The appeal and evaluation of "Hakkenden -Eight Dogs of the East- Season 2": The sequel's deepening and new developments

The appeal and evaluation of "Hakkenden -Eight Dogs of the East- Season 2"

"Hakkenden: Eight Dogs of the East Season 2" is a TV anime series that aired from July 7 to September 29, 2013, and is based on the manga by Abe Miyuki. The series was animated by Studio Deen and aired on TOKYO MX and BS11. It has 13 episodes, each 30 minutes long, and was directed by Yamazaki Mitsue. Copyright belongs to "© 2013 Abe Miyuki, Kadokawa Shoten/Hakkenden Project".

Story and Characters

"Hakkenden - Touhou Hakken Ibun" is a fantasy work set in Japan during the Warring States period. The story depicts the epic adventure of eight young men chosen as the "Eight Dogs" who fight against evil. The second season is a continuation of the first season, depicting the further growth and trials of the Eight Dogs.

The main characters include the protagonist Inuzuka Shino, as well as the Eight Dog Warriors: Inukawa Sosuke, Inue Shinbei, Inuda Kobungo, Inuzaka Keno, Inuyama Dosetsu, Inumura Osumi, and Inukai Genpachi. Each has a different personality and background, enriching the story. The heroine Nurekamihime and the leader of the opposing forces, Inugami, also play important roles.

Animation and Music

The animation by Studio Deen realistically recreates the atmosphere of the Warring States period while skillfully incorporating fantasy elements. The character designs faithfully reproduce the image of the original while bringing out the unique charm of anime. The movements and effects in the battle scenes are particularly impressive and provide a visual treat.

In terms of music, the opening theme "Kaze no Kanata e" and the ending theme "Yume no Wings" are memorable. The opening has a fast-paced rock feel that brings out the sense of scale of the story. Meanwhile, the ending has a gentle melody that expresses the emotions of the characters. The background music is also carefully created to match each scene, adding excitement to the story's development.

Evaluation and Impressions

"Hakkenden: Eight Dogs of the East Season 2" is a continuation of the first season, and is a work that deepens the story and develops the characters. In particular, the bonds between the Eight Dogs and their individual conflicts are carefully depicted, deeply moving viewers. In addition, the story development that makes use of the historical background of the Warring States period and the exquisite balance of fantasy elements make it a work that can be enjoyed by a wide range of people.

However, some viewers feel that the characters are not developed enough. In particular, some feel that although new characters are introduced in the second season, their backstories and motivations are not fully explored. Also, some may feel that the story does not progress because of the large number of battle scenes.

Recommended points

The reasons we recommend "Hakkenden -Eight Dogs of the East- Season 2" are as follows:

• Epic storyline and character development : The epic storyline depicting the adventures and growth of the Eight Dogs deeply moves viewers. In particular, the individual conflicts and bonds between the characters are carefully depicted, making it easy to empathize with the characters.
• Historical background of the Sengoku period : The story is set in Japan during the Sengoku period, so history buffs will enjoy it. The story unfolds in a way that makes use of the historical background, and the customs and culture of the time are depicted realistically.
• The appeal of fantasy elements : The fantasy elements are skillfully incorporated, providing visual enjoyment. In particular, the movements and effects in the battle scenes are spectacular and provide visual enjoyment.
• Musical Appeal : The opening theme "Kaze no Kanata e" and the ending theme "Yume no Wings" are important elements that bring out the scale of the story and the emotions of the characters. The background music is also carefully created to match each scene, adding excitement to the story's development.

Related works and recommendations

For viewers who enjoyed "Hakkenden -Eight Dogs of the East- Season 2", we recommend the following related or similar works:

• "Hakkenden -Touhou Hakken Ibun- Season 1" : This is a prequel to Season 2, depicting the meeting and early adventures of the Eight Dogs. This is a must-watch work to gain a deeper understanding of Season 2.
• "Inuyasha" : A fantasy set in Japan during the Warring States period, with a story that depicts the growth and bonds between characters. Fans of "Hakkenden: The Eight Dogs of the East" will also enjoy this work.
• Blue Exorcist : A work that depicts fantasy elements and character growth, with impressive battle scenes. Fans of Hakkenden: The Eight Dogs of the East will also enjoy this work.
• "Fate/Zero" : A fantasy set in Japan during the Warring States period, the story depicts the conflicts and bonds between characters. Fans of "Hakkenden: The Eight Dogs of the East" will also enjoy this work.

summary

"Hakkenden - Touhou Hakken Ibun - Season 2" is a fantasy work set in Japan during the Warring States period, and its epic story of the adventures and growth of the eight warriors is its appeal. The individual conflicts and bonds of the characters are carefully depicted, deeply moving the viewer. In addition, the story development that makes use of the historical background of the Warring States period and the balance of fantasy elements are exquisite, making it a work that can be enjoyed by a wide range of people. In terms of music, the opening theme "Kaze no Kanata e" and the ending theme "Yume no Wings" are impressive, enhancing the scale of the story and the feelings of the characters. There are many related and similar works, so you can enjoy it even more after watching it. Please give it a try.