Full Metal Panic: Invisible Victory [Review]
“Nine months have passed since teen soldier Sousuke Sagara first became Kaname Chidori’s covert protector. In that time, Mithril has been remarkably successful at thwarting Amalgam’s efforts, but this has only made Amalgam more determined. Leonard Testarossa’s visits with Tessa and Kaname are just preludes to all-out attacks that begin with global communications disruptions. Kaname’s status as a Whispered makes her one of Amalgam’s main targets, which means that any semblance of a peaceful life at Jindai Municipal High School is now over for her.” -ANN
Story:
Full Metal Panic: Invisible Victory came out of left field, seeing as the last season aired back in 2005. That’s 13 years of waiting (it’s almost as bad as the wait for Kingdom Hearts III…ALMOST) on a show that was presumed dead. The story continues the darker side of Full Metal Panic! as shown in the third season (The Second Raid). While I like this darker side of the story, because it gives the plot more urgency, the whole reason for Full Metal Panic!’s success was its great romance comedy aspect that was so prominent in the first season. This season turned into a Romeo and Juliet storyline but rather than the two main characters suffering, it’s everyone else who takes the hit. The story also takes a massive nosedive with the last episode rushing through several important scenes that needed much more attention to express the thoughts and motives of the characters.
Artwork & Animation:
I’ve always been a fan of Full Metal Panic!’s art, the wonderful character and mech designs stay true to when it was last aired in 2005. Improvements in animation yet keeping the iconic artwork through coloring and textures bring life back to a nostalgic story.
Character(s):
Invisible Victory focuses on Sousuke with very minimal character development for any of the other characters. There are new characters that show up and had so much potential only to be forgotten in the next few episodes. As a trained and experienced soldier, you would think Sousuke would have the rationale to handle any situation like he did in the first season. Yet this season his character makes decisions more on emotions that practicality, making the entire show a bit frustrating to watch. Al, unfortunately, plays a lesser in this season as well as Chidori. Al does come back at the end with a little surprise but with the way things are going now, it’s hard to imagine the next battle being exciting as Al is much too overpowered.
Sound (OST & Voice Acting):
Much like the artwork, the soundtrack sticks to the same sound and vibe that was shown back in The Second Raid. The entire cast from 2005 makes a return as well as some additional members to bring the old and new character to life.
Enjoyment:
When Full Metal Panic: Invisible Victory was announced I was confused but also very excited. I’m disappointed that this season wasn’t given the attention that it needed to be a great sequel to the already perfect Full Metal Panic.
Overall: Score 6
While the continuation of a great series like Full Metal Panic is great, it must be well executed to satisfy the needs of die-hard fans (especially after a 13-year hiatus), and, sadly, Full Metal Panic: Invisible Victory didn’t cut it for me. While the improved artwork and soundtrack were great to see and hear, the lack of real character development and poor storyline took the enjoyment out of watching the new season.
Best Girl: Tessa Testarossa
Tessa has been best girl since season one and continues to be so as she’s the most independent character in the show. With sheer determination, she continues to hold Mithril together in her delicate hands.
KiritoNarukami 