Muv-Luv Alternative 2nd Season
Synopsis
Thanks to Professor Yuuko Kouzuki's technology and Kasumi Yashiro's psychic powers, Cadet Takeru Shirogane travels back to his original world. With no time to lose, Takeru aims to enlist Yuuko's help in his world to complete the Alternative IV project—the last hope humanity has against the BETA, an alien species invading the planet. As the anti-BETA project nears completion, Takeru and other cadets graduate from the Yokohama pilot training academy. However, during a test of the new operating system for the Tactical Surface Fighters—the giant combat suits used by humanity against their adversary—the BETA ambush Takeru and his team. Barely escaping with his life, Takeru is left traumatized after witnessing the cruel death of one of his close friends. Losing his will to fight, Takeru flees back to the other world, where he experiences a similar tragedy. According to Yuuko's theory, people from parallel universes are bound to suffer the same fate. As a result, Takeru must overcome his trauma if he wants to protect the ones he holds dear. [Written by MAL Rewrite]
Audience Consensus
Audience reception is mixed, with visual novel fans having stronger opinions. Many appreciate the mecha action, sound design and the adaptation of certain arcs like Sadogashima. However, the anime's reliance on prior VN knowledge and perceived rushing of key plot points are points of contention, leading to a somewhat polarized, but overall positive, sentiment.
Strengths
- Phenomenal mecha animation and sound mixing.
- Well-paced adaptation, especially the Sadogashima arc.
- Plot is top-notch with great surprises and emotional impact.
Weaknesses
- Requires prior VN knowledge (Extra/Unlimited).
- Rushed adaptation of important VN parts (chapter 7).
- Stale and lifeless character designs and color palettes.