Steins;Gate: Open the Missing Link - Divide By Zero
Synopsis
Having reached his emotional breaking point, Rintarou Okabe refuses to continue aiding time traveler Suzuha Amane in her mission to prevent World War III, believing any further efforts to save Makise Kurisu will be in vain. Shortly after, Okabe abandons his mad scientist persona and becomes a seemingly regular university student. Okabe's close friend Mayuri Shiina perceives him to be recovering from his trauma and is visibly happy. However, something still seems to be bothering Okabe. Steins;Gate: Kyoukaimenjou no Missing Link - Divide By Zero marks the beginning of a critical divergence—a timeline in which the burden of fate escalates beyond one's limits. [Written by MAL Rewrite]
Audience Consensus
Audience sentiment is mixed, appreciating the episode's role in setting up Steins;Gate 0 and exploring a darker timeline, but also criticizing its reliance on recycled content and the uncharacteristic portrayal of Okabe. Many viewers found the ending depressing, though acknowledging its narrative purpose. The episode's value is largely tied to its connection with Steins;Gate 0, making it essential for understanding the expanded story.
Strengths
- Serves as a good setup for Steins;Gate 0
- Explores the consequences of Okabe's failure and his emotional state
- Provides an alternate perspective on the characters and their choices
- Maintains the original art style and sound design
Weaknesses
- Significant portion is recycled from episode 23
- Ending may be unsatisfying for those seeking a happy resolution
- Some find Okabe's character inconsistent with his previous determination
- Fails to fully explain the transition to Steins;Gate 0
- Mayuri's character is undermined.