Fractale
Synopsis
The world has been at peace since the establishment of the Fractale system. Sustained by the Fractale terminals implanted in their bodies, people live in isolation, free to focus on their own interests. Clain Necran spends his days collecting technological relics from the time before the Fractale's introduction. The only company he keeps is his parents' Doppels, or advanced holographic clones. Clain soon meets Phryne—the first human girl he has ever met—and he instantly finds her fascinating. However, Phryne is being pursued by the anti-Fractale group known as The Lost Millenium, and she leaves a strange artifact in Clain's care before disappearing. Deciding that he needs to rescue Phryne and return her belongings, Clain sets out to find her. His journey takes him deep into the heart of the Fractale system, where learning the truth behind it poses more danger to him than he could possibly imagine. [Written by MAL Rewrite]
Audience Consensus
Fractale is a visually appealing anime with an interesting premise, but it suffers from poor execution, underdeveloped characters, and a convoluted plot. Many viewers found the story fragmented and confusing, with unanswered questions and unsatisfying resolutions. While some appreciated the themes explored and the Miyazaki-esque art style, the overall reception is mixed, with many considering it a disappointing missed opportunity.
Strengths
- Interesting concept and setting with pre-industrial age technology meets young man's adventure.
- Well-written characters who act believably to every situation.
- Beautiful art style reminiscent of Hayao Miyazaki films, with bright watercolor visuals.
- Fantastic orchestral scores that complement both action and quiet moments.
- Raises interesting questions about the relationship between man and technology.
Weaknesses
- Poor execution and underdeveloped characters.
- Too little revealed about the Fractale system, leaving too many unanswered questions.
- Clain is constantly being led by the nose, and his actions are always a result of how the story drives him.
- Unsatisfying animation that fails to deliver spectacular backgrounds or smooth animating.
- Plot finishes up on a revelation that God is not 16 years old, but actually 10 and therefore pure.