Shikizakura
Synopsis
Shikizakura: where cherry blossoms are in full bloom while trees are colored with autumn leaves. In this special place, where the transient world meets the spirit world, a ritual to save humanity is about to begin... High school student Kakeru Miwa, by a strange turn of events, winds up being an irregular member of a power suit team tasked with battling Oni. These Oni possess humans and try to cling to the transient world. Only the power suit, Yoroi, which combines ancient secrets with the latest technology, can protect people from Oni. Kakeru decides to become a hero who will battle Oni and protect Ouka Myoujin, the shrine maiden fated with saving the world. Shikizakura season. Ouka dances as a shrine maiden in autumn leaves and cherry blossoms. Heroic action—where the past and the future, the transient world and the spirit world, thoughts and wishes, all intersect—begins here! (Source: MAL News)
Audience Consensus
Shikizakura is a mixed bag, with some viewers finding it a charming homage to the heroic action genre while others are put off by its technical shortcomings and convoluted plot. The characters and music receive praise, but the animation and story execution are criticized. Overall, it's seen as an average show with potential that wasn't fully realized.
Strengths
- Charming and earnest portrayal of heroic action genre.
- Good character chemistry and nuanced character moments.
- Enjoyable fights with good music, particularly the ED.
Weaknesses
- Inconsistent animation quality, particularly the use of CGI.
- Complicated or confusing story progression with half-baked factors.
- Lack of standout characters beyond a few exceptions.