- Last OnlineJan 14, 7:41 AM
- LocationDark Continent
- JoinedDec 27, 2022
Fantasy Anime League Easter Egg Hunt (Easy) Fantasy Anime League You Should Read This Manga MAL×entine Secret Santa Exchange 20th Anniversary MALoween Mansion (Trapped Soul)
Also Available at
RSS Feeds
|
Jun 25, 2025
I think one of the fun parts about Wind Breaker is how the characters look like they belong in a fashion magazine but act like tough delinquents. It’s weirdly entertaining and easy to watch. Kind of like CGDCT. And no... not the MAL's cgdct tag lol. I mean Cool Guys Doing Cool Things, because yeah, saving your town from gangs is pretty cool.
At first glance, season 2 might seem better than season 1 but not really. The Keel arc starts strong with actual gang warfare, cool upperclassmen appearances, and well animated fights. But after that, the story suddenly shifts into feel-good friendship moments, healing
...
arcs and a lot of "power of love" speeches. It's whiplash. One minute we're watching gang violence, the next we're on a not-date with a crossdressing character who helps an old man with his love life. I'm not mad, just confused.
Tsubakino, for example, is a fun character. He's confident, flashy, and more capable than you'd expect. But the show seems to orbit around his personal message more than it probably should. That’s great on its own, but if the show keeps pushing that kind of message too hard, it starts to feel like it's forgetting what it was originally about.
Also, can we talk about the high school setting? I know this is anime, but this has to be the most unrealistic school system ever. These kids don't attend classes, don't take exams, and yet they're apparently going to graduate by saving the town from various gangs. I wouldn't be surprised if the diploma just says, "Certified in Beating Up Adults and Growing as a Person." You have an entire school built on fighting ethics but where's the actual education?
Despite all this, Wind Breaker remains watchable. The fights are solid, the pacing is decent, and the characters are expressive even when they say corny stuff. Sakura continues to grow as a protagonist (even if his emotional progress is delivered with a side of clichés), and side characters get their moments.
Another issue here is that the show doesn't really know what it wants to be. I appreciate the effort to humanize the cast, especially characters like Sakura and Tsubakino. But sometimes the way the show delivers those messages feels a bit too polished and idealistic for the gritty delinquent tone it started with.
If I recommended Wind Breaker to 10 friends, maybe 7 would get through season 1 and go, “Yo this is kinda cool.” Then season 2 comes along with more focus on personal moments, and 4 of them start wondering if it’s the same show. The other 3 stick around hoping for more action but still enjoy the character growth.
Reviewer’s Rating: 6
What did you think of this review?
Nice
0
Love it
0
Funny
0
Confusing
0
Well-written
0
Creative
0Show all
Jun 23, 2025
The cases in this season really ramped up compared to the first one, and I'm not even complaining (not that I could even if I wanted to). I already really enjoyed Season 1 with its simpler mysteries. It kept me hooked, trying to piece things together myself. But Season 2 just blew me away to the point I couldn't stop watching. It felt like it just kept getting better and better, and now I want more and more of it.
I also absolutely love the dynamic between Kobato and Osanai from Season 1. The way they talk to each other, it's like they could go on
...
forever, and I'd never get tired of it. So when this season started with them going their separate ways, I was really just waiting for them to reconnect. With a new girl confessing to Kobato and a new guy trying to get close to Osanai, both of those side characters got their well-deserved reality check. The red-haired guy’s conclusion, in particular, was satisfying as hell.
Obviously, someone who loves Osanai and Kobato being together would be happy to see the dating-related distractions come to an end no matter how much time was spent on those interactions. And yeah, it was quite a bit (I'm sorry if I sound like I'm speaking from a romcom addict's perspective).
Anyway, this show’s mainly a mystery series, written by the same author as Hyouka (which you probably know if you're looking up Season 2 reviews).
I thought I’d break down the mystery aspects into a few categories and give it a rating to help you get a better view of what makes this anime shine:
So here's my attempt for a category-based evaluation of..
Shoshimin: How to Become Ordinary Season 2
Case Quality/Mystery (9/10):
The season juggles between multiple layered mysteries (arson, hit-and-run, hidden pasts), all slowly revealing themselves with interconnected threads. The misdirection is very well done (such as framing, manipulation, cover-ups). The answers line up with prior clues and build tension fairly, avoiding major plot holes in my opinion so the consistency is right there.
Investigation Process (8.5/10):
The show does a great job showing two contrasting styles of investigation in the first arc: Urino is enthusiastic and methodical, but a bit reckless, while Kobato is calm, calculating, and emotionally detached. What makes the process engaging is how both characters' investigations are shaped by their personalities, which adds layers to how the truth is uncovered.
Rather than giving the audience clean clue-after-clue detective work, the series leans into how human biases and personal stakes influence the investigation. It’s not always about finding physical evidence, it’s about reading intentions and sometimes being wrong.
That said, some reveals feel like they happen just after the fact, which means not all the deductions are completely visible to the viewer in real-time. But the emotional and psychological tension during the investigations keeps things gripping nonetheless.
