This episode marks the beginning of real momentum for the final act of the series. The "Oikawa Saga", so to say, has proved pretty divisive within the fanbase, mostly due to its inclusion of the Daemon Corps and World Tour subplots. However, I believe it is the best final act in the franchise, on par with the D-Reaper conflict from the third season, but that will all be explained soon.
Two things are made apparent early on. First, the art style and animation are top notch. The kids are drawn very well, with distinct shading that gives their faces more definition. In fact, a good case can be made that this episodes boasts the best animation in the series (who wasn't impressed by the shot of Imperialdramon firing his weapon?). Second, there is a palpable sense of intrigue both for the kids and the audience, as we see them slowly learn more details concerning both the past and the challenge they are about to face. It's particularly appropriate that Kari is the one who most readily feels this approach, leading to a particularly foreboding scene: the conversation with Tai. Besides that, it's just nice to see these guys take a quick breather at home after such a task.
Perfectly complementing the build-up of the first half is the sense of urgency in the second, with several evil monsters appearing and the team scrambling to deal with them. Immediately, it is established that they are capable threats, as there is a sense of futility whenever the team tries to attack them. The fight with SkullSatamon is one of the most kinetic in the series with NO recycled footage! Establishing the ultimates' strain from being in the real world was a smart decision, as it prevents these guys from suffering truly undignified final appearances, a grave error that would be committed in the 4th season. I'd say the only problem here is that the notion that an ultimate level opponent could immobilize a monster as powerful as Imperialdramon is contrived. Finally, the shadowy image of the kids in the truck trailer is very creepy, setting the mood for the next episode.
Two things are made apparent early on. First, the art style and animation are top notch. The kids are drawn very well, with distinct shading that gives their faces more definition. In fact, a good case can be made that this episodes boasts the best animation in the series (who wasn't impressed by the shot of Imperialdramon firing his weapon?). Second, there is a palpable sense of intrigue both for the kids and the audience, as we see them slowly learn more details concerning both the past and the challenge they are about to face. It's particularly appropriate that Kari is the one who most readily feels this approach, leading to a particularly foreboding scene: the conversation with Tai. Besides that, it's just nice to see these guys take a quick breather at home after such a task.
Perfectly complementing the build-up of the first half is the sense of urgency in the second, with several evil monsters appearing and the team scrambling to deal with them. Immediately, it is established that they are capable threats, as there is a sense of futility whenever the team tries to attack them. The fight with SkullSatamon is one of the most kinetic in the series with NO recycled footage! Establishing the ultimates' strain from being in the real world was a smart decision, as it prevents these guys from suffering truly undignified final appearances, a grave error that would be committed in the 4th season. I'd say the only problem here is that the notion that an ultimate level opponent could immobilize a monster as powerful as Imperialdramon is contrived. Finally, the shadowy image of the kids in the truck trailer is very creepy, setting the mood for the next episode.
