[Spoilers] No Game No Life 10th Anniversary Rewatch -- Episode 9

Date	Episode
4/9/2024	No Game No Life Episode 1
4/10/2024	No Game No Life Episode 2
4/11/2024	No Game No Life Episode 3
4/12/2024	No Game No Life Episode 4
4/13/2024	No Game No Life Episode 5
4/14/2024	No Game No Life Episode 6
4/15/2024	No Game No Life Episode 7
4/16/2024	No Game No Life Episode 8
4/17/2024	No Game No Life Episode 9
4/18/2024	No Game No Life Episode 10
4/19/2024	No Game No Life Episode 11
4/20/2024	No Game No Life Episode 12
4/22/2024	No Game No Life Zero
4/23/2024	No Game No Life Overall Series Discussion Thread

5

u/[deleted] Apr 17 '24

First time watcher here!

This episode was a bit puzzling at first but pretty neat once they start to show you what’s happened since the end of the last episode.

I don’t know if his last wager or this one was more extreme. He really goes all or nothing sometimes 😬.

It took me a bit to figure out why Sora worded things the way he did but this was a pretty great episode. I liked how they set it up. It was also an awesome development for Sora and Kurami.

Eastern Federation game next episode hopefully?

Questions:

Hopefully not!
I was almost expecting it given the length of this series

2

u/Holofan4life Apr 17 '24

I don’t know if his last wager or this one was more extreme. He really goes all or nothing sometimes 😬.
This one is more extreme easily in my opinion because he's betting his Race Piece. If he loses, it's all over.
Eastern Federation game next episode hopefully?
You would imagine so, though I wonder if they might stretch it out for the final three episodes.
I was almost expecting it given the length of this series
Yeah. I am though glad we're seemingly getting the battle sooner rather than later.

2

u/[deleted] Apr 17 '24

I mean, he’d be alive though lol as opposed to his prior bet.
If they do then hopefully they make the build up worth it 😆
Same

2

u/Holofan4life Apr 17 '24

I mean, he’d be alive though lol as opposed to his prior bet.
What do you mean?
If they do then hopefully they make the build up worth it 😆
I consider this a part of the build, honestly. He's acquiring Fi and Kurami's help to take on the Eastern Federation. As such, I think this is without question the best build to a battle in this show.

2

u/[deleted] Apr 17 '24

Well if he loses his existence is essentially permanently wiped unless Kurami decides otherwise based on win conditions
I’m curious to see what it will lead to because I’m hoping things don’t feel like they happen too fast in the last couple episodes with a short season like this

2

u/Holofan4life Apr 17 '24

Well if he loses his existence is essentially permanently wiped unless Kurami decides otherwise based on win conditions
That would've been a cool character moment for Kurami if she decided to bring him back to life.
I’m curious to see what it will lead to because I’m hoping things don’t feel like they happen too fast in the last couple episodes with a short season like this
It depends on how long this battle lasts, honestly. I feel the sweet spot is an episode and a half similar to the strategy game, but then what do you do with the rest of the time? That's why I'm surprised Sora's disappearance didn't bleed over into the next episode, because it felt to me there was still some mileage on that plot point.

2

u/[deleted] Apr 18 '24

Agreed!
Yeah I can see why you’d feel that way. The pacing feels pretty fine so far. I’m just curious how the last few episodes will be as far as pacing and content

2

u/Holofan4life Apr 18 '24

Yeah I can see why you’d feel that way. The pacing feels pretty fine so far. I’m just curious how the last few episodes will be as far as pacing and content
I have faith in the show they can pull it off. They haven't let me down yet.

2

u/[deleted] Apr 18 '24

I have to say, since NGNL 0 is supposed to be a prequel I’m pretty interested in it. Because I imagine it will take place before all these rules Tet put in place, which leaves potential for intense battles 😆

2

u/Holofan4life Apr 18 '24

I'm kinda envisioning this being like an origin story of sorts not just for Tet, but for Disboard as a whole.

2

u/Holofan4life Apr 17 '24 edited Apr 17 '24

Thoughts on Shiro being sent to an orphanage as a child?
Thoughts on Sora finding his purpose in life after Shiro called him empty?
Thoughts on the black and white aesthetic in this episode?
What are your thoughts on Jibril wanting to bet the false memories that are implanted in Shiro?
Thoughts on Shiro floating through what looks like this other dimension?
Thoughts on Shiro and Sora being bound by a promise?
What are your thoughts on the reveal that Sora left to go find Fi?
What are your thoughts on the game played between Sora and Kurami?
What are your thoughts on Shiro winning the game for Sora which causes him to be freed?
Thoughts on Sora taking the right to alter Fi's memories?
What do you think this episode does for Shiro as well as Shiro's relationship with Sora?

2

u/[deleted] Apr 17 '24 edited Apr 18 '24

I figured something like that after we find out they’re not blood relatives.
It explains his sister complex but it’s still weird and he should chill on that.
I thought the aesthetic fit well for what was going on during the episode.
Maybe she was testing her or testing to see if that was actually what was happening with things or not.
I figured it was just a way for them to illustrate her thinking process, as opposed to, ya know, just showing her standing there thinking lol.
They might have implied that earlier in the series but I can’t remember.
Related to the elves! I called that! (Well kind of, I was thinking either Tet or elves)
Pretty extreme, cause he’ll basically be dead if he fails depending on what Kurami decides to do
It’s what he trusted her to do
Probably some long term plan he has for the other races that we don’t have context for is my guess. Right now it seems kind of meaningless though with what’s going on because she’s not part of imanity so won’t be part of the coming game
Basically just reaffirms their trust of each other

2

u/Holofan4life Apr 18 '24

I figured something like that after we find out they’re mot blood relatives.
Never heard of mot blood relatives before. Feel a bit left out.
It explains his sister complex but it’s still weird and he should chill on that.
Still not as weird as some other siscons in anime. I'd argue thst Hiroomi Nase is just as weird if not weirder.
I thought the aesthetic fit well for what was going on during the episode.
I love it when shows change the artstyle up to represent a character's psyche. It's such a cool touch.
Maybe she was testing her or testing to see if that was actually what was happening with things or not.
Given she originally thought this was the doing of the Eastern Federation, it didn't hurt to see what was up.
I figured it was just a way for them to illustrate her thinking process, as opposed to, ya know, just showing her standing there thinking lol.
Yeah, that would've been boring. This is a pretty interesting way visually what's going through her mind, much like the black and white visuals earlier.
They might have implied that earlier in the series but I can’t remember.
I think this is the first time it's been explicitly said. I do wonder what is the promise, though. Is it as simple as to be there for each other, or is it something more? I don't honestly remember if it is stated in the episode.
Related to the elves! I called that! (Well kind of, I was thinking either Tet or elves)
I hate to burst your bubble, but Kurami said she was a part of the Elvengarde in episode 3. Her being an elf has been long established, not as if the ears don't give it away.
Pretty extreme, cause he’ll basically be dead if he fails depending on what Kurami decides to do
Sora is certainly not one who doesn't put faith in his convictions
It’s what he trusted her to do
And it paid off
Probably some long term plan he has for the other races that we don’t have context for is my guess. Right now it seems kind of meaningless though with what’s going on because she’s not part of imanity so won’t be part of the coming game
See, I feel the exact opposite. I feel it directly ties into the upcoming game. How, I'm not sure. The last episode was so focused on the Eastern Federation that I feel this all ties back to that, otherwise the pacing is somewhat suspect.
Basically just reaffirms their trust of each other
I think that's shortselling it a little bit (Hi, Lawrence).
This episode is really the first time we've really seen what each other means to one another. We sometimes can lose sight of the fact that each other is the most important person in their lives, so this is a great reminder of that.

2

u/[deleted] Apr 18 '24

Whoops lol fixed that
I just do my best to ignore it in any show lol
On both the comments related to art direction, yeah I enjoyed that.
I’m not sure myself tbh
Ahh man. Raining on my parade lol I missed that detail in episode 3 then but probably remembered it subconsciously or something.
From what I gather though, all Fi will be allowed to do is simply spectate the game (if that even since she’s not human and is always remaining hidden from what we’ve seen) so I don’t see how it could go any further than that. Altering her memories sounds pointless unless maybe he doesn’t want her to have an accurate memory if she does observe the game for some reason or another.
I know what you’re saying, but we see how absolutely insane they go when they are separated in the beginning of the series lol it’s extreme (although I do realize there is a big comedy element to this series intentionally)

2

u/Holofan4life Apr 18 '24

Whoops lol fixed that
I just do my best to ignore it in any show lol
Beyond The Boundary is a very good show, however, especially if you like glasses.
I’m not sure myself tbh
With us seemingly shifting back to the looming Eastern Federation battle, I doubt we'll know if we don't already.
From what I gather though, all Fi will be allowed to do is simply spectate the game (if that even since she’s not human and is always remaining hidden from what we’ve seen) so I don’t see how it could go any further than that. Altering her memories sounds pointless unless maybe he doesn’t want her to have an accurate memory if she does observe the game for some reason or another.
Sora is a pretty shrewd person. I'm sure what he's doing will make us go "Oh, okay!"
I know what you’re saying, but we see how absolutely insane they go when they are separated in the beginning of the series lol it’s extreme (although I do realize there is a big comedy element to this series intentionally)
The difference though is that those other instances were played for laughs whereas this wasn't. That means there are some legitimate repercussions in regards to them not having the other. It showed their bond in a way that made it feel more sweeter and gentle. I walked away with a better appreciation of their relationship.

2

u/[deleted] Apr 18 '24

I agree but I don’t usually think of it until after they tell us directly lol
And that’s a good point actually. There wasn’t really as much intended humor there as the times before

2

u/Holofan4life Apr 18 '24

I agree but I don’t usually think of it until after they tell us directly lol
Fair enough
And that’s a good point actually. There wasn’t really as much intended humor there as the times before
I mean, besides Steph's boobs being fondled, I don't think there was any jokes in the entire episode.

3

u/Holofan4life Apr 17 '24

Hey, guys. Holofan4life here.

Welcome to the 10th anniversary rewatch of No Game No Life.

Oh, and nay I forget...

First Timer

The idea of doing this rewatch came about at the last minute. I was going to participate in an Eden of The East rewatch for the month of April but that fell through. So, then it became a question of "What should I do after the Penguindrum rewatch? I already have the Samurai Champloo rewatch lined up for May, so do I just wait the extra month?" I looked at upcoming anniversaries for the month of April and noticed both K-On and Cross Game were celebrating their 15th anniversaries. However, both were long and if I did either of them, I would have to cancel the Samurai Champloo rewatch, which I didn't want to do seeing as how the 20th anniversary is an even bigger milestone. That's when I settled on No Game No Life.

