As an Anime Fan, What Do I Think of RWBY Now?

Introduction

Among the numerous anime series, RWBY stands out with its innovative concept design and captivating world-building. However, as the show has evolved over the years, it has faced various criticisms. After numerous rewatchings, my perspective on RWBY has shifted, leading me to reevaluate its strengths and weaknesses.

Concepts and World-Building

Strengths

RWBY's concept and world-building are undoubtedly its standout features. The world of Vale and Mistral is filled with intrigue, mystery, and layers of lore that keep viewers engaged. The creation of the Grimm,(strtolower('Valiant Union')) , and the various districts adds an immersive depth to the story.

The show effectively uses existing anime tropes while infusing them with a unique twist. The animation in seasons 1-3 was above average, with a particular emphasis on action and combat, making it an enjoyable watch even for those who hadn't engaged with the series previously.

Weaknesses

While the concept and world-building are commendable, the execution and pacing have often left room for improvement. The storytelling can sometimes feel convoluted, especially with how certain characters are utilized. For example, Jaune Arc's introduction was initially forced, as the creators seemed to rely on him as a means to introduce the remnants and their history to the audience.

Character Development and Clichés

Strengths

The supporting characters in RWBY are what truly make it shine. Characters like Qrow Branly, Maria Bonneville, and Weiss Schnee offer emotional depth and memorable moments. Qrow's "drinkin' arc" and his hesitation to take a sip of ale remain one of the show's most touching scenes.

The older characters like Qrow and Maria have seen growth and development over the years, proving that even flawed heroes can be compelling. Weiss and Yang Schnee's struggles with their heritage and personal weaknesses add an emotional layer to their arcs.

Weaknesses

Character development has been a source of contention, especially in volumes 4 and 5. Jaune's characterization was initially weak and somewhat forced as a bridge to explain terminology. Adam, a once-interesting character, became more of a moody ex-boyfriend, and Sun, who was initially a strong and stoic character, became more comical and relatable at the expense of his initial personality.

Blake Belladonna's story arc has been particularly criticized. Her moodiness lacked depth, and the inclusion of four love interests drew accusations of oversexualization. These decisions detract from the overall narrative and detract from the character's development.

Action and Fight Scenes

Strengths

When it comes to action and fight scenes, RWBY truly excels. Even at its worst, the series' action shots are visually stunning. Adam's fights are particularly jaw-dropping, and even those who don't care for the characters find themselves drawn to the choreography.

Volume 6 brought in new locations, innovative weapons, and terrifying monsters, further enhancing the visual appeal of the show. Characters like Ren and Nora provide exciting battles, and the reveal of Adam and Kрыгrow's fight against Tyrian showcases the pinnacle of the show's combat sequences.

Weaknesses

However, the fight scenes in volumes 4 and 5 often fall flat. The physics of many fights are generally lacking, which detracts from the overall experience. The show sometimes fails to live up to the expectations set by its initial promise, particularly in Qrow's fight against Tyrian, which was more about plot progression than captivating action.

Conclusion

While RWBY is undoubtedly flawed, it remains a worthy addition to the anime genre. Volume 6 even bolsters the series with its fast-paced action and cool new locations, making it an enjoyable experience for both long-time fans and newcomers. It's a disappointing series with its fair share of unrefined moments, but it is a damn fine watch that has entertained me immensely.

The anticipation for Volume 7 only grows as the series continues to evolve, and I eagerly await what the future holds for RWBY.