ARCANE: The Good, The Bad & The Jinx

[@cee_ves]

i feel like people love episode 7 of season 2 so much because it gives it room to breathe. you’re allowed to just exist in that alternate reality with versions of the characters you love. it almost reinforces that ‘what could have been’ vibe. it’s slowed down (as much as possible), it’s full of emotional beats despite the low stakes, and you can just watch some of your favourite characters interact. all before you have to cut it short and leave and return to the plot going at light speed like ekko has to

[@AtelaLafford]

that's exactly why i like it. it slows down the pacing immensely to give near singular focus to ekko and jayce who are living in instances of what could be, keeping the tension up in both realities by the audience not knowing the ending yet, framing the integral themes of hope and tragedy that the show is famous for pretty effortlessly together, and letting us sit in the emotions. in a better world, season 2 could have been chalk full of those but alas.

[@avramsanders9198]

Also to that point, it feels like an episode from season 1. Much more character driven with really nice character moments

[@zero1188]

Nah. Hated the reality part. Slowed down way too much

[@mariannestrgzr9374]

@@cee_ves Unpopular opinion: I love ekko and jinx individually, but I didn’t feel the emotional beats that much. Their relationship kind of came from nowhere in ep 7, because up until that point they’ve canonically interacted like once on screen…

[@stefanapostol6542]

@@mariannestrgzr9374 i feel like the only reason that was the case is because the show focused waaaay too much on vi and jinx in season 1 and after the end of act 1 ekko is basically in only 1 episode where he fights jinx. it fits the story nicely and makes the plot work really good but it sacrifices ekko's connections with almost everyone. i feel like he was meant to have a way bigger role in season 2 but him just like cait had to be rushed or removed completely. i think the writers even said that there was supposed to be a scene where ekko and jinx "make up" but it was cut out. the story was excellent and the show is still my favorite by far i just wish season 2 had 1 more act so that it can be fully fleshed out. which most likely didnt happen because of budget.

[@dairallan]

Season One is a flawless masterpiece. Season Two is a flawed masterpiece. But Season Two has that dance...

[@nonyourbusiness165]

That dance (and the song) is everything to me 😞

[@Canadish]

When season 2 shines, it shines the brightest. It just has a tiny bit too much going on. I think even 3 more episodes could have massively helped offset that issue. The best episode is 7 and funny enough, it's the breather episode that takes its time.

[@CzarsSalad]

Season 1 has flawed storylines with unnecessary characters (esp. Ambessa) Season 2 tried to fix season one's issues

[@CzarsSalad]

​@@Canadishepisode 7 is the best episode because we don't have to see unnecessary characters

[@LizardSpork]

Shame cos it could have been 10/10 with a few extra minutes here and there to explain the character motivation change and an extra episode to flush out the PvZ conflict so it's resolved more naturally.

[@Xenawarriorprince]

My favorite line from Jayce in season 2 is "there is beauty in imperfections" and I feel like that sums up season 2 perfectly. It may be flawed, but its flaws don't stop it from being a beautiful work of art that has made huge strides in animation and storytelling.

[@hawkins347]

That line is absolutely stupid given that Viktor was never trying to cure his imperfections but his very real terminal illness.

[@PersonYayyy]

Animation, yes. Storytelling? No, the story is a massive step back

[@Jay-yp6ft]

It’s a step back but it’s not MASSIVE let’s not lie to ourselves here because of expectations from season 1

[@Jay-yp6ft]

@@hawkins347Viktor was only trying that initially tho. The conversation he had with Jayce about human emotions and how eliminating it would eliminate strife and conflict was clearly the focus of the line here

[@PersonYayyy]

@ yes it is massive. Seriously, take off the rose tinted glasses season one gave you and ignore the (amazing) art and just look at the story itself and how it’s developed. It’s terrible, and especially compared to what it’s following up, but even without that there’s so many problems

[@Allex1171]

Viktor having the 2 most beautiful lines in the whole show, 1 for each season is just incredible.

[@isaacxcheng]

Viktor: *has beautiful lines* also viktor, while breaking into Heimerdinger's lab: "Wait a minute... this isn't my bedroom!?"

[@ThwipThwipBoom]

Season 2 could've used another 3-4 episodes to flesh out these plot lines better. As it stands, it's nothing short of a miracle how good S2 was despite it rushing so many interconnected storylines.

[@chickensalad3535]

@@ThwipThwipBoomAgreed. Season 2 is still a masterpiece, just not flawless like season 1 is.

[@casualfanatic4217]

S1 Viktor: In our pursuit of greatness, we failed to do good S2 Viktor: There is no prize to perfection, only an end to pursuit

[@isaw9969]

@@casualfanatic4217 and "if youre going to change the world, don't ask for permission". A gorgeous line on its own, and in hindsight it even kinda foreshadows his s2 "plot"

[@kleelf9278]

As a student in animation, Arcane is my bible. The last feew weeks were full of Arcane. In my art school, everybody talk about it. This is the type of show were you have to analyse frame by frame to see if their is a clue you missed. Arcane is clearly my favorite show of all time. And I can't wait to buy the artbook! love your video!

[@julient.6311]

I am not in the animation industry, but I can imagine how Aracne have build a "standard". There will be probably a "before" and "after" in the animation world.

[@victoriajohn7079]

I'm also an animation student and my professors feel like we are entering a new renessance with animation.

[@___Somebody___]

@@julient.6311 It hasn't, the industry wants everything done cheap they won't give more money for higher quality

[@mmmk5385]

As an animation industry professional i hope the industry treats you well when you graduate, it’s not been good times for most of us.

[@noobmasterruben5167]

@kleelf9278 Both Arcane and Spiderverse have really showed the industry the full advantage of having hybrid animation. Something that Disney has not yet adapted to. Like Zootopia 2 would've been cooler if it had the Puss in boots or The Bad guys animation

[@r1sky838]

I believe Arcane and Spider-Verse are the greatest animated media we’ve experienced in the last decade or two, from its writing to themes and characters, they’re phenomenal and influential, and especially in terms of visuals. If Spider-Verse is a comic book come to life, Arcane is like a grandiose fantasy steampunk painting brought to life

[@e.ogigia]

And they are both so different and original animation wise. They are going to be so influential in animation for the next decades.

[@lavenderbambi3501]

It's game, lol universe, come to life

[@GladwinAbel]

I ain’t wrong haven’t had this feeling like when I finished watching spiderverse nor arcane. Even people that hated animation or superhero films liked arcane and Spiderverse. I’ve seen people that complain about woke movies like Spiderverse. Good storytelling cannot be denied. Both fandoms are extremely passionate about their stories too

[@brittf1847]

Blue eye samurai is a solid third!

[@chickensalad3535]

Arcane is the best animated series of all time, hands down.

[@thecod2345]

Honestly, I think the contents of act 1 to the beginning of act 2 should have been its own season. That way they wrap up the Zaun and piltover story with exploring VI’s depression, Caitlin’s Mussolini arc, Jinx’s mental state and the vacuum Silco left behind as well as setting up the nature of the Arcane. Then s3 you go into Vander, the Glorious revolution, and the generally more high concept stuff. Cuz as it stands, s2 is a miracle for how well it holds together so many plot lines…but it’s still very rushed and there’s no true character moments that blew me away like s1 outside of episode 7 which was actually very fleshed out outside of Heimerdinger’s death.

[@Golmov_the_Wretched]

I agree! By the act 3 I'd actually stopped caring about any of the characters because it was so rushed I could no longer believe the character transitions between season 1 and now. What a waste.

[@l4nzel0d]

@@Golmov_the_Wretchedthe last two episodes had me disconnected from everything on screen

[@thegreatfitzgerald2660]

As a devout believer in that S2 is a lot better than people say (for example, I completely disagree with this video when he says that Viktor's switch in ideals/behavior was done too quickly, as we get so many hints and dialogues from the end of episode 6 onwards), having the first 5 episodes of S2 be it's own season would be so damn good. Imagine S2 ending with Jayce coming back and killing Salo, and that cliffhanger would set the stage for S3

[@anonymoustuestudent]

@@thegreatfitzgerald2660 people still love it tough, just like me they are bittersweet about the fact that this show had the potential to be great, if not the best series of all time. Its just aching that it wasted that potential cuz they had to explore other lol characters and had limited budget. Btw, I would love season 2 to end as the act 2 ends, would give a whole year of jayce pfp wars on tiktok.

[@Itisoverthere-rw]

Caitlyn's Mussolini act made me imagine Caitlyn with her head shaven and her chin in the permanent cringe pose of Moussolini and I can't stop laughing.

[@CommanderLexaa]

Wouldve been a god tier show with 3 seasons

[@thegreyfox2105]

Yeah, I also believe just 1 more act could have been enough

[@CommanderLexaa]

@@thegreyfox2105 for sure, I miss the moments in season 1 where they allowed moments and decisions to breathe. It needed one more act or longer episodes

[@razvantrifu]

I'd argue it's still a god tier show despite the pacing.

[@CommanderLexaa]

@@razvantrifu In my very subjective opinion, there were some writing decisions that kinda soured the season for me and they were clearly made because they had to fit in other stuff, like sidelining Vi and making her an extremely passive character, which could work, but you can tell they just wanted to focus on other characters (which is what Christian said). The animation tho? God tier always.

[@zantiquechm3960]

No I hate waiting. At least I know it's not coming.

[@selena44842]

Arcane gives me hope for some kind of resurgence of animation in the west, I will say to the end of time that animation is a medium for storytelling not just something to keep the kiddos entertained

[@username.exenotfound2943]

suppose it all depends on the writing since something on the caliber of arcane like avatar or gravity falls amphibia(i know techincally amphibia and gravity falls is for kids, id say more accurate to say for family) or bojack horseman (at its peak) theres over 10 others which aint even half as good them

[@zoe2732]

Depends on what you mean by "west". It's not an American show. The animation industry in the states is definitely dying, but in France? They still know what they're doing.

