Alternative title(s): Keishichou Tokumubu Tokushu Kyouakuhan Taisakushitsu Dainanaka: Tokunana
Anime original by Anima&Co.
Streaming on Funimation

Premise

Seiji Nanatsuki is a rookie police officer fresh out of the academy, and an idealist determined to fight crime and seek justice for all. In a world where humans live alongside elves, dwarves and vampires though, that might be a bit more complicated than it sounds – especially as Seiji himself may not be as normal as he appears.

Artemis’ verdict: Stuff Happened. I Think.

Sometimes you watch an anime and have absolutely nothing to say about it afterwards. The first episode of Special 7 is one of those anime. It’s totally okay, entirely there, absolutely existing. I also watched it less than 24 hours before writing this and have already forgotten most of what I saw, so that might be a good indication of how impactful I found the experience. I do vaguely remember thinking the visuals looked a little on the cheap side – run-of-the-mill character designs, serviceable animation, at least one awkward CG sequence – but I guess the music was fine? Look, if you dig urban fantasy and/or police procedurals, or will watch anything for a few episodes so long as it’s not offensively bad, you’ll probably have a decent time watching Special 7. Otherwise, maybe give it a miss unless there’s really nothing else going on for you this season.

Jel’s verdict: Just give me another season of Blood Blockade Battelfront

This recent resurgence of urban fantasy cop shows has been underwhelming to say the least. Should we blame the complete lack of originality? The poor pacing and directing? The mediocre productions values? You can apply all three in the case of Special 7. I thought this was a particularly bad first episode as they do almost nothing with the fantasy elements, besides a brief mention about elves or something early on. The members of Special 7 themselves may have some kind of abilities, but none of that is addressed either. Seems pretty safe to skip this one.