Saint Beast ~ Kouin Jojishi Tenshi Tan [Season 2 Episodes 1-13]

Saint Beast: Kouin Jojishi Tenshi Tan Season 2 – A Bittersweet Angelic Saga

If you’re into fantasy anime with pretty boys, angelic drama, and a dash of tragedy, Saint Beast: Kouin Jojishi Tenshi Tan Season 2 might be up your alley—though it’s not without its flaws. This 13-episode prequel (airing in Spring 2007) dives into the backstories of six guardian angels—Go, Shin, Rei, Guy, Yuda, and Ruka—who later become the Saint Beasts governing Earth’s animals. But don’t let the “prequel” tag fool you; it’s less about setup and more about heartache.

First off, the animation is… okay. It’s 2007, so expect soft, slightly dated visuals with that classic shounen-ai flair (think flowing hair and intense eye contact). The character designs are pretty—each angel has a distinct animal motif (like Suzaku’s fiery red hair or Byakko’s icy blue eyes)—but the backgrounds can feel flat. Still, the fight scenes have some energy, especially when the angels use their powers.

The story is where things get complicated. Set before the original Saint Beast series, Season 2 follows the six angels as they train under Zeus, only to question his rule. The conflict is slow-burn: Zeus’s strict hierarchy (top, middle, lower angels) creates tension, and the Saint Beasts start to see the injustice in it. The best part? The relationships. The bond between the six is palpable—they bicker, protect each other, and share quiet moments that feel real. But here’s the catch: the pacing is glacial. Some episodes drag with filler, and the big plot twists (like the “tragic result” teased in the synopsis) take forever to unfold. By the time Episode 13 rolls around, you’re either invested or checking your phone.

Fans on MyAnimeList have mixed feelings. One reviewer called it “a guilty pleasure”—loving the character dynamics but hating the slow story. Another said, “The ending hit me harder than I expected,” praising the emotional payoff. The shounen-ai elements are subtle but present—think lingering glances and gentle touches—so if that’s your thing, you’ll eat it up. If not, it might feel forced.

The voice acting is a highlight. The cast (including veterans like Daisuke Ono and Junichi Suwabe) brings depth to the characters. Go’s fiery passion, Shin’s quiet wisdom, Rei’s playful energy—each voice fits perfectly. The soundtrack is forgettable, though; the opening theme is catchy, but the background music blends into the scenery.

So, who should watch this? If you’re a fan of the original Saint Beast or love character-driven dramas with a fantasy twist, give it a shot. It’s not a masterpiece, but it’s a solid prequel that adds layers to the Saint Beasts’ backstories. Just be prepared to sit through some slow episodes. And if you’re new to the series? Start with the original—this prequel works best when you already care about the characters.

In the end, Saint Beast: Kouin Jojishi Tenshi Tan Season 2 is like a warm hug with a side of sadness. It’s not perfect, but it’s heartfelt. And sometimes, that’s enough.

Rating: 6/10 — A slow but emotional ride for fans and newcomers alike.