[@username.exenotfound2943]

@@zoe2732 west is basically most of nato up to germany

[@imain8403]

One of the most iconic shows to ever be produced

[@jonathanhamlet1942]

Period!✨🔥❤️☺️

[@Loveheart__]

@solarydays have you watched season 1? Season one is spectacular in every aspect of the word. Season 2 stumbled, but it doesn't detract from the Season 1 story line in the slightest. Anime is good I'm not gonna lie but Arcane is on a completely different level.

[@Loveheart__]

@solarydays A. That was a rhetorical question. Obviously if you watched season two, you watched season one.I'm not stupid 😐 B. I would genuinely like to hear your examples of Anime that complete floor Arcane in writing

[@rwholemilkisgood5050]

@@solarydaysnone of these shows hold a candle to arcades writing, and I’m quite surprised that these shows are the examples you use for good writing when there’s plenty of better stuff our there

[@chickensalad3535]

@@solarydaysNot an opinion worth taking seriously.

[@Hamza-rd6jk]

To their credit, the show runners acknowledged the feedback of S2's pacing. It's rare that creators like that are willing and open to criticism instead of doubling down.

[@jujuba1450]

where can i see more on the creators acknowledging it? i didn't know that, but it really shows the maturity we know they have

[@TheEldritchGoth]

@@jujuba1450 idk about acknowledging it but Christian Linke loves getting into Twitter arguments over it

[@isaw9969]

The main problem of this season, to me, is that it relies way too much on "this happened of-screen": Cailtyn gassing the undercity - and all other absolutely horrendous acts she did, the heightened police violence in act 2, etc - is never actually shown with the weight s1 would show it. Caitlyn getting suspicious of Ambessa happen immediately after she and Ambessa team up. Vi and Caitlyn becoming besties again ever tho their last scene together was one of betrayal and heartbreak. Ekko talking Jinx of the ledge and ralying the undercity together happens of-screen. Sevika being convinced to fight for Piltover instead of letting it just perish (which s1 and act 2 Sevika would absolutely have done). Ambessa's reaction to finding out her daughter is kidnapped. I can go on. In season 1, you always knew WHY something was happening: why did. To quote srslylini from Tumblr: "Why did Vi know where to find Vander after Silco took him? well of course because of Ekko who was established in the first few minutes of the first episode to be the character to be on look out. // Why did Viktor help Jayce? Because he didn't want to stand in Heimerdingers shadow as just an assistant anymore. He was sick and knew the problems of the undercity first hand, he wanted to help. Of course he would, if there was a chance hextech could do it. // Why did a shimmer induced Huck help Caitlyn out? Why because as early as the very first episode in Vanders first speaking scene he gets help from Vander and well why wouldn't he then show that help for Vi, knowing he can?" It never relied on the suprise or shock value, which made it such a good tragedy; you knew the horrors and how it could never end well, but the characters didnt. season 2, however, keeps the majority of its cards hidden and then never reveals them in the end. It leaves you with so much questions that you just have to fill in yourself. This isnt "show dont tell", btw, cause half of it isnt even SHOWN.

[@strehlowo]

yeah honestly. the neither showing nor telling really ruined the season. or at least contributed to its ruin

[@cakecow9259]

But it does show it tho? The music video in ep 3 and her gassing the brothel with the grey. Caitlyn motive for turning on ambessa is explained in ep 6, Vi explains that the beast that ambessa is looking for is her father and they might be able to save him. Caitlyn still loves Vi, and she doesn’t want to use the beast she wanted to kill however she doesn’t want to hurt vi, all this is explained in this one episode I’m always so confused as to why people say Caitlyn turned for no reason where it’s legit explained. Tho I do argee that jinx and ekko needed more time in ep9, so Jinx main theme of self creation could of been explored more, and her conclusion would be easier to communicate her journey to destory jinx and powder and creating a new person, that new person needed more set up and showing jinx and ekko more in ep 9 would of be a lot better.

[@damianwilson7526]

Perfectly explained how I feel too. A major example is Viktor's extremist turn in act 3. His little community is nice and all, but if we had seen more of his efforts to build it, then I would sympathise more with his abandonment of flawed humanity when their conflict causes it to be destroyed. Having Viktor's motivations feel as underdeveloped as they are really diminishes act 3 and his ultimate realisation that sterile perfection is the worst kind of failure.

[@isaw9969]

@@damianwilson7526 youre so so right im gonna add the viktor thing to my og comment too. this man went from "there is always a choice"/"i will not sacrifice his humanity for your cause (war, etc)", to "choice is false" and "we are all of one mind", supposedly just because his partner didnt wanna work together with him anymore?? what?? dont even get me started on the choice to make the character who in s1 was the one most opposed to war and violence and weapons and the one most devoted to his desire to help people in need, turn out to be the one with the highest kill-count of Zaunites specifically and become the Big Bad Boss. having it implied in e9 by jayce that "he always wanted to fix what he thought were imperfections" is also insane in relation to that. those were NEVER viktor's sole motivators, ever. now im supposed to believe the disabled dude turned into a eugenics god bc he was insecure abt his imperfections??? pure rage at how they butchered his whole character by their rushed and sloppy writing.

[@e.ogigia]

I guess it was a budget issue because some writers have said that they did have more scenes they just couldn't put them in the episodes and I genuinely don't understand why Netflix didn't give them more time and money. If not a third season or another act simply hour long episodes would have made an incredible difference to the better and they had to know everyone was going to watch this show, like the money would be very well invested in 20 more minutes of animation.

[@WaltDevil060]

Heimer is actually not dead! Every time one of his race dies, they just return to their home city, which is in a different dimension in the lore. I bet that we will see him again in the spin offs

[@AmandaabnamA]

He's a Tolkien elf then lol

[@Me-vn3gz]

that’s so funny to me

[@katiegates9257]

I dont think season 2 is perfect, but I still think it's a 10/10 show. There is nothing that can take away from the amazingness and the beauty of this show for me. It ended on such a perfect note and I loved every second of watching this show. The emotional beats HURT and the animation is perfection. 10/10

[@tomw3886]

Season 2 isn't perfect by any means but my god is it orgasmic to your eyes. And the story while rushed is very good, i think if they added another episode or 2 it would have tied everything together while giving them a little more time to flush out all of the plot points made. But that's what arcane is its not a marathon its a sprint that keeps you glued to the screen with the best animation 2d and 3d that I have ever seen. Some great music, deep interesting characters and just so much subliminal messaging and references to other part of the over arching lore of Runeterra and League of Legends as a whole that you'll never catch on the first watch through. Overall despite the quality and absolute masterpiece that arcane season 1 was, season 2 did its very best to live up to the almost impossible expectations season 1 left everyone with. But I'd rate it in 3 different categories Animation: 11/10 i think it slightly outshines season 1 which i didn't think was possible. Story: it was rushed but they made it work well and it was fluid and not many things really felt forced. 8/10 Music: League of legends music has always been on point and I mean always 9/10 Overall I'd season 2 a very solid 8.5/10 which I'm grading comparing it to season 1 regardless season 2 is still vastly superior than like 90% of other shows i have watched

[@Savage-nv6wr]

It's not perfect but it's 10/10 ? Do you read what you actually write 😂😂

[@talpho3301]

@@Savage-nv6wrsince when does 10/10 = perfect? no show is perfect lmao

[@codered1132]

⁠​⁠@@talpho330110/10 is by definition the perfect score. It just depends on what you see in “perfection”, really. Otherwise what is even the point of labeling something as such?

[@kkelseym]

I agree that the only issue I have with this season is pacing. Viktor literally becomes a god in 7 episodes, Vi & Jinx feel like they become background halfway through the season, not to mention Mel is revealed to be a witch in like 2 minutes. A third season would've helped to give some breathing room but I still want to give the writers of this show their flowers because the season was still incredible. Even though we were following 4 different storylines and 15 different characters I still feel like everyone got good enough time. I just wish we had some more, even if the third season was just 3 episodes to wrap things up.

[@itsgonnabeokay9341]

He doesn't become a god. Not even close. The "astral plane" was just a visual representation of what happens in his mind. Real gods of Runterra would dunk on him.

[@lavenderbambi3501]

​@@itsgonnabeokay9341ig ppl who don't know the lore just don't get it

[@teyayaa6392]

This. Honestly, I don't understand why people are treating this season like garbage. Yeah, it had its flaws which you and FSN put very well into words, but it is nowhere near shows that are actual garbage.

[@madelynscorner]

​@@solarydaysfuck you mean hijacked I'm pretty damn sure the writers are the same

[@shadowgamer4306]

@@teyayaa6392Compared to season 1 it is actual garbage.

[@lckaboom6810]

A big part of what made season 1 so good was that it really felt like the characters were naturally driving the story. In season 2 it’s a lot more obvious when the writers are skipping or forcing character decisions in order to take the story where they want it.

[@uhobme2028]

Season 2 feels like two really good seasons forcibly melded together when you compare it's start to the end. The weekly structure definitely feels like ducktaping the issue cause bingeing it all in one go would seem to only make it all more obvious. Still some of the best television but as good as it is, it too often forgot to let itself breath.

[@teyayaa6392]

This!!

[@CzarsSalad]

Season 1 was a season full of unnecessary plotlines and characters. If they did not introduce Ambessa in Season 1, Season 2 would've been better. Extra episodes or even seasons will not fix that issue, it'll only drag the story. The Ambessa character is totally out of place from the vibe of the show Season 1 is overrated

[@teyayaa6392]

@@CzarsSalad I disagree. As FSN said, Ambessa fills the power vacuum left when most of the council died and instigated even more conflict between Zaun and Piltover, which upped the stakes in a lot of ways. She was a main player this season as well, so I am not quite sure how you got that impression.

