
Episode Review: Gundam: Witch from Mercury ep 5 + 6: Fate of the Faceless
There are definitely someone out there that will celebrate your birthday
Episode 5 and 6 mark the arc of a “main” side-character, although in a way we never expect. Elan Ceres – one of the male interests of our heroine Suletta – has burned bright and went out as quickly as a shooting star. Coming out of his former shell to express his true self – and not “Elan Ceres” – and stun us all with his character. Although it is just 2 episodes, Elan has managed to raise a myriad of question that will keep us guessing until the end of the series.
Since episode 1, each episode of G-Witch has condensed quite an amount of information, and focus on dealing with one problem after another inside that episode. We started with Guel’s downfall, then the Gundam inquiry, Guel tried to prove his own (and his 2nd downfall), Suletta trying to pass the school test while establishing the support cast from the Earth house. But that does not mean it did not drop some breadcrumbs, a bit here a bit there, and all of that was accumulated into “Elan”. We could say that episode 5 and 6 form a turning point, changing the structure of each episode from “each episode had one problem” to “one problem through a number of episode”. As they touch the enhanced people issue and also one of the big three house was developing a Gundam-type mobile suit behind the Group, the prophecy, and many more.
Since episode 1, each episode of G-Witch has condensed quite an amount of information, and focus on dealing with one problem after another inside that episode. We started with Guel’s downfall, then the Gundam inquiry, Guel tried to prove his own (and his 2nd downfall), Suletta trying to pass the school test while establishing the support cast from the Earth house. But that does not mean it did not drop some breadcrumbs, a bit here a bit there, and all of that was accumulated into “Elan”. We could say that episode 5 and 6 form a turning point, changing the structure of each episode from “each episode had one problem” to “one problem through a number of episode”. As they touch the enhanced people issue and also one of the big three house was developing a Gundam-type mobile suit behind the Group, the prophecy, and many more.

Elan finally show his true interest in “Aerial” – and his appointment with Suletta finally confirm his doubt – Aerial is truly a Gundam with GUND-Format. And Elan has nor set his sight on dueling poor Suletta – who trust him very much – to obtain her only “relative” at the school. And again, Suletta was once again driven to tears, but an unexpected hero appear to save the damsel in distress: Guel. Yes, Guel rushed over to check on Suletta, subsequently enraged at the sight of Elan making her cry, challenged Elan to a duel. Truly a behavior fitting of Patrick’s spiritual successor. However, Guel’s luck with battle is just like Patrick’s as well.
Aside from some minor traditionally questionable “zoom in/zoom out character scene”, everything feels like a cinematic experience. The highlights, obviously when Elan activated Aerial’s Permet/PMET Score and the debut of Gundam Pharact/ Elan vs Guel. That fight was fantastic, it gave us not only the battle styles between the two, but also the capability of Elan as a pilot, while still gives regards to Guel’s strength, as he fought Pharact with his brother’s Dilanza, which is probably not even adjusted for only him. And yet, he still managed to control a completely new MS, still found a way to fight back, and tried to close the gap. Combining with amazing sounds, this episode, and probably future episodes, you can watch it with friends and such, on a big screen with a good speakers, it will be quite a scene to witness. But of course, the end result is one we can all anticipated. Fights with Gundams never work out well for the opposing side, and Guel once again got absolutely demolish, however, he still won in our hearts (nice going, Guel!)
And then Elan made his final ultimatum at the end, and the fateful duel between Suletta and Elan begins.
Aside from some minor traditionally questionable “zoom in/zoom out character scene”, everything feels like a cinematic experience. The highlights, obviously when Elan activated Aerial’s Permet/PMET Score and the debut of Gundam Pharact/ Elan vs Guel. That fight was fantastic, it gave us not only the battle styles between the two, but also the capability of Elan as a pilot, while still gives regards to Guel’s strength, as he fought Pharact with his brother’s Dilanza, which is probably not even adjusted for only him. And yet, he still managed to control a completely new MS, still found a way to fight back, and tried to close the gap. Combining with amazing sounds, this episode, and probably future episodes, you can watch it with friends and such, on a big screen with a good speakers, it will be quite a scene to witness. But of course, the end result is one we can all anticipated. Fights with Gundams never work out well for the opposing side, and Guel once again got absolutely demolish, however, he still won in our hearts (nice going, Guel!)
And then Elan made his final ultimatum at the end, and the fateful duel between Suletta and Elan begins.

