Note: I am writing this review for those who are already familiar with the To Love-Ru series. Perhaps you had seen the first season of Darkness and enjoyed it, but you're still skeptical of its sequel. Or despite disliking the first season (Darkness), you, for some reason, are still interested. Maybe, even now, you feel ambivalent. I hope this review will help those who are struggling to make a decision. Lastly, I am a huge fan of the series, but I've never read the manga.
"To Love-Ru Darkness 2nd" is just as entertaining as its prequels (To Love-Ru, Motto To Love-Ru, and the first ... season of To Love-Ru Darkness); in fact, the disparity between this and its prequels are, in my opinion, little to none. Unfortunately, this implies that many of its infamous flaws are also present in this second season. In this review, I will explore this season's strengths and weaknesses.
Story: 5
To Love-Ru, as a series, has a weak story. After 70+ episodes, there is little character and plot development; for example, much of the content in each episode (addressing the entire series) is Rito stumbling or slipping while female characters are conveniently nearby which results in a perverted scene. He is then chased or lectured, but ultimately forgiven. This exact scene repeats many times throughout this season. I, however, personally enjoy them and laugh occasionally because the show is self-aware that these scenes would only occur so frequently in a fictitious world.
As for character development, if you're here to watch Rito and Lala grow romantically closer, you'll likely be disappointed; there is one scene, but they simply end up reaffirming those same feelings that they had at the conclusion of Motto To Love-Ru. Additionally, more girls are added to the Harem Plan; furthermore, the characters who, originally, never knew about the plan provide their views on the subject. It's interesting to see different perspectives because some conflict with Momo's beliefs, although I had hoped that they would further elaborate on their reasoning. Still, it's exciting to see that the Harem Plan may not be as perfect as Momo makes it out to be. Interestingly, in this season, there is an antagonist (and I don't mean random fodder alien assassins) with a goal (not minor transgressions like kidnapping). I was also pleased that the show didn't feel episodic; there was continuity unlike To Love-Ru and Motto To Love-Ru.
And although it may appear that I dislike the story, I think the lack of progression is justified in some ways. For example, in To Love-Ru's universe, only two years or so (maybe less) have passed since the first episode. I don't know if two years is enough for someone like Rito to suddenly devote himself to over fifteen girls. He's sixteen; marriage, falling in love, and managing the entire universe are things that most teenagers would never think too deeply about at that age. Moreover, Rito is portrayed as an average male student; his only unqiue trait (that is emphasized) is his kindness and reliability when you really need him. So in many ways, I understand why he feels unsure about these things, especially the Harem Plan. The plot makes this clear several times that polygamy is not allowed on Earth; this implies that, for about 14 years, he has been raised with the idea that marriage is between a man and a woman. Maybe he hasn't thought about it until he was 7 or 8, but to ask someone to suddenly change their life values and beliefs in just two years seems improbable. As for character development, I think it's rather realistic that Rito's personality hasn't radically changed. I never expected him to suddenly become a whole new person in merely two years. And yes, several times, Mikan does mention that Rito has changed ever since the arrival of Lala and friends, but it's likely nothing serious as he is still shown to have those same mixed feelings (from the very first season) about marriage, love, politics, and the Harem Plan.
This is simply my opinion, and I just thought some of these things were worth thinking about.
My final note: If you don't like the theme of friendship, you may not like this season.
Art: 9
Compared to the very first season of To Love-Ru, the art has significantly improved (I'm sure many of you reading this know that already). Nevertheless, I don't know much about art; however, to me, the art looks colorful, vivid, and vibrant. I do prefer season 1's art (Darkness Season 1), but Rito's, Yami's, Momo's, Lala's, and Mea's faces are drawn really well this season. (I am in love with everyone's eyes!) Also it's interesting to note that the art is so stunning that when you see even a slight drop in quality, it's rather noticeable. Usually, I have to look for these, but I saw quite a few here -- especially when you're viewing the characters from a far distance (which is understandable). Nevertheless, I was bothered by how bright everyone looked as well.