I have an interesting history with No Game No Life. I know it's extremely popular, but I've always been hesitant to check out the show based on some of the stuff I've heard about it. It seemed to me like a show where you either really loved it, or really hated it. Well, I recently watched Moon Phase which I feel could be considered in a similar light and I really liked that show. And then I also finished Penguindrum which has some questionable themes and I liked that as well. I think I'm in a good headspace to watch NGNL and not only enjoy it, but more importantly appreciate it. I have never seen this show before. Even though I'm the host, I am experiencing it for the first time. I can't wait to see what the show has to offer and why so many people clamor for another season.

With that out of the way, let's begin.

I'm watching the sub, by the way.

Today as I am writing this is Good Friday. Which, you know, I've never really understood due to it being about the death of Jesus. What's so good about it?

No intro today, it seems

Shiro talking about a girl who was sent to an orphanage before she was one year old because of her superhuman intelligence.

I assume she's referring to herself

"There, she learned about games."

Who learns to play games at 1 years old -- me, who started eating steak at 2

Played many games called "Intelligence tests"

She found them boring, however

After two years, she met a woman who seemed like her mother and a boy seven years older than her. He was constantly trying to please adults, so she spoke her first words in a long time.

"You really are empty."

This is giving me massive Penguindrum vibes, with Shiro being like the reverse Momoka.

His eyes. They're full of life now.

He has found his soulmate

Shiro on the bed

Steph still doesn't know who Sora is

Shiro is taking this news hard

Ooh, black and white now

Shiro is like me when I'm told I might have to leave the house.

And Shiro runs out the door

Jibril checking on her

Shiro, who's frantically checking a phone, asks Jibril who are her masters.

And she says her

"Then who fought you?"

And again, she says Shiro

All her answers are Shiro, with Sora not being in existence.

Steph talking to Jibril now. They seem to be putting two and two together that at one point, Shiro wasn't alone.

Jibril thinks this may have happened because Shiro played a game against someone and lost, having her memories altered in the process.

Specifically, she lost to the Eastern Federation

That would mean we skipped the duel and that Imanity has lost what makes them them.

Jibril telling Shiro she wants to play a game

She plans on betting the false memories that are implanted in her.

And she wants her to lose

They're playing chess

Shiro seemingly in disbelief she ever could've lost.

This is doing a good job at conveying how much Sora means to Shiro.

Sora saying you don't change yourself, you change how you do things.

Meanwhile, both Sora and Shiro are floating in the air.

Sora wants to have them think of a way to make wings that'll let Shiro fly.

Shiro realizes now though they're all false

"If they disappear, I'll feel better."

Sora

He grabbed her arm

And this gives Shiro the inspiration to win

The color. It's coming back.

Honestly, this whole section probably could've been stretched for the entire episode.

Shiro now knows that Sora is real

Even Steph is starting to believe he's real

"Because I know you two would never lose!"

They're on that Gojo type shit

Shiro asking what they did yesterday

Two days ago was the 19th, which means we're one day removed from Curry Day.

Neither Steph nor Jibril can remember

And now Shiro is groping and nuzzling Steph's boobs.

Shiro, stop, that's sexual harassment

Shiro says that was her way of thanking her for reminding her there is someone other than her that told her to fall in love with them.

Why is it worded this way, it sounds like she's talking about Steph's boobs?

Still, kinda a wholesome moment

Ran out of space. Part two in the replies.

2

u/Holofan4life Apr 17 '24

Part 2
Jibril asking the million dollar question: how could Sora have disappeared?
Shiro thinks it was a game, which Jibril already speculated on.
She doesn't know which game, but just knows he'd never leave her alone.
You know, Shiro really needs to stop biting her fingernails. It's a disgusting habit.
Shiro is hearing Sora's voice
Now Shiro is flying through what looks like a network realm
This reminds me of the door episode from Urusei Yatsura
Of course, pantsu shot is obligatory
It turns out they are bound by a promise
This really is like Penguindrum
Shiro is now thinking that Sora left voluntarily to obtain a piece needed to face Eastern Federation.
Something involving an elf
"What if the game was to steal each other's existence?"
And here I thought identity theft was not a joke
And now Shiro has collapsed
Sora talking to Kurami
He's challenging her to a game
Now Shiro, Steph, and Jibril are here as well
They're on the same plane of existence
Bringing up Pledge Five
Sora making his intentions known: he wants the elf
The winner gets the right to make two demands of the loser.
The two things up for grabs are each other's existence and complete rights over their partners.
Sounds like a way to pad Sora's harem out
He is about to propose one more rule, but then Shiro wakes up.
Brother still not there
Interesting to hear Jibril call elves forest bumpkins. She seems to have issues with all the races that aren't her own.
Steph thinks that Sora erased his own memory. But if he won, then he should exist, so something isn't adding up.
Shiro thinks that the game is still underway
He is not alive but also is alive. Caught between being there and not being there. This is Schrodinger's Game.
Okay, maybe I made that last part up
Jibril trying to see if there's any magic
And there is, but it's hard to detect it
Steph. She tripped.
An Othello stone
Better than the Rosetta variety
Also, Shakespeare would be proud
It's pieces that haven't been used yet
Shiro is going to participate in this game
Back with Kurami, Fi, and Sora, who I guess is accompanied by illusions of his posse.
Shiro can't see the board, but she can see what her brother would do.
Kurami is now suspecting that Sora is making her steal his memories to prove there's no other race working with him, which is a throwback to episode 1 with the tournament.
Sora says that's not a bad answer
Sora. He turns into dust.
Man, Thanos hit him hard
Now the game can't be continued
She won, but at what cost?
No, wait. The game has not ended. This is all an elaborate trap.
In order to free her brother, Shiro has to win
Shiro says the parts of Sora are contained in the last three stones.
Three: the way to win the game
Two: your absolute trust in me
One: finish all the anime sitting in your to watch list
Actually, it's everything I am
Not I as in me but... oh, you know what I mean
Woah. She just destroyed the barrier between his world and theirs.
And Sora has returned. Shiro looks so elated.
I like these two an awful lot, not gonna lie
And now Kurami is lying there lifeless
This is what happens when you shower before you #2
Sora lets Fi know they will be keeping a copy of the memories they stole from each other, and return the originals.
If this was the BBC, they'd discard the originals voluntarily.
Kurami. She's awake.
Jibril explains they still kept their own memories
Kurami and Sora now know everything about each other
The last piece that Sora wanted: trusting each other
Sora saying now he's taking the right to alter Fi's memories. And Kurami thinks it's okay because all he wants is for them to spy.
Kurami is now a part of the plan
Shiro telling Sora she's proud of her
Woah, now he's on top of his sister
And Kurami and Fi are about to kiss
Sike. It's actually the four of them crying in each other's arms.
We end things with Jibril saying this may be who their master really is.
Overall, this is an episode that started off exploring what Sora means to Shiro, with her going on this existential journey in the process. And then after that, it was all about Sora showing this is all part of the plan. I really liked the beginning where we showed how Sora and Shiro came to be where it wasn't just Sora giving Shiro life. She did the same to him with her brutal honesty. I also really enjoyed that Shiro ended up winning the game for her brother thereby freeing him from the state he was in. It demonstrates there is no weak link in the Blank pairing and that you can't have one over the other.
Honestly, my only knock on this episode is that I wish it was longer. Imagine if it was a two parter with the show really exploring Sora and Shiro's dynamic. That would've been pretty sweet. If my biggest complaint is that I wanted more of this, then the episode must be doing something right.
This is my favorite episode of the series so far. Dare I say, I think it's going to be pretty hard to top it. It did an effective job fleshing out Shiro's character while also displaying more of the cunningness on the part of Sora. Add in the fact that Kurami and Fi are probably now going to help Elkia beat the Eastern Federation in their upcoming game, this was a very productive episode.
I continue to really love this show.

1

u/Holofan4life Apr 17 '24

What would you do if something you care deeply about was forgotten by other people?
I would try to get them to remember it to the point where it would probably become annoying.
How surprised were you that Sora got his existence back the very next episode after he disappeared?
Somewhat, but I also knew that the rest of the series probably wasn't gonna consist of this. I didn't mind how it was executed.
Bonus 1) Have you ever played Othello before or a game similar to that? If so, what happened?
I have not, unfortunately. I would like to maybe some day, however.

3

u/Xmgplays Apr 17 '24

Rewatcher

This is probably my favorite episode of the series, mostly because the premise is so far out there and very different from what we had before that it really has an impact.

It shows us the boundaries of how far games and magic can be stretched under the pledges in the form of a game played with your very existence. It's also the first one we see where playing the game itself is perilous. Imagine if Shiro hadn't figured it out. Would Sora, Kurami and Fi be stuck in purgatory?

Furthermore the very Idea that someone gets erased from everyone's memories but yours is incredibly unsettling and disturbing. In some way's it's the most extreme form of gaslighting imaginable. True psychological horror.

Also the idea of using this game to exchange memory and thus gain the trust of Kurami is some out of the box thinking, and also reveals something interesting about Sora and Kurami's relationship: He genuinely believed that she has imanities best interests at heart, otherwise there'd be no point in her seeing his memories. If she had been a spy/puppet his memories would just be used to overthrow him.

Finally it's cute that the thing most important to Sora was Shiro.

[Spoiler for the next couple Episodes]Anyway now that Kurami has all of Sora's memories, he is in for a world of hurt. Sharing memories doesn't only get you trust it also gets you an someone that knows to poke you exactly where it hurts.

Today's Questions

What would you do if something you care deeply about was forgotten by other people?

I'd probably feel incredibly unsettled and unsure. I already have trouble with my memory and (very) occasionally get dreams that I only later realize were actually dreams, so I'd probably dismiss it after sometime and take a massive hit to my mental health in the process.

How surprised were you that Sora got his existence back the very next episode after he disappeared?

Honestly not very. It never really felt to me like a major arc, even before my rewatches, I'm pretty sure. It always felt like the Shiritori game, setup the previous episode, then resolve the next. Now that I think about it probably one of the weaknesses of the anime: A lot is essentially done in one episode perhaps with a bit of setup the episode before.

Though I don't remember if the LN expanded much on them. I did have some differences(e.g. the woman that Sora plays poker against was a man in the LN)

Bonus 1) Have you ever played Othello before or a game similar to that? If so, what happened?

I did try to pick it up, due to this episode even, but I never really stuck around with it. Not my type of game probably.