As we setup for the Gundam showdown, we get more crucial side-plot that may have an impact on the main plot. Guel especially has been a meme generator ever since his debut, he has gone from getting butt-slapped to having to camp outside with a literal tent. Aside from that, we get another shocking revelation – the true Elan Ceres. The Elan that attend school and took an interest in Suletta is in fact, just a body double with his face. Enhanced Person no.4 is just a poor kid from the slum that was picked up by Peil Industries, got Elan’s face plastered on him, and took his place in the public. The true Elan is a smug and spoiled kid that certainly doesn’t look like he give a shit about his replacement. After that, we understand why “Elan” is acting like he does. He’s desperate for his freedom and prize that was promised to him, and he hasn’t got a lot of time left because he will die after piloting the Gundam 2 more times. If he won his duel with Suletta, he can go free. But we all know what franchise this is.
The duel between Pharact and Aerial went about as much as we expect. Elan and Pharact went in guns blazing and bit-blasting and Suletta was just getting used to the Mirasoul Booster (kudos to Nika by the way, best girl!) so the Aerial was pretty much on the back-foot at the start. This is the first time we see Gund-Format going up against Gund-Format in the series, and it’s clear that Sunrise put a lot of effort into this. The animation was pretty amazing, especially with how the bits whiz around like a dance. Even though throughout the fight, it was only Elan that was getting intimidated and unstable, while Suletta literally was trying to talk to him. Even before, she was trying to reach him with the “Happy Birthday” song, but little did she know that had the opposite effect.
The duel between Pharact and Aerial went about as much as we expect. Elan and Pharact went in guns blazing and bit-blasting and Suletta was just getting used to the Mirasoul Booster (kudos to Nika by the way, best girl!) so the Aerial was pretty much on the back-foot at the start. This is the first time we see Gund-Format going up against Gund-Format in the series, and it’s clear that Sunrise put a lot of effort into this. The animation was pretty amazing, especially with how the bits whiz around like a dance. Even though throughout the fight, it was only Elan that was getting intimidated and unstable, while Suletta literally was trying to talk to him. Even before, she was trying to reach him with the “Happy Birthday” song, but little did she know that had the opposite effect.

And then came the conspiracy theories, we’ve already posted about Prospera and Aerial’s potential hidden secret. And the Aerial Bits giving Elan that creepy silhouette and children’s laugh, that also send chills down OUR spines. What is actually hidden in those bits? And the overly dramatic way that one small bit was protected making us think that there’s more to them than just normal Gund-Format bits. And of course, there’s a plethora of theories that lead the series into a deep, dark hole. But still, it’s not as “dark” as the final scene where “Elan” no.4 was singing the happy birthday party…seconds before his impending doom.
If Suletta found out the truth later, it will definitely her most shocking experience after telling “Elan” that there will be someone out there who will celebrate his birthday, and that she will be one of them. Their rendezvous after the duel definitely made Suletta think that they are actually friends now, and I’m sure “Elan” think so too. But as the hands of Gundam will it, their friendship will never come to pass. With how the situation between the Earthians and Spacians being absolutely volatile, and the depressing stuff is now seeping into the school as well, we can see the story progressing much more grittier from now and focus on the actual revenge plot by Prospera. The break between episode 6 and 7 with a special in-between is a galaxy-brain move by Bandai and SUnrise to keep us second-guessing the events that were shown and making up theories for the future. As G-Witch is the most popular Gundam has been in years in terms of anime, generating more discussion in the communities isn’t a bad thing at all.
Next episode: Shall we Gundam? Yes, we shall!
If Suletta found out the truth later, it will definitely her most shocking experience after telling “Elan” that there will be someone out there who will celebrate his birthday, and that she will be one of them. Their rendezvous after the duel definitely made Suletta think that they are actually friends now, and I’m sure “Elan” think so too. But as the hands of Gundam will it, their friendship will never come to pass. With how the situation between the Earthians and Spacians being absolutely volatile, and the depressing stuff is now seeping into the school as well, we can see the story progressing much more grittier from now and focus on the actual revenge plot by Prospera. The break between episode 6 and 7 with a special in-between is a galaxy-brain move by Bandai and SUnrise to keep us second-guessing the events that were shown and making up theories for the future. As G-Witch is the most popular Gundam has been in years in terms of anime, generating more discussion in the communities isn’t a bad thing at all.
Next episode: Shall we Gundam? Yes, we shall!

