Oribe Mutsumi and her classmates were stranded on a seemingly deserted island. Mutsumi found the other survivors, and used her wilderness knowledge to help them. She expects that they will be rescued in about three days, which doesn't seem so long to endure. However, she didn't account for the fact that the island is populated with gigantic killer insects. Her knowledge of butterflies, wasps, and more may be the only thing that will help any of her classmates survive to be rescued!
Feels like some CLOCKUP game. Which means shitty.
Overall Rating: 5/10
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47. Ongaku On-Gaku: Our Sound 音楽 [Rock’n Roll Mountain] (Finished 1/1)
Tags: Music Award Winning, Slice of Life
Kenji, Asakura, and Oota are an apathetic trio of school friends, notorious for often beating up fellow delinquents without reason. Tired of the mundane fights that once provided the group with temporary adrenaline, Kenji looks for an alternative source by starting a band on a whim. Enlisting the rest of his gang, he picks up the bass, with Oota on the guitar and Asakura on the drums. Despite having no prior experience playing musical instruments, their first session far exceeds their expectations.
Ongaku is the raw depiction of three teenage boys from the moment they discover the beauty of making music to their first live performance that turns a simple cure for boredom into a fiery expression of passion.
This is super crude amateur animation. A lot of long still shots. There is some situational comedy and some super active animation sequences, but plot core is basically silly and occasionally absurd gags around 1970s. It's done with passion, but I didn't enjoy it.
Overall Rating: 6/10
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48. Wu Sheng Guan Gong Guan Yu, God of War 武圣关公 [-] (Finished 0/1)
Tags: Historical Action
-
Not found.
Overall Rating: 0/10
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49. Made in Abyss Movie 3: Fukaki Tamashii no Reimei 劇場版メイドインアビス 深き魂の黎明 [Kinema Citrus] (Finished 1/1)
Tags: Gore, Survival Adventure, Drama, Fantasy, Mystery, Sci-Fi
After bonding over a tragic loss, the long-suffering Nanachi joins Riko and Reg on their journey into the depths of the Abyss. Awaiting the children is the Sea of Corpses—the Abyss's fifth layer, and the deepest level from which a traveler can return without losing their human form.
The masked sadist Bondrewd stands between the children and the rest of their adventure. Bondrewd's horrific laboratory serves as a final checkpoint for those wishing to traverse deeper into the Abyss, and the sociopathic scientist has no desire to allow Riko's party to pass through at no cost. Deeply scarred by Bondrewd's impact on their childhood, Nanachi is engulfed in turmoil over his resurgence in their life.
Bondrewd's only apparent weakness is Prushka, a brash child who claims to be his daughter. Riko, Reg, and Nanachi befriend Prushka and work with the girl to overcome her father's machinations and breach the Abyss's sixth layer.
Sequel.
Overall Rating: 7/10
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Edited by kivandopulus
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