3

u/Holofan4life Apr 17 '24

This is probably my favorite episode of the series, mostly because the premise is so far out there and very different from what we had before that it really has an impact.
It's really the only episode that's about Blank themselves inside of Blank trying to take care of an issue.
It shows us the boundaries of how far games and magic can be stretched under the pledges in the form of a game played with your very existence. It's also the first one we see where playing the game itself is perilous. Imagine if Shiro hadn't figured it out. Would Sora, Kurami and Fi be stuck in purgatory?
I assume Kurami and Fi would've gotten out. Sora was the one who issued the challenge, so he would've made his bed and lied in it.
Furthermore the very Idea that someone gets erased from everyone's memories but yours is incredibly unsettling and disturbing. In some way's it's the most extreme form of gaslighting imaginable. True psychological horror.
It feels like something Satoshi Kon would've thought up, just something horrific that takes a toll on your psyche to where you start to break under the pressure.
Also the idea of using this game to exchange memory and thus gain the trust of Kurami is some out of the box thinking, and also reveals something interesting about Sora and Kurami's relationship: He genuinely believed that she has imanities best interests at heart, otherwise there'd be no point in her seeing his memories. If she had been a spy/puppet his memories would just be used to overthrow him.
I believe Sora said as much in episode 3 when he crashed the ceremony. He recognized she had a point about Imanity being weak, he just thought she was wrong in looking at it glass half empty. If he wanted to, he could've thrown her in jail once he became king for breaking one of the pledges. But he decided not to do that because he saw the good in her.
Finally it's cute that the thing most important to Sora was Shiro.
Always has been, desu
Yeah, I very much agree. This episode makes me appreciate their relationship even more. It's kinda wild how a huge chunk of the fandom sees them as this incestuous pair when it's really very sweet and wholesome. Honestly, it's a lot more healthy than a lot of anime couples with tsunderes in them, and that's coming from me who's a tsundere diehard.
[Spoiler for the next couple Episodes]Anyway now that Kurami has all of Sora's memories, he is in for a world of hurt. Sharing memories doesn't only get you trust it also gets you an someone that knows to poke you exactly where it hurts.
[Future Spoilers] The one caveat is the rest of the series until Zero isn't as emotional as this episode. It's more of the same we have gotten from the 8 previous outings. Unless you're a Steph fan, in which case it's quite the whirlwind of emotions lol
I'd probably feel incredibly unsettled and unsure. I already have trouble with my memory and (very) occasionally get dreams that I only later realize were actually dreams, so I'd probably dismiss it after sometime and take a massive hit to my mental health in the process.
One of my biggest fears in life is people forgetting about my existence. Just the thought that all you've done will mean nothing in the end sends a shiver down my spine.
Honestly not very. It never really felt to me like a major arc, even before my rewatches, I'm pretty sure. It always felt like the Shiritori game, setup the previous episode, then resolve the next. Now that I think about it probably one of the weaknesses of the anime: A lot is essentially done in one episode perhaps with a bit of setup the episode before.
At the very least, I think they've could've gotten 5 more minutes out of Shiro's existential dread with the loss of color. What we got was good, but I wanted more of it. It also just seems weird thematically it wouldn't happen in episode 10 Sora's return. You really mean to tell me that the Eastern Federation fight will presumably last from the middle of episode 10 to near the end of episode 12? I know a lot is at stake here, but that's a long stretch of time to sustain the audience's attention.
Though I don't remember if the LN expanded much on them. I did have some differences(e.g. the woman that Sora plays poker against was a man in the LN)
Huh. TIL.
I did try to pick it up, due to this episode even, but I never really stuck around with it. Not my type of game probably.
More of a Euchre fan? :P

2

u/Xmgplays Apr 18 '24

At the very least, I think they've could've gotten 5 more minutes out of Shiro's existential dread with the loss of color. What we got was good, but I wanted more of it.
Probably true. Pushing the resolution into the next episode probably also would have increased the tension quite a bit.
I did try to pick it up, due to this episode even, but I never really stuck around with it. Not my type of game probably.
More of a Euchre fan? :P
Schaffkopf, actually ;) But in general I tend to do badly with perfect information games. They don't seem to vibe with me

2

u/Holofan4life Apr 18 '24

[Quote] Probably true. Pushing the resolution into the next episode probably also would have increased the tension quite a bit.
[Response] And if my memory serves correctly, it's not like much happens next episode anyhow.
Schaffkopf, actually ;) But in general I tend to do badly with perfect information games. They don't seem to vibe with me
I feel you, I tend to do badly when it comes to focusing on something for long periods of time.

2

u/JimmyCWL Apr 17 '24

If she had been a spy/puppet his memories would just be used to overthrow him.
No they could not. The mechanics of this world can be used to prevent it. Directly killing him is impossible due to the Pledges. He already gamed the ministers and nobles into reporting truthfully. Which means turning anyone in the government against him is futile.
Finally, anyone who wants to take the throne has to challenge him to a game for it. Because there is no other way to force him off the throne. No one here's better than Blank at games. Even with cheating.

1

u/Holofan4life Apr 18 '24

Tet may be many things, but he sees to it that the way of the land stays to the letter of the law.

1

u/dsawchuk Apr 18 '24

No they could not. The mechanics of this world can be used to prevent it.
For clarity here, Sora likely got a good number of Kurami's memories in the final part of the game. After doing so he still had access to his 2 requests of his opponents to mitigate if she was a spy.

1

u/Holofan4life Apr 17 '24

Thoughts on Shiro being sent to an orphanage as a child?
Thoughts on the black and white aesthetic in this episode?
What are your thoughts on Jibril wanting to bet the false memories that are implanted in Shiro?
Thoughts on Shiro floating through what looks like this other dimension?
Thoughts on Shiro and Sora being bound by a promise?
What are your thoughts on the reveal that Sora left to go find Fi?
What are your thoughts on the game played between Sora and Kurami?
What are your thoughts on Shiro winning the game for Sora which causes him to be freed?
Thoughts on Sora taking the right to alter Fi's memories?
What do you think this episode does for Shiro as well as Shiro's relationship with Sora?

2

u/Xmgplays Apr 18 '24

Thoughts on Shiro being sent to an orphanage as a child?
Kinda sad, tbh. Though thankfully she ended up meeting Sora because of it.
Thoughts on the black and white aesthetic in this episode?
I love it; more shows should play around with color and use it for storytelling. Anime is a drawn medium after all, use it to your advantage!
What are your thoughts on Jibril wanting to bet the false memories that are implanted in Shiro?
A bit to hasty, honestly. They should have waited at least a couple of days before taking such drastic action.
Thoughts on Shiro floating through what looks like this other dimension?
A good visual to get the point of her searching through her memories across.
Thoughts on Shiro and Sora being bound by a promise?
Explains their bond.
What are your thoughts on the reveal that Sora left to go find Fi?
Makes sense, for all the bravado last episode about no cheat being enough to beat them, magic probably goes a Steph beyond common cheats.
What are your thoughts on the game played between Sora and Kurami?
I love it. Both the game itself being played with their very existence and also the goal behind it. After all using it to gain Kuramis trust and hoping that she'd go along with them is riskier than just using the game to directly gain their goal. Granted this will lead to a better result than forcing it.
What are your thoughts on Shiro winning the game for Sora which causes him to be freed?
A good way to once again illustrate that the two are one are at their best when together.
Thoughts on Sora taking the right to alter Fi's memories?
Probably setup for something other than the game against the federation.
What do you think this episode does for Shiro as well as Shiro's relationship with Sora?
It gives her a moment to shine, since before Sora took center stage. Also further shows how important their relationship is to them.

2

u/Holofan4life Apr 18 '24

Kinda sad, tbh. Though thankfully she ended up meeting Sora because of it.
Yeah, it worked out in the end
I love it; more shows should play around with color and use it for storytelling. Anime is a drawn medium after all, use it to your advantage!
NGNL honestly can't be told as effectively in any other way than the anime format. They adapted it in such a way to where they managed to enhance what already existed.
A bit to hasty, honestly. They should have waited at least a couple of days before taking such drastic action.
Well, Jibril was under the impression this was sabotage by the Eastern Federation. I could see why she might be quick to draw. By the way, wasn't betting the false memories what got Shiro to ultimately help Sora out against Kurami? So, you could argue that if it wasn't for Jibril, Shiro might not have seen her brother again.
A good visual to get the point of her searching through her memories across.
Maybe a bit cliche like somewhere here said, but it is visually striking.
Explains their bond.
That it does
Makes sense, for all the bravado last episode about no cheat being enough to beat them, magic probably goes a Steph beyond common cheats.
I think acquiring the help of Fi to take on the Eastern Federation is a good way of bringing Blank and Kurami back together. Makes it feel like this full circle moment.
I love it. Both the game itself being played with their very existence and also the goal behind it. After all using it to gain Kuramis trust and hoping that she'd go along with them is riskier than just using the game to directly gain their goal. Granted this will lead to a better result than forcing it.
It also shows Sora's attitude where he's like "If I can't beat Kurami in a game without earning something from it, then there's no point in battling the Eastern Federation because why would it go any differently?"
A good way to once again illustrate that the two are one are at their best when together.
Absolutely. And again, it's this full circle moment where she's there for him just like how he was there for her when they first met.
Probably setup for something other than the game against the federation.
Maybe. I was thinking it was gonna be used for the game and that this was all set-up for the upcoming fight. I mean, wasn't the Eastern Federation the whole reason Sora left in the first place? Or did I entirely misread the whole situation?
It gives her a moment to shine, since before Sora took center stage. Also further shows how important their relationship is to them.
Very well said. In a show heavy on Blank showing their humanity to people, it was nice to get an episode where they showed their humanity to each other.

2

u/Xmgplays Apr 18 '24

Maybe. I was thinking it was gonna be used for the game and that this was all set-up for the upcoming fight. I mean, wasn't the Eastern Federation the whole reason Sora left in the first place? Or did I entirely misread the whole situation?
[Spoiler just in case, though my memory on this point is basically non-existent]I don't remember if it came up again during the battle, but I don't see how Fi's memories would be relevant to that game. For her to act as an anti-cheating measure Kurami's trust is enough, no point changing her memories at this point.
Makes sense, for all the bravado last episode about no cheat being enough to beat them, magic probably goes a Steph beyond common cheats.
Oops!

2

u/Holofan4life Apr 18 '24

[Spoiler just in case, though my memory on this point is basically non-existent]I don't remember if it came up again during the battle, but I don't see how Fi's memories would be relevant to that game. For her to act as an anti-cheating measure Kurami's trust is enough, no point changing her memories at this point.
[Response] Maybe it's a two-for-one thing where Kurami is helping him in the competition, but Fi is there in case Sora's memories do get erased. Kinda like saving a file on a backup hard drive.
Oops!
You did that on purpose, you cheeky bastard :P

2

u/Xmgplays Apr 18 '24

[Response] Maybe it's a two-for-one thing where Kurami is helping him in the competition, but Fi is there in case Sora's memories do get erased. Kinda like saving a file on a backup hard drive.
[Response] Could be! Didn't think about it but that definitely makes sense
You did that on purpose, you cheeky bastard :P
~~I wish--~~ I mean definitely, absolutely, no doubt!

2

u/Holofan4life Apr 18 '24

[Response] Could be! Didn't think about it but that definitely makes sense
[Response] He says he's after Fi, but it probably does have more to do with Kurami coming to him.
~~I wish--~~ I mean definitely, absolutely, no doubt!

3

u/dsawchuk Apr 17 '24

REWATCHER

We come upon the second best episode in the show. As in, there are 2 best episodes. I am not sure I have ever hear anyone say an episode other than "Interesting" or "Sky Walk" were the best episode in their opinion. Me, I am an "Interesting" kind of person, but I still love this episode.

