The Asterisk War

The Asterisk War: The Academy City on the Water, from Aniplex, is a Japanese light novel series that was adapted into an anime television series in 2015/2016. This science fantasy anime, written by Yuu Miyazaki and illustrated by Okiura, blends elements from various genres, including action, science fiction, fantasy, and high school drama. It unfolds in a world where a catastrophic event known as the "Invertia" has led to the restructuring of world powers and gave rise to a new breed of humans called 'Genestella'.

At the forefront of the series is the titular Academy City, also known as Rikka and famously known as the Asterisk due to its man-made waterways that form a star shape. It's a large city floating on water that serves as the main venue for entertainment and education, renowned for its six leading schools known as the "Hexennacht." These academies serve as a battleground for a popular festival known as the "Festa", in which students, using special abilities and weapons, battle against each other for supremacy and glory.

Protagonist Ayato Amagiri is a scholarship student who enrolls at one of these schools - Seidoukan Academy. Throughout the show, he is portrayed as a kindhearted and brave teen who fights for justice and defends the weak. Unfortunately, his first day at the new academy starts off on a high note with a duel against Julis-Alexia von Riessfeld, a member of a royal family and one of Seidoukan's top students. This event marks the beginning of their friendship and lays the groundwork for shared adventures throughout the series.

Julis, the beautiful flame-haired princess from Lieseltania, is both Ayato’s classmate and the female lead in the series. Despite her initial standoffish demeanor, she soon forms a close bond with Ayato. She is portrayed as a strong character with a sense of justice, who fights to protect those she cares about, even at the expense of herself.

The series does an excellent job of developing these characters' multifaceted personalities and relationships, with each episode bringing a new layer to their respective personal histories. Meanwhile, fellow classmates, rivals, allies, and formidable enemies make the student life in Seidoukan Academy vibrant and colorful.

The Asterisk War incorporates a unique battle system, closely tied in with the characters' unique abilities, known as the "Orga Lux". This creates spectacular fight sequences heightening the risk and thrill of each combat event, while also serving as plot drivers and character development tools throughout the series.

Furthermore, these battles are integral to the "Festa" tournaments hosted by the city. There are three types of "Festa": Phoenix, Gryphons, and Lindwurm festa, each with its own set of rules and fighting styles. The competitiveness, showmanship, and powers displayed during these battles significantly contribute to the vibrant, energetic, and action-packed atmosphere of the series.

Outside of intense battle scenes, The Asterisk War explores various themes, such as friendship, loyalty, and ambition, against the backdrop of an academic setting. Often, the series delves into the personal lives and motivations of various characters, weaving a complex web that shows the breadth and depth of their experiences and aspirations.

The series shines not only for its complex and interesting plotline but also for its high-quality animation and sound design. Its dynamic visuals, well choreographed action sequences, and detailed background designs create a distinct and appealing aesthetic. The soundtrack added depth to every scene, whether it was the high-intensity of battle or the quiet, tender moments of character development.

The Asterisk War stands as an exemplary anime, balancing elements of action, drama, and sci-fi with well-written characters and a compelling storyline, offering its audience an engaging viewing experience. This series is certainly worth a watch for anyone interested in an action-packed anime filled with intriguing characters and captivating storylines.