KiritoNarukami

“Set in an alternate Earth on the eve of the Second World War, the story follows Izetta, the last surviving member of a clan of witches that possesses the ability to magically manipulate any object that they touch. Izetta pledges to help protect Princess Finé and the tiny Alpine country of Eylstadt from invasion by the imperialistic forces of Germania.” –myanimelist.net

I came into Shuumatsu no Izetta a little late because I didn’t know what the name of the anime was! But I found out and couldn’t be happier that I watched it! The animation, artwork, and story (though a little lacking) are fantastic!

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Story:

Anime is amazing because it’s only in anime that you would be able to see a Mahou shoujo decimating WWII tanks and planes trying to save her kingdom. The concept for Shuumatsu no Izetta is quite unique, but I don’t think the presentation was the best. A story like this needs to be able to keep the viewer’s attention and keep the plot twist fresh and unpredictable. But the amount became overwhelming and it felt quite contrived. After so many, you can’t help but let out a long sigh. In the beginning, the story got me hooked but as it went on the story got slower and slower, to the point where I forgot that it aired for a few weeks and had to catch up.

Artwork & Animation:

Aside from the dull story, the artwork and animation were pretty phenomenal, mostly from Izetta’s battle scenes. All the background scenes and nature shots were a sight to behold. The character designs remind of Sword Art Online, Izetta reminded me of Silica! There was some choppy animation in the last episode, which is unacceptable. Especially when it’s the last episode, that when you use the last of your budget!!

Character(s):

Character development wise all the character practically stay the same, the only thing emphasized was the relationship between Izetta and Finé, which even then isn’t enough to engage the audience with the characters. Everyone pretty much remained static in the show, and many weren’t even that interesting. The antagonist, who’s the big bad ruler of the Germanian empire, is so insignificant that I forgot his name was “Otto” until the 12th (and final) episode!

Sound (OST & Voice Acting):

As always the talented cast brings the characters to life, and the “European” style OST worked well in creating the atmosphere of the show. The Opening theme by Akino with bless4 and the Ending theme by May’n were nice additions to the soundtrack giving the show a littler more hype.

Enjoyment:

I thought the first half was done pretty well but the second half needed a little more work. But regardless I did enjoy most of it, especially those fighting animations TAT

Overall: 8

The concept of an alternate world where there was magic involved in WWII is interesting, but the execution wasn’t quite good enough. So I’d recommend this to those that enjoy war history and the like. If you have no interest I wouldn’t bother with this show.