[@AtelaLafford]

great review definitely evokes the feeling i was getting

[@noobmasterruben5167]

After the flaws of season 2, I'm confused if I like X-men 97 more. Not that that show also had fast pacing but the finale of xmen 97 is just better than Arcane

[@strawberik]

Not to be that guy but arcane is not “from Netflix”. It’s just streamed on Netflix. I just want Fortiche to get the credit they very much deserve.

[@dansandersss]

It’s produced by Netflix, it’s under the Netflix brand, so it’s a Netflix show

[@WildingGer]

@@dansandersss what where is there any mention that it's produced by netflix. they just gave them money for the streaming rights, if tryndamere's interview to season 1 is to be believed. Fortiche has nothing to do with netflix and pretty much exclusively produce for riot lately (tbf they expanded the studio for this very propose).

[@krashme997]

@@dansandersss Watching the documentary "Bridging the Rift" (free on YT), it really does seem that Netlfix had nothing to do with the show's production besides maybe dictating how long it could be.

[@dansandersss]

@ I do understand that but it doesn’t me that this is not a Netflix show, they actually gave the money to do it, they gave the green light for this show, so technically it is theirs even if they did not really work on it because it’s not really what they do.

[@WildingGer]

@@dansandersss they bought a license, so if you buy a cd it's your show? lmao. Also gj moving the goalposts

[@juanam735]

Me: Ok, I really need to focus on my work. FSN: Here's a video about Arcane. ... I guess I'll go back to work later.

[@vasilenabeleva3711]

Samee

[@ВераЮрасова-е8ю]

Man, I wish they did something like a Director's Cut for the second season. Feels like this show had so much more to offer.

[@suchalamb]

Love that you're covering this! Although you might want to use a different image, the one of Jinx holding Vi is AI and Riot's gotten upset at Netflix over using it.

[@jgraves7678]

Commenting to boost this

[@officialname9817]

It's not AI it's two different versions of the same image Jinx's fingers aren't fucked up in the thumbnail

[@suchalamb]

​​@@officialname9817 I think my other comment got deleted because I included a link. Sorry KZbin. I will say you made me look more into it, and it seems like it's maybe not entirely AI? It's hard to figure out. The Arcane brand lead said it was AI, and some people say it was only extended with AI...wish they would just be clear about it.

[@JohnnyElRed]

@@suchalamb The image itself, the one designed to be used in vertical poster format, isn't IA. But the expanded image, used to put in a widescreen, has its margins expanded upon with IA. Though the central part was certainly made by artists. It's the sides that were added so they could use it for billboards and thumbnails in wide format.

[@raul3363]

it wouldn't even need one more season, one more act and it would've been the perfect show, either way it is still one of the best things I've ever watched

[@7SUNZz]

Unpopular opinion: Season 1 feels like characters move the plot, that’s why it feels so real Season 2 feels like the plot forces the character to do what they’re supposed to do for the sake of this plot Still good but… yeah.

[@chrishaven1489]

Agreed

[@Golmov_the_Wretched]

A very *accurate* opinion I think.

[@mariannestrgzr9374]

Agreed. And the characters suffer from that a lot imo, they’re just not as deep as they used to

[@itsgonnabeokay9341]

I heavily disagree. All characters and their actions are completely understandable if you think about it. The issue is, people rarely think nowdays.

[@itsgonnabeokay9341]

​@@mariannestrgzr9374 Wdym "used to"? They are the same characters.

[@BlueSR]

Fantastic season and ending. The only point i was very disappointed by was the complete omittal of the class theme in the final third of the season- it felt like such an integral point to the world of the show that just gets… forgotten. Idk. Stellar stellar stellar art, characters and music though. Thoroughly enjoyed it

[@elle_rose_xx]

Yes! I was sad the result of the class war is ignored and it just turns into teaming up

[@Killroy007]

I actually like the class aspect disappearing. It just needs to be brought up afterwards again, which it sadly isn't. But the class aspect disappearing and that becoming new bonds between the two cities wouldve been incredible. It just isn't executed well

[@grammy_hnng]

i take a break from hk for FIVE SECONDS and look who it is

[@AmandaabnamA]

​@Killroy007 class differences disappearing is nice yes, but not the decades/centuries long struggle between two cities with one relegated to the sub basement. They had Cait team up with Ambessa to have no ramifications on the plot. They evacuated the citizens without any acknowledgement that Zaunnites wouldnt really have anywhere to go(displacement). A seat at the table doesnt mean much when your people have to go back to their toxic crevice after fighting for freedom. Look at American history to show how little fighting together in a war means. It wouldn't have been impossible to include these plot threads and scale up towards another larger threat instead of dropping them. An example is those in Zaun being more affected by whatever the issue is because again, aren't they living in a CREVICE?! Or even just the for some-reason- diabolical-Hexcore being deep underground. Like there are people living here! I was hoping that would tie together somehow. It would also open questions like topsiders having to make the choice to help Zaun or keep their precious Hextech.> or Zaun fights to make the choice for them. It would've been really interesting if that was turning the people of Zaun and/or Viktor wanted to evolve just them to finally be above Piltover. This way the conversation would've been more nuanced than jumping from Viktor's utopia to wasteland. Thinking more Thanos or Attack on Titan's different rationales for jen0c!de. This could have interesting dynamics between different people's idea of saving Zaun> the process and results. Then we could've seen an epic Hextech vs shimmer battle. I wanted Jace to become villainous for his beliefs and Viktor for his. They fight each other on each side and eventually reconcile yada yada. We also could've felt more of Cait's and Vi's separation and reconciliation. Or even the Zaunnites having any sort of feelings at all towards Viktor, i.e. how did they feel about his presence/village? How did they feel about it after it was taken over by Ambessa? She was working with Piltover and then all of a sudden was an invading force. What about the Zaunnites opinions or coming to terms with that? There was a lot there. I know seeing real-life problems hurts our escapism, but humanity is what it is.

[@Killroy007]

@@AmandaabnamA yeah, the last act definitely lacks a lot of room to tackle such topics- And while needing to fight together doesnt necessarily change ones perspective on its own, if the series was allowed to have an actual epilouge I feel likr the fighting plus viktors mental connection, especially with ekkos drive to change and position as a hero couldve been capeable of changing things. The series just wasnt allowed to do so, because the episodes were too short and firing all but 3 writers after season 1 was a horrible decision (thanks christian linke)

[@BigBaked]

I disagree with you on Ep7 being rushed to a fault. I think A) that’s the episode where they actually gave a plot line A LOT of time, obviously more could have been cool but they gave it an adequate amount of time. B) The rushed feeling in that episode was intentional, it adds something to the story. The quick passage of time is mirrored by ekko’s desire and panic towards getting back home as soon as possible, however when we finally see the scene start to breathe and take it’s time, as the scene literally slows to a crawl (4fps) we see the first time Ekko is truly living in that universe and that’s also the moment when he finally makes those connections he needs to make. That part of the episode was in perfect speed all the time, because ekkos main theme and entire character (in game and in the show) really revolves around time, so I think it was beautiful that the pacing of the show really mirrored his thought process. He was so panicked and ready to go home that he almost skipped the dance and went straight home while the plot was bursting with speed, but he was forced to slow down and live in the moment. TLDR: The pacing in Episode 7 was fast but it worked in context of the episode to make the overall message more impactful

[@shadowone01x99]

Well said. I agree with you.

[@jorgecortes3789]

yeah it was so weird because i also think ep7 is the only properly paced episode in the whole season. It gives time for ekko to learn that jinx is still worth saving as well as to let himself enjoy a little bit of life. imagine how good the show could've been if we got the same treatment for vi's lowest point at the fightpits or caitlyn power trip instead of a quirky music video

[@BigBaked]

@@jorgecortes3789I in some ways think it was intentional i think the writers and animators knew the final act would be a crunch to fit all they needed in, so they gave us a little bit of breathing room with Ep7 while also showing us the pace of the rest of the show

[@wuxian1]

i love this!!!!

[@Killroy007]

Yeah, I feel like act 1 and ep 7 of season 2 are great in its pacing but act 2 should tell more stories and act 3 needs to build up on that

[@FriendlyKitten]

I think this show took the words "Every frame a painting, Every painting a story" quite literally.

[@CzarsSalad]

it's animation... otherwise they should have gone full live action. grow up

[@FriendlyKitten]

@@CzarsSalad :3

[@AmandaabnamA]

​@@CzarsSaladI think they meant relying on the visuals rather than letting the story unfold. Smh the point went right over your angry head

[@hq1082]

Im glad I’m not the only one who thought it could be fleshed out a little more. There was so much happening at once that by the time I got to the end I wondered if it couldve been a little bit slower.

[@lckaboom6810]

I kind of disagree that Vi has a good story this season. Her fall to rock bottom in act 1 is good. But her lowest point is literally just a 2-minute music video and then she doesn’t really have anything to do for the rest of the season.

[@MazDance]

Absolutely agree. She doesn’t drive any plot points this entire season, she’s just a passenger. I don’t even get how she forgives Jinx so quickly and tries to get Caitlyn to as well after she, y’know, killed her mother?! It’s so sad because Vi was my absolute favourite character and she got kind of character assassinated this season.

[@shanicek5188]

I agree. She's my fave character and I feel as though she didn't really feel like the same character at her core this season :(

[@CzarsSalad]

@@MazDance so what if Vi is your favorite character? Jinx has been and always will be the S-Tier character of the show

[@MazDance]

⁠​⁠@@CzarsSalad Ok? Good for you.

[@titoleon3101]

She spent all the season moping, grunting and screaming. We never got a payoff to her character.

[@shitaishiro]

arcane season 2 had so much potential to exceed the first season but as many remarkable projects, it gets stained by corporate intervention. reducing the writer's room, pushing to end the story in only its second season, and rushing the production when we've seen how great an arcane with proper time and development could be. the writers did the best they could for an impossible task.

[@AmandaabnamA]

Its so common now for media to get the Disney/ Marvel effect of introducing different characters/IPs into anothers plot so there can be a spin off. I wanted this season to exist for itself, not setting up Noxus.

