March Comes in Like a Lion Season 1 Episode 16 Episode 16

Sitting at the midpoint of the first season, episode 16 of March Comes in Like a Lion is a tense and emotional entry that explores the psychological toll of competition. The episode picks up where the previous one left off, with protagonist Rei Kiriyama preparing to play against his longtime rival, Nikaidou. The two have battled each other many times before, with Nikaidou usually coming out on top. However, Rei has been steadily improving his game and is determined to finally beat his rival.

The core of the episode centers around the match itself, which takes place in a tense and quiet room filled with spectators. The show's animators do an excellent job of conveying the quiet intensity of a game of shogi, with close-up shots of the pieces being moved and dramatic music underscoring each move. Rei and Nikaidou are both deeply invested in the game, both emotionally and strategically, and their inner monologues give us a window into their thought processes as they play.

While the match is the main focus of the episode, it's not the only thing going on. The show weaves in several subplots that help to flesh out the world and characters. One subplot involves Rei's interactions with the Kawamoto family, who have become an important support system for him. We also get to see more of Rei's relationship with his adoptive father, as well as his interactions with other shogi players. All of these character moments help to break up the tension of the game and give us a more well-rounded view of the show's world.

One theme that recurs throughout the episode is the idea of competition and its psychological effects. Rei and Nikaidou are both extremely talented shogi players, but their rivalry has taken a toll on both of them. We see how deeply invested they are in winning, and how much pressure they put on themselves to perform. At times, the intensity of the game seems to get the better of them, leading to moments of frustration and self-doubt. This is a common experience for anyone who has engaged in competitive activities, and the show's portrayal of it is both relatable and empathetic.

In addition to the psychological themes, the episode also features a number of stunning visuals and artistic choices. The animation is top-notch, with a sense of fluidity and depth that brings the shogi board to life. The show also makes use of color and lighting to convey emotional states. For example, during one particularly tense moment, the image is bathed in red light, conveying the intensity of the emotions at play. There are also several scenes where the characters "speak" in abstract visual language, using images and symbols to convey their inner thoughts. These moments are striking and memorable, and help to elevate the show above the standard sports anime fare.

Overall, episode 16 of March Comes in Like a Lion is a powerful and emotionally resonant entry that showcases the show's strengths. It's a great example of how a seemingly simple game of shogi can become a vehicle for exploring complex ideas and themes. The tension of the game is palpable, and the characters are fleshed out and nuanced. Anyone who has ever competed in anything will find something to relate to in this episode, and the stunning animation and artistic choices make it a feast for the eyes as well.