The series plays out like a "Docudrama", with explanations of enmities and alliances, breakdowns of larger combats explaining troop movements and how a small force / "hero's" impact change the balance, etc.
(This means Anime fans who want non-stop action should likely skip this one.)
The slight difference was enjoyable and allowed for more massive engagements without turning each episode into endless combat. With only a few exceptions the majority of characters didn't feel like cardboard cutouts.
Pros:
Cons:
I wish it had a follow up season, but plan to track down the OVA shorts, "Tigre and Vanadish" hoping for some closure.
(This means Anime fans who want non-stop action should likely skip this one.)
The slight difference was enjoyable and allowed for more massive engagements without turning each episode into endless combat. With only a few exceptions the majority of characters didn't feel like cardboard cutouts.
Pros:
- Battle "synopsis" during combat explaining actions taken by the armies is an interesting story trick.
- Nice variety of personalities and motivations behind the factions.
- Magic (weapons or casters) are rare and powerful, making it it something that changes the balance of conflicts.
- Characters are generally not cardboard cutouts.
- Consistent Animation.
- Good English Dubbing.
- "Fan Service" is uncommon.
Cons:
- Harem situation made sense at first and then got a little silly.
- Comically oversized special sword.
- When "Fan Service" shows up it's a bit distracting.
- Short ending.
I wish it had a follow up season, but plan to track down the OVA shorts, "Tigre and Vanadish" hoping for some closure.