If you ever wondered what would happen when you cross a theme park based tycoon game and Kyoani, well here you go. Amagi Brilliant Park is a refreshingly different entry that proves that Kyoani can still continue to distinguish itself. The show is about a ludicrously bad amusement park with comically bad attractions and likewise dull "cast members." In order to prevent the park from closing, a former child star named Seiya is literally forced at gunpoint into attracting a few hundred thousand visitors in just a few months.
This series, for the most part, is a relatively light, comical watch with cute Kyoani antics and a (strangely) lecherous group of supporting cast members. It's an entertaining watch as you see the park slowly but steadily improve into something more befitting its name. As a unique entry with a likeable cast and surprise appearance from Bonta-kun's derivative, I'd definitely give this a try. Just don't expect Fumoffu-like comedy as Seiya is no Sousuke.
Animation:
The animation is crisp and modern with a bright and saturated color palette. Backgrounds are decently detailed though the sky in particular is nicely drawn, especially at sunset. The characters are well drawn and easily distinguishable. You get a lot of different creatures as cast members and the more human members all likewise get the Kyoani moe treatment; just try to watch the entire thing and not think "that was cute." Facial expressions are very good, especially considering the supposedly fixed expressions of the mascots.
There is light action in the form of attractions (shooting stuff) and Isuzu shooting people into submission. Given the light nature, I wouldn't expect anything too serious about the action. There is occasional fan service, though mostly of a verbal, suggestive nature from the trio mascots and the weird dinosaur who has to "hunch over" all the time.
Sound:
I think the OP is a bit over the top in terms of tonality but the melody is bright and fitting for the show. The ED is a slower but more traditional pop piece sung by the four elemental girl fairies. The show has an above average BGM suite with some particularly nice tunes; most of the tunes are nice and calming.
The show also has a great VA cast with strong performances all around. Kouki Uchiyama does a great job of giving Seiya a lot of confidence to match the narcissist personality and Ai Kakuma does a likewise great job voicing Isuzu, giving her an overall emotionless demeanor but with occasional outbursts of cuteness. The main mascots are also voiced by extremely experienced VAs to round out a pretty good team.
Story:
The story of Amagi is pretty simple. Seiya is hired to try to reinvigorate the virtually lifeless park. As you can guess by each episode's title, there is a particular theme in each episode. However, at the end of each episode there is a summary of the number of visitors for that day as well as an overall summary of visitors so far in the year; just to make sure you recall how dire their situation is.
Despite how bad things are, the show carries on with a hopeful and happy tone until two thirds through the show. Once you know the real reason why it is so important for the park to survive, things start getting serious. The show quickly becomes very engaging and the rising action builds quickly to a somewhat expected climax. Nonetheless, the show resolves in a nice but somewhat bittersweet end.
There is a good mix of a lot of elements (comedy, management, showbiz, occasional ero) but there are definitely still some residual open questions at the end of the show. There is a fair amount of emphasis on a childhood memory of Seiya though it is never fully explained, and the entire conclusion, though conclusive, arguably leaves room for further expansion (perhaps an OVA?). Regardless, the combination of the unique setting, premise, plot, and characters worked to make this a pretty enjoyable ride.
Character:
Amagi has a large but entertaining mix of characters. You'll be spending most of the time with the conceited yet able Seiya, often accompanied by the cutely muffled personality of Isuzu. You'll also often fall victim to the antics of the lecherous mascot trio and take a few detours with the four fairies. Though I always preach against having a large cast, it's somewhat unavoidable given the nature of the setting; and given that, I think they did a great job of differentiating all the characters and giving them a strong sense of presence. Personally, I found the ecchi-minded mascots hilarious considering their normally child-friendly appearance. Moffle is no Bonta-kun but still very fun nonetheless. Overall, expect lively personalities with good chemistry all around. Just don't expect too much relationship development, as it's only lightly played with.
Value:
This refreshingly unique watch definitely has the KyoAni touch. It can get a bit off track with random asides and the magical elements are a bit underdeveloped at times but overall it's a fun watch with a comical, yet occasionally tense plot and likeable characters. There probably won't be a need to rewatch the show but I wouldn't be surprised if there is an OVA or second season.
