“Go! Go! Loser Ranger!” season 2 episode 22, titled “A Special Bond ~Hibiki and Sesera~,” brings a mix of action, emotional turmoil, and surprising twists. While Fighter D is absent, the episode focuses on Hibiki, Sesera, and other Ranger Force members, delivering a trifurcated narrative that has both impressive animation and some questionable storytelling choices.
Animation Excellence Meets Uneven Pacing
The episode’s animation is a standout, particularly in the final segment featuring Hibiki and Sesera. The choreography is slick, and the visceral violence is impactful, making it the most thrilling action scene of the season thus far. However, the narrative structure feels disjointed. The episode tries to catch up on Komachi’s situation with the new Blue Ranger and includes a diversion to fight Nü-Magatia, which detracts from the potential emotional weight of Hibiki’s return.
A Protagonist in Absentia?
Fighter D, who has been the focus of the story, is entirely absent from this episode, shifting the focus to other characters and their struggles. This absence underscores concerns that Fighter D is starting to feel like a side character in his own show.
Komachi and the New Blue Ranger
The episode revisits Komachi’s storyline involving the new Blue Ranger, Keisuke Souma. Despite initially refusing to fight, Souma steps up to rescue the Blue Battalion members when the battle against a Boss Monster intensifies. This segment explores Souma’s motivations and his complex relationship with the Ranger Force.
The Monster Protection Society
Yakushi Usukubo offers Hibiki Sakurama and Kanon Hisui a chance to join the Monster Protection Society (MPS). When they decline, Fighter XX aids their escape, leading them to the confrontation between Sesera and Hwalipon. Usukubo’s father injects himself with a monster transformation serum.
Hibiki and Sesera: A Fateful Reunion
Hibiki’s story takes center stage as he reconnects with his sister, Sesera (the Pink Dragon Keeper), during a battle against Hwalipon. In a shocking turn of events, Hibiki sacrifices himself to protect Sesera, leading her to use her regenerative powers to save him. However, this act comes at a cost, as Sesera seemingly sacrifices herself to save Hibiki after he interferes in her fight and is fatally wounded. This moment is described as both ludicrous and sudden, eliciting strong reactions from viewers.
Despite knowing he lacks powers, Hibiki’s impulsive decision to enter the battlefield results in Sesera’s “death”. It’s revealed that Sesera possesses incredible regenerative abilities, capable of surviving even decapitation. She uses these powers to rewind time and save Hibiki.
A morally grey world?
Pink Ranger/Hibiki’s sister is perhaps the least sane of the Rangers, save perhaps Green and Blue.
Twists and Turns
- Hibiki’s Sacrifice and Sesera’s Choice: Hibiki’s willingness to sacrifice himself highlights his dedication to protecting his sister. Sesera’s use of her powers to save Hibiki underscores their deep bond.
- Betrayal and Departure: After Hibiki defeats Hwalipon, he discovers that Sesera has left to join the other Dragon Keepers, leaving him to question his choices and the path ahead.
- Usukubo’s Father’s Transformation: Usukubo’s father injecting himself with the monster transformation serum adds a new layer of complexity, hinting at future conflicts and challenges.
Final Thoughts
Episode 22 has some excellent animation, with slick choreography and impactful use of visceral violence. Unfortunately, the story doesn’t work. It’s not given nearly enough time to breathe, as the episode also spends time catching up with Komachi’s deal with the new Blue Ranger, along with a pointless diversion to fight against Nü-Magatia. These sequences probably deserved to serve as the climaxes of their own episodes, but instead end up taking away from whatever build-up Hibiki’s grand return to the story might have had. The culmination of Hibiki’s story is such a ludicrously stupid and sudden development.
Overall, “Go! Go! Loser Ranger!” season 2 episode 22 is a mixed bag. It showcases impressive animation during fight scenes but suffers from a disjointed narrative and questionable character decisions. While the episode tries to juggle multiple storylines, it ultimately falls short of delivering a cohesive and emotionally resonant experience. The absence of Fighter D is notable, and the focus on Hibiki and Sesera, though visually appealing, is marred by the rushed and somewhat illogical nature of their interactions and sacrifices.