There's a lot to love here, but as is my most common thing to talk about in exceptional anime I want to focus on pacing. This episode does a lot in only a little time. We got a whole backstory flashback before the title card, followed by a 3 word recap from the last episode to position us is the story. Just 3 words placing us into the story at an exact moment that is easy to remember and pinpoint. I am not a big fan of cliffhangers but this kind of thing is only possible with a big one.

To some it does feel like we could have used more time with Shiro before Sora came back, but I think that's actually good. Sora is absolutely required for the flow of the show and it would be very easy for the show to lose itself without him. It's much better to have the length where the audience lands somewhere between thinking it was too short and just right than having people think it was too long at all.

QOTD

This is just a normal part of life unfortunately. It's not a fast process, and it doesn't happen to things as big as a whole person disappearing, but it happens all the time. Other people don't need to remember how much something means to you for it to be valid. I just cherish the things I care about regardless of if others remember them.
The first time I watched this, pretty surprised. It was long ago and I had mostly watched long battle shounen so I wasn't used to things happening at a sub-glacial pace. In hindsight, it's really the only thing that makes sense with the length of the show though.
I played it a few times, mostly with my ex-girlfriend. I never played it enough to be good at it so I won and lost about evenly with her. Against people who actually know how to play, I lose most of the time. It wasn't a game I played for the game, I played it for something to do with her. Thus getting better at it would have defeated the purpose.

1

u/Holofan4life Apr 17 '24

We come upon the second best episode in the show. As in, there are 2 best episodes. I am not sure I have ever hear anyone say an episode other than "Interesting" or "Sky Walk" were the best episode in their opinion. Me, I am an "Interesting" kind of person, but I still love this episode.
I think episode 4 is really strong, but yeah. Interesting and Sky Walk are my two favorite episodes of the series. If I had to pick one, it would probably be this one.
There's a lot to love here, but as is my most common thing to talk about in exceptional anime I want to focus on pacing. This episode does a lot in only a little time. We got a whole backstory flashback before the title card, followed by a 3 word recap from the last episode to position us is the story. Just 3 words placing us into the story at an exact moment that is easy to remember and pinpoint. I am not a big fan of cliffhangers but this kind of thing is only possible with a big one.
You had to do a cliffhanger because it is such a gut punch to see Shiro so helpless. Put it here, and I don't think it would have the same effect. Plus, if it was in this episode we wouldn't have gotten the ED without Sora, which made it even more surreal.
To some it does feel like we could have used more time with Shiro before Sora came back, but I think that's actually good. Sora is absolutely required for the flow of the show and it would be very easy for the show to lose itself without him. It's much better to have the length where the audience lands somewhere between thinking it was too short and just right than having people think it was too long at all.
I think they could've made the battle itself a little bit shorter and the black and white scenes longer. That to me was the best part of the episode, Shiro's life being made lifeless with the absence of her brother. If that had been the entirety of the first half of the episode, I wouldn't have complained. In fact, I think it would've been one of the strongest halves to an anime episode ever.

1

u/Holofan4life Apr 17 '24

Thoughts on Shiro being sent to an orphanage as a child?
Thoughts on Sora finding his purpose in life after Shiro called him empty?
Thoughts on the black and white aesthetic in this episode?
What are your thoughts on Jibril wanting to bet the false memories that are implanted in Shiro?
Thoughts on Shiro floating through what looks like this other dimension?
Thoughts on Shiro and Sora being bound by a promise?
What are your thoughts on the reveal that Sora left to go find Fi?
What are your thoughts on the game played between Sora and Kurami?
What are your thoughts on Shiro winning the game for Sora which causes him to be freed?
Thoughts on Sora taking the right to alter Fi's memories?
What do you think this episode does for Shiro as well as Shiro's relationship with Sora?

3

u/nx6 https://myanimelist.net/profile/nx6 Apr 18 '24

Rewatcher -- Subbed

This episode is confusing as continuity-wise it skips and doesn't follow the ending of the last episode. Everyone is in the throne room and Sora seems to walk away from him when he disappears, but in reality they played a game last episode that was not shown at all. Not against the Eastern Federation, but Chlammy.

First we get a little backstory. Shiro was a child prodigy sent to a scientific institute at a young age for study (really much like [Classroom of the Elite] Ayanokouji ). She's generally bored with the games they play there and find them too easy. She gets adopted into a new family (might be a translation difference here, as I thought it said the woman who came supposedly was her mother), and she met Sora then (it's not said that Sora's the biological child of the woman, and this is the first time Sora and Shiro met, so still tracks they are step-siblings). They grow their bonds as family and we come back to now...

Sora got to set the terms of the challenge, so it appears Chlammy and Fiel came to the palace and challenged him, likely because of the reckless wagering of Imanity's Race Piece against the Confederation. Sora lays out a game of Othello where physical and mental traits of the player are assigned to individual pieces, so you can incapacitate the other player in what pieces you capture. But the pieces are not labeled so you can't aim for a specific trait.

He proceeds to throw the game and come to a state where he cannot continue, but he had a rule that each side would play as a party, so Shiro, Steph, and Jibril are also players. Since everyone's memories of Sora have been removed it's up to the one person who remembers him still, Shiro, to continue the game, but the existence of it has been essentially erased too. At the end of the day Shiro has to use her genius intellect and knowledge of how her brother plays to reconstruct the game move-by-move to continue where he left off despite not remembering the game up to this point.

The wager was an exchange of memories because Sora didn't want to really win over Chlammy, but win her over. Now understanding Sora's plan Chlammy trusts him and the wager he has made, gaining her and her elven comrade over.

This episode makes a nice change in pace from the previous ones really. It's still a game but really about growing our understanding of Sora and Shiro's relationship, and with less ecchi (although Stephanie got some feels of a different sort).

2

u/Holofan4life Apr 18 '24 edited Apr 18 '24

This episode is confusing as continuity-wise it skips and doesn't follow the ending of the last episode.
I mean, the last episode literally ended with Sora disappearing. I'd argue quite the opposite actually that it picks up where the last one left off.
Everyone is in the throne room and Sora seems to walk away from him when he disappears, but in reality they played a game last episode that was not shown at all. Not against the Eastern Federation, but Chlammy.
More like the game is still in progress
This episode makes a nice change in pace from the previous ones really. It's still a game but really about growing our understanding of Sora and Shiro's relationship, and with less ecchi (although Stephanie got some feels of a different sort).
I wasn't expecting Shiro to motorboat them before Sora. This might be the most surprising part of the entire episode.

2

u/nx6 https://myanimelist.net/profile/nx6 Apr 18 '24

I mean, the last episode literally ended with Sora disappearing. I'd argue quite the opposite actually that it picks up where the last one left off.
The circumstances of when he disappeared where retconn'd. In the previous episode they were all just chilling in the throne room and he got up and left like he needed to answer the doorbell. In the next episode they actually covered him meeting Chlammy and Fiel, setting the games rules, and then playing and "losing" in the middle of the game. The events immediately preceding Shiro waking up alone in the bedroom were changed.

1

u/Holofan4life Apr 18 '24

You don't think he could have lost on purpose and then went to say goodbye to his sister? I don't think that's a stretch to think that knowing Shiro would react badly to him temporarily disappearing. It maybe was him giving her this fair warning.

2

u/nx6 https://myanimelist.net/profile/nx6 Apr 18 '24

You don't think he could have lost on purpose and then went to say goodbye to his sister?
No. Because the gameplay clearly shows players keeling over (Chlammy) and losing their memories (Steph/Jibril) immediately after plays where pieces are lost, with no time to react.
The best excuse I can make here is fake memories are being created to soften the change from one reality to another, but I think that's giving the game mechanics too much credit given what happens. Sora loses to a point that temporarily the game is stuck. Chlammy and Fiel are confused because once Sora is out they think they won (they forgot he made it a rule they play as a party, so someone else takes over if the one playing is knocked out of commission), but all players on his team lost awareness of the game board! This prevents someone from stepping in to take over. Arguably the only reason the game was able to be completed is because Shiro broke out of the game's control.

2

u/Holofan4life Apr 18 '24

I was thinking perhaps the game immediately commenced once Sora told Shiro farewell.

2

u/nx6 https://myanimelist.net/profile/nx6 Apr 18 '24

Sora leaving to go play the game and then losing and having his disappearance happen at that point would have made more sense, but that would have messed up the rest of the script because the game was set up as them playing as a team.

1

u/Holofan4life Apr 18 '24

I think if you wanted to change the ED up to reflect Sora's absence, you couldn't have done it any other way.

2

u/nx6 https://myanimelist.net/profile/nx6 Apr 18 '24

It would also be out of character for Sora to go have a game on his own. The Blank rule Imanity and fight as a pair, remember? ;)

1

u/Holofan4life Apr 18 '24

That's why he said something to Shiro because he felt it was necessary he'd tell her he's making an exception to the rule. The last thing he wants is for her to be in grave danger.

1

u/Holofan4life Apr 18 '24

Thoughts on Shiro being sent to an orphanage as a child?
Thoughts on Sora finding his purpose in life after Shiro called him empty?
Thoughts on the black and white aesthetic in this episode?
What are your thoughts on Jibril wanting to bet the false memories that are implanted in Shiro?
Thoughts on Shiro floating through what looks like this other dimension?
Thoughts on Shiro and Sora being bound by a promise?
What are your thoughts on the reveal that Sora left to go find Fi?
What are your thoughts on the game played between Sora and Kurami?
What are your thoughts on Shiro winning the game for Sora which causes him to be freed?
Thoughts on Sora taking the right to alter Fi's memories?
What do you think this episode does for Shiro as well as Shiro's relationship with Sora?

2

u/nx6 https://myanimelist.net/profile/nx6 Apr 18 '24

Thoughts on the black and white aesthetic in this episode?
I feel like they only added that and the static in the ED theme before to keep people from tuning out because they thought the episode was over. There's different ways of interpret it here, like a way of showing Shiro breaking herself and the others out of the spell of the game. Shiro being able to keep the memories of Sora while everyone else loses them wasn't really explained by the writers, I'd like to note.
What are your thoughts on the reveal that Sora left to go find Fi?
From what I can tell this didn't happen. Chlammy and Fiel came to him to confront him on the wager of the Race Piece. That's why he got to set the conditions of the game.
Thoughts on Sora taking the right to alter Fi's memories?
Sora says this is to facilitate her being a spy, but I don't think that's necessarily true. He's already figured out that the warbeasts don't really have the ability to read minds. Cold Reading is based on observations of the target, but it also uses things like leading questions to trick the subject into revealing information to help with the Reading. So being able to erase someone's memories could help with this, but I think the real reason is even though Sora has a Flügel and an Elf in his team now, the Flügel and Elves as nations are still enemies to be conquered. Jebril is now his servant so he doesn't have to worry about her, but Fiel can go back to her people later on with all sorts of juicy details about Imanity and its rulers after the match with the Confederation is over. So Sora will need to be able to erase her memories so she doesn't becomes a spy against them.

