Adžin

Season 1: – 80% – **SPOILER ALERT** – A captivating action hit that unfortunately is most often discussed in relation to its atypical, sometimes jerky animation. Otherwise, it is a gradually escalating supernatural chase involving three sides, where paradoxically I root less for the main protagonist and more for the pursuers. The main hero has the misfortune of having an unexpected character trait added to him in the middle of the series, revealed by his sister, who informs us that this seemingly appealing character pursued by catastrophic events is actually a calculating villain. Personally, I consider this an unfortunate decision, as it contradicts this direction later on, but I am willing to forgive it in the face of how the other characters endeared themselves to me. The kind-hearted Kaito and the tireless Tosaki in particular right away became some of my favorite anime characters ever. And finally, what most viewers found their way to Ajin for – the action. Every ghost battle, as well as every shootout (although sometimes unnecessarily exaggerated due to incomprehensible decisions by various military units), fascinates with each blow and gunshot, and the excellent final episode was one of many things that made it a show where I couldn't sit still due to the tension. Season 2: – 85% – The forced alliance between Nagai and Tosaki brings pleasant tension between the individual characters, more room for previously secondary figures (and Shimomura and Nakano make great use of this space) and a more tightly woven storyline. The whole world has united against the growing Satou, inevitable losses and crucial defeats logically occur, and everything is heading towards an uncompromising finale. And I enjoy it both during the light-hearted training passages and in the calmer moments (the surprisingly impressive prison episode) and of course during the action symphony with an increasing number of ghosts. My only complaint is the main villain and the never-ending series of unsuccessful attempts to apprehend him. The concept of Satou as a person who just wants to have fun and, thanks to his passion for the most challenging video games, automatically has what it takes to defeat various government, police, secret, or anti-Ajin units doesn't quite sit well with me, and it is the only reason, but a big one, why I cannot give it the highest rating. Whether we get a third season or not, I will ultimately consider this work about immortal antiheroes fighting to be the modern answer to the legendary Death Note. More action-packed, faster paced, better balanced, and – as is often the case with newer additions – simpler and more audience-friendly. (12/09/2018)