Going back to 2011, IS ＜インフィニット・ストラトス＞, known in Thai as ปฏิบัติการรักจักรกลทะยานฟ้า, was a notable harem-action anime. With a plot where women dominate piloting IS (Infinite Stratos), the male protagonist Ichika Orimura is the only man who can control them. The story is filled with thrilling battles and chaotic relationships with the girls around him. The second season, aired in 2011, introduces new characters and more challenging missions. But is it as fun as the rumors say? Let's find out with our editorial team!
Story Summary (No Spoilers)
The second season of ปฏิบัติการรักจักรกลทะยานฟ้า continues from the first season. Ichika Orimura remains the only male student at the IS pilot training school, now dealing with his female classmates Houki, Cecilia, Lingyin, Charlotte, and Laura, as well as a new character Tatenashi Sarashiki, who has a past related to IS. The main mission this season is the selection exam to represent the school in a world competition, which naturally involves intense battles and chaotic events forcing Ichika to protect the girls again. The story focuses on revealing the secrets of IS and increasingly complex relationships, while maintaining the fun and comedic style.
Performance and Characters
The voice cast in the second season remains the same team, delivering excellent performances. Koki Uchiyama as Ichika gives a voice fitting for a determined but clumsy young man, while Yoko Hikasa (Houki) and Yukana (Cecilia) clearly convey each girl's emotions. The new character Tatenashi Sarashiki, voiced by Yuka Iguchi, adds color and conflict to the group. Although character development isn't very deep, the chemistry between characters remains enjoyable, especially the sweet and competitive scenes over the protagonist, which are highlights of the genre.
Direction, Visuals, and Music
Visually, Studio 8bit does a good job. The IS battle scenes are fluid and blend CGI well. Though occasionally unstable, overall it's beautiful and exciting. The soundtrack by Hideyuki Fukuzawa creates atmosphere for both action and relaxed scenes. The opening song True Blue Traveler and ending song Beautiful Sky, sung by the female voice actors, fit the theme.
Editorial Analysis
The editorial team views ปฏิบัติการรักจักรกลทะยานฟ้า Season 2 as an anime that follows the successful formula of the harem action genre. Although the story isn't new or complex, it's fun and engaging in its own way. The strength lies in creating female characters with distinct personalities, allowing viewers to root for anyone. The weakness is the protagonist's somewhat emotionally sluggish nature and some drawn-out plot points. However, if you're a fan of the genre, this season is enjoyable and worth watching.
Verdict
If you're a harem action fan who enjoys battles with cute girls, IS Season 2 still delivers formulaic entertainment. But if you expect deep storytelling or serious character development, you may be disappointed. Overall, it's suitable for fans who followed from Season 1 or those looking for light-hearted, no-brainer viewing.
Screenshots
👍 Pros
- +IS battle scenes are fun and exciting
- +Female characters have diverse, cute personalities
- +Voice acting is good, conveying emotions appropriately
- +Opening and ending songs are catchy and fit the story
👎 Cons
- −Repetitive story, focuses more on harem than plot
- −Protagonist remains passive and indecisive
- −Some episodes drag, feeling boring mid-season
Top Cast
FAQ
Season 1 has 12 episodes, Season 2 has 12 episodes, totaling 24 episodes.
Season 2 introduces new characters and more challenging missions, but retains the same harem and action style.
The anime ends with Season 2, but the light novel story continues. No Season 3 has been announced.
Not recommended, as the story continues from Season 1. Watch Season 1 first to understand the characters.