[@1zxtv]

Season 2 felt like I watched several League Cinematics on YT back to back to back. Insane visuals and score that mesh brilliantly but with what felt like scattered storylines of varying severity and consequence that overtake each other. Some overlapping characters and events none of were fleshed out properly. You could tell how rushed this was, I don't doubt that given another season to explore storylines that were essentially compressed into series of music videos this show could have fulfilled its potential.

[@ToothofaShark]

I agree. I think that's what holds it back from being a great show. It's good, sometimes really good (season 1). But, the lack of letting the story breath and letting the characters actually talk and develop naturally is what holds back season 2 and stops me from saying "this is one of the best shows ever made".

[@Maotrix-RandomGameStuff]

I agree and disagree I feel s2 does do the story well it just happens that people don’t understand the core message isn’t about two sisters or social politics and classes. Still s1 is better than s2 but I still liked and feel s2 is good. It has flaws but that doesn’t take away form the grand message the show is presenting. S2 8/10 s1 10/10 Show as a whole 10/10 for me.

[@ulizez89]

For real, S2 was a mess writing wise. Art, visuals and animations were on point though.

[@chrishaven1489]

@@ToothofaShark I agree. I can't, in good conscience, enjoy this show as much as everyone else does. I enjoy its moments. There's plenty of moments I enjoy. But as a whole, the show is structurally trash.

[@Maotrix-RandomGameStuff]

@@chrishaven1489 I think saying trash is just because something you wanted didn’t happens or you didn’t understand the core message of the show. I enjoy s1 more than s2 and feel it’s better but saying s2 is trash is stretching.

[@Bamgeutcutiepie]

VIKTOR fan here!! 🙋‍♀ i was sooooo shattered when i realized he was being taken over and kind of fading away and becoming the villain.... But the redemption arc, in the Viktor realm and *THE ANIMATION IN THIS SCENE* it was so beautiful and emotional. Viktor was such a moving character.

[@rika6767]

Viktor is my fav too❤❤❤❤ Yes.... He really was being taken over by the fused Hexcore, right? Though he somehow remained human somewhere, deep inside. I think the last shreds of humanity disappeared just after he refused Vander being used as a weapon. In that scene at least, he mentioned his humanity.

[@haimeur4773]

@@rika6767 I remember when viktor's assistant (Sky) told him that he won't remember her right before he started changing people. So yeah he lost a bit part of himself.

[@rika6767]

@@haimeur4773 good point!

[@rahmatdarman203]

Every league player that plays Viktor knows that he will be a villain..... League players got spoiled

[@mse90]

Honestly, I can't believe this show got made. It's hard for me to imagine that anything like this - especially to this scale and with this budget and care - is going to get made in the next ten years. But fingers crossed for all those spin-offs!

[@noobmasterruben5167]

So far, the only recent Netflix show that comes close to Arcane is Blue eye samurai. Heres hoping the second season will live up to the hype

[@briancarter6953]

Hot take but i'm gonna say it - we didn't need another full season. I feel like another act of 3 episodes would've given us the time we needed to properly get things addressed - viktor's turn, the aftermath of isha's death, giving mel more focus and exploration of her abilities - hell sevika and the undercity in all things that required them. Not to mention finding a way to bring back the undercity-piltover conflict and address it amongst the viktor-jayce stuff. I feel like another reason would stretch everything out too much, and sure, four acts would look weird, but in my opinion it would solve all the little things that hold this final season back. That being said, there is still so much to love about this season. I just hope the writers and Riot learn from this in future endeavors.

[@ratedr7845]

No, we needed another season

[@lavenderbambi3501]

I agree, if anything maybe episode or 2 more, or maybe making some of them little longer but what would they even put in another whole season? It would be milked by then

[@Itisoverthere-rw]

Each act should have been 4 or 5 episodes to give the story time to breathe. Pretty much every problem people are bringing up is due to the limited screentime.

[@CzarsSalad]

​@@ratedr7845and what are you gonna put in the 3rd season? Fillers?

[@jamesgrottano5583]

100% this is the only right answer

[@abbie.mp4]

the fact that riot studios didn't use any kind of motion capture for the characters either, everything is HAND ANIMATED actually blows me away

[@thumbtack8133]

I've been waiting for this video since season 1

[@higgy0789]

I love this show. As you said, even with flaws, it's still better than most shows on TV. However I was so looking forward to being emotionally gutted by Piltover and Zaun fighting each other because I know both sides of the conflict. I know names and faces on either end, and I know complications in interaction between them. Season 1 was all about it, it ended on a cliffhanger about it! But their conflict did not get resolved much at all! In the end they have to come together to fight a nameless and faceless army (except for their leader Ambessa), and I can't help but wonder how much more devastated I would be if I knew more people fighting on the side of the Noxians! In the end, Sevika gets to be on the council, but how much will that help if their decisions come to a vote and Zaun only has one representative? (I could be misremembering though)

[@mariannestrgzr9374]

@@higgy0789 Agreed!!! A classic tale of good vs. faceless evil is just not what I signed up for and was emotionally invested in.

[@philipdaviddavies9478]

@@mariannestrgzr9374how was victor a faceless evil? There was a face under there lol

[@mariannestrgzr9374]

@@philipdaviddavies9478 I am talking about the robots

[@isaw9969]

​@@philipdaviddavies9478 thats not really what it all meant. The faceless evil is the arcane and its corrupting power. Instead of a more local story about two opposing sister cities, it turns into Avengers Assemble VS Ambessas army of unknown soldiers, and VS the arcane mannequins.

[@philipdaviddavies9478]

@@isaw9969 I was making a joke about viktor having a mask… his og status… not the vgu lol… but yeah I guess since I watch necrit videos and shit I don’t view the noxians as much faceless… and we know the origins of victors puppets and the arcane… but I can see how a random crow with 3 eyes would seem weird if you don’t know swain… or the black rose seems random if you don’t know the lore behind it… it’s good for people who know the lore… not really me lol… so I am also kind of like wtf is really going on? Hopefully they fill us in more with the next series… so when you rewatch everything again later it makes a lot more sense…

[@Haflpaf]

"He is your dad too" makes me cry every time

[@Nephetssings]

Horrible clunky dialogue. What happened. Fuck season 2

[@soldecle]

Starting a war in one season and ending it in the same season is just crazy the conflict between piltover and zone is much too complicated to be resolved so fast

[@Kat-fd7ff]

Someone summed it up nicely when they said that the longer you think you about season 1, the more you fall in love with it. The more you think about season 2, the worse it seems (only from writing perspective, the animation is arguably even better this season). For me, the abandonment of Vi's character and Cait's entire arc (and lack of consequences/weird favouritism writers showed her) were just prime examples of why this season wasn't as good.

[@gabbystorm3992]

Lowkey I'm still waiting on an apology from Caitlyn for the hit to the gut😅

[@AmandaabnamA]

I love Cait, but also felt there was so much of her, but not enough at the same time. It was never clear what she did between act 1 and 2

[@maxxrr7389]

I kinda disagree in one part. I think I like season 2 the more I think about it because the pacing was too fast I wasn't able to notice some subtle things that made it interesting.

[@Kat-fd7ff]

@@maxxrr7389 That's completely fair! Looking forward to my second rewatch as well ngl.

[@Kat-fd7ff]

@@AmandaabnamA Same. I really liked her in S1 but S2 Cait was mishandled. I can see what they wanted to do with her, and it could have worked, but they didn't have the time to pull that arc off, and it came off as half-baked and suddenly all her crimes are forgotten in span of half a conversation in which she doesn't even apologise. Someone said they didn't let Cait near Ekko of Sevika because they would have eaten her alive for what she did to Zaun and ngl agree.

[@FawnMidnight]

Fun fact about Ekko and Powders dance scene, it's animated 4 frames per second, which is the exact number of seconds that is Ekko's limitation for time travel.

[@khaliid1492]

isha's hat is one of those from the mines in zaun, she was a victim of child labor. The lore behind her and her hat run much deeper than most care to think about.

[@alepolait]

i've been avoiding discussions about Arcane, literally not engaging on Reddit and barely watching KZbin videos about it. But Isha's hat being so similar to Teemo is giving me bad vibes. i don't know if we'll have another Warwick situation. (Which doesn't make sense, because Teemo is supposed to be a Yordle) Isha's storyline is definitely bigger.

[@helixranger2625]

Imo, the pacing problems is a consequence of the story itself and the scope it could handle. We really went from a show about class conflicts between the two cities and the intertwining of the sisters' tragedy in its fate to... we must band together to fight Viktor Arcane Ultron in what, 4ish episodes? And then all the other plotlines and side characters that got so little time or kinda wasn't needed. Mel and the Black Rose, Warwick, the strike team who you only remember the name of Maddie who was made to be hated, chem barons dying in a music montage, Caitlyn and Noxus Piltover arc condensed in another music montage, Vi's emo arc in another music montage, a sex scene in a cell tonally clashing with a character wanting to blow herself up two scenes before it, Sevika disappearing after episode 4 and reappearing in episode 9 with no dialogue, etc. That really compromises the characters and the overall story just because they wanted to escalate to "world threat" and all of those problems instead of focusing on the cities, personal motivations, and S1's consequences

[@Golmov_the_Wretched]

100%

[@mariannestrgzr9374]

@@helixranger2625 AGREED. I feel like they really lost the core of the story this time around and focused more on music montages and epic battles

[@isaw9969]

Its like they went from "parasite" to "avengers infinity war". The use of Cool Scenes this season felt so ...overdone. the scenes were literallt just there to be cool. Had all those mv scenes been fleshed out and avtually shown with the respect the stories they depict deserve, we literally couldve made 3 more episodes out of it!

