It’s a familiar tale, a hero’s journey. Noor, our protagonist, dreamed of being a champion, a savior. But his talents were limited. He trained endlessly, pushing himself to the edge, yet he could only master one skill: parry. Determined to make the most of his single ability, Noor honed his defense to a point where it became his ultimate weapon. The show follows his journey from a teenager to a seasoned warrior, showcasing his dedication even in the face of adversity. In a world of fantasy, Noor uses his one unique talent to reach his potential.
Mario, our reviewer, praises the character’s earnestness and determination, making him relatable even though the plot is familiar. His comparison to “BOFURI: I Don’t Want to Get Hurt, so I’ll Max Out My Defense” highlights the show’s focus on skill mastery. Noor’s dedication pays off as his parrying abilities become his strength. The princess he saves, a classic trope, ensures his constant presence in the story. Overall, if you enjoy power fantasy with a likable protagonist, this show might be your cup of tea.
Lenlo, while acknowledging the trope-filled nature of the show, praises the competence of its execution. Noor’s skill isn’t a given; he earns it through hard work. The story avoids the common trope of instant power, instead focusing on a character’s growth and dedication. The show also presents a protagonist who is kind and helpful, a friendly neighborhood hero. “Parry” might not offer anything groundbreaking, but it’s a solid, enjoyable show if you’re looking for action-packed fantasy with a likable lead.
Bye Bye, Earth: A Journey of Self-Discovery
Belle Lablac, our protagonist, stands out in a world of anthropomorphic animals. She’s the only human in a world of fur, fangs, and scales. Driven by a yearning to discover her origins, Belle embarks on a quest for answers. Armed with her massive sword, the Runding, she navigates a world filled with possibilities and perils. Belle’s journey is one of self-discovery, a search for her true identity.
Mario, our reviewer, highlights the potential racism that pervades the show’s early episodes. He finds the efforts to differentiate the world from typical isekai settings somewhat forced and ultimately detract from the story. The worldbuilding attempts, with details about nomads and enolas, get lost in the crowded narrative. Belle’s flashback, for example, clashes with her present storyline, making it difficult to fully connect with the farewell fight between her and her mentor. Although the music is enjoyable, the show feels rushed and leaves the audience unsure if they’ll stick around for more.
Lenlo, intrigued by the world’s unique animal humanoids, expresses curiosity about the show. He questions the absence of the typical sexy animal-human hybrids and focuses on the world’s unique diversity. The show’s exploration of racism and identity intrigues him. He’s also drawn to the mysteries surrounding the Runding and Belle’s Nomad transformation. While the action and racism themes might be problematic, the show’s unique worldbuilding and musical score keep him hooked. He plans to continue watching, hoping for the show to fully realize its potential.
Atri: My Dear Moments: A Journey of Loss and Discovery
Atri, our protagonist, is a one-legged man living in a world shaped by rising sea levels and dilapidated highways. He stumbles upon a lifelike robot hidden in the ruins of his grandmother’s home. The show explores themes of loss and discovery in a world transformed by climate change. The main character’s sullenness stems from his past and the loss he’s experienced, making him relatable to the audience.
Wooper, our reviewer, describes the show’s setting as interesting though not entirely original. Despite its tropey characters, the show manages to create a unique charm. The sullen protagonist, whose moods are justified by his past, and the cutesy android offer an appealing combination for fans of “little sister” tropes. The show’s 3DCG submarine, though somewhat clumsy at times, adds a sense of humor. While the show lacks a strong narrative drive after the first episode, it raises questions about the protagonist’s past and the world’s history, potentially drawing viewers back.
Lenlo, initially put off by the stereotypical “Onee-san” character, was pleasantly surprised by the show’s vibe. The oceanic setting and the protagonist’s emotional depth resonate with him. He finds the show refreshing compared to other seasonals, showcasing an authenticity that sets it apart. Whether you enjoy the show ultimately depends on your connection with its vibe. While Lenlo enjoyed the episode, he acknowledges that it might not be sustainable for a full season. If you’re looking for a show that focuses on world exploration and character development over a structured narrative, Atri: My Dear Moments could be a good choice.