The following contains spoilers for Episode 3 of Danmachi IV, “Parasite (Viscum Album)” now streaming on HIDIVE.
the first true terror of Danmachi IV has revealed itself and this time the promises of a darker season were not exaggerated. While the odds are certainly stacked against the party this week, there was a sense of hope and optimism that felt well earned and is keeping the campaign going.
Last week, a mysterious monster finally appeared and attacked the party with a projectile attack. It struck Chigusa and began to spread a plant-like infection through her, as did the other survivors, Luvis and all the other daring monsters.
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Next step
The more intelligent the demon appears, the more frightening his cruelty, as the hands and feet of arrogant adventurers are plundered and found hidden in fear. It’s an uncomfortable scene that signals justified danger without engaging in prolonged violence. The episode begins with the party assessing the situation.
These conversations that break down key fight scenes can be useful for summarizing information learned, introducing new facts, and building tension through controversy. However, such scenes could also devolve into talking circles, which is why this exchange between the party was a relief.
The obvious choice at first seems to be to run for the good of the wounded and get out of the dungeon, but as the situation becomes more and more well-crafted, it becomes clear that this will not work. It would be better to face the monster so it doesn’t have a chance to get stronger before returning to kill it.
playing on hard mode
Before, in action danmachi Some were effective thanks to the occasional stellar sakuga and the personal struggles of the characters going into battle, as the opponents were just monsters. But this new enemy and the uncertainty of their position adds a new layer to the battle, where half the thrill comes from watching both sides play a vicious game of chess.
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Vine is the glue that holds everyone together and is the strongest of them all, so this week’s fight should result in his temporarily crippling separation from the rest. However, this episode turned out to be much more hopeful than expected, and Lily’s confidence is making her the MVP this season.
Despite some distance between Bell and the gang, he is as fierce and self-confident as ever, if the music doesn’t make it clear. Keiji Inai’s score has been impressive throughout the series, but in dark times like these, the announcement of an upcoming battle of intense horn sections gets the blood pumping right.
Little Obstacles / New Friends
Bell’s proudest moment in this episode is also the one who feels vulnerable looking at the buildup. In Episode 1, Eina told Bell about a particular monster that was particularly deadly, but its disclosure and how quickly it was eliminated here felt a bit overwhelming. Maybe it’s just because there’s a huge danger now, but it felt like such a small moment.
To the credit of the scene though, it’s nothing if not exciting, but perhaps that energy could have been saved for a scene with a little more weight. Toward the end of the fight, Bell stumbles upon a new ally—or at least one hopes they’re friendly—and the episode ends in trouble with the party remaining confident in their odds.
as danmachiThe cast expands, so the plot also adds tension and the emotions that go into each fight. Even in just three episodes, the performances have been stellar, and each setback and comeback really emphasized how far the party has come and how it will only get harder from here.
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