[Paladin]

I'm not prepared to call Fourze better than Gokagier but I do think it has surpassed OOOs and this episode is a perfect example why.

The application of Cosmic States keeps perfectly in theme with the original idea of the show; friendship remains the driving force for Gentaro both on and off the battlefield to the point where his life is saved by his friends' gesture.

By contrast, OOO's theme of "desire is powerful and necessary" was counteracted with the Purple Medal introduction; since Purple is fueled by the ABSENCE of desire the message is lost and as a result OOOs suffered from a rather weak finish.

And if they really are picking up the pace in Fourze now & introducing more Horoscopes, great. Series might wind up exceeding my expectations.