Knights of Sidonia S2 – 1-2

Knights of Sidonia S2 – 1-2

Even after a long break its nice to see that Sidonia hasn’t lost its edge. The story is still engaging and CG robot battles dynamic. However…was the CG this bad before? I remember it took some time to get used to the CG animation of the last season but this seems especially stiff. The easy answer would be that it was the same but in the last season I became accustomed to the jerky movements and uncanny valley. If that is the case then this really is some terrible CG animation. If a free web series by the name of RWBY can avoid this then I see no reason as to why a full animation production cannot do the same.
But moving on. Season two starts with introducing us to a new antagonist who has taken over the mind of Kunato. The the nature of the takeover is unsettling and disturbingly creepy. As a threat he’s a good one with his actions and capabilities. But his personality and beliefs are too stereotypical. Mad scientist sums up his character to a T. It is questionable as to why no one is wondering why this student is suddenly inventing things out of nowhere. But it does bring in interesting developments. The assassination of the elders, the push to use forbidden technology and now a representative for Gauna who the public distrusts yet need. Not to mention the unstable nature of the chimera and her, admittedly unsettling, crush on Tanikaze. Add in the cutsy girlish voice and that she may potentially be the mutated form of the now missing Benisuzume and we have a weird new addition to the cast.
Visuals aside, the music and story are top notch. Some characters can be annoying. Especially with Tanikaze’s haremettes who don’t add much to the story besides silly antics and a romance that might not be needed. Though Yuhata does hold potential to serve a better role with her position as commander. The mecha action is bright and fast. Often combat situations remind me of the visual novel Muv Luv Alternatives atmosphere considering the unfathomable alien enemy that constantly seems to push characters to the brink of despair. Considering that particular visual novel has a slim to none chance of being adapted, it nice to see a show replicate the feel that made it a great read. So far its a very strong start to the season and hopefully they can continue the pace.