[@EshalShoaib-d2m]

My only complain alongside thr pacing, was thr IMENSE AMOUNT OF MUSIC SCENES. Me personally no pls, it feels extremely off putting:(

[@ondiiina]

​@@isaw9969 iirc the writers stated that those MVs were there because they weren't given the time to explore these events. So basically, it wasn't their choice they had to do SOMETHING to convey these events and make up for it. I guess they had to do the whole Great Evolution thing as the ending for lore reasons (esp when Viktor immediately got a rework in League after season 2) but they knew they couldn't get there without certain plot points so they skimmed over them with the MVs. And when you reach 2 to 3 MVs that NEED to be placed before the start of an episode, you realize that you should do one before each episode so that it looks like a stylistic choice and feels coherent. These guys desperately needed time they didn't get and IMHO that's why Season 2 falls off so hard. That and the fact that they straight-up admitted that they found other things more interesting than Vi when she's the main character and a core part of the story (hence why each EP starts with the disk with her and Jinx!)

[@isaw9969]

7:08 and are those complex character arcs in the room with us right now Vi's struggle with alcoholism is only shown in one music video clip and then never adressed again. her being at her lowest is true for aprox. the 4 minutes of said clip. when she meets Jinx again, she's wary, yes, but in no way does it reflect the absolute low she just was in. The idea of "Vi finally letting go of her need to protect others" is just such bullshit. When does she actually fully do that, huh? In act 1 she still protects Cait and Isha, in act 2 she is depressed due to the fact she doesnt have a goal anymore, but she never WORKS IT OUT ON HER OWN. She just meets up with Jinx and Isha again and is, yet again, given the task of protecting someone - Vander. In act 3, we barely see her, and when she lets Jinx go, who clearly wants to end it all, she has a Fun Time Scene with Cait in the same prison her sister was just showing suicid4al ideation in. We never see her actually learn to live for herself - the plot just keeps ripping people away from her. These two things are NOT the same. Jinx's struggle with being (for some reason) the face of Zaunite resistance is covered in 2~ episodes. we see the Jinxers fight while Jinx stays at home as she doesnt want to do all that, and we see her break them out of prison, where they all touch her shoulder. Thats the arc. We do not ACTUALLY see her struggle with it as much as we should have. There is also, imo, no reason for Jinx to be the face of the resistance when Ekko, a boy who dedicated his entire youth to saving the people in Zaun who were in need, was Right There. Jinx being an involuntary figure wouldve been great, were it either 1) expanded upon more, or 2) the people of Zaun realise they mythisized her, and realise the people actually fighting for them (Ekko, but mostly SEVIKA, hello? How did that speech not rouse them) are the ones they should follow. That would also have been a nice contrast to the Caitlyn plot - instead of rallying behind someone who only did their actions for revenge, they rally behind people who want their lives to be better. Isha dying could have been The Thing which would make Vi and Jinx connect. Not only does Vi see her sister is not just the maniac she thinks she is, but Jinx would also maybe come to terms with Vi not wanting Powder to be with them with all jobs - she now knows the stress, the fear that comes with caring someone who is so much smaller and weaker than you and whom you love dearly.

[@KingCarb]

The thing I struggle the most with in this season is how they handled Jinx. She was one of the most compelling, nuanced, morally ambiguous characters in the first season. In this season, they drop a plot device named Isha onto her head literally from the sky and use this to transform her entire character over an off-screen time skip. I wanted to see that transition, especially through her relationships with established characters like Vi, Ekko, Sevika and even Caitlyn, not Isha. They erased the most interesting aspects of the most interesting character just so they could suddenly make her the "big fat hero" of the story while completely ignoring everything that happened before. And we as the audience are just supposed to accept that. I can't believe these are the same writers as season 1. I'm not upset at where she ended up at the last episode. I 100% expected a redemption arc with her. I did not for a second think that they'd hide all the leg work for that arc off screen.

[@lavenderbambi3501]

Ekko isn't face of resistance, he offered home to those who were affected by criminal king pins in Zaun but he was never aiming for revolution, just community. He did attack silco's Cargo when it looked like he was expanding and that's that 💀 Other than that, do u need a KitKat?

[@lavenderbambi3501]

​@@KingCarbthat transition wouldn't have happened bc literally none of the characters u have named cared ab her at that point, least of All cait

[@officialname9817]

I disagree with Ekko he was protecting firelights and no one else that's what the whole firelight music video was about the declared war against ANYONE, Jinx kills firelights and enforcers but never in s1 targeted ppl of zaun ever and her direct attack on the government is more than Vander silco or ekko have ever done so it makes sense that they'd rally behind the person who is quite boldly targeting the enemy. Also Isha didn't change jinx, she juts made her happy all of s1 was jinx being traumatized over and over again with the return of Vi, we see her dancing to music in her room before silco lectures her, we see her being affectionate with silco and see her messing with Chuck in the bar so she has a fun wildcard personality we just never saw much of it because s1 was about her trauma and not her being happy

[@KingCarb]

@@lavenderbambi3501 I mean...yeah...that's why you write them into circumstances that force them to find common ground. That's what writing a story is lol. Do you think that just because characters don't like each other, they can't impact each other's growth? It sounds like you just lack imagination.

[@Mary_Puppins]

I love Vi, she's such a great likeable and relatable character

[@orbboom6119]

Meh

[@Geeeezmo]

No. She's one of the reasons (if not THE reason) my sweet Pow-Pow became Jinx. I feel for Vi, she's been through so much shit, but that I just can't forgive. Still in shambles after S2, been over a week at this point.

[@pjdixon6199]

@@Geeeezmo Good job just completely ignoring VI’s POV 👍

[@Geeeezmo]

@pjdixon6199 I said I feel for her, but not as much as I do for Jinx

[@Invincible_Falls]

Personally I've never really cared about her, she's just felt kinda meh for me, tbh I have that problem with some other characters, some of them just feel kinda bland. Which is really weird because I've liked shows and games that don't have crazy action and wild characters like Mr robot or breaking bad, Firewatch (a game I'd HIGHLY recommend playing), in all of those things I cared a lot more about the characters and was more invested in them, but in Arcane I just didn't really care about the characters or at least not in season 2, which might just be a me problem but Idk, just wanted to say it. Singed is cool asf though fr

[@135mikerules23]

The rehashing of certain parallels, characters keeping pertinent information to themselves when revealing it would be more beneficial then anything and a big retcon aside, I can see most of the events happening. The problem is that we didn’t see the steps to how we got there. Not to mention the music video aspects of each episode while entertaining, I could tell that it’s there way of showing character development or events transpiring, because they have to keep the story going.

[@Sofia-ge6wm]

I loved this show so much and my favorite character has always been Jayce he means a lot to me especially since when I was a little girl I was raised to with showing emotions "when its no the right time" resulted in me being screamed at and hit so seeing a man being so openly emotional really helped me Jayce will always mean a lot to me

[@lym1875]

I have yet to finish your video, but the way i just JUMPED of joy, thank you so so much for being one the few that recognized Vi HAD an arc, she wasn't just being "tossed around done dirty", she also carried the burden of Vander's words of "protecting Jinx", of him letting her know that she leads and if she leads wrong everyone's done for. Carrying that, alongside the grief of losing the two people she loved most made her crumble, and then forced her to be built back up... the large amount audience missing on the nuances of these arcs has been upsetting to no end. Was this season perfect? no, absolutely not it needed more space to develop a little BUT it was still emotional and wonderfully constructed. I hope people can watch the show from the beginning and see how (despite exec. production limitations) well pieced together all of this story was.

[@teyayaa6392]

Yees, so well said. I am really dissapointed by how a lot of people just missed the character arcs in the show this season. As FSN said: they were there and they were extremely well thought out, it was just that they needed some more time to fully blossom. Thta said, I still think they worked well with the limitations they had.

[@AmandaabnamA]

So you're saying you haven't finished it, but the countless audience that did is upsetting you? Why dont you finish it before forming your opinions. See how much she protects Jinx or looks out for her in any capacity in the third arc. Lemme spoil a bit- she hooks up in her sister's jail cell Doesnt care what happens to her just because she won't help. Yes, Vi's issue was with change and that's all Jinx is to her. She lost out on the sister in front of her because she was so obsessed with the past/ being a hero. Not to say there wasn't growth by the end, but after such a mistake she makes it's only assumed really

[@lym1875]

@@AmandaabnamA I meant FSN's video, not the show, I'd never comment on a storyline I haven't completed. The fact that you didn't even read the whole comment, since I do speak of the conclusion says enough. Also I did just correct my initial wording, english isn't my first language and i did word that wrong, but yeah, I had finished the entire series and was even mid-rewatch when I commented here. I agree in that the scene could've been placed completely differently, but was it missed when Vi mentioned "I choose wrong every time", where are you guys getting that she doesn't care for Jinx? She felt completely lost regarding what to do because EVERY TIME the outcome of her choices was bad, it connects to what I mentioned, Vander put the burden on her that she leads, and if she leads wrong everything implodes. In the end Jinx and Vi's relationship is at the start of a healing stage, but it's still such a fragile beginning that they need to restart separated from each other for a bit. It was also mentioned Arcane as a whole is more of a start than an end line. aNYWAYS, in the end, no matter what I say your mind and the way you perceived the story seems pretty set, I respect that, so I'll just leave this there.

[@jocortez3816]

I had a blast watching this with my teenagers. Holy shit we all bonded over talking about this show so hard. My daughter in college would call me to talk about it. I really hope the industry takes notice and wants to achieve higher standards with character development and world building.

