[This review might contain spoilers continue at your own risk!]
Overall Rating: 8
Unlike the majority of mecha anime which go for an action based approach Full Metal Panic! took on a more comedic premise with a great story line which sets it apart from anime trying to thrill the viewer such as the gundam series. Laughing is unavoidable when the naïve Sousuke attempts to protect Chidori through any means possible, using guns, smoke grenades, and live explosions. However, when the laughs stop the amazing action sequences begin, which will most certainly leave the viewer in awe.
The entire presentation of this series is fantastic. As with other Gonzo works such as Vandread, Full Metal Panic! has impressive music. As well as the background music during battles, even normal school days prove to be an adventure. Along with the grand music comes excellent animation. The sharp animation and pleasing character designs highlights the already gripping action scenes.
Although the story is something to be spoken of in and of itself, the real gem in Full Metal Panic! is the character relationships. Sousuke and Chidori comprise what is among the best couples in anime. Even though they seem like exact opposites and have their many differences to overcome, they have more in common than it may first seem They’re back and forth relationship is what really makes Full Metal Panic! remarkable.
Just like any other anime though Full Metal Panic! does have it’s downsides. The biggest problem with this show was the ending. The vague conclusion left too many questions unanswered. Perhaps if it had lasted a couple of episodes longer it could have been wrapped up in a respectable fashion.
Full Metal Panic! could have become one of my all time favorite anime, Unfortunately however the questions brought up by the story were never answered and left a huge hole in the series that could not be easily filled.
Story: 8/10
Animation: 8/10
Characters: 9/10
Entertainment 10/10