Another example of good art, I think, is the ending. The planets, Yami, and the flowers are all quite artistic.
Sound: 9
I know I compare a lot, and unfortunately, I'm doing it here again. I only give the sound a 9 because I really enjoyed listening to Rakuen Project by Ray. Secret Arms is fine; I never skipped the opening if that means anything. Conversely, the ending, in this season, is far better. Kawada's Garden is amazing; if you have some extra time, I recommend listening to the full version as well. The background music, however, wasn't memorable.
Characters: 7
Rito: As I mentioned before, in the story section, I think Rito is growing/maturing, but it appears to be a subtle growth. That said, if you watch the specials (episode 13 and 14 which conclude the season), Rito does something quite surprising and out of character (not because he's drunk or anything like that; it's intentional). I wouldn't call it a serious change, but I like the pace of his growth; it might appear too slow for some, but I think it's fine. One of my biggest issues with the character, however, is his passive personality.
Lala: Learns something new from Momo, and there is one other minor thing with Rito, but saying anything more will ruin it. That's about it.
Haruna, Kotegawa, : Both characters remain static throughout this season, unfortunately.
Yami, Nana, and Mea: These three characters are the highlights of this season. If you like any one of them, you're in luck. The theme is friendship. That's all I'll say. And if you didn't like any of these characters before, you might like them now. You learn quite a bit about each of these characters, and I ultimately felt that they were no longer just one-dimensional characters.
Murasame Shizu: Even she sort of gets her own episode. Again, the theme is friendship.
Rin: There is more revealed about her character as well.
Mikan: Keep on eye out for her. She has some great moments this season.
Momo: I believe Momo is a character that does not need to change (personality wise). Her presence in the story is what drives a lot of these character actions in the second season. If you liked Momo in Darkness season 1, I think you'll appreciate her role here as well. Her alluring mischievous personality is always fun to watch.
Overall, I think it's fine that a lot of these characters are still the same after all these years; at least they're consistent. But until something a little more significant happens to Rito, Lala, and friends, all I can say is that the characters, this season, were good.
Enjoyment: 10
As I've said before, I'm a huge fan (Momo and Yami fan) of the series, so much that I ended up watching the first four uncensored episodes and finished the rest of it (along with the specials) in one sitting. Originally, I had planned on waiting until all 14 episodes were available uncensored, but I simply couldn't wait; in fact, I plan on re-watching those 10 episodes again once it's released on Blu-Ray.
Overall: 10
To Love-Ru is an anime that truly tests the limits of the ecchi genre; it is the epitome of a borderline hentai. For this reason, you really have to love the characters to continue loving this show. I know I didn't say much, but if you've seen the first season (which I assumed you have) you already know exactly how these characters are. In lieu of a summary, I thought it might be best to tell you what season two has to offer. Honestly, had I not enjoyed the show as much as I did, I'd give this season a 6.5/10.
Anyways, I suggest giving at least the first uncensored episode a try!
Thanks for reading.
 Alternative Titles Synonyms: To LOVE-Ru Trouble Darkness 2nd Japanese: To LOVEる -とらぶる- ダークネス2nd Information Type: TV Episodes: 12 Status: Finished Airing Aired: Jul 7, 2015 to Sep 29, 2015 Premiered: Summer 2015 Broadcast: Tuesdays at 00:00 (JST) Licensors: Sentai Filmworks Studios: Xebec Source: Manga Demographic: Shounen Duration: 23 min. per ep. Rating: R+ - Mild Nudity Statistics Score: 7.441 (scored by 137,181 users) 1 indicates a . Ranked: #22202 2 based on the top anime page. Please note that 'Not yet aired' and 'R18+' titles are excluded. Popularity: #934 Members: 260,764 Favorites: 969 Available AtResources |
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