[@CaptainKillroy]

I think what would have helped Season 2 a lot is there being an extra episode for each of the acts; meaning there would be 12 episodes (4 for each act) rather then 9. I feel like this would complete a lot of my issues with the show. My main one being what one of my friends called "The Slaughter of the Side Characters." To start off with, I really wish they showed more of the Chembarons Civil War rather then just do a music recap (though I love "Sucker" that is my favorite song out of this season). It would have justified all the time we get to seeing these Chembarons despite them never showing up again. Also would help Sevika since after midway of Act 2, she does virtually nothing. I also think that episode would help with showing Caitlyn's Task Force more, as we do not get nearly enough time. Believe it or not, I actually liked Loris and thought he was cool. To bad he only had 8 lines of dialogue in total. Same goes for Steb. Apparently, he is supposed to be mute but that still doesn't make up for the fact we don't see nearly enough of him. As for Act 2, the extra episode would have gone to showing more of the Zaun occupation and Victor's commune growing. I feel like my second biggest annoyance with these season is how they use a music video to recap what should have been at least half a episode. And finally for Act 3... this is where I am more mixed. Episode 7 is fine, that is probably my favorite episode in the entire season. As for the rest of the Act, I feel like there could have been a better build-up and ending to the battle. The battle itself I am fine with for the most part as I think it is very good. I do have an issue with how suddenly it ends. But this comment has gone on for long enough. If someone wants me to, I'll continue the discussion and defend the points I have made.

[@chanmarr8118]

I was just saying this. One episode per act would've helped the pacing a bit more. I was curious about some of the storylines, especially Mel's.

[@CaptainKillroy]

@chanmarr8118 I wanted more Smeech. He was funny

[@soumil05]

As much as I like your thoughts, I wonder if they had stretched into seasons so as to end season 2 with the start of Act 2 and have season 3 be of two acts showing much more stuff they couldn't in both seasons *Spoilers for comment readers* What if season 2 ended with Isha's sacrifice and season 3 had 2 acts, 1st ending with jayce, ekko and mel's parts and 2nd, well rest of the act

[@NerveUnderscore]

The thing that I noticed a lot with Viktor and what he wanted with Jayce and even before that (with that Sky projection) is: he wanted a partner. Just like Jayce, he wanted his partner back; an equal who could be with him in that perfect world of his. Every time Viktor encounters Jayce he tries to convince him about his work, he explains and shows his view of it all. Even at the end when Viktor says that he can see all of the minds in the hive, he never pokes into Jayce's, not until Jayce hugs him and caughts him off guard he pries into his memories and finally understands. Viktor never gets in Jayce's head because he wants him to have his free will to talk, to have company, to have his partner and not a puppet. But patience is not infinite and that is why Jayce, in other universes when he didn't convince Viktor, gets turned into a puppet too. That's my take, at least. Amazing video, mate. Isha and Warwick destroyed me too

[@shaggyrogers6769]

Someone on Twitter suggested this Imagine act 1 of S2 had been S2 in it’s entirety with 6 episodes within those episodes we could see a lot more character/story development such as cait and her desire for revenge against jinx, vi as an enforcer, loris and his relationship with vi, conflict with using the grey on the undercity, ekko and vi reunion and conflict with vi being an enforcer, etc. Then in the last episode we would get a lot of the same cliffhangers the arcane anomaly, caitvi breakup, the black rose taking mel, ambessa making caitlyn commander, etc. And when we get to S3 with 9 episodes the focus on it would be acts 2 and 3 but more fully fleshed out since the vi vs jinx conflict would have already been covered in the previous season

[@HerMajestyVelvet]

Ekko the Boy Savior and Viktor have risen to my easy picks for my top 5 favorite hero’s and villains of all time, in fact all the characters in this show are peak God this show is incredible now I just need to get my bf to watch this

[@likearadio]

Watching Jinx be depressed to the point of suicide for most of the season, then in the last episode/s going from attempting suicide to actually finding a reason to live, only to then immediately be presented with the need to sacrifice herself in order to save Vi….well….it just felt frankly really shitty. What’s the message there? She found hope only to need to die? She found hope for others, and also got to realize her own deathwish? The season was overall amazing, truly. But god did I hate Jinx’s ending. Only way to redeem it in my book is if she really is alive on that floating ship in the final shot.

[@IMeanItScrewYou]

I agree. Jinx's story felt confused. Jinx dying was great for Vi's arc but terrible for her own, Jinx being alive would have been great for her arc but left Vi's confused. It's like the writers tried to have best of both worlds by leaving it ambiguous, but instead of giving both of them a satisfactory ending, it results in neither feeling complete.

[@magical571]

she probably is alive. but also, if she died, it was no longer in a nihilistic fashion ala "everything i touch dies, i'm an abomination", but a, i want to do something good no matter the cost. it shows her new engaged persona by the end, instead of trying to distance herself in her studio. which yes,may lead to death or harm in this version of the universe, but she is no stranger to that, and she no longer actively desires to die, it's just that she has a goal and she put everything on the table ultimately for her family

[@guntajgrewal2275]

It's pretty much a fact that she's alive. There would be no reason to include that final scene of Caitlin looking at the air ducts while holding Jinx's bomb. This show has shown time and time again that every frame included is intentional. She is leaving Piltover/Zaun to "break the cycle" as Silco told her. We'll see her in a future spinoff, either living a peaceful life in another region of Runeterra or perhaps going through another journey which convinces her to return back to Piltover/Zaun

[@ProudPizzaiolo]

Can't believe the undercity finally ate Caitlyn alive💀

[@mduckernz]

diabolical comment LOL love it

[@tatersalad76]

This show really needed another two episodes or two extra hours, but they really loved their 3 Act structure to their own detriment. That being said, still a 8.9/10 for me

[@3mpt1n3ss]

OMG!!! Your take on Arcane has finally given me peace!! After watching tons of videos discussing Arcane that never quite got it right, you expressed and explained it PERFECTLY and now i can finally sleep again at night. Thank you!!!

[@mariannestrgzr9374]

This video marks the first time you and me really disagree on something, Dylan. I'm gonna say it: I thought ARCANE2 was fine. Not bad, but certainly not good, and I have issues with almost everything. My first main beef is with the story, because S1 gave us a story about class struggle mirrored in the relationship between Jinx and VI, which was compelling and the main motive behind most of the character’s actions. S2 totally lost that and put the sisters’ relationship to the side, while the social commentary vanished in favor of a final battle against faceless robots. The story went from a nuanced and thoughtful take on oppression to a classic tale of good vs. evil with explosions, and not only is that boring, but it also throws to the side most of what made the characters compelling to begin with: their moral grey area and what they're willing to do to change the status quo. It also was rushed and the pacing was wack, but I feel like everyone agrees on this. Second main critic is the writing of the characters: Why does Jinx suddenly become a lot more sane? How the fuck does Vi drop all of her core values in the span of a few days when she chooses to become an enforcer? Why was this total shift of her morals done so quickly and without any narrative weight? As for Caitlyn, how does she become such a tyrant so suddenly? And why does she STOP being a tyrant in the span of a few seconds too? How do Jinx and Vi just... make up, without any real conversation and after years of built-up resentment and trauma? All of those relationships and character arcs felt mishandled and toned down, and I don’t feel like we got satisfying closure for most of them because of that. And lastly I'm gonna say some plotlines and characters were just plain unnecessary. Why did we need Isha as a sister figure to Jinx when Vi was right there and their relationship was cast aside? It felt like the core of the show was lost and neglected. Also what was Isha’s character arc outside of being a plot device for Jinx’s story? Why did we need Vander to come back for an episode only to die again without any character arc whatsoever? Why did we need a alternate universe only for the purpose of one episode and one character arc? What did it bring? How does that fit in the original scale of the story? What purpose did the Black rose plot line really serve? We still don’t know what they really are but a rushed backstory for why Mel would come and save the day in the finale (after mastering her abilities in two seconds too). Why was the backstory for Singed experiments necessary? How was this whole plot with Vander truly meaningful in any way? All of these could have been replaced by some more build-up on the story that was already there and for which we wanted a proper continuation, but we got a whole new set of arcs and characters taking up a lot of screentime instead ! I get that the creators were on a clock and had originally planned for 3 more seasons… but when they got the memo that S2 would be the last, I don’t get why they chose to cram two or three seasons worth of storylines into one, instead of opting for a more grounded story by simply developing and closing the storylines they already had going on. Also as a side note, I know I'm gonna make enemies here but I felt like there was just too much music sometimes and it didn’t flow as well as in season one. The music video type clips in every episode took away from the immersion and felt cheap, it could have been replaced with more useful storytelling imo… I don't know, I feel like like season 2 went full Marvel, with gorgeous visuals but too much focus on epic action sequences and too less on the characters and the original plot. Still an okay watch, but very disappointing on my part

[@notmynamedammit]

Why is Jinx more sane? Because Silco is gone and not pressuring her. Vi's core values? She never had any after being stuck in jail for years? Why does Caitlyn stop being a tyrant? She was never convinced of it? Why do Vi and Jinx just make up? It was longer than a couple of days, there's a timejump between acts, Vi was willing to try and kill Jinx mostly because she had thrown her lot in with Cait and adopted Cait's mission and then Cait threw her away, and ... Vander is alive? It's basically a miracle and instrinsically linked to why the sisters first fell apart. So why wouldn't that majorly rock somebody's perspective? There are problems in season 2, but those are shallow complaints.

[@jaszczuron]

But Jinx' mental issues were so much deeper than Silco's influence. I simply cannot believe that she stops hearing voices, seeing things and whatnot just because Silco is dead. About Vi's core values, even after leaving jail in s1 she made multiple comments critiquing Piltover for the oppression over the people of Zaun and she was reluctant to work with Caitlyn because of this relation, so yes, she does have values that would keep her from becoming an enforcer and gassing her own people with toxic fumes. I agree with the original comment because a lot of valid points are raised there, these are serious flaws that, to my mind, reduce these carefully developed characters who truly felt like actual people to interesting, but only characters. And I did really enjoy arcane s2 while watching it, for what it is, but the longer I think about it the more disappointed I am that all the set up and anticipation that s1 built so masterfully eventually ended up with little to no payoff.

[@jaszczuron]

​@@notmynamedammit also - what happened to shimmer? it was such an important part of s1 that was just completely abandoned

[@bcar2263]

@@jaszczuron There's a blink and you'll miss it moment from Ep 3, which I literally just noticed the other day. During the "police brutality music montage" at the start of the episode, you can see Caitlyn and the rest of the squad setting fire to shimmer. So I assume during the time skip they destroyed a good portion of the supply. Very cool artistry in the scene, but yeah... would've been nice to actually resolve that issue in the plot.