Other Episode Review:

Shinkalion Change the World Ep 38 & 39: Has the World Changed?
The final battle with all Drivers present, even an unexpected returner. The ending is quite a bittersweet one, which is something unique to Change The World.

Aquarion MoE Ep 4 Review: Reincarnation Reunion
Sweet genesis Alabama! Momohime and Rimiya – who were siblings in their previous lives – are developing their romance this ep? Surely this isn’t an Aquarion mindtrick?

Red Sentai Isekai Ep 3 Review: The Princess and The Knight
The party member doubles as a Princess and her Knight join the team. But not without a hot-blooded duel first. And of course, more Sentai shenanigans ensue.

Ringing Fate Ep 3 Review: A Father’s Love
Ringing Fate took us by surprise by hitting us with a extremely deep and emotional episode. Ookuma’s reason for challenging Qing Sun is revealed at last…

Aquarion MoE Ep 3 Review: Absent Emotion
Momohime joins the team and become the only girl after Sayo. She appears to be a charismatic and perfect girl, but is she really?

Shinkalion Change the World Ep 37: Forced Conflict
Taisei and Ina confronted Vina about her actions regarding the abandoned data. And it feels like a forced drama to pad out the remaining runtime.

Souzouden Wataru Ep 2 Review: Don’t call me Old Man!
We explored Offline’s background in this episode, along with poking fun at him. Nevertheless, he has gained his own Mashin – the Fujinmaru!

Red Sentai Isekai Ep 2 Review: Boukensha no Kizuna!
We got comedy, we got Toku references, and we got some badass “Power of Friendship” as well. Yidhra once again being the Tsukkomi of the Super Sentai tropes.

Ringing Fate Ep 2 Review: Take me in, Master!
Slow, slow, quick, quick slow. Oh, it’s just our cute loli training boxing with a walking bear, nothing much! And we get 2 battles this episode too!

Aquarion MoE Ep 2 Review: Ill-Fated Girl
The secret of the world, or rather, worlds, revealed. The struggle between two worlds hinges on Aquarion. Meanwhile, Sayo revealed her suffering.

Shinkalion Change the World Ep 36: The End of ERDA…Or is it?
After Reiji and Tender was defeated, the Unknown will most likely stop. With ERDA’s disbandment and the Shinkalions being retired soon, what will our Drivers think? Especially Taisei when Vina is still missing.

Red Sentai Isekai Ep 1 Review: Kizuna Red Sanjou!
After a heroic act of sacrifice, the Red Senshi was transported to another world. Here, he will keep his heroic resolution and protect the weak as the Bansou Sentai Kizuna Red!

Souzouden Wataru Ep 1 Review: Here Comes Gen-Z Wataru!
The new Isekai Hero Wataru is back! But this time, we’re getting a mix of Minecraft, Youtube and Streaming for the new Gen-Z kids watching.

