Review of Full Metal Panic!
Full Metal Panic! is an undoubtedly interesting mecha series, but it has many weaknesses. Story [7+] The story is divided into two main plot lines: the mecha one and the high school rom-com one. Full Metal Panic! greatest accomplishment is how it blends these two genres together: even if the mecha plot line has more screen time, the rom-com parts are at the same time fun and essential for the development of the main characters. The plot itself is quite simple, and the obscure mysteries around the mechas’ technology keep the viewer’s interest high. Art [7] In the first place, the character design of the main characters is very good;despite this, the animation is not always on point, and even if it’s never really bad, it’s not great either.
Besides that, even if the action scenes’ choreography is not that great, they are exciting due to their high stakes.
Sound [6-]
The weakest part of the show. The OP is okay, but it’s not really special.
The most part of the OST of Full Metal Panic! sounds like a mediocre copy of an 80s action series soundtrack like The A-Team or Hazzard.
Character [7-]
The main characters of Full Metal Panic! are quite good. They’re not super-deep or anything, but they fit very well in their role, especially Testarossa and Kaname.
The side characters are very enjoyable at times (for example, most of the soldiers of the Mithril are really interesting), and very bland at others (the main antagonist is really unbearable and flat).
Enjoyment [8-]
Even if the series itself is not that great as a work of art, I really enjoyed the series as an entertaining mecha show.
It’s not as deep as Neon Genesis Evangelion or Bokurano, or other psychological mechas, but it’s a funny and thrilling way to spend your free time watching giant robots fighting and beautiful waifus being badass.
Overall [7-]
To sum up, I won’t recommend this show to you except if you are a huge mecha fan and can stand early-00’s mediocre animation.
In conclusion, I personally enjoyed this show and I’m really looking to watch other entries of the Full Metal Panic! universe.