[DrChief]

Is it just me, or does it feel like the show was trying to combine two different endings into one?

While I am a bit optimistic on the ending (especially think its nice with how the world is restored thanks to people expressing their love for stories via ACTUAL VIDEOs that Toei apparently asked for, I think,), the fact that the Wonder Almighty RideBook comes from the combination of Luna and the six Seikens BEFORE the 'Traitor swordsman' arc really gives off the impression that THAT was the intended ending, at least until whatever force wanted more swordsmen into the mix.

No seriously, a RideBook that features lines from the first six swordsmen and Touma's original friend, a focus on the Wonder RideBooks and their usage (if underused, one of the more wasted potentials ever), the emphasis on friendship, Storius being the final boss, a heavier emphasis on stories and authors, and the lack of focus on the Haouken Xross Saber (which does have a good reason for not being there, being used to halt the end of the world). It REALLY feels like there was this conflict between the kind of story the writers wanted between those solely focused on the Megid and writing angle and those who wanted a focus on inner Rider conflict and corrupt organizations, which resulted in cut character development and bad moments.

This really makes me wonder how the show would have been like if we only had the first six swordsmen plus Mei, the Megid, and a focus on RideBooks while retaining the other collectibles (like the other swords come from deceased swordsmen and are used by the Megid in combat, and the Haouken Xross Saber is created after getting back those swords)