Aquarion MoE Ep 1 Review: A Confusing Start
The return of Aquarion begins with an unexpected but questioning start. Can this series set itself apart and reignite the emotions fans love about the original?

Ringing Fate Ep 1 Review: Step Into The Ring
A young girl set out on a journey to reclaim her memory and life in a mecha tournament. What is hidden behind her innocence and cheerfulness?

Shinkalion Change the World Ep 35: Fabricated Justice
The hard-fought battle is over – and the mystery behind the Unknown is also solved. A man’s dream turned into a nightmare by his closest friend. Will the fabricated justice fail after this?

Mecha-Ude Ep 12 Review: Brothers In Arms
The final duel between fateful opponents – Alma and Hikaru versus Fist possessing Jun. The winner shall decide the fate of the world…

Shinkalion Change the World Ep 34: A Place to Rest
The climactic battle between Taisei and Reiji begins now. It’s not just a clash of power, but also ideals as well. And which side will be strong enough to triumph?

Mecha-Ude Ep 11 Review: Together We Rise!
When many small efforts result in big results. Everyone from ARMS, the Kagami Group and others unite to bring about the greatest miracle. The final battle approaches…

Shinkalion Change the World Ep 33: A Deeper Darkness
With the support of everyone, Taisei finally got his head in the game. But Reiji upped the difficulty with a brand new combination – here comes Chaos!

Mecha-Ude Ep 10 Review: Mechanical Puppeteer
So much ups and downs this episode. An insane revelation, a dramatic battle, an emotional reunion, and an epic alliance. This episode set the stage for the upcoming climax.

Shinkalion Change the World Ep 32: Crime and Punishment
The culprit who caused Reiji’s suffering was revealed. And the despicable actions of Commander Kaji are brought to light. But that isn’t enough to stop Reiji’s crusade.

Mecha-Ude Ep 9 Review: Absolutely Ude-licious!
We’re going all out fist blazing against Ordela. But it is just a mid-boss, as we learn about the true mastermind behind everything. And Jun proved to be a crucial MVP.

Shinkalion Change the World Ep 31: Dark Reckoning
The tragedy of Reiji revealed. An extremely dark chronicle filled with despair that happened to a teenager that broke his mind and set him on a path of revenge. But who is responsible?

Mecha-Ude Ep 8 Review: Unlock The Gate
We get a glimpse of Tohdoh Kagami’s true plan of awakening the Ordela. And ARMS is rushing to stop it. And of course, Hikaru is also coming to take back Alma.

Shinkalion Change the World Ep 30: From Pain To Power
Morito, devastated after he struck down Ido, found himself in agony. But wallowing in despair won’t help him. Instead he found the way to a greater purpose.

Mecha-Ude Ep 7 Review: Unlocked Memory
Alma’s past with Yakumo revealed, a tragic story that separated two best friends. And in the present, Alma once again separated from his current partner. But something else is brewing in the dark…

Shinkalion Change the World Ep 29: Disease Of The Heart
Two revelations in this episode: one worth celebrating and one devastating. The team learned about Reiji and his story, but also met the pilot of the new Shinkalion.

Mecha-Ude Ep 6 Review: You Got A Friend In Me
Amaryllis’ true plan revealed. Caught in the crossfire, Aki intended to sacrifice herself. But Hikaru won’t stand for it. Another blazing episode!

Shinkalion Change the World Ep 28: Here Comes The Doctor!
Two revelations in this episode: one worth celebrating and one devastating. The team learned about Reiji and his story, but also met the pilot of the new Shinkalion.

Mecha-Ude Ep 5 Review: Aki’s Struggle
Aki finally found the Worm-type user she so hate, but the user’s identity shock her. Now she has to pick between the two person she value most.

Mecha-Ude Ep 4 Review: Back To School…Or Not?
Hikaru officially became an ARMS member. And now we move onto Alma’s past and Aki’s vengeance. The Worm-type user finally showed up, but…?

