W’z [Season 1 Episodes 1-13]

Okay, let’s talk about W’z Season 1. First off, if you’re into anime with a unique visual style and a music-driven plot, this might catch your eye. The show follows Yukiya, a teen DJ who dreams of more than his small-town life. He spends his time spinning tracks alone and uploading videos online, but one live stream changes everything—suddenly, he’s pulled into a wild adventure that mixes music, action, and a dash of the supernatural.

Now, let’s get real: the first thing you’ll notice is the animation. It’s super vibrant, with bold colors and dynamic camera angles that feel like they’re straight out of a music video. Some fans love this—they say it makes the show feel energetic and alive. But others? Not so much. A few people mentioned that the CGI can be a bit jarring, especially when it mixes with the 2D art. Like, one commenter compared it to “Hand Shakers” (which makes sense since W’z is a sequel/spinoff of that series) and said the visuals can feel messy at times. Another fan even joked that the animation was “eyerape” because of how busy it gets. But hey, if you’re into experimental styles, this might be right up your alley.

The story itself is a bit of a slow burn. Yukiya’s journey starts off with him just wanting recognition, but as he dives deeper into this new world, things get weird. There are these “Hand Shakers”—people who fight using the power of their bonds—and Yukiya finds himself tangled up in their battles. Some viewers felt the plot was loose in the beginning, like they didn’t know where it was going. One commenter said, “The story is a bit loose right now so hard to tell where this goes.” But as the season progresses, the pieces start to fit together. It’s all about self-discovery, friendship, and finding your place in the world—classic anime themes, but with a musical twist.

Let’s chat about the characters. Yukiya is relatable—he’s a kid who feels invisible and just wants to be seen. His passion for music is contagious, and you can’t help but root for him as he grows. The supporting cast is a mixed bag, though. Some characters are interesting, like his friend who’s always there to back him up, but others feel a bit one-dimensional. A few fans mentioned that the character introductions were shallow, which made it hard to connect with everyone right away. But hey, by the end of the season, you might find yourself caring about them more than you thought.

Now, the music—since it’s a DJ-centric show, the soundtrack is a big deal. The beats are catchy, and they blend perfectly with the action scenes. When Yukiya is spinning tracks, you can almost feel the bass in your chest. Some viewers loved this, saying the music was the highlight of the series. Others? Not so much. One commenter called the music “mediocre and repetitive,” but that’s just a matter of taste. If you’re into electronic or house music, you’ll probably dig it.

Let’s touch on the Hand Shakers connection. If you watched Hand Shakers, you’ll pick up on the references—same universe, same terminology, even some familiar faces (or at least hints of them). But if you didn’t watch the original, don’t worry! Most fans say W’z can stand on its own. The first few episodes might be a bit confusing if you’re new, but you’ll catch up quickly. One viewer noted, “It’s implied that it’s 10 years after Hand Shakers, but you don’t need to have seen it to understand this one.” So whether you’re a Hand Shakers vet or a newbie, you can jump in.

Now, the downsides. The pacing can be off at times. Some episodes feel rushed, while others drag. The plot twists are cool, but they don’t always land—you might find yourself going, “Wait, what just happened?” And let’s be honest, the dialogue isn’t always the sharpest. A few lines feel cheesy or forced, which can take you out of the moment. But hey, it’s a teen-focused anime—cheese is part of the charm, right?

Another thing: the fan reception is mixed. Some people are obsessed with W’z, praising its unique style and emotional depth. Others think it’s a mess, calling it a “rehash” of Hand Shakers with better visuals. One commenter even said, “Hand Shakers was easily one of the worst animes of last year—who thought a sequel was a good idea?” But here’s the thing: if you go into it with an open mind, you might find something to love. It’s not perfect, but it’s fun, and sometimes that’s all you need.

So, who should watch W’z? If you’re into anime that’s more about style than substance, or if you love music-driven stories, this is worth a shot. It’s got heart, it’s got energy, and it’s definitely different from your average shonen. Just don’t expect a masterpiece—go in for the vibes, and you’ll probably enjoy it. And if you’re a Hand Shakers fan? You’ll get a kick out of seeing this world expand.

In the end, W’z Season 1 is a wild ride. It’s not for everyone, but if you’re willing to overlook its flaws, you might find yourself hooked. So grab your headphones, turn up the volume, and dive into Yukiya’s world—you never know where the music will take you.