[DreamSword]

Upon rewatch, I have alot more respect for this two-parter now than I did on my initial viewing of it.

It reminded me of just what exactly kept me going with W, when the previous two episodes had me questioning why exactly I able to stick with it at all. And the way it was all structured only helped with that.

Akiko is unbearable at the start as per usual, but then, we get to the good stuff.

Which is, basically, every other character, as well as the great world building and surprising amount of foreshadowing that the story has going for it. The Virus Memory being capable to interface with people's's consciousness; Sure, it's something totally new for the Sonozaki's', but we the viewer have a primary example of that in Philip, which in turn foreshadows his true nature.

There's also the interactions between Kirihiko and Saeko, which pretty much spell out the direction that things are headed in for those who found some of the previous scenes too subtle. Granted, Saeko claiming they already knew everything about the Virus Dopant is either a blatant lie or makes no sense, but whatever. It's merely a small drop in all of the other great character interactions going on, like between Philip and Sachi.

And of course, last but not least is Shotaro, who still remains my favorite character even now. Dude stood out a ton throughout both episodes, showcasing why exactly he's one of our two leads. He's not a detective that's solely out to find a culprit, he's one who does when he can to get to the heart of a matter. Not just because it's his job(like Akiko), but because he cares for all life equally, whether they be an outstanding citizen or a criminal. All throughout the episodes, his resolve is on full display, and it helps make him incredibly likable ontop of respectable.

These episodes reminded me. Yeah, Akiko might grate on my nerves to no end, but regardless of her, there's still a bunch of shining stars that deserve my attention far more, and I'm always happy to see them regardless. This is now a two-parter that I'll remember alot more fondly from here on out.