The Labyrinth of Grisaia

"The Labyrinth of Grisaia" is an engaging, intricate anime series that was released by Sentai Filmworks in 2015. The series is an adaptation of a Japanese visual-novel game by Front Wing, and the formidable task of relaying this engaging narrative into an anime format fell on the shoulders of 8-Bit Studio. With its direction overseen by Tensho, a renowned name in the anime field, this masterwork brings together drama, mystery and psychological elements, creating an emotional, alluring spectacle for viewers.

It is a necessary to mention the distinctive, sharply sculpted character designs. Each character’s persona meticulously drawn, ranging from their expressive eyes to the sweep of their clothing, contributing to the uncanny blend of realism and fantasy which marks the series’ unique aesthetic. The evocative, breathtaking panoramas depicted in each episode reel the audience in, as much a character in the narrative as any of the protagonists on screen.

The narrative kicks off with an elusive, wandering protagonist, Yuuji Kazami, a man seeking the normality that his former life as a phantom assassin denied him. However, his pursuit takes him on a convoluted journey within Mihama Academy, an unconventional institution. At first glance, Mihama Academy appears to be a regular school, set on providing an educational sanctuary to its students. However, the rules within the academy veil an obscure reality - a reality where its small number of pupils can find solitude and deal with their individual traumatic pasts.

The story unfolds within the decrepit walls of Mihama Academy, where a group of five girls with their concealed dark pasts and Yuuji embark on a roller-coaster ride of emotions, exploring the depth of human spirit, love, loss, and redemption. In the aftermath of the first season "The Fruit of Grisaia," where the audience is shown the troubled pasts of each character, "The Labyrinth of Grisaia" delves more profound into each character's psyche, revealing the mysteries within their twisted worlds and developing their character arc in multifold dimensions.

A major portion of the series is dedicated to exploring the tangled past and enigmatic persona of the protagonist, Yuuji. Throughout the narrative, the show delves further into his life, revealing the harsh reality that made him what he is today. The past is shown intermingling with the present where no punches are pulled in portraying the cold, dark childhood arguably responsible for shaping Yuuji’s complex personality.

"The Labyrinth of Grisaia" also contains elements of mystery as the protagonists strive to come to terms with their pasts and shape their futures. It asks both characters and viewers profound questions about life: What it means to live? Is saying goodbye the end, or is it sometimes a new beginning?

The sound design on the show is a force to be reckoned at par with its visual spectacle. The series teems with heart-gripping music backgrounding the scenes, masterfully complementing the mood of each moment. Whether it be a thrilling action sequence or a heartfelt emotional scene, the audio sets the ambience, amplifying every twist and turn in the storyline.

Episode after episode, the series keeps viewers on a hook, each revelation as dramatic as it is heart-wrenching, making it hard to break away. By bringing to life such a nuanced range of characters, it creates an emotional bridge between the characters and the audience that is seldom seen in the genre.

In terms of viewership, the series is aimed at a slightly mature audience due to the psychological and sensitive themes embedded throughout its narrative. It's an existential journey that employs the paradox of tragedy and hope, darkness and light, making it not just an ordinary anime series but an exploration of the vagaries of life itself.

To sum up, "The Labyrinth of Grisaia" is a melange of heart-touching drama, profound existential questions, jaw-dropping visuals, and amazing sound design. It provides viewers with an intimate look into the lives of these imagined students, a vulnerable yet resilient group of individuals striving against their dark pasts in the hope of a brighter future. The series rises from its game adaptation roots to produce an exclusive viewing experience. Surely, it's a must-watch for anyone who appreciates a good drama series with a hint of mystery and depth.