Xam'd: Lost Memories
Synopsis — from MyAnimeList
Sentan Island is a small island surrounded by the Yuden Sea. It exists in a state of dreamlike tranquility, cut off from the war between the Northern Government and the Southern Continent Free Zone. Our hero, Akiyuki Takehara, lives on Sentain Island along with his mother Fusa. He is currently separated from his father, the town doctor Ryuzo, but the bond between father and son remains. One day, after taking Ryuzo the lunch that Fusa has made for him as usual, Akiyuki arrives at school, where he is caught up in an explosion along with his friends, Haru and Furuichi. The explosion produces a mysterious light, which enters Akiyuki's arm, causing him excruciating pain. He's given no time to understand it, however, as the white-haired girl who rode on the bus with him guides him to a power unlike anything he's ever known.
Audience Consensus
Audience reception is sharply divided, with strong praise for its exceptional animation, sound, and character development, contrasted by significant criticism regarding its convoluted and poorly explained plot. While many appreciate the thematic depth and emotional resonance, others find the narrative execution frustratingly opaque, leading to a polarized view of its overall quality.
Strengths
- Stunning visuals, fluid animation, and a captivating art style with detailed backgrounds and unique character designs.
- Hauntingly good, atmospheric, and well-timed soundtrack that enhances emotional scenes.
- Dynamic and well-developed characters with realistic flaws and compelling arcs.
- Intricate and interconnected story with powerful themes of identity, memory, and human resilience.
Weaknesses
- Convoluted and overly complex plot that is difficult to follow, with too many unexplained terms and underdeveloped concepts.
- Pacing issues and poor planning, leading to a rushed or meandering narrative that hinders the full potential of ideas.
- Lack of proper explanation for world-building elements like the war, the 'Xam'd' nature, and certain factions or religions.
- Characters and subplots are sometimes underdeveloped or feel unnecessary, leading to a lack of emotional investment in their fates.