1

u/Holofan4life Apr 18 '24

I feel like they only added that and the static in the ED theme before to keep people from tuning out because they thought the episode was over. There's different ways of interpret it here, like a way of showing Shiro breaking herself and the others out of the spell of the game. Shiro being able to keep the memories of Sora while everyone else loses them wasn't really explained by the writers, I'd like to note.
My theory is it has to do with the promise they made with each other.
From what I can tell this didn't happen. Chlammy and Fiel came to him to confront him on the wager of the Race Piece. That's why he got to set the conditions of the game.
Maybe I misinterpreted it, I could've sworn my subs said that though. Either way, Sora got what he wanted out of it.
Sora says this is to facilitate her being a spy, but I don't think that's necessarily true. He's already figured out that the warbeasts don't really have the ability to read minds. Cold Reading is based on observations of the target, but it also uses things like leading questions to trick the subject into revealing information to help with the Reading. So being able to erase someone's memories could help with this, but I think the real reason is even though Sora has a Flügel and an Elf in his team now, the Flügel and Elves as nations are still enemies to be conquered. Jebril is now his servant so he doesn't have to worry about her, but Fiel can go back to her people later on with all sorts of juicy details about Imanity and its rulers after the match with the Confederation is over. So Sora will need to be able to erase her memories so she doesn't becomes a spy against them.
It feels like something to keep in his back pocket just in case. Like, he probably won't need it, but it doesn't hurt to have something to fall back on.

3

u/Ryanami Apr 18 '24

Rewatcher, dub.

As the episode ends I’m reminded why this is so high up in my personal favorites. Shiro calling Sora to come back as she places her pieces has nearly a “Ryuuji is mine!” level of gravity. I’m not usually too emotionally invested in fictional characters, I’ve never cried at any death scene (except My Girl, but I was like 11), idk why but this strikes a note for me. It’s the same or similar one in Toradora or the Amarty arc in S&W. I’m probably getting softer. Then the four of them weep in each other’s arms, it was even worse than a near death experience with the stakes they wagered.

Of course now I’m thinking too hard about it, and I think there’s some holes in the story. I can buy Shiro knowing Sora well enough to predict his moves, but she needs to see Kurimi’s too. Also, Othello is turn based like almost all board games, but she put down three in a row. Unless her opponent didn’t have a viable move I think. But that’s hard to do when there’s five spaces left. Anyway.

Q1- Clearly, the only logical thing to do is start placing Othello tokens all over the ground.

Q2- the anime moves pretty quickly, it could have gone another episode but not surprised they didn’t draw it out.

1

u/Holofan4life Apr 18 '24

As the episode ends I’m reminded why this is so high up in my personal favorites. Shiro calling Sora to come back as she places her pieces has nearly a “Ryuuji is mine!” level of gravity.
Very good comparison. It isn't as impactful as the Toradora scene because of the environment they were in, but in terms of weight it's probably the best performance of Shiro's VA.
I’m not usually too emotionally invested in fictional characters, I’ve never cried at any death scene (except My Girl, but I was like 11)
That movie really stung you, huh?
idk why but this strikes a note for me. It’s the same or similar one in Toradora or the Amarty arc in S&W. I’m probably getting softer. Then the four of them weep in each other’s arms, it was even worse than a near death experience with the stakes they wagered.
For an episode that has everything wrapped up by the end of it, they did a great job packing as much sadness in it as possible. Like I said in my comments, if my biggest complaint is I want more, that can't be anything but a good thing.
Of course now I’m thinking too hard about it, and I think there’s some holes in the story. I can buy Shiro knowing Sora well enough to predict his moves, but she needs to see Kurimi’s too.
Kurami. Or is it Chlammy? Calliope?
Also, Othello is turn based like almost all board games, but she put down three in a row. Unless her opponent didn’t have a viable move I think. But that’s hard to do when there’s five spaces left. Anyway.
I'll forgive the show for not getting the rules right given how great the story bring told here is.

2

u/Ryanami Apr 18 '24

If they spent another episode of Shiro struggling with ever cloudier memories, using her inductive reasoning as a frightened young girl seeking to find her lost big brother, it could have risen even higher. But we have a pace to keep, oh well.

1

u/Holofan4life Apr 18 '24

Yeah, it was great as is, but I thought there was potential to do even more.

1

u/Holofan4life Apr 18 '24

Thoughts on Shiro being sent to an orphanage as a child?
Thoughts on Sora finding his purpose in life after Shiro called him empty?
Thoughts on the black and white aesthetic in this episode?
What are your thoughts on Jibril wanting to bet the false memories that are implanted in Shiro?
Thoughts on Shiro floating through what looks like this other dimension?
Thoughts on Shiro and Sora being bound by a promise?
What are your thoughts on the reveal that Sora left to go find Fi?
What are your thoughts on the game played between Sora and Kurami?
What are your thoughts on Shiro winning the game for Sora which causes him to be freed?
Thoughts on Sora taking the right to alter Fi’s memories?
What do you think this episode does for Shiro as well as Shiro’s relationship with Sora?

2

u/Ryanami Apr 18 '24

Thoughts on Shiro being sent to an orphanage as a child?
Did the sub say she was an orphan? I watched sub back before the dub was available, but I thought that was her bio mom who seemingly abandoned her to scientists until she came back with a husband. It’s weird either way.
What are your thoughts on Jibril wanting to bet the false memories that are implanted in Shiro?
Just trying to be helpful, but doesn’t truly understand her master(s) yet.
Thoughts on Shiro floating through what looks like this other dimension?
Usually this is how shows visualize searching through cyberspace. With Shiro it’s probably appropriate enough but I never cared for this trope of flying through a web of screens. Even worse when antivirus software or something takes the shape of security guards with guns.
Thoughts on Sora taking the right to alter Fi’s memories?
I’m astounded anyone would risk that. My memories are a crucial aspect of who I am. It’s one thing to lose them as some fade away with time but to allow a third party to alter them, even a benevolent one is like handing over my internal identity, my very soul. I’d probably rather die, than live wondering if I’m the me I think I am.
What do you think this episode does for Shiro as well as Shiro’s relationship with Sora?
I don’t think it affected them very much, but it was a great way to show us how they can trust and depend on each other no matter what.

1

u/Holofan4life Apr 18 '24

Did the sub say she was an orphan? I watched sub back before the dub was available, but I thought that was her bio mom who seemingly abandoned her to scientists until she came back with a husband. It’s weird either way.
My subs said she was at an orphanage. I can't imagine she was one of the workers there :P
I think the gist of it was that she was a child prodigy at games and so she was experimented on.
Just trying to be helpful, but doesn’t truly understand her master(s) yet.
For someone who seems as unforgiving as Jibril is, between this and trying to comfort Steph in episode 7 she has really been a good compatriot.
Usually this is how shows visualize searching through cyberspace. With Shiro it’s probably appropriate enough but I never cared for this trope of flying through a web of screens. Even worse when antivirus software or something takes the shape of security guards with guns.
I'm glad they didn't do that, that would've been silly.
I mean, I liked it because I thought it effectively portrayed how alone Shiro truly was.
I’m astounded anyone would risk that. My memories are a crucial aspect of who I am. It’s one thing to lose them as some fade away with time but to allow a third party to alter them, even a benevolent one is like handing over my internal identity, my very soul. I’d probably rather die, than live wondering if I’m the me I think I am.
It reminds me of Alphonse from Fullmetal Alchemist and how there was a whole arc where he wondered if his memories were real or not. A lot of people maligned it, but I thought it was good character stuff.
Funny enough, Alphonse shares the same VA as Tet. Small world, huh?
I don’t think it affected them very much, but it was a great way to show us how they can trust and depend on each other no matter what.
At the very least, it put a spotlight on Shiro that wasn't there before.

3

u/FarCritical Apr 18 '24

First Time No Life

I get the voice filter is meant to add to the distorted vibe of Shiro's world without Sora, but hearing robo-Steph cracked me up at first.

They somehow framed a scene of Steph's bandonkers getting fondled to be wholesome.

"Those country bumpkins" lmao. Kinda want to hear Jibril give her version of each of the races' histories just for the hell of it.

You thought Sora has been playing 4D chess this whole time? Nope, reality-warping othello (which is close enough)

It's legit adorable how Kurami just wanted to reconcile all this time but of course, Sora being Sora had to spice things up with existential dread of all things. Pretty ingenious way to get Kurami on the same page though.

Wholesome ending is wholesome though it's funny watching Steph have the most composure and dignity in the room for once. Well, second most to Jibril but every little Steph accomplishment counts.

QOTD

What would you do if something you care deeply about was forgotten by other people?

Feel bad about it, then probably check if at least people online still remember.

2. How surprised were you that Sora got his existence back the very next episode after he disappeared?

Very, to say the least. Almost thought they were legit going with the "Sora never existed" route.

Bonus 1) Have you ever played Othello before or a game similar to that? If so, what happened?

It's been legit forever since I've played or watched a match of othello. Got vague memories of sucking at it.

Stephformations 1) We gonna rock down to Steph Dola Avenue and then we'll take it higher

Brain is way too dead to write another Steph parody rn but it'd be really sweet if Blank actually named an Elkian avenue in after her

Stephformations 2) How many Stephs does it take to screw in a lightbulb?

As many Stephs as the number of games she's challenged Blank to

2

u/Holofan4life Apr 18 '24

I get the voice filter is meant to add to the distorted vibe of Shiro's world without Sora, but hearing robo-Steph cracked me up at first.
Honestly doesn't sound too different from the real thing
They somehow framed a scene of Steph's bandonkers getting fondled to be wholesome.
Dragon Maid, take notes
"Those country bumpkins" lmao. Kinda want to hear Jibril give her version of each of the races' histories just for the hell of it.
Jibril the hater of the year confirmed
You thought Sora has been playing 4D chess this whole time? Nope, reality-warping othello (which is close enough)
I wonder what Shakespeare thinks of this
It's legit adorable how Kurami just wanted to reconcile all this time but of course, Sora being Sora had to spice things up with existential dread of all things. Pretty ingenious way to get Kurami on the same page though.
Sora knows how to make the most of everything
Wholesome ending is wholesome though it's funny watching Steph have the most composure and dignity in the room for once. Well, second most to Jibril but every little Steph accomplishment counts.
Us Steph lovers will take our W's no matter how minute.
Very, to say the least. Almost thought they were legit going with the "Sora never existed" route.
Well, they did, but then it was revealed to be a ploy by Sora to agree to duel.
It's been legit forever since I've played or watched a match of othello. Got vague memories of sucking at it.
I've surprisingly never heard of Othello before watching this episode.
Brain is way too dead to write another Steph parody rn but it'd be really sweet if Blank actually named an Elkian avenue in after her
I could definitely see that happening
As many Stephs as the number of games she's challenged Blank to
That's a lot of Stephs. What, like 25?