Shinkalion Change the World Ep 27 Review: Before The Fall
The story behind Reiji’s disappearance and ERDA’s change revealed. A chain of events that went from good to bad. Even so, time presses on.

Mecha-Ude Ep 3 Review: Together, We Will…
Brought him in just to put him down. Hikaru and Alma faced challenges from all sides, but their bonds evolved thanks to that. Time to bring the heat!

Shinkalion Change the World Ep 26 Review: Return to Rei(Zero)
We make our return to Rei(Zero) as we looked back at Ina and Reiji before they became enemies. A young ERDA that is quite different to today as well.

Shinkalion Change the World Ep 25 Review: The Deerkalion Isn’t Just For Show!
More Super Robot hijinks and tropes from Yamato in this episode. A new Deerkalion and an old face coming back to haunt ERDA. Is this episode just for show?

Mecha-Ude Ep 2 Review: Let’s Fight, Shounen!
Time for some school life romcom – with murderous henchmen in Kill la Kill style. The perfect mix between seriousness and comedy remove any bore from the series.

Mecha-Ude Ep 1 Review: Let Me Give You A Hand, Literally!
A forgotten series making its comeback. And it brought us some huge nostalgia for the early 2000s sci-fi-shounens. Gotta give a hand to Mecha-Ude for making it this far!

Shinkalion Change the World Ep 24 Review: Finally, A Mecha(Deer?) Fan!
It couldn’t get more hot-blooded in Shinkalion as we’re introduced to Yamato – a true-blue Super Robot pilot. But behind his bravado is a worry shared by many new mecha pilots.

Episode Review – NieR:Automata Ver1.1A Episode 24: Re-Automation
The climactic showdown between the one who want to save the world and the one who want to tear it down. And at the end of the road, a miracle occurred.

Grendizer U ep.13 Review: They Fucked It Up.
The finale of the reboot UFO Robot…and it consist mostly of Duke going berserk and forced moments between characters. Wasted potential and missed opportunity is what we are left with at the end.

Shinkalion Change the World Ep 23 Review: You Got A Friend In Me
A surprising focus for this episode. We take a look at Delta and his friendship with an old AI. And they drop an insane plot point about a supposedly “dead” Driver.

Grendizer U ep.12 Review: Duke Did What Now?
If you think Gren U can’t get any more like SEED, you’re wrong. The series take a turn for the worse as it get even more bogged down in drama and no resolution in sight.

Episode Review – NieR:Automata Ver1.1A Episode 23: Confrontation
A2 and 9S finally meet. But before that, we have some pretty good action leading up to the eventual climax, including the fall of the machine lifeform.

Grendizer U ep.11 Review: The U stands for “Ugh wtf is this?”
Ep 11 delivers a massive blow to the nuts as SEED director continues to feed his ego

Shinkalion Change the World Ep 22 Review: Limelight and Spotlight
Welcome back to the Rizztival. Akane and Ryota flex their ability to capture people’s hearts with a very laid-back and funny episode.

Shinkalion Change the World Ep 21 Review: Skip, Hop and Jump
Another big wave. Tsukumo struggle with both his siblings and a new enemy. But he showed his potential as he overcome his first major challenge after debuting.

Episode Review – NieR:Automata Ver1.1A Episode 22: Guilt and Misery
A full exposition episode explaining Project Gestalt as well as Devola and Popola’s background. And we can’t forget 9S’ depression streak.

Grendizer U ep.10 Review: Return of Mazinger Zzz
Mazinger Z returns in a new form – Mazinger X, but does it live up to the buildup it’s been given?

Episode Review – NieR:Automata Ver1.1A Episode 21: Spiraling Out Of Control
The fight isn’t over yet. The final Resistance camp is under attack by the virus. And this episode finally pushed A2 and 9S onto their final destination.