It’s less “classic detective work” and more about the consequences of trying to uncover the truth when emotions and pride get involved.
Audience Participation (8/10):
You’re encouraged to solve things alongside the characters. That said, some twists do come out of nowhere but in a good way.
Characters & Suspects (9.5/10):
My favourite part. If you love stories where even a casual line of dialogue can reveal someone's true colors, this show does that extremely well.
Every character, major or minor, feels intentional and layered. Whether it’s the leads, their rivals, or even those who only appear briefly, the show makes you question everyone’s motives without making anyone feel like a caricature.
Conversations carry tension, subtext, and sometimes subtle power plays that make every interaction worth paying attention to.
Atmosphere (8.5/10):
Maintains tension in both mystery and interpersonal dynamics.
The setting usage like the newspaper club, train tracks, rooftop and hospital are symbolical and narratively relevant.
Narrative Structure (8/10):
Back-and-forth timeline helps build mystery in the hit-and-run arc.
The slow burn benefits the end, though some might feel a drag early on.
Emotional Impact (9/10):
Osanai's sadism and Kobato's reflection hit hard. The "revenge through apathy" themes are chilling.
Explores ideas of ordinariness, manipulation, romantic disillusionment and how pain shapes people.
Ending (8.5/10):
Both major arcs wrap up with satisfying conclusions. One in particular was well foreshadowed, and the emotional payoff lands. A couple of threads remain morally ambiguous, but that feels intentional.
Overall, this series stands out just as much as Hyouka does, so if you enjoyed Season 1 or like character-driven mystery stories with a strong atmosphere, Season 2 absolutely delivers and even surpasses expectations.
Visually, it's got great direction and cinematic shots, paired with a fitting OP/ED and good soundtracks that elevates both the tension and the quiet moments.
This continuation is absolutely worth it.
8.625/10 ≈ 9/10
Reviewer’s Rating: 9
What did you think of this review?
Nice
0
Love it
0
Funny
0
Confusing
0
Well-written
0
Creative
0Show all
May 24, 2025
"School is a miniature version of society" and that’s essentially what the stories and conflicts in this manhwa revolve around. Framed through a main romantic plot between Yeonwoo and Haesol.
Thanks for coming across my review if you actually did, but let me warn you: my words might go from bold review-related statements to some emotional ranting about how I felt.
Considering that.
This review contains no direct plot spoilers, but it does discuss character dynamics, emotional themes, and personal reflections that some may prefer to experience fresh.
If you're someone who connects deeply with characters or tends to see parts of yourself in them, maybe read this after
...
you've had your own first impressions. Just in case it colors how you feel about them.
The synopsis makes it seem pretty normal. An introverted boy (a really pretty one) falling in love with the popular girl. The title suggests that Yeonwoo is an innocent guy. He’s anxious about every thought and action but still wants to engage with others for his own growth, without bothering the people who are kind to him.
To exaggerate the idea a bit: imagine an innocent civilian with below-average potential trying to make their way through a conflicted civilization. But I won’t go off on unrelated metaphors, let’s stay focused on what the manhwa actually gives us.
The female lead is bold and doesn’t show much facial expression, mostly keeps a poker face you might think is emotionless (It’s part of her character arc though, and it fits really well). That’s just how her personality comes off at first. It’s not a fixed trait. She’s actually very open about her thoughts and perspectives, and when needed, she doesn’t hesitate to show vulnerability and emotion.
The characters in this manhwa felt very human to me, filled with psychological realism.
It keeps things relatable while still giving us some interesting character tropes. There’s also a really well-done friendship dynamic between Yeonwoo and his best friend Junhyuk, which was actually one of my own reasons for picking this manhwa up.
Yah it's very School centric. But..
This manhwa doesn’t treat school like some wholesome place with club bonding, cute festivals, or love confessions under sakura trees. Instead, it’s more about how school becomes a space that shapes psychological and social experiences.
It feels more like a place you survive through than something you celebrate. Bullying, silence, and even small acts of kindness hit harder because of how structured and inescapable school can feel. It basically works as an amplifier for the characters’ emotional struggles instead of just showcasing typical school life.
Misunderstandings, rumors, ostracization, and unreliable teacher-student communication all turn into quiet forms of violence, showing how even normal environments can feel suffocating when you’re emotionally isolated.
Another thing I liked is how the main characters are actually likable (at least to me), even though they’ve gone through some tragic stuff. That part isn’t revealed right away though, so it’s not like you’re pushed to care about them out of pity or anything.
Side characters have many things going around them as well.
The characters really do need comfort.
People who offer comfort only to gain attention or information are not the ones you can rely on..
Trauma can shape one to think that empathy in others is an illusion.
Trauma can shape one to feel that expressing opinions or confessions is an act of selfishness, an unfair expectation of understanding.
Trauma can shape one to refrain from defending oneself, fearing their words will sound like lies.