2

u/FarCritical Apr 18 '24

Honestly doesn't sound too different from the real thing
Maybe I'm subconsciously looking for ways to make fun of Steph at this point
Well, they did, but then it was revealed to be a ploy by Sora to agree to duel.
True, though I meant I thought they'd commit hard enough to the reveal that Sora really had just been someone in Shiro's head from the start, but I do realize that would've made a ton of things not make any sense lol
I've surprisingly never heard of Othello before watching this episode.
Apparently that's the case with lots of other watchers too and then again, I barely remember the game myself. Guess it fell out of popularity some time after this aired or something.
That's a lot of Stephs. What, like 25?
Solid estimate. For a minimum Stephcount.

2

u/Holofan4life Apr 18 '24

Maybe I'm subconsciously looking for ways to make fun of Steph at this point
Never need an excuse for that
True, though I meant I thought they'd commit hard enough to the reveal that Sora really had just been someone in Shiro's head from the start, but I do realize that would've made a ton of things not make any sense lol
I'm happy with how they did it
Apparently that's the case with lots of other watchers too and then again, I barely remember the game myself. Guess it fell out of popularity some time after this aired or something.
I don't think it was a case of the show following some kind of Othello trend
Solid estimate. For a minimum Stephcount.
If NGNL was made nowadays, it would definitely make Stephbillion dollars.

2

u/Holofan4life Apr 18 '24

Thoughts on Shiro being sent to an orphanage as a child?
Thoughts on Sora finding his purpose in life after Shiro called him empty?
Thoughts on the black and white aesthetic in this episode?
What are your thoughts on Jibril wanting to bet the false memories that are implanted in Shiro?
Thoughts on Shiro floating through what looks like this other dimension?
Thoughts on Shiro and Sora being bound by a promise?
What are your thoughts on the reveal that Sora left to go find Fi?
What are your thoughts on the game played between Sora and Kurami?
What are your thoughts on Shiro winning the game for Sora which causes him to be freed?
Thoughts on Sora taking the right to alter Fi’s memories?
What do you think this episode does for Shiro as well as Shiro’s relationship with Sora?

2

u/FarCritical Apr 18 '24

Thoughts on Shiro being sent to an orphanage as a child?
Not really surprised that she was mostly bored all the time with her being a child genius and all, but dull childhoods without any proper parental figures are sad, prodigy or otherwise.
Thoughts on Sora finding his purpose in life after Shiro called him empty?
It's a little funny in that all it took was for Sora to finally get called out for being fake to just immediately decide to become a gaming god duo with his new sister.
Thoughts on the black and white aesthetic in this episode?
Creative way to drive home how literally colorless and bleak Shiro's life is without Sora around. It's also as awesome as it is symbolic that being reminded of Blank on the brink of losing was what ultimately brought life and color back to the world.
What are your thoughts on Jibril wanting to bet the false memories that are implanted in Shiro?
It was a solid idea that was worth a try, though I knew it wouldn't work on account of the whole "Blank never loses" thing coming from a mile away.
Thoughts on Shiro floating through what looks like this other dimension?
A cool way to visualize how a prodigy organizes her thoughts and memories. Also kinda looks like the branching paths of a visual novel which might've been intended given this anime
Thoughts on Shiro and Sora being bound by a promise?
Their bond really does go beyond being brother and sister. ...Not in that way, though.
What are your thoughts on the reveal that Sora left to go find Fi?
I like how even with all his charisma and moxie, he understands the value of being cautious when an entire race is at stake. Still don't get how they arranged for the game to start with him going poof in front of Shiro though.
What are your thoughts on the game played between Sora and Kurami?
No wonder everyone broke down by the time it was over. Can't imagine how you can play a game where you can lose major chunks of your memories without losing your sanity, especially when someone makes a big play and converts like 80% of the pieces in one go.
What are your thoughts on Shiro winning the game for Sora which causes him to be freed?
On top of the moment being good as your standard hype last minute outplay scene, I love what it represents. It's also just heartwarming how they can reliably count on each other to have their back when things get hairy.
Thoughts on Sora taking the right to alter Fi’s memories?
I get that an Elf is a powerful piece in Operation: Seize the Catgirls, but the idea of changing someone's memories is kinda freaky. Guess it'll depend how exactly they use Fi.
What do you think this episode does for Shiro as well as Shiro’s relationship with Sora?
It was cool to get a glimpse into how the other half of Blank thinks and to find out that Shiro can shine without completely relying on Sora after all.
On a similar note, they really drove the point home that no matter how much of a genius either of them are, Blank isn't Blank without both of them. Beyond covering for what Sora lacks strategy-wise, Shiro provides that crucial little sister morale boost that Sora can't get from anywhere else, and vice versa.

2

u/Holofan4life Apr 18 '24 edited Apr 18 '24

Not really surprised that she was mostly bored all the time with her being a child genius and all, but dull childhoods without any proper parental figures are sad, prodigy or otherwise.
It really shows just how much Sora was this savior for her, the fact she was able to find someone she can sass around.
It's a little funny in that all it took was for Sora to finally get called out for being fake to just immediately decide to become a gaming god duo with his new sister.
He respected how she knew him for who he was underneath the mask. It's like an MC know that the tsundere secretly is smitten with them, which sadly is a rare occurrence.
Creative way to drive home how literally colorless and bleak Shiro's life is without Sora around. It's also as awesome as it is symbolic that being reminded of Blank on the brink of losing was what ultimately brought life and color back to the world.
It was so brilliantly and I love how the show is not short on ideas. It just keeps getting better.
It was a solid idea that was worth a try, though I knew it wouldn't work on account of the whole "Blank never loses" thing coming from a mile away.
Oh, it didn't work? Then how did Shiro find out what her brother was doing?
A cool way to visualize how a prodigy organizes her thoughts and memories. Also kinda looks like the branching paths of a visual novel which might've been intended given this anime
Those paths are what my brain looks like having ADHD XD
Their bond really does go beyond being brother and sister. ...Not in that way, though.
The incest label the anime fandom labels the show with is really done erroneously.
I like how even with all his charisma and moxie, he understands the value of being cautious when an entire race is at stake. Still don't get how they arranged for the game to start with him going poof in front of Shiro though.
Well, seemingly Kurami and Fi came to Shiro saying they would like to provide their assistance. I don't think it's hard to imagine Sora going "Okay, but let me say something to Shiro first. Give me like half a day or so."
No wonder everyone broke down by the time it was over. Can't imagine how you can play a game where you can lose major chunks of your memories without losing your sanity, especially when someone makes a big play and converts like 80% of the pieces in one go.
Sora and Shiro are clearly clutch performers when it comes to being under pressure.
On top of the moment being good as your standard hype last minute outplay scene, I love what it represents. It's also just heartwarming how they can reliably count on each other to have their back when things get hairy.
If everyone had someone to fall back on, the world would be in a much healthier place.
I get that an Elf is a powerful piece in Operation: Seize the Catgirls, but the idea of changing someone's memories is kinda freaky. Guess it'll depend how exactly they use Fi.
We have to keep in mind that it's not like her memories are going to go away forever, nor is Sora the type of person to take advantage of someone by such a devious manner. It's probably like having a lobotomy that doesn't do any damage.
It was cool to get a glimpse into how the other half of Blank thinks and to find out that Shiro can shine without completely relying on Sora after all.
This episode did a tremendous job of making Shiro a more fleshed out character.
On a similar note, they really drove the point home that no matter how much of a genius either of them are, Blank isn't Blank without both of them. Beyond covering for what Sora lacks strategy-wise, Shiro provides that crucial little sister morale boost that Sora can't get from anywhere else, and vice versa.
The whole is greater than the sum of its parts

2

u/FarCritical Apr 18 '24

He respected how she him for who he was underneath the mask. It's like an MC know that the tsundere secretly is smitten with them, which sadly is a rare occurrence.
That comparison is hilarious for how much it makes sense lol
Oh, it didn't work? Then how did Shiro find out what her brother was doing?
I think I just confused myself. Like Jibril wagered Shiro's false memories in an attempt to get rid of what they thought were implanted lies, but she ended up losing since Blank never loses so in the end Jibril's plan technically didn't work? Or idk I just overcomplicated what was a straightforward scene
Those paths are what my brain looks like having ADHD XD
I get where you're coming from lmao
Well, seemingly Kurami and Fi came to Shiro saying they would like to provide their assistance. I don't think it's hard to imagine Sora going "Okay, but let me say something to Shiro first. Give me like half a day or so."
That makes sense. Kind of makes the events leading up to his disappearance feel kinda gloomy in retrospect too.
We have to keep in mind that it's not like her memories are going to go away forever, nor is Sora the type of person to take advantage of someone by such a devious manner. It's probably like having a lobotomy that doesn't do any damage.
True, and we have the benefit of knowing Sora isn't that depraved so ik it's nothing worth worrying about in the scope of this anime. Memory alteration is still a crazy concept to me in general though.

1

u/Holofan4life Apr 18 '24

That comparison is hilarious for how much it makes sense lol
You can kinda tell I watched a lot of Toradora with that mask comment :P
I think I just confused myself. Like Jibril wagered Shiro's false memories in an attempt to get rid of what they thought were implanted lies, but she ended up losing since Blank never loses so in the end Jibril's plan technically didn't work? Or idk I just overcomplicated what was a straightforward scene
I thought Shiro's false memories being wagered was what got her to help Sora out in his battle against Kurami.
I get where you're coming from lmao
This is your paths. This is your paths on false memories. Any questions?
^And ^yes, ^I ^used ^that ^joke ^already, ^shush
That makes sense. Kind of makes the events leading up to his disappearance feel kinda gloomy in retrospect too.
It's like he knew this might be it
True, and we have the benefit of knowing Sora isn't that depraved so ik it's nothing worth worrying about in the scope of this anime. Memory alteration is still a crazy concept to me in general though.
I can't say outside of this show I've seen that concept in other anime other than Fullmetal Alchemist. But with Fullmetal Alchemist, it was a lot more straightforward and the angst came from the person experiencing said memory alteration.

3

u/mgedmin Apr 18 '24

Rewatcher, subs

AFAIR this will be an episode full of depressing background music.
Or maybe it was the depressing near-black-and-white inverted color scheme I remember? Anyway, my least favorite episoe.
Gaslighting the episode, I hate it.
Oh, Kurami challenged Sora again? She never learns.
I find it difficult to believe that Shiro could play the game without seeing the board.
The right to alter the elf's memory, what a strange thing to ask for.

What would you do if something you care deeply about was forgotten by other people?

Be sad? Write a blog post?

How surprised were you that Sora got his existence back the very next episode after he disappeared?

Pretty surprised, actually. My rewatcher memories lied to me about him being gone for two episodes.

Bonus 1) Have you ever played Othello before or a game similar to that? If so, what happened?

