Strike the Blood Second

Strike the Blood Second is the second OVA installment of the highly regarded Strike the Blood franchise, masterfully adapting pivotal story arcs from the 9th, 11th, and 12th volumes of the original light novel series. The narrative unfolds on Itogami Island, an artificial landmass situated south of Japan, functioning as a unique sanctuary for a diverse array of monsters and demons, and is colloquially known as the Demon District. This setting serves as the backdrop for the continuing exploits of Kojou Akatsuki, a high school student who is under suspicion of being the Fourth Progenitor. This designation signifies a legendary vampire possessing immense, world-altering power, capable of disrupting the delicate global equilibrium maintained by the existing three ruling progenitors. Initially leading an ordinary life, Kojou grapples with the volatile nature of his burgeoning vampiric abilities, which are intricately linked to his libido and are often activated through the formation of bonds with various female characters who are drawn to him. His primary observer and steadfast protector is Yukina Himeragi, an exceptionally skilled Sword Shaman. Wielding the potent anti-demon spirit spear known as Schneewalzer, she meticulously monitors Kojou's activities under the directives of the Lion King Organization. This particular OVA arc plunges deeper into high-stakes conflicts, including Kojou's perilous confrontations with colossal sea beasts, most notably Leviathan. During these encounters, Kojou must venture into the beast's very being to rescue and persuade characters like Yume, demonstrating his growing command by summoning formidable familiars such as Kiffa-Ater, which manifests in the form of a Damascene sword, a feat facilitated after Yukina provides him with blood. The episodes are replete with intense battles, ranging from engagements against swarms of demon insects to complex hacking duels orchestrated by characters like Asagi Aiba and Lydianne Didier of the Taishikyoku. The series also delves into mysterious occurrences, including cryptic messages from Kojou's younger sister, Nagisa Akatsuki, which involve intricate magic circles. The plot further explores intriguing concepts such as body-swapping phenomena, daring prison breaks orchestrated by witches, including the mother of a character named Yuuma, and encounters with unique alchemical entities, exemplified by the manifestation of the philosopher's stone as a 'goo girl.' The ensemble cast is further enriched by supporting characters such as Natsuki Minamiya, Astarte, Sayaka Kirasaka, and Motoki Yaze, who contribute to the series' dynamic harem elements and effectively blend elements of school life with the supernatural intricacies of urban fantasy. Notably, the series incorporates ecchi fanservice moments that are thematically tied to Kojou's power source, alongside supernatural phenomena like dimensional rifts and glimpses into possible future timelines featuring Kojou's daughter. The overarching themes explored include the struggle for control, the complexities of loyalty, and the often-blurred boundaries between humans, vampires, and demons. Released across four distinct volumes, Strike the Blood Second maintains the franchise's signature fusion of action-packed vampire lore, strategic combat, and character-driven drama, all set within a vividly realized supernatural world.

Strike the Blood Second stands as a commendable continuation of the established franchise, successfully delivering exhilarating action sequences and progressively expanding the lore surrounding the Fourth Progenitor, all while staying true to its core harem and ecchi identity. The narrative arcs, thoughtfully adapted from light novel volumes 9, 11, and 12, effectively elevate the stakes, notably featuring the climactic Leviathan battle. This confrontation highlights Kojou's development, showcasing his transition from a reluctant vampire to a more assertive figure through his persuasive tactics and the strategic summoning of familiars. Character development is a strong point, particularly evident in the evolving dynamic between Yukina and Kojou, where her tsundere tendencies are balanced by a genuine sense of protectiveness. Meanwhile, supporting characters like Asagi contribute intrigue with their hacking skills and provide moments of levity amidst the intense duels. The series touches upon significant themes such as the control of power, the importance of familial bonds—as illustrated by Nagisa's mysterious abilities and Kojou's interactions—and the ethical quandaries inherent in supernatural intervention. While these themes add intellectual depth, they occasionally recede in favor of the fanservice elements. The animation, a collaborative effort by SILVER LINK. and Connect, is fluid and dynamic, especially during the summoning sequences and magical effects, with vibrant visuals effectively capturing the atmospheric essence of Itogami Island as a demonic sanctuary. The ecchi content, though prominent, is integrated with a narrative purpose, particularly in relation to the power mechanics and tension building, rather than being purely gratuitous. The soundtrack features energetic opening themes, such as 'Blood on the EDGE' by Kishida Kyōdan & The Akeboshi Rockets, which complements the fast-paced nature of the series. Despite some criticisms regarding formulaic harem tropes and occasionally rushed resolutions, as seen in the philosopher's stone subplot, these are largely overshadowed by entertaining plot twists, including the reveal of Kojou's future daughter and confrontations with characters like Vatler. Ultimately, Strike the Blood Second offers a satisfying experience for fans, providing escapism through its unique blend of supernatural school life and vampire mythology, and is highly rewatchable due to its compelling spectacle and character chemistry. While some critics may find its overall premise lacking in novelty, the execution is consistently praised, making it a worthwhile OVA for enthusiasts of the urban fantasy genre seeking unadulterated entertainment.