Seiken gakuin no maken cukai

The premise is intriguing, but the execution falls short. It feels like a mishmash of several popular anime tropes, blending elements of reincarnation, special academy, and a fantasy world filled with swords and magic. Ever wondered what would happen if a former hero turned demon lord from an average fantasy story reincarnated as an eleven-year-old boy in a world with average sci-fi elements? Picture a special academy at the heart of it all, where humanity battles unknown creatures aboard giant mobile ships/cities. The setup sounds promising, the original fantasy storyline offers some unpredictability and showcases unexpected character development for the main protagonist. What kept me engaged was the interplay between the fantasy past and the sci-fi present, unraveling the mysteries behind these two storylines. However, it wasn't handled very well. The series struggles to convey the mystery effectively, especially when compared to other anime like Dead Mount Death Play, which successfully blends unrelated worlds. Additionally, the characters come across as overly stereotypical, lacking depth and failing to foster interesting interactions. Instead, the series relies too heavily on unnecessary fanservice, centered around an average harem and an eleven-year-old boy in whose body there is an adult demon lord, making it look rather silly and awkward. While the animation is passable at best, the music stands out as a positive aspect. Did I enjoy it? Not particularly, but the strong hook of the storyline keeps me curious about what will happen next in this world of fantasy past and sci-fi present. Despite its shortcomings, the compelling premise leaves me willing to give a potential second season a chance. However, the first season doesn't earn more than a 5.1/10 from me. (16.12.2023)