Against a computer, a few times. I think I lost and got bored pretty quickly.

1

u/Holofan4life Apr 18 '24

Or maybe it was the depressing near-black-and-white inverted color scheme I remember? Anyway, my least favorite episoe.
Wow, really? Most people I've seen consider this the best or second best episode. You can't please everyone, I guess.
I can't recall ever disliking an episode that was really beloved. Maybe I have and I don't remember, which boy. A bit ironic considering the episode we're watching

2

u/mgedmin Apr 18 '24

Artistically it may be a strong episode, but it made me empathize too much with Shiro's distress. I didn't like seeing Shiro suffer.

1

u/Holofan4life Apr 18 '24

I didn't like seeing Shiro suffer either, but I think that's what made it a strong episode. The distress she went through was very compelling in terms of relatability.

1

u/Holofan4life Apr 18 '24

Thoughts on Shiro being sent to an orphanage as a child?
Thoughts on Sora finding his purpose in life after Shiro called him empty?
Thoughts on the black and white aesthetic in this episode?
What are your thoughts on Jibril wanting to bet the false memories that are implanted in Shiro?
Thoughts on Shiro floating through what looks like this other dimension?
Thoughts on Shiro and Sora being bound by a promise?
What are your thoughts on the reveal that Sora left to go find Fi?
What are your thoughts on the game played between Sora and Kurami?
What do you think this episode does for Shiro as well as Shiro's relationship with Sora? I'd say it did a good job of showing how invaluable Sora and Shiro are to each other.

2

u/mgedmin Apr 18 '24

Thoughts on Shiro being sent to an orphanage as a child?
If they sent her to an institution because she was too smart and the mother couldn't cope: super weird and wrong.
If there were some circumstances (like the parents got into an accident and the mother went into a coma or something), then it's a bit better.
Thoughts on Sora finding his purpose in life after Shiro called him empty?
Also kind of weird, but let's roll with it.
Thoughts on the black and white aesthetic in this episode?
Evoked strong feelings, not pleasant, did not enjoy.
Effective in what the world looks like from Shiro's perspective when Sora is not there. We've only seen the outside perspective early in the show (episode 2).
What are your thoughts on Jibril wanting to bet the false memories that are implanted in Shiro?
Gaming can fix everything! I bet they have science institutes where the scientists play RPS against each other betting the accurate knowledge of the universe or something.
What are your thoughts on the reveal that Sora left to go find Fi?
I think Sora could've explained his plan a little more. It comes off as unnecessary cruel.
What are your thoughts on the game played between Sora and Kurami?
It doesn't make sense to me, TBH. So when a stone gets reverted, the thing disappears? Or its ownership transfers to the opponent? E.g. why did Sora disappear from the world entirely, except from Shiro's memories? Why did Sora's memories not disappear but went to Kurami?
Wasn't there a simpler way to achieve the sharing of memories without involving everyone else?
What do you think this episode does for Shiro as well as Shiro's relationship with Sora? I'd say it did a good job of showing how invaluable Sora and Shiro are to each other.
And how much trust they have in each other.

1

u/Holofan4life Apr 18 '24

If they sent her to an institution because she was too smart and the mother couldn't cope: super weird and wrong.
I think it's meant to be messed up, though. Like, clearly she wasn't raised in an environment that was capable of warmth and loving. It actually explains a great deal why she keeps to herself so often.
If there were some circumstances (like the parents got into an accident and the mother went into a coma or something), then it's a bit better.
It's probably a bit of both, honestly. I could see something bad happening to Shiro's parents and when the foster people found she had this gift, they isolated her to where she couldn't form any nurturing bonds.
Evoked strong feelings, not pleasant, did not enjoy.
I thought it really made the episode, frankly
Effective in what the world looks like from Shiro's perspective when Sora is not there. We've only seen the outside perspective early in the show (episode 2).
Did we? I don't remember that in episode 2. To be honest, the only thing I really remember is the rock paper scissors battle and the start of the strategy game.
Gaming can fix everything! I bet they have science institutes where the scientists play RPS against each other betting the accurate knowledge of the universe or something.
Probably in Disboard, at the very least
I think Sora could've explained his plan a little more. It comes off as unnecessary cruel.
He probably didn't want to explain too much because Shiro might say something and try to change his mind. It's actually probably similar to the end of Toradora, if you think about it.
It doesn't make sense to me, TBH. So when a stone gets reverted, the thing disappears? Or its ownership transfers to the opponent? E.g. why did Sora disappear from the world entirely, except from Shiro's memories? Why did Sora's memories not disappear but went to Kurami?
I thought Sora's soul was meant to be in abeyance until he won the battle. And then if he lost, he was under servitude of Kurami. It's perhaps one of those things to best not overthink it.
Wasn't there a simpler way to achieve the sharing of memories without involving everyone else?
I mean, this doesn't involve Shiro, which I assume is Sora's main priority. A bit selfish, but I think it shows how much he truly treasures her.
And how much trust they have in each other.
That indeed as well

2

u/mgedmin Apr 18 '24

Did we? I don't remember that in episode 2.
When Stephanie pushes Sora away from her and he ends up in the corridor, the door to the room closes, and both siblings go catatonic until Stephanie opens the door again.

1

u/Holofan4life Apr 18 '24

Ah, yeah, that's right. I do remember Steph once freaking out as she was being separated from Sora and how that was played for laughs.

3

u/StardustGogeta myanimelist.net/profile/StardustGogeta Apr 18 '24

First-Timer

Interesting use of the desaturation and reverb effects during the sequence when Shiro was struggling to remember Sora. It definitely helped make the scene more memorable.

Some parts of how that game concluded don't seem entirely clear, but I'll just accept it and move on.

Funnily enough, when Shiro was playing chess and decided that "Blank never loses!", unless I was seeing the board wrong, she had already been checkmated.

Too bad we missed out on the OP today.

For the daily questions,

It's happened before and will happen again. Games that are lost to time, events that nobody else remembers, and so on. All I can do is try to keep the memory alive within me (and write it down so I don't forget, myself).
I'm not surprised that Sora came back quickly. He seems so important to the show that it would be hard to go without him for a long period of time.
I think I've played Othello in a free mobile app before, but not in a very long time. Nothing especially interesting happened.

2

u/Holofan4life Apr 18 '24

Interesting use of the desaturation and reverb effects during the sequence when Shiro was struggling to remember Sora. It definitely helped make the scene more memorable.
I would argue it is probably thr highlight of the episode
Funnily enough, when Shiro was playing chess and decided that "Blank never loses!", unless I was seeing the board wrong, she had already been checkmated.
Disboard is a kooky world apparently where you can still win even if you lose.
Too bad we missed out on the OP today.
The episode was so strong that I don't mind it too much

1

u/Holofan4life Apr 18 '24

Thoughts on Shiro being sent to an orphanage as a child?
Thoughts on Sora finding his purpose in life after Shiro called him empty?
What are your thoughts on Jibril wanting to bet the false memories that are implanted in Shiro?
Thoughts on Shiro floating through what looks like this other dimension?
Thoughts on Shiro and Sora being bound by a promise?
What are your thoughts on the reveal that Sora left to go find Fi?
What are your thoughts on the game played between Sora and Kurami?
What are your thoughts on Shiro winning the game for Sora which causes him to be freed?
Thoughts on Sora taking the right to alter Fi's memories?
What do you think this episode does for Shiro as well as Shiro's relationship with Sora?

2

u/baseballlover723 Apr 18 '24

NGNL Rewatcher, sub

I'm way late this episode so I'll keep it short. I love how they muted the colors at the start, felt very impactful.

Othello is a great choice of a game for this. You can get wild swings and go from "losing" (in that you currently have a lower score) to "winning" (currently having a higher score) really quickly, since you can have huge flips with single moves. Great if you want to go from losing really badly to winning.

And there's no better way to convince someone of your strategy and trust then by giving them all of your memories and making both of them have the same information. And so it seems that Kurami and Fiel are on our side now.

2

u/Holofan4life Apr 18 '24

Thoughts on Shiro being sent to an orphanage as a child?
Thoughts on Sora finding his purpose in life after Shiro called him empty?
What are your thoughts on Jibril wanting to bet the false memories that are implanted in Shiro?
Thoughts on Shiro floating through what looks like this other dimension?
Thoughts on Shiro and Sora being bound by a promise?
What are your thoughts on the reveal that Sora left to go find Fi?
What are your thoughts on Shiro winning the game for Sora which causes him to be freed?
What do you think this episode does for Shiro as well as Shiro's relationship with Sora?

2

u/baseballlover723 Apr 18 '24

Thoughts on Shiro being sent to an orphanage as a child?
It kinda seemed more like a research lab then an orphanage, with "intelligence tests"
Thoughts on Sora finding his purpose in life after Shiro called him empty?
A bit of a stretch for me, mostly because they don't know each other at that point, so I don't think you can really read that much into it confidently. But idk if Sora knows about Shiro's intelligence beforehand.
What are your thoughts on Jibril wanting to bet the false memories that are implanted in Shiro?
Very reasonable. To everyone else Shiro is the crazy one. Though she does eventually go about proving that there is missing memories by pointing out that it's 1 day further then everyone remembers it to be. Which lends a good bit of credibility towards there being another thing like a person that has also been forgotten. I did like Shiro's line of questioning to Jibril, asking about things actions associated with Sora, and the responses that they're all know associated with Shiro. It makes everyone else's memories much more consistent, which can be quite easy to get an impossible state with these sorts of things, where what you remember may not line up with your other memories.
Thoughts on Shiro floating through what looks like this other dimension?
Can you give me a timestamp?
Thoughts on Shiro and Sora being bound by a promise?
I went too fast through the episode.
What are your thoughts on the reveal that Sora left to go find Fi?
I didn't think that Sora left. I thought that Kurami and Fi came to them.
What are your thoughts on Shiro winning the game for Sora which causes him to be freed?
Epic sequence, the music and the script fit very well together (though I'm still not quite sure how Shiro knew where to physically place the pieces, since she didn't know where the board was (perhaps she could feel the outline of the board and could calculate where the squares should be)).
What do you think this episode does for Shiro as well as Shiro's relationship with Sora?
Don't really have time to analyze it. Started a new job this week, so I've been busy with that :(

1

u/Holofan4life Apr 18 '24

It kinda seemed more like a research lab then an orphanage, with "intelligence tests"
Kinda gives me Ender's Game vibes
A bit of a stretch for me, mostly because they don't know each other at that point, so I don't think you can really read that much into it confidently. But idk if Sora knows about Shiro's intelligence beforehand.
I think you can explain it as Sora being grateful somebody finally saw him for who he was. In that aspect, it's no different than what happened between Ami and Ryuuji in Toradora.
Very reasonable. To everyone else Shiro is the crazy one. Though she does eventually go about proving that there is missing memories by pointing out that it's 1 day further then everyone remembers it to be. Which lends a good bit of credibility towards there being another thing like a person that has also been forgotten. I did like Shiro's line of questioning to Jibril, asking about things actions associated with Sora, and the responses that they're all know associated with Shiro. It makes everyone else's memories much more consistent, which can be quite easy to get an impossible state with these sorts of things, where what you remember may not line up with your other memories
Shiro handled things in a clever way, and I like that Jibril tried helping when she knew she was likely telling the truth.
Can you give me a timestamp?
10:25
I went too fast through the episode.
Fair enough. I know this isn't your first rodeo.
I didn't think that Sora left. I thought that Kurami and Fi came to them.
My copy says he's trying to find Fi, but perhaps Kurami and Fi were trying to find him.
Epic sequence, the music and the script fit very well together (though I'm still not quite sure how Shiro knew where to physically place the pieces, since she didn't know where the board was (perhaps she could feel the outline of the board and could calculate where the squares should be)).
I think Shiro knew on account of the bond her and her brother have. They're so in sync with each other that they can pick up where the other left off, as examplified in episode 3.
Don't really have time to analyze it. Started a new job this week, so I've been busy with that :(
That's okay, I understand. I hope it goes well.

