Hey guys! Ever wondered if Platinum End is worth your precious binge-watching time? Well, you're not alone! Reddit is buzzing with opinions, and we're diving deep into what the community thinks about this anime. Let’s break down the hype, the gripes, and everything in between to help you decide if this series deserves a spot on your watchlist.

What is Platinum End?

Before we jump into the Reddit reviews, let's get a quick rundown of what Platinum End is all about. Created by Tsugumi Ohba and Takeshi Obata, the masterminds behind Death Note, this series follows Mirai Kakehashi, a young boy who attempts suicide but is saved by a guardian angel. This angel grants him special powers and informs him that he is one of 13 candidates chosen by God to potentially become the next God. Sounds intense, right?

Each candidate receives unique angelic powers, including wings for flight and arrows that can either make someone love you unconditionally for 33 days or kill them instantly. The candidates must then compete against each other to become the next God, leading to a battle royale filled with complex moral dilemmas, psychological twists, and plenty of action. The series explores themes of hope, despair, free will, and the meaning of happiness, all wrapped up in a supernatural package. Given the pedigree of its creators, Platinum End arrived with high expectations, promising a thought-provoking and visually stunning anime experience. However, as we'll see, the reception has been quite mixed, with Reddit users offering a wide range of opinions on whether the series lives up to the hype.

Initial Impressions and Expectations

Given that it hails from the creators of Death Note, anticipation for Platinum End was understandably high. Fans were eager to see if Ohba and Obata could replicate the same level of intricate plotting, complex characters, and philosophical depth that made Death Note a global phenomenon. The premise itself was intriguing: a battle royale among God candidates, each armed with unique angelic powers, set against a backdrop of existential questions about life, death, and the nature of happiness. Many viewers expected Platinum End to deliver a similar blend of suspense, psychological drama, and moral ambiguity that characterized Death Note. The initial trailers and promotional materials showcased stunning visuals and hinted at a dark, thought-provoking narrative, further fueling the hype. However, as the series progressed, it became clear that Platinum End was carving its own path, and not all viewers were on board with the direction it took. Some felt that it failed to live up to the legacy of its creators, while others appreciated it as a unique and ambitious work in its own right. The divergence in opinions is a central theme in the Reddit discussions, with users debating the merits and flaws of Platinum End at length.

Reddit's Verdict: Is Platinum End Worth Watching?

So, what does Reddit actually say? Let's break it down:

The Positives

• Intriguing Premise: Some Redditors praise the show for its unique and thought-provoking concept. The idea of a battle royale to become God, with all the moral and ethical implications, definitely grabbed attention. A lot of users found the initial episodes captivating, drawn in by the mystery surrounding the God candidates and their powers. The series' exploration of themes such as the meaning of life, the nature of happiness, and the struggle between hope and despair resonated with many viewers, sparking interesting discussions and theories.
• Visuals: The animation quality is often highlighted as a strong point. The character designs are sleek, and the action sequences are well-animated. The detailed backgrounds and vibrant colors added to the overall aesthetic appeal, making it visually engaging for many viewers. The animation studio, Signal.MD, put in considerable effort to bring Obata's artwork to life, and it shows. Redditors frequently mention that the visuals are one of the main reasons they stuck with the series, even when the plot faltered.
• Dark Themes: If you're into dark and philosophical themes, Platinum End might be your cup of tea. The series delves into some heavy topics like suicide, the meaning of life, and the morality of using supernatural powers. For those who enjoy exploring complex ethical questions, Platinum End offers plenty to chew on. Some Redditors appreciated the series' willingness to tackle these difficult subjects, even if the execution wasn't always perfect.

The Negatives

• Pacing Issues: This is a common complaint. Many Redditors feel that the pacing is inconsistent, with some arcs dragging on while others feel rushed. This inconsistency can make it hard to stay invested in the story. Some episodes are packed with exposition and internal monologues, while others are filled with action sequences that lack emotional weight. The uneven pacing disrupts the narrative flow and can leave viewers feeling disconnected from the characters and the overall plot.
• Character Development: A lot of users criticize the character development, particularly for the main character, Mirai. Some find him to be bland and indecisive, making it difficult to root for him. Other characters also suffer from a lack of depth, with their motivations and actions often feeling contrived or inconsistent. This lack of compelling characters makes it harder for viewers to connect with the story on an emotional level. Many Redditors felt that the potential for complex character interactions and development was squandered, resulting in a cast of characters that felt underdeveloped and uninteresting.
• Plot Holes and Contrivances: Some Redditors point out plot holes and convenient plot devices that make the story feel less believable. These contrivances can undermine the tension and make the narrative feel less impactful. For example, certain characters seem to survive situations that should have been fatal, or they suddenly gain new abilities that come out of nowhere. These inconsistencies can be frustrating for viewers who are looking for a tightly written and well-thought-out story.