[@kristinakonjic8677]

So well put! Thank you for giving words to my chaotic thoughts. The "what could have been" if we had actually gotten 3 seasons saddens me to no end.

[@sleet3732]

Damn, I didn't realize it until now but when you said Cait had to sacrifice her eye to beat Ambessa it reminded me of when Ambessa had taught Cait her definition of strength and its 4 principles vision, might, gyal and sacrifice.

[@TheDoggoPearl]

One of the reasons I love Ambessas character tbh. She gives both her and Mel the keys to defeating/killing her but Becuase (until the final fight) they both don’t fully follow those teachings they lose in different ways. The final fight actually shows them following through with the principles and you see that similarly in other fights as well. Even Jayces struggle in the other world, the sacrifice being his leg/original hammer.

[@yatharthrai4658]

S2 felt like Endgame without the build-up of Infinity War. As time had passed, while I've started to appreciate a few of the plotlines, I've grown to dislike S2 (esp Act 3) as a whole. Which makes me sad coz we were this close to having a perfect show.

[@ItsRubenMorris]

I get your frustration with Vi refusing to jump to the other ledge, but I feel that it’s very in line with her character. Over the course of the season, we see Vi trying to convince herself that she’s lost everything and that she has to be detached. But her fatal flaw is that she never knows when to give up on people. She can’t give up on Caitlyn, she can’t give up on Jinx, and she can’t give up on Vander. In the case of the first 2, it works out, but with Vander her faith/hope is misplaced - it’s just that she can’t convince herself to give up on him.

[@AmandaabnamA]

Idk why she couldn't convince herself he'd probably survive the fall if he survived an explosion to the chest while she would not.

[@ItsRubenMorris]

@AmandaabnamA i feel like she wasn't really thinking along the lines of his survival, but rather about how she could get through to him to prevent him harming anyone else

[@trafalgarlaw8373]

Even if it's believable for her character, lay him in the same pose as from s1, etc... its just annoying. Mostly because we already did the "are you still in there dad" story like 3 times now. They had their "is he in there or not" moment repeatedly, then we see it completely disappear. Hes no longer warwick or vander, more like a bigger version of the other viktor soldiers. And so vi is just being stupid, in a state where we're really no longer working with character flaws driving plot points. We're working with world ending plots and super villains, fighting off an invasion and then suddenly pausing to get killed.

[@TheIdiotChihuahua]

Am I crazy to think she was having a ptsd moment there? Like seeing Vander seemingly dead again reminded her of when he died the first time. I mean the visuals paralleled that I genuinely think she was having a ptsd moment

[@lee-cl8td]

The pacing doesn't take away from much; its like eating an incredible meal too fast. Still tastes absolutely amazing but you just wish you ate it slower. Doesn't really change the fact that the food was some of the best you ever had

[@milkiassamuel780]

I'm completely flabbergasted by how phenomenal this show has been both artistically and in terms of its storytelling, Im so happy I finally caught up watching the show and understood why this show is *PEAK FICTION!* I don't know if I've ever been so enamoured by such a show like Arcane and felt so much for all these fantastic characters l, and this is coming from someone who's never played League of Legends or knows anything about the lore to begin with. I just got into Arcane, and now that it's over, I'm truly saddened to know this is the last season because I desperately want to see more of these characters, and if the games are as good as the show, then I seriously need to check them out. Ekko absolutely was the MVP of this show as he came in clutch when it came to stopping Viktor and truly earned the title of *Boy Saviour!!!* Granted, I do completely agree that this season, while being extremely good, had a few problems and some storylines were told rather quickly with some characters feeling less explored but still ultimately gave a very solid ending to this show despite only being 2 seasons. I do think the common consensus of calling Season 2 a *'flawed masterpiece'* feels right, as no show is perfect. Still, this show manages to reach a level of quality writing, storytelling, animation, voice acting and emotional connection I never knew I could have for a show like this since I have no prior knowledge of League of Legends. Arguably the best-animated series of the year, this show should be examined and celebrated in a masterclass of animation, storytelling and world-building. Generational show

[@AmaranthEternal]

watching Arcane season 2 is like playing a game of league. You look away for 1 second, then you are dead and/or crying in the corner. 10/10 would watch again

[@phoenixdzk]

If ExU Calamity ever gets animated, I want it to be done like the visuals of Arcane. The Universe will implode, but it'll be worth it for visuals like these

[@ConnorHorio]

This perfectly summed up my thoughts on season 2. Good analysis.

[@TheCatWitch63]

I happen to agree with all your points. You have perfectly detailed everything I thought and felt about Arcane, but didn’t know how to explain to others. Thank you!!

[@pancarialice]

i think that this season's biggest issue was pacing, but the highs are _so_ goddamn high that i can genuinely overlook it. my absolutely favorite part was jayce and viktor's relationship and the way it gradually changes and evolves, i even think the finale they got is better than vi and jinx's, which is crazy to think about--but what could be above deciding to reject the entire world and literally unite in one being through love, and saving each other again and again, in every timeline and possibility? I'm still in awe their story concluded the way it did. so perfect. "there is beauty in imperfections," "i thought i wanted us to give magic to the world, but now all i want is my partner back," and "through all timelines, through all possibilities, only you can show me this," are probably some of my favorite lines in the entire show. crazy.

[@zoyieruffin4453]

Nah the cutting to the middle of the battle threw me off too !!! I was like did I miss something

[@isaw9969]

The fact that "Her story will continue in act 3" Sevika doesnt even get ONE speaking line in the finale is horrible to me. Who decided that we should not be shown how Jinx and Ekko convince Sevika and her following - Sevika, who is clearly 100% against Piltover and is a radical - to fight FOR Piltover? Sevika as we knew her would have stood on Ambessa's side, but no. She's now fighting to defend Piltover cause we Need our epic avenger entrance!

[@Golmov_the_Wretched]

The amount of inconsistent characterization in this season is insane. Season 1 was perfect - we knew exactly what every character was motivated by and how they would react. In season 2....... they may as well have used a magic 8 ball to make all their decisions for them.

[@pierregoyet374]

Sevika doesn't fight for Piltover, she fight for Zaun. If Victor wins, everybody die, so it's not illogical that she fight in the final battle.

[@Golmov_the_Wretched]

@@pierregoyet374 becoming buddy-buddy with Jinx is so far out of left field my head was spinning though. I wonder if she ever finds out that Jinx killed Silco....? It'd be even worse if she did.

[@isaw9969]

@@pierregoyet374 understandable to a certain extent, yes, but they have to SHOW US that decision of hers. I do not believe Sevika immediately went with Ekko and Jinx to help. Like said; she haaated Piltover. There were the options for her to 1) join Ambessa, 2) run to save people, or 3) indeed join Ekko and Jinx. A show cannot just make those pivotal character choices happen of screen

[@lavenderbambi3501]

​@@Golmov_the_Wretched u r reaching like crazy, this vid just explained to u their motivations

[@shadowone01x99]

I utterly LOVE the use of Music songs in Arcane. The songs are not just placed because they sound cool on superficial level. *ALL* the Arcane songs were exquisitely perfect to the allocated scenes not just in its music, beats or flow but also in its contextually fitting lyrics which feed to the story of the scene. It's utterly brilliant which added a richness to the audience immersion and impact!!

[@bananatiergod]

I still feel like season 2 pushed the boundary with how many "music vids" they can add into one episode. I remember watching it with my friend and was stunned at how we had three of them in only the first episode - THREE. That is a crazy amount.

[@shadowone01x99]

@bananatiergod I do not mind how many songs get used in a single ep as long as they are placed and applied brilliantly to suit the scenes where they are used which Arcane delivered excellently.

[@jaketheman7402]

The foreshadowing is insane. For example, vi says the undercity is going to eat you alive cupcake, and in season Catelyn' cupcake was indeed eaten by undercity.

[@soumil05]

Arcane is a show I never planned to watch back when season 1 came out but the 2nd half of this year seeing the hype around its 2nd season I decided to watch it. I kept delaying it until season 2 was finally out and when I got the time finally I binged the show in 4 nights. And OMG was it one of the best decisions I've made in this year. I've never been a fan of League of Legends but this show was seriously one of the best content of TV I've watched, animated and live action included.

[@sidney8197]

Damn, I wanted to write 3 or 4 really thoughtful comments here but now, having watched the whole video I was too distracted balling my eyes out (AGAIN!!! THANKS!!) Thank you for so much insight into the writers perspektive and the explanations to why this felt rushed and unsatisfying, but still so soooo well exectued.

[@smgtercero]

damn, didn't even mention the GOAT Singed

[@lavenderbambi3501]

Singed is gonna play important role in noxus series

[@smgtercero]

@lavenderbambi3501 I hope so

[@SecretMagician]

The fact that he was part of both the Shimmer drug issue and the Messiah Viktor storyline with him making Warwick, leads to him walking away relatively Scott free and he goes on to revive his daughter is crazy.

[@CrossOutBryce]

Season 2 is rushed, but they still pulled out a masterpiece with the limited time they had.

[@MsMalM]

Watching this video makes me want to rewatch season 2 just so I can soak in everything

[@ginawhatyoudoin8058]

"So much set up" and showing Maddie taking off the mask was chef kiss. I completely missed the tells and thought she was a pointless drama character until I forced myself to rewatch the season. Yes it felt rushed and I wish there was more episodes but that 2nd watch really helped everything click into place

[@YourCrystalDealer]

You don’t understand the love I have for your channel. Please don’t stop making them, tyyyyy

[@nastasijatoskovic9859]

I really liked season 1, but felt like season 2 was super jumpy, scatteted and the story didn't pull me in the same way, that being said you can clearly see that they have a lot of experience in making fun, fast paced fights with a good soundtrack

[@bpaperu]

Your energy is contagious. Hope Arcane creators get to enjoy their creation through your eyes.

