Baka & Test: Summon the Beasts, OVA Collection

Baka & Test: Summon the Beasts, OVA Collection from FUNimation 2013 is a gripping sequel to the original anime television series, offering an entertaining fusion of comedy, romance, and fantasy rolled into one fantastic anthology. This collection is delivered in the form of two special Original Video Animations (OVAs)—the quintessence of fascinating storytelling and riveting character development in a Virtual Reality (VR) battle school setting.

The OVA collection is an exciting follow-up to the spirited universe of Fumizuki Academy, an innovative school where students possess unique avatars known as "Shōkanjū" or "Summoned Beasts". These avatar entities represent the knowledge and academic skills of students and are heartily used in intriguing school battles. The students, categorized from A to F based on their academic prowess, are put to the test in a series of fascinating battles. The least academically inclined students in Class F, led by the academically and intellectually challenged but heartwarming and human protagonist Yoshii Akihisa, often lock horns with their smarter counterparts in comical and engaging beast summoning battles.

The OVAs delves deeper into this intriguing universe while maintaining the original spirit of Baka & Test. The intricate blend of action, comedy, and slice-of-life sequences continues to highlight hilarious classroom dynamics, absurd academic battles, and subtly simmering romantic undertones.

The OVA collection kicks off with the first episode, "Day in, Day out," which engages in usual high school life, putting the spotlight on the everyday shenanigans of Fumizuki Academy's students while artfully threading elements of humor, charm, and emotional depth. The audience experiences the life of the students in the academy, their friendships, rivalries, and everything in between, punctuated with the staple summoned beast battles and humor that Baka & Test fans adore.

Shifting gears, the second episode, "Mock Exam and Vampire Assassins," takes a detour into an unexpected territory. Without divulging important plot elements, it suffices to mention that it artfully mingles elements of fantasy with a healthy dose of comedy. This episode digs deeper into student dynamics, fleshing out beloved characters with their respective motivations and colorful personalities, all culminating in a more profound and enjoyable experience for both returning fans and new viewers alike.

In Baka & Test: Summon the Beasts, OVA Collection, character development stands as a robust pillar supporting the narrative’s framework. Yoshii Akihisa is the lovable underachiever constantly embroiled in misadventures, showcasing growth and depth in the face of adversity. His friends and classmates, including the smart but dry-witted Sakamoto, the fiery fighter Himeji, and other humorously bizarre but uniquely drawn cast of characters, continue to charm the viewer throughout the OVAs. Their personal struggles, evolving friendships, and heartwarming camaraderie remain one of the most enjoyable aspects of this collection.

Imaginative storytelling aside, the OVAs are notable for their visual richness and auditory feast. The animation is vibrant, displaying dynamic battle scenes and intense character expressions. The color palette, while being bright and cheerful, also manages to capture the intimate and tender moments between characters, further enhancing the emotive depth of the overall storyline. Coupled with its artistry is the musical score — full of vigor during intense battles and soothing during emotional moments, effortlessly keeping the audience hooked.

In essence, Baka & Test: Summon the Beasts, OVA Collection, will appeal to those who enjoyed the initial series and anyone who enjoys a good comedy, fantasy, or high school romp anime. With its innovative setting, blend of humor and deep emotional moments, and likeable characters, there is something in store for every anime aficionado in the collection. Furthermore, this series has the added virtue of being accessible to fresh entrants in the anime realm, with a story and characters that are relatable and easy to get invested in.

Overall, Baka & Test: Summon the Beasts, OVA Collection, is a delightful continuation of the original series – an anime consumption treat for fans and newcomers alike. Grab some popcorn, seat back, and get ready to enjoy this extraordinary academic battleground unfold.