Welcome to another general discussion thread! Feel free to use this thread to talk about things you have watched recently, questions you have, or recommendations you want to give!
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I’d like to highlight two anime this week: Witch Hat Atelier and Pokemon Horizons
I know it’s not the case for most people, but Witch Hat Atelier had a pretty weak start relative to the hype IMO. However, it has been growing on me quite a bit lately. The nutter in me always love a good conspiracy, and there’s a big one brewing in this anime. I am also starting to find the characters endearing after spending more time with time. If it keeps this up, Witch Hat Atelier being my AOTS is not far-fetch.
The second main arc of Pokemon Horizons - and likely that of the main story - has just ended. Honestly, this second arc is a significant downgrade from the first one. They basically rehash the same plot lines as the first arc, but with less character development and such.
I was left wondering about the new antagonist’s motivations till the very end because they never explained it. They brought in new grunts, but never gave them personalities like they did the previous ones. They are “bad” just because our protagonists need some bad guys to defeat.
Speaking of protagonists, Liko felt more like a side character than the main character. She’s just watching / cheering from the side lines while others took the spotlight at so many significant moments.
This watching experience reminds me of Gundam Seed Destiny somewhat. It’s as though the showrunners needed to extend the anime, but ran out of materials.
Unlike Gundam Seed Destiny, I enjoyed Pokemon Horizons second half a fair bit more. The pokemons are still very cute, with plenty of wholesome moments still. Also, I doubt that the anime’s intended audience - little kids - would even notice the flaws.
All in all, it’s still an enjoyable watch for me despite its shortcomings. I am looking forward to the next arc; hopefully it will do better.