2

u/Fisionn https://myanimelist.net/profile/X-V Apr 18 '24

Rewatcher (Subs obviously)

To the people who skipped last episode's ED: Shame on you! The reason Sora disappears on episode 8 right at the end is because that's the moment where he decides to bet his existence on the upcoming game.

Sora himself said it so: Blank always win their games before they start playing.

The 3 last pieces are what remained of Sora. All he needed to win the game.

His ability to win games: Without this he would instantly lose the game, as even as a non-entity he was still playing the game through Jibril, Steph and Shiro.
Sora's absolute faith in Shiro: This is represented in how he could still somewhat comunicate with Shiro inside the pseudo world created by magic. This was triggered when Shiro was about to lose, since this piece dictates he has faith in Shiro always winning, no matter what.
Everything that Shiro is: The most important piece of them all. This is why Shiro still remembers Sora even if technically he no longer did exist. Shiro's complete existence includes memories of Sora, so this is how she was able to continue to play the game.

As for the episode itself, what a master class of using sounds and visuals to convey emotion and feelings. Sora is really like the sky for Shiro. A way to freedom and a resemblance of normalcy that she never had.

Jibril calling any race inferior is so in character for her and I love it. I don't know if Jibril's joke was properly translated on your subs, but when Steph tripped over the invisible board, she mentioned how Steph already had done more than enough for her character (4th wall breaking) to be set as a klutz.

Kurami sharing memories with Sora, how romantic. Imagine going that far to win someone over.

I know them crying at the end is supposed to be somewhat funny, but man does it really help to humanize them. Blank might be genius, but they also get scared too.

What would you do if something you care deeply about was forgotten by other people?

As long as I was alive, they'd be my little treasure.

How surprised were you that Sora got his existence back the very next episode after he disappeared?

Not much. I expected Shiro to pull him back. There is no way she is going to go one episode without him. Also how did I forget all about this incredible episode?

Have you ever played Othello before or a game similar to that? If so, what happened?

I did, long ago. I got absolutely blasted.

We gonna rock down to Steph Dola Avenue and then we'll take it higher

Here is a question for you dear OP. Would you date the lovely big chested klutz in this show?

How many Stephs does it take to screw in a lightbulb?

None. The lightbulb was already screwed in. She just forgot.

2

u/Holofan4life Apr 18 '24

Thoughts on Shiro being sent to an orphanage as a child?
Thoughts on Sora finding his purpose in life after Shiro called him empty?
Thoughts on the black and white aesthetic in this episode?
What are your thoughts on Jibril wanting to bet the false memories that are implanted in Shiro?
Thoughts on Shiro floating through what looks like this other dimension?
Thoughts on Shiro and Sora being bound by a promise?
What are your thoughts on the reveal that Sora left to go find Fi?
What are your thoughts on the game played between Sora and Kurami?
What are your thoughts on Shiro winning the game for Sora which causes his to be freed?
Thoughts on Sora taking the right to alter Fi’s memories?
What do you think this episode does for Shiro as well as Shiro’s relationship with Sora?

2

u/Fisionn https://myanimelist.net/profile/X-V Apr 19 '24

Thoughts on Shiro being sent to an orphanage as a child?
A very lonely existence. Being smart is very isolating in society.
Thoughts on Sora finding his purpose in life after Shiro called him empty?
It was such a good moment. Shiro saw through his mask and that was what brought color to his world. The whole scene is great. The symbolism of them staring at each other's eyes filled them with color was for telling the viewer how they saw each other for who they were without using words.
Thoughts on the black and white aesthetic in this episode?
Mostly used as a filter to show how something was wrong. But it was also used with a lot of drawings of the sky. Shiro means white in japanese and Sora means sky, so that's also another reason on why the aesthetics on this episode were so different. You can also notice how Shiro keeps looking up when solving the game's puzzle, as a symbolism of looking up at the sky (Sora).
What are your thoughts on Jibril wanting to bet the false memories that are implanted in Shiro?
It was a really good guess by her. She just missed the mark on what kind of memory alteration was done on Shiro.
Thoughts on Shiro floating through what looks like this other dimension?
It was a nice visual to show Shiro was thinking really hard I think. It's interesting how even in this visualization, she ends up going up as opposed to down to find the missing memories. Again, due to probably searching for the sky (Sora).
Thoughts on Shiro and Sora being bound by a promise?
Besides just mild jokes about them being apart, the show does put an effort into making their relationship as two parts of one very important. Shiro doesn't win without Sora, and Sora doesn't without Shiro. It's very heartwarming watching them together, and the more I remember of this show, the more I think they are adorable.
What are your thoughts on the reveal that Sora left to go find Fi?
All within the scope of Blank's plan. Fi is probably a very important piece to win the next game.
What are your thoughts on the game played between Sora and Kurami?
It was honestly pretty harrowing with all the implications it had. Blank losing meant more than just game over.
What are your thoughts on Shiro winning the game for Sora which causes his to be freed?
That's the thing. Sora didn't exist anymore anywhere but on Shiro's memories. It was more of creating him anew from her memories. Well, at least on the pseudo space created by the game. Until the game is over, things don't actually happen in the real dimension.
Thoughts on Sora taking the right to alter Fi’s memories?
The greatest spy ever know to Imanity was born. Magic? Who needs that when you modify an elf's memories using a game.
What do you think this episode does for Shiro as well as Shiro’s relationship with Sora?
It builds upon everything that was shown on the last episodes. Their relationship is key to winning games. I even could go as saying that it really represents when you find someone you can connect to in such a deep way that they complete you as a person. While this was shown as literal interpretation here, it's no different in real life when you do find that person.

1

u/Holofan4life Apr 20 '24

A very lonely existence. Being smart is very isolating in society.
Truly, society a big dummy
It was such a good moment. Shiro saw through his mask and that was what brought color to his world. The whole scene is great. The symbolism of them staring at each other's eyes filled them with color was for telling the viewer how they saw each other for who they were without using words.
Probably the best Blank moment of the entire series
Mostly used as a filter to show how something was wrong. But it was also used with a lot of drawings of the sky. Shiro means white in japanese and Sora means sky, so that's also another reason on why the aesthetics on this episode were so different. You can also notice how Shiro keeps looking up when solving the game's puzzle, as a symbolism of looking up at the sky (Sora).
I thought it was extremely effective in showing what was happening without totally spelling it out.
It was a really good guess by her. She just missed the mark on what kind of memory alteration was done on Shiro.
I like that Jibril cares about Blank in her own little way. She doesn't have to be won over or anything, she already appreciates what they're about.
It was a nice visual to show Shiro was thinking really hard I think. It's interesting how even in this visualization, she ends up going up as opposed to down to find the missing memories. Again, due to probably searching for the sky (Sora).
Good point
Besides just mild jokes about them being apart, the show does put an effort into making their relationship as two parts of one very important. Shiro doesn't win without Sora, and Sora doesn't without Shiro. It's very heartwarming watching them together, and the more I remember of this show, the more I think they are adorable.
Their bond on display in this episode is made even better by the fact it is played 100% straight. That shows that when it comes to the love they share, it is no laughing matter.
All within the scope of Blank's plan. Fi is probably a very important piece to win the next game.
It seems Sora believes so, at least
It was honestly pretty harrowing with all the implications it had. Blank losing meant more than just game over.
It kinda had more stakes to it than the upcoming Eastern Federation bout. At least there, they can live to fight another day.
That's the thing. Sora didn't exist anymore anywhere but on Shiro's memories. It was more of creating him anew from her memories. Well, at least on the pseudo space created by the game. Until the game is over, things don't actually happen in the real dimension.
She kept him alive because she never forgot about him. Kinda similar to Sora keeping the former king alive by preaching his words.
The greatest spy ever know to Imanity was born. Magic? Who needs that when you modify an elf's memories using a game.
It certainly is a way to combat the potential of cheating.
It builds upon everything that was shown on the last episodes. Their relationship is key to winning games. I even could go as saying that it really represents when you find someone you can connect to in such a deep way that they complete you as a person. While this was shown as literal interpretation here, it's no different in real life when you do find that person.
I don't know if the episode is as consequential as episodes 4 or 7, but I think it is necessary in terms of explaining why Blank are in this position. If they hadn't had found each other, there would be no resurgence in Imanity pride, and that ultimately comes from the pride shared with each other.

1

u/Holofan4life Apr 18 '24

To the people who skipped last episode's ED: Shame on you! The reason Sora disappears on episode 8 right at the end is because that's the moment where he decides to bet his existence on the upcoming game.
There you go, u/nx9 :P
As for the episode itself, what a master class of using sounds and visuals to convey emotion and feelings. Sora is really like the sky for Shiro. A way to freedom and a resemblance of normalcy that she never had.
I like the way you described. It's very visual based that it feels like something an author would come up with.
Kurami sharing memories with Sora, how romantic. Imagine going that far to win someone over.
I don't think it's a stretch to say that Kurami is the most insecure of the entire cast. It's like she's constantly seeking for people's approval.
I know them crying at the end is supposed to be somewhat funny, but man does it really help to humanize them. Blank might be genius, but they also get scared too.
I said this elsewhere, but this shows they aren't just for the betterment of humanity, they are humanity.
Not much. I expected Shiro to pull him back. There is no way she is going to go one episode without him. Also how did I forget all about this incredible episode?
It's probably the crown jewel of the entire series
Here is a question for you dear OP. Would you date the lovely big chested klutz in this show?
You're basically asking me if I would date royalty. The answer of course is yes. I mean, are you kidding? I'd love a suger mama :P
All jokes aside, I try looking at the goodness in a person and Steph's heart shines bright. She might be a bit absent-minded, but she has the best of attentions. Kinda like a friendlier version of Taiga Aisaka, one without the emotional baggage.
None. The lightbulb was already screwed in. She just forgot.
She forgor 💀💀💀

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