Demonbane
Synopsis
Kurou Daijuuji is a poor detective living in Arkham City. One day, he was requested by Ruri Hado of Hado Financial Group, to search for a magic book. While he initially refused, Ruri offered him a large sum of money upon completion of her request, in which bribed Kuro to accept. As Kurou searches for the book, he unexpectedly runs into Al, a pretty girl that is actually a powerful grimoire. They forge a contract with each other, bestowing Kuro with powerful magic. Soon afterwards, Al also activates Demonbane, a deus machina owned by the Hado Financial Group, to combat the mechanical menace from the Black Lodge. With this, the war between the Hado Financial Group and the Black Lodge begins.... (Source: ANN)
Audience Consensus
Audience reception is mixed, with some appreciating the conceptual blend of Lovecraftian mythos and mecha action, particularly the visual design of the grimoires. However, many criticize the complicated and poorly executed story, especially as an adaptation of the visual novel. The show's handling of Lovecraftian elements is also a point of contention, with some viewing it as a mockery.
Strengths
- Interesting concept intermingling Cthulhu mythos and giant robot action.
- Grimoires are nicely drawn and feel alive.
- The world created for the anime is great, especially the grimoires.
Weaknesses
- Story is too complicated with many terms and side stories.
- Poor adaptation of the visual novel, cutting characters and flattening the story.
- Mockery of Lovecraft with poorly animated art and uninspired music.
- Pacing was awful and a lot of the events were completely inaccurate, even skipping major parts and minor important plot points.
- Ridiculous mecha design gets boring and the fights aren't much better in that regard.