Mixed Opinions

• Story: While the premise is intriguing, some Redditors feel that the execution falls short. The story can become convoluted, and the philosophical themes aren't always explored in a satisfying way. Some viewers found the plot twists predictable or illogical, while others appreciated the series' attempt to tackle complex ideas. Ultimately, whether you enjoy the story will depend on your tolerance for plot holes and your willingness to engage with the philosophical themes, even if they are not always perfectly executed.
• Comparisons to Death Note: It's hard to avoid comparing Platinum End to Death Note, but this can be a double-edged sword. Some Redditors feel that Platinum End doesn't live up to the hype, while others appreciate it as a separate work. Those who go in expecting another Death Note may be disappointed, while those who approach it with an open mind may find something to enjoy. The shadow of Death Note looms large over Platinum End, and whether that's a positive or negative will depend on your perspective.

Diving Deeper: Specific Reddit Threads

To give you a clearer picture, let's look at some specific Reddit threads where people discussed Platinum End:

• "Is Platinum End worth watching?": In this thread, you'll find a range of opinions. Some users say it's a waste of time, citing the poor character development and convoluted plot. Others argue that it's worth watching for the visuals and the dark themes. One user wrote, "I went in with low expectations and was pleasantly surprised. It's not a masterpiece, but it's entertaining enough."
• "Platinum End - Episode X Discussion": These threads offer episode-by-episode reactions. You can see how viewers' opinions evolved as the series progressed. Some episodes were praised for their animation and action, while others were criticized for their pacing and plot holes. By reading through these discussions, you can get a sense of the highs and lows of the series.
• "Platinum End vs. Death Note": These comparison threads are always lively. Some users argue that Platinum End fails to capture the brilliance of Death Note, while others defend it as a unique work with its own merits. One user commented, "It's not fair to compare them directly. They're different stories with different goals."

Final Thoughts: Should You Watch Platinum End?

So, is Platinum End worth watching? The answer, as with many things, is: it depends. If you're a die-hard Death Note fan expecting a similar masterpiece, you might be disappointed. However, if you're open to a dark, philosophical anime with a unique premise and stunning visuals, Platinum End might be worth a shot. Just be prepared for some pacing issues and potentially frustrating character development.

Consider watching Platinum End if:

• You enjoy dark and philosophical themes.
• You appreciate high-quality animation.
• You're looking for a unique premise.

Maybe skip it if:

• You dislike slow pacing.
• You prioritize strong character development.
• You're easily bothered by plot holes.

Ultimately, the best way to decide is to watch a few episodes and see if it grabs you. Happy watching, and let me know what you think!

Alternatives if Platinum End Isn't for You

If you've decided that Platinum End isn't your cup of tea, don't worry! There are plenty of other anime series out there that might better suit your tastes. Here are a few alternatives, depending on what aspects of Platinum End appealed to you (or didn't):

• For the Philosophical Themes: If you were drawn to Platinum End's exploration of life, death, and morality, you might enjoy Puella Magi Madoka Magica. This series also tackles dark themes and complex ethical questions, but with a more consistent and emotionally resonant narrative. Another option is Neon Genesis Evangelion, a classic anime that delves into existential angst, human connection, and the search for meaning in a chaotic world.
• For the Battle Royale Aspect: If you were intrigued by the competition among God candidates, you might like Fate/Zero. This series features a battle royale among mages, each summoning legendary heroes to fight for them. It's filled with intense action, strategic battles, and complex characters with their own motivations. Another option is Mirai Nikki (Future Diary), a series where individuals with special diaries that predict the future compete to become the next God.
• For the Death Note Connection: If you were drawn to Platinum End because of its creators, you might want to check out their other works. In addition to Death Note, Tsugumi Ohba and Takeshi Obata also created Bakuman, a more lighthearted series about two high school students who team up to become manga artists. While it lacks the dark themes of Death Note and Platinum End, it's still a compelling and well-crafted story with memorable characters.

Conclusion

In conclusion, whether or not Platinum End is worth watching depends largely on your personal preferences and expectations. While it boasts an intriguing premise, stunning visuals, and thought-provoking themes, it also suffers from pacing issues, inconsistent character development, and occasional plot holes. By considering the opinions of Reddit users and exploring alternative anime series, you can make an informed decision about whether to invest your time in Platinum End. Happy anime hunting, and may you find your next favorite series! Remember, the world of anime is vast and diverse, so there's always something new and exciting to discover. Whether you end up loving or hating Platinum End, the journey of exploration is always worthwhile.