Trauma can shape one to believe they have no right to rely on others, that sharing their burdens is dumping what they can barely carry.
Trauma can shape one to live as if their feelings hold no importance at all.
Accepting a disbelief that children in need of protection are nothing but burdens, and that mothers tied to such children become burdens themselves.
Accepting a disbelief that people’s attitudes are shaped solely by their background and family history, as if this alone explains all and leaves no room for accountability.
I think the situations reflect reality pretty well.
Don’t underestimate the drama tag on this manhwa, it leans pretty heavy into that side, so it might not be for everyone, especially if you’re just looking for a wholesome romance.
Speaking of cons, since chapters often end with cliffhangers it may not be a good reading on a weekly basis but it does a good job at keeping readers engaged. You can feel the slow pacing and repetitiveness but i personally like the slow burn stuff it just feels meaningful to me 🤔.
Life itself can feel repetitive until something happens that reminds you it's not.
Sometimes that “something” is a disaster. Sometimes it’s a realization, or someone new, or even just you seeing the same things a little differently.
In my opinion, this manhwa carries that "something" in it.
I came across this through a random insta post because I thought the main leads looked cute and expected a light romcom I could read without paying much attention. But damn it kept me hooked. I really want a bestfriend and a lover like the MC has XD.
If you’re wondering whether it can make you feel lonely, then yes, it can. But if you have a dear lover or even a dear best friend, cherish them as much as you want. ❤️
Although I haven’t read many romance manhwas, this is probably the first one I tried out of boredom. The MAL page for it is pretty quiet and not that popular, so I thought I’d share my thoughts on it.
Would you like to try this out?
As for reading worth, a generous 9/10.
Reviewer’s Rating: 9
What did you think of this review?
Nice
0
Love it
0
Funny
0
Confusing
0
Well-written
0
Creative
0Show all
Mar 30, 2025
I actually liked solo leveling S1 from the perspective of someone who never read the manhwa. At the time, I didn’t have many complaints. But now, here we are in S2. It’s not like this season is bad when it comes to delivering an experience. The action is still top tier, but that’s already a given for this series so I won’t go into detail praising it. Honestly I don’t even know how else people could praise it aside from the action, animation, art style and music? The same goes for its flaws, how else could people criticize it besides calling it simple and generic?
...
Personally i never had major issues with the story. Like I said I enjoyed s1 even though it didn’t bring anything new to the table. It’s a very beginner friendly anime and even for veteran anime fans, not everything has to be complex or groundbreaking. So what else does this season offer? It keeps things straightforward, dungeon expeditions, key power ups and major battles that deliver that solo leveling excitement.
However, if you’re a decent anime watcher, not even a full on veteran, just someone with around 300+ anime entries like me, you’re bound to experience a lot of déjà vu. My mind kept screaming, "Bruh am I rewatching an anime I’ve already seen?" This feeling built up to the point where it became mentally exhausting, especially during the Jeju Island part. It felt like I was watching one of my favorite arcs from another anime being ripped off. It left me with this emotional void fighting a monster I would already seen before just in a different form.
Jinwoo’s character also feels much less likable this season. He comes off as edgy with little to no personality compared to s1, except for ep 9 and the finale, but even then, it still feels empty. Most fights lacked tension and when there was tension it often felt artificial.
On a side note unrelated to SL, I find it funny that some of my friends won’t watch stuff like wind breaker (the delinquent anime) just because it only offers a good amount of fight choreography but lacks a strong story. Yet they’ll watch solo leveling any day even though the same logic applies. What more does this series have to offer?(The difference is that one is non-fantasy). I guess people will always prefer to hype fantasy action, no matter how generic the story is just like solo leveling and demon slayer. But no matter how successful these types of anime get they’ll always face criticism for their simplicity.
If you’re wondering why I felt that way watching this season, it’s because H×H and SL's Ant Arc but i won’t go into detail since it's a spoiler free review i guess. I wasn’t sure how to put into words what I was feeling while watching the latter half of the series. Something about it triggered a strange, almost panicked reaction in me. At first, I couldn’t figure out why, but after thinking it over, I ended up writing this review in the mixed 'feelings' section just to get that feeling out of my system. Just a warning though, you probably couldn’t relate.
Is this anime worth watching? Yes, if you’re just looking for cool MC moments, back to back. It has this vibe where you can almost feel like you’re the MC yourself, owning that protagonist energy (just me trying to look at it from an action lover’s perspective lol). But it might be a bit hit or miss if you're more competitive when it comes to watching things and want an emotional or meaningful payoff.
Overall, 10/10 production quality from A-1 Pictures, but solo leveling s2 itself? I'd rate it between 6 and 7 out of 10.
Hopefully this review doesn’t come across as discouraging anyone from watching Solo Leveling. I’m just sharing my personal thoughts about it, and it’s actually my first time reviewing something too.
Reviewer’s Rating: 7
What did you think of this review?
Nice
0
Love it
0
Funny
0
Confusing
0
Well-written
0
Creative
0Show all
|