English Dub Review: I’m Standing on a Million Lives: “Non-Player Killer”

Overview:

The group splits up into two groups with their own missions as they attempt to complete their quest and all the while try to avoid causing catastrophe between two countries. 

Our Take:

Reeling from the sudden kiss from Kahvel to Yusuke, Yuka awkwardly trying to point out to Yusuke what occurred makes for an entertaining scene between the two heroes. Also as Kahvel admitted previously, her similarities with Yusuke are intriguing as they will no doubt make for some interesting chemistry later on. The series, this episode included, does an excellent job of sprinking little bits of humor throughout that help break apart the heavier, darker scenes that have become a staple. Yuka and Yusuke’s conversation also brings up the interesting idea of how much Yusuke considers the people and experiences of the fantasy world real and what that means. This is an engaging thought provoking throughline that is present throughout “Non-player Killer.” 

Yusuke’s devious plan to stop war from breaking out between two countries was quite astounding to watch in motion. More often than not, when it comes to these types of schemes, it becomes easy to figure out what the plan is as it goes on. However, with this one in particular, I was often left guessing. The fact the plan was not fully revealed until after it was complete was definitely worked in its favor but still usually they are predictable. Besides some hammy (but funny) acting from Yusuke pretending to be a religious zealot, hats off to the honestly intelligent plan that was truly unique. Also to my surprise, only the first part of the plan is complete. My mind did wonder where Khavel was and how she would play into all this, so color me intrigued as to what her role will be in the next episode. Knowing her though it will no doubt involve the carving of men’s flesh, which is OF COURSE always fun if it is her doing it. Lastly, Yusuke “murdering” someone to see his goals completed is definitely an interesting turn. If it is honestly true, it remains to be seen if it’ll be one for the best or worst in regards to their quest and the world they find themselves trapped in. The true nature of the world will definitely play a role in defining Yusuke’s psyche moving forward and how that unravels will make for some provocative development. Also once again there is nothing to mention in ways of decent animation. Even the art is inconsistent this time around, with great expressive shots one moment and some distasteful ones the next. Although, even with that, the eighth chapter of I’m Standing on a Million Lives still makes for a phenomenal watch.