English Dub Review: Saga of Tanya the Evil “Path to Victory”

Just not this episode.

Saga of Tanya the Evil follows the military exploits of Imperial mage battalion leader Tanya Degurechaff (Monica Rial). “Path to Victory” follows “Preparations for Advance” in continuing the Empire’s victorious dominance, largely owing to Degurechaff’s military prowess.

Colonel Sioux travels by ship intent on manifesting his revenge on Tanya. However, Tanya’s battalion persists in strategic strikes against Alliance forces. The Empire initiates and carries out “Operation Lock Pick,” the third phase of its total domination. “Operation Revolving Door” stands as the next installment.

While the Imperial High Council is initially displeased and bickering amongst themselves, Hans von Zettour allows that the enemy’s infrastructure has been crippled. Tanya and her battalion proceed to mostly overpower the Alliance with ease until Anson Sioux returns with a mage unit.

“Path to Victory” drives the war progression in Saga of Tanya the Evil. It’s a neat episode, especially the scenes of tactical strikes. Additionally, the scale of war continues to persist as a prominent theme. I enjoy the return of Sioux, and hope to see Anson face off against Tanya. Seeing two Being X-powered individuals battle provides a fascinating setup.

Learning increasingly about the Empire’s plan of attack comes as a sort of debriefing for the viewer. The combination of mage units and ground troops such as armored vehicles and flame thrower-carrying soldiers fosters a delightful alternate history backdrop and steampunk aesthetic that I love.

But like with most Saga of Tanya the Evil entries, “Path to Victory sees an incredibly simple victory for Tanya and company. Although she’s a character that commands attention and remains genuinely engaging, it’s a bit formulaic with easy dominance by Tanya and her battalion. The occasional difficult battle might further spice up the series. Presumably, Sioux is slated to pose a challenge to Tanya. Yet the return of Sioux bolsters the series. Saga of Tanya the Evil features a select cast of side characters. Among them, Col. Sioux is an intriguing military leader. Moreover, he’s bestowed with Being X’s powers. This makes a unique dynamic as they face off. Ultimately, “Path to Victory” comes as an enjoyable episode with big reveals, marvelous cast performances, and the potential for increased Being X disciples.

SCORE
7.5/10