Arpeggio of Blue Steel -Ars Nova-
Synopsis
In the year 2039, the drastic effects of global warming have caused sea levels to rise, resulting in major loss of land. To ensure humanity learns its lesson, a fleet of powerful warships equipped with advanced weaponry emerges, causing overwhelming defeat for naval forces throughout the world. Calling themselves the Fleet of Fog, each ship has a "Mental Model," a humanoid avatar which represents the ship's heart, its "Union Core." Each model has a different personality but all follow an unknown authority known as the Admiralty Code, who have implemented a blockade to prevent humans from traveling across the sea. Seventeen years after the blockade, Gunzou Chihaya, a National Marine Academy alumnus, stumbles upon I-401 and its Mental Model, Iona, who sides with mankind for unknown reasons. Utilizing this newfound hope of achieving peace for humanity, Gunzou and his friends form a group of privateers, known as the Blue Steel, as they set out on a dangerous journey. [Written by MAL Rewrite]
Audience Consensus
Audience opinions are divided, with some praising the unique story, action, and ship designs, while others criticize the CGI animation, undeveloped characters, and confusing plot. Some viewers found the series engaging and thought-provoking, while others viewed it as a poorly executed self-insert fantasy. The series' unconventional approach and reliance on CGI contribute to the mixed reception.
Strengths
- Unique premise with interesting characters and moral lessons.
- Good art and animation, especially for underwater naval battles and ship designs.
- Engaging story with warm-hearted scenes and well-developed villains.
Weaknesses
- CGI animation can be jarring and not blend well with the anime.
- Characters can be one-dimensional and undeveloped, especially the human cast.
- Plot can be confusing and filled with complicated words, overwhelming some viewers.
- Some viewers found the series to be a pathetic, delusional self-insert fantasy.