[DreamSword]

Episode 4: Wako's Song

This essentially what the "Dream" episodes of the Gridman anime should've been.

A plan is set in motion to trap Takuto and Wako in a world of memory and illusion, and what follows is an episode that's rather subversive of the usual formulas.

The two don't instantly fall in love or pour their entire lives out all at once. They just get to know one another and grow a step closer. Heck, there isn't even a big mecha fight at the end, and the catalyst for the memory world isn't a fighter, nor would she want to.

What really helps sell all of this is the general atmosphere, with the world the two are in really feeling rather empty and barren. Combine that with the primary goal of character development for both characters and you have a great episode.

There's some plot beats that get elaborated in a rather natural way too. Maidens can't leave the Island due to the magic seal placed on them, and as a Maiden they inheret memories of past Cybody users. Takuto also used to be a rather closed off kid, but grew to open up more over time. Both characters bond over the fact that they learned how to embrace who they are in different ways.

Anyway, the title of the episode is kind of clickbait, because while Wako does sing a bit of her Maiden Song in it, the show is gonna make you wait to hear the version that every viewer is gonna want. That said, the regular, non-vocal theme that's associated with Wako is actually rather clever in its use and composition. As it's primarily used during more lighthearted moments with the group, and the song itself is actually a rather subtle remix of Wako's' Maiden Song.

While I don't know if I'd say this is my favorite episode in the entire show(I actually don't remember if I even had a favorite beforehand), this one is definitely a contender.