Why Blue Lock Season 2 Became 2024’s Most Controversial Anime Yet Still Captivated Audiences

Blue Lock season two came to a close in December 2024, leaving fans buzzing with anticipation for a potential season three following the thrilling victory against Japan’s U-20 team. However, this season was met with mixed reactions, particularly due to concerns surrounding its animation quality.

Having watched all 14 episodes, I’ve come to the conclusion that Blue Lock season two deserves more appreciation than it has received. While it does have its drawbacks, the season remains one of my top picks for 2024, with several key moments in the finale more than compensating for its earlier weaknesses.

Animation Critiques Surrounding Blue Lock Season Two

Animation Quality Sparks Important Dialogues on Animator Welfare

Isagi Yoichi telling Ego he refuses to lose Blue Lock

It’s undeniable that Blue Lock’s second season fell short of the fluid and vibrant animation fans were hoping for, a stark contrast to its predecessor. Viewers noted that many scenes displayed awkward transitions and choppy movements reminiscent of PowerPoint slides. This critique garnered substantial attention, prompting members of the animation studio, Eight Bit, to respond publicly. One animator, known as MartinKiings on TikTok, candidly remarked, “we did the best we could,”shedding light on the taxing working conditions and tight deadlines faced by animators.

Like many viewers, I was disappointed, especially given the high expectations set by season one’s animation, characterized by its vibrant visuals and dynamic motion. This drop in animation quality not only highlighted the rushed production but also underscored the serious issue of animator overwork prevalent in the industry today. Nonetheless, I encourage fans to reconsider their harsh evaluations, as there are still remarkable moments that capture the essence of what makes Blue Lock unique.

Final Episodes Exemplify Blue Lock’s Core Themes

Rin and Isagi Embrace the Fundamental Concept of Ego

Rin and Sae Itoshi fighting in Blue Lock

As the finale aired on December 28, 2024, viewers were left on the edge of their seats, uncertain of the match’s outcome with mere minutes remaining. The escalating tension, fueled by Jinpachi Ego’s motivating speeches, created an engaging atmosphere that drew me in completely. Particularly noteworthy was the character development of Rin Itoshi and Isagi Yoichi throughout these last two episodes, which allowed me to overlook the previously distracting flaws of animation.

Rin’s evolution was striking; he transformed from relying on his brother, Sae Itoshi, to recognizing the folly of entrusting his soccer journey to anyone else. With newfound independence, he stepped onto the field with fierce determination, ready to “kill”any competition in pursuit of becoming the world’s best striker. This character arc, masterfully penned by Muneyuki Kaneshiro, beautifully aligns with Blue Lock’s overarching theme of ego and self-empowerment.

Isagi’s Transformation Reaches New Heights

Isagi’s Winning Goal: A Defining Moment in the U-20 Arc

Blue Lock Season 2, Episode 14 Isagi celebrating his goal

One of the standout scenes from Blue Lock season two was undoubtedly Isagi Yoichi’s dramatic winning goal, scored in the match’s final seconds. The exhilarating moment was amplified by the joyous celebration among fans and teammates alike as the underdog team triumphed over Japan’s elite players. Post-match, Isagi boldly declared his aspiration: “to lead Japan to glory at the U-20s World Cup.”

Isagi’s growth from a reserved and insecure player into a confident, self-assured individual is remarkable. The character he has become is a far cry from the envious and timid figure of season one. This season showcased the most significant development in Isagi’s character, igniting my anticipation for the next chapter. Furthermore, the animation quality in the finale was far superior, demonstrating that the studio can indeed achieve excellence despite earlier criticisms.

Why Blue Lock Deserves a Third Season

Discovering a New Appreciation for Soccer Through Blue Lock

Ultimately, the finale of Blue Lock season two redeemed the season in my eyes, bringing back the excitement that initially drew me to this sports shonen. Though I typically do not follow sports, the profound character growth, the emotional strength demonstrated in challenging situations, and the captivating narrative of ordinary high school students striving to excel at soccer kept me engaged. These elements were particularly highlighted during the finale, reinforcing my desire for a continuation of the series despite arguments against a third season.

There are certainly areas where I hope to see improvement, particularly in animation for future seasons. I would be willing to wait for years for season three, even as the last season concluded with a tantalizing cliffhanger introducing a leading character from the manga. Given the appropriate time for animators and writers to refine their craft, season three has the potential to surpass its predecessors. While no series achieves perfection, Blue Lock season two managed to ignite a genuine interest in soccer within me, making it a worthwhile experience for any anime enthusiast.

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