[@God_of_Arson]

One of the best shows ever made

[@raymondsims7042]

Interesting opinion where does it rank for you? I know for me it’s one of the best 30-40 series I’ve watched.

[@God_of_Arson]

@ top 5

[@raymondsims7042]

@@God_of_Arson wow that’s high but I respect that opinion 🤝

[@God_of_Arson]

@@raymondsims7042 that’s just for animated shows

[@raymondsims7042]

@@God_of_Arson ahh ok yeah for animated shows I agree

[@lavinyagabriela0811]

FSN talking about Arcane, this is one of the best days of my life

[@pugisherpug4366]

Isha was referenced on Jinx's balloon ship and outfit with bunny ears, teeth from her helmet, the goggles design. She is referenced just not verbally. Which is funny considering she's mute. The spin offs are unlikely to have arcane characters off the bat for a bit (apparently never mind they will have a some arcane characters as focuses. Probably Mel and maybe Jinx since they are best to explore more areas). By spin off's they mean more league shows but that doesn't mean arcane characters YET... Vi and Caitlyn are the least likely with our understanding right now to show up anytime soon since they (and Ekko [Christian linke did say more of his story is to come with Jinx]) are still in Piltover and Zaun at Caitlyn's house and they have no reason to leave since their things seems to be rebuilding and such. They are Piltover's finest after all they are intertwined with the region. Unless they go back to that area or they make the two leave for some reason it will be like 10 years before they would realistically be seen again with how many other regions are to be explored before going back. Jinx may appear since she left on that airship and Ella Purnell made it seem like she's coming back in afterglow some with her body language. But who knows. Jinx is a wildcard in that. Viktor and Jayce may appear in some void related stuff considering Viktor's powers are apparently connected to that. Mel is going to Noxus so I think she certainly will unless Noxus isn't covered since they had representation this series. With Swain at the end I think Noxus will be continued though. He also said Cait and Vi have concepts of their story going forward but then clarified that nothing is set in stone or in production and they have ideas of where to take the characters next, but could be entirely dropped in the creative process. They said that for the majority of known living champions after the show though.

[@CascadianRanger]

"There is beauty in imperfection." That whole speech by Jayce summed up the season perfectly. Is it perfect? No. Could it have used maybe a few more episodes to really delve into things? Yes. Is it an absolutely beautiful and thought provoking piece of art? Without a doubt.

[@Ralndrath]

Bloody hell! That animation! I am working on the script Bible of an animated Lovecraftian horror show set in 1860s upstate New York: In the Mists of Madness and I want ao much for Fortiche to animate it, it isn't funny. Absolutely beautiful!

[@NFC37]

24:16 I genuinely adored this video, but have to comment on Caitlyn here. She doesn't at all just switch sides 'in a blink': ever since the first scene of her in E4 we see her already having doubts about the whole Ambessa Martial Law situation. And every single scene prior to Caitlyn and Vi meeting again, it's shown that Cait is constantly doubting Ambessa's intentions, and questioning whether Cait herself is doing the right thing. It didn't at all come out of nowhere: it was subtle, but obvious in the subtext and animation choices. She finally caved upon seeing Vi because Vi revealed that the weapon that Ambessa was searching for (a murderous weapon that horrified Cait) was actually Vi's father. Cait is very empathetic to Vi already, and she personally knows what it's like to lose a parent. So if she has the possibility to actually help save Vi's father, coupled with the fact that she's already not keen on capturing the 'monster weapon', AND her overall doubts about Ambessa, of course she'll take the exit and finally choose to switch sides. Watch her scenes again and notice all of her doubts painted on her face and body language. In no ways is this Caitlyn instantly changing her mind

[@kryt7955]

Can't agree more. I think they thought they could end it in two seasons, but realized later that was not possible without a fast pacing. They did whatever they could to stick it out and they deserve credit for it.

[@chanmarr8118]

22:00 Same! I had went to bed after starting the first few mins of the last episode and they were in the war room talking. When I came back to the episode the next day, I thought I must've fallen asleep for some of it and missed half an episode. I went back to the last episode and rewatched the last 15 mins like, nope I remember all this. When I started the last one again with that quick transition to the war, I really said to myself "oh wow, so we're just jumping right into battle..." Lots of time jumps. I thought it was just me.

[@AtelaLafford]

i hold a lot of criticism for season 2, but my god the amount of times i still get misty eyed thinking about all that's happened - and that finale ALONE - still elevates it to one of the best shows of all time for me. just a phenomenal amount of heart and passion that is bursting out of every shot and choice and performance. i'm so happy to be alive to have witnessed it. thanks for sharing your thoughts with us!!! they were wonderful :3

[@SilverTheLover]

the main criticism people have of arcane s2 is that they wish there was more of it… i think that’s pretty telling that it’s an awesome show

[@emanx222]

Yeah honestly outside of the amazing visuals, voice work and soun direction, the overall direction and plot was a joke this season, everything was rushed, nothing had as much weight because there wasn't any time for the story notes to breathe unlike in season 1. The last 3 eps are the most agregious, everything just happens so quickly damn near nothing made sense and as someone that's never played the games, that put me off so badly. I wasn't in as much of a rush to finish season 2 as I was season 1 because I didn't feel gripped by it. Season 2 felt more like a fanservice season than anything of substance.

[@miam2615]

Arcane gave us the Harry Potter ending where they just skip all of the immediate after effects of the last scene and cut to some time in the future. I really wanted to see more of what the characters did after the war. What's Ekko doing now? How did Zaun and Piltover come together? I wanted to see more of Vi's raw reaction to loosing Jinx or even Mel's reaction to Jayce dying. Instead, we just got Sevika suddenly sitting at the council table and some bittersweet moments of the characters staring into space.

[@SecretMagician]

Speaking of Harry Potter, did you know Caitlyn's VA is the same woman who played Cho Chang in the original movies?

[@Futurebound_jpg]

This show is one of a kind, first of its kind, a fucking masterpiece. As an artist who can enjoy visual spectacle even when theres no sensical plot whatsoever, this show is perfect to me. I would take a show this gorgeous, emotionally motivated, and artistic over a show with a clean and concise plot ANY DAY

[@alexandre4970]

Lots of people are saying that an extra season or act would've solved a lot of things. It's possible, but that's not an objective truth. The writer's room (and schedule) was severely reduced to just 3 writers. These are also the same people who spent a lot of time interacting with the fandom, hence the feeling that some moments are just straight out of ao3. A lot of flaws would've still been there. They could've been better, but seasons 2 and 3 would've never been as sharp as Season 1.

[@amivalentine3380]

This makes so much sense. I agree, the flaws go deeper than just pacing. Some of the dialogue was straight up awful, and I'll never forgive the retcon on Silco's character. That truly does just feel like a fanfic version of him.

[@nanopix5305]

The writers werent reduced to 3, I know one of them said that, and im not really sure what they meant, but another writer said its the same team, plus you can actually see the credits for 100% confirmation its not 3 writers.

[@anfiasco]

official FriendlySpaceNinja arcane edit was not expected but absolutely appreciated

[@nicholasloduca6668]

I know their overall roles were important in the season, but man, did they do Ekko and Heimerdinger dirty with how little screentime they got

[@kevinmejia9159]

Victors quotes and speeches were amazing

[@notmynamedammit]

I think the reason for season 2 being the way it is is that they tried to find a way to fullfill all the following conditions: 1.) They had several stories they wanted to tell (Warwick, Glorious, Sister Part, CaitVi, Noxians and banding together against Noxians) and they didn't want to drop any of them even though those stories don't necessarily go together, so they just did all of them. 2.) They very firmly didn't want to do another season. 3.) IMO they wanted to escalate the conflict instead of doing just another well done personal story. > Personally, I think just adding a couple of episodes or another season wouldn't really have solved the problem that those stories don't necessarily go well together.

[@corbanbausch9049]

The issue is, all those plots were set up in season 1 to some degree so just straight dropping them would be weird. In my mind, the story was _always_ meant to escalate, it’s very common among fantasy stories. It was always meant to be a grandiose, universal tale about humanity and the idea of duality, good within evil and evil within good (“two sides of the same coin”), with the two sisters (and two “brothers”) at the core of it. The more subtle takes on classism and society were always just meant to be a means to an end. A reflection of the theme, not the main point.

[@magical571]

they were all set up though. knowing league's lore made it even more clear and obvious, but even without that knowledge it was very clear and they scattered it all around in S1....and hell, even the name of the series itself tells you that. it was in the end end about the more grandious story surrounding the arcane: which yes, 100% involves those plotlines you feel are extra. it's just that for people who don't know the lore already, it's hard to, for example, know what to make of the black rose and noxus, it really is a matter of pacing in that regard.

[@nothinginteresting4152]

I feel like a lot of the issues people have with season 2 can be seen if you compare how the characters react to the undercity blockade in season 1, to the reaction to the enactment of martial law in season 2. In season 1, we got to see the direct consequences of this decision in both the fight on the bridge and the increased tensions between the undercity and piltover, and also in how it damages the relationship between Jayce and Viktor. in season 2, we get a 2 minute montage of people in the undercity rioting, and then a scene where Ambessa’s men are getting civilians to line up. And that’s it. Cait doesn’t get confronted with the consequences of her actions the way that Jayce did in season 1. If she did, her betrayal in ep 6 would make much more sense, but because we never get to see her reckoning with her choices, it feel like it comes out of the blue. Because of this, the plot feels so ungrounded, we don’t feel the weight of the characters’ actions because there are no consequences and the characters feel inaccessible because we see so little of the reasons behind their actions. It doesn’t feel real the way that season 1 did

[@mizzavvi]

pouring one out for the dialogue in the subtitles that wasn't even fkin voiced over, god the glazing of this season is EXHAUSTING

[@allohnfisher]

Absolutely fantastic show. Thanks for the video, FSN!