QueenOfAlbion

So Queen's Blade is back with a second season. If you watched the horrendous first season, you're probably doubting whether you should start Gyokuza wo Tsugu Mono or not. Even I have to admit that I put off starting this season because I didn't want to sit through another 12 episodes of a jumbled up story that relied purely on fanservice. Thankfully, this is nothing like season 1. Pretty much the only similarity between season 1 and season 2 is that there's still an insane amount of fanservice. But Queen's Blade now isn't an anime that you want to laugh at for being so bad.Gyokuza wo Tsugu Mono is...actually pretty good. Story: 8/10 Instead of an almost episodic plot containing random fights that didn't help progression at all, this season has a solid storyline. Every episode, two Queen's Blade contestants battle it out, and one, of course, is eliminated. Progressing through this kind of story makes it tremendously better and enjoyable, because you're not just focused on Reina and the girls who want in her pants the whole time. Throughout each and every episode, you get a sprinkle of a lot of characters doing a ton of different things, which I believe is one of the biggest reasons why this season's story is great. Art: 8/10 No, I'm not giving this a high score just for the boobs and ass (although the girls are admittedly super hot, which is obviously good for an ecchi anime). One of the best things about the art is that the story is actually set in a Medieval world this time around. I really adore the styles that were in the Medieval times, so I appreciate the gorgeous detail in the backgrounds and such to make it actually look like it belongs in that era. Sound: 9/10 Queen's Blade has outdone itself again. I fell in love with the soundtrack for Rurou no Senshi immediately. Surprisingly enough, I like Gyokuza wo Tsugu Mono's soundtrack even more. The opening is a beautiful piece of work, while the ending is upbeat and fun to listen to. Voice acting is fantastic as always. Voice acting was phenomenal, which is something I didn't expect out of a show that prides itself on fanservice. There was a particular scene where Tomoe cried out in despair, and to this day I remember it giving me a humongous chill. I'm still shocked that a simple scene in Queen's Blade actually made me shiver just because of the incredible voice acting. I'd also like to note that Miyu Takeuchi's voice was simply perfect for Aldra. Character: 8/10 Thank God, Reina isn't just an annoying idiot anymore! You can tell how much she matured, and it's great. I found myself rooting for her this time, while last season there were plenty times where I wished she would die and Tomoe would take the spot as the main character. Reina isn't the only one who matured-- Tomoe ends up growing up due to an unexpected twist, Listy...well, Listy has something that happens to her that I can't say without spoiling, Nanael is still Nanael except a little (and I only mean a little) less stupid, and even Claudette becomes a likeable character since she's not a humongous bitch anymore. The characters aren't just certain stereotypes put in to please viewers, they actually have their own personalities now. Enjoyment: 7/10 Even though the fanservice is still off the scale, I can't help but like this series. As a straight girl, I can't say the nudity really did anything for me, but it also didn't dampen my enjoyment of the show either. Most importantly, this season renewed my faith in Queen's Blade. Instead of dropping it after trudging through the two seasons like I initially thought I'd be doing, I definitely plan to watch any future installments. Overall: 8/10 If you're hesitating to watch this because you're thinking that it may be as atrocious as the first season, please give it a try. You'll see the vast difference after watching just one episode, and I'm sure you'll appreciate Gyokuza wo Tsugu Mono regardless of whether you liked Rurou no Senshi or not.

SV_Otaku

I agree that watching the first season of Queen's Blade may not be of much help while considering watching season 2; however, it is actually much better than one may have expected! Granted, there are LOTS and LOTS of fanservice (weird camera angles, jumping breasts, ripped clothes and suggestive poses), but if you don't mind fanservice (or if you even embrace it!) and give season 2 a chance, you'll see there are a lot of things that makes it worth to watch. The story continues right where it was left on season 1 and the Queen's Blade tournament finally gets to its final stages. Thereare many characters with their backstories being told or expanded. Also, there are many cool matches during the tournament and Aldra's (the current Queen) role makes the whole thing much more interesting. The overall atmosphere in this season feels much more medieval and fitting to the tone the show wants to set. It is worth to mention that Reina's character improves A LOT! I point this out since I believe she was one of the main reasons why I couldn't completely enjoy season 1, but after watching season 2, it all makes sense. I don't wanna give any specific spoilers, so I will just say you shouldn't expect characters to be as shallow as in the first season since everyone has a role to play in the plot. So just give it a try and hopefully you'll love this season as much as I do!