Killing Is a Cycle

Arcane has once again proven why it's a masterpiece of storytelling with Episode 8 of Season 2. This episode is an emotional rollercoaster that delivers on every front: breathtaking animation, deeply complex characters, and a plot that keeps you on the edge of your seat.

The tension between Piltover and Zaun reaches a boiling point, and every decision feels monumental. The writing is razor-sharp, showcasing the struggles of power, betrayal, and redemption with incredible nuance. The characters continue to shine-Jinx and Vi's arcs are particularly poignant, balancing heartbreak and hope in equal measure.

What truly elevates this episode is its pacing. Every moment feels deliberate, whether it's an explosive confrontation or a quiet, reflective scene. The voice acting deserves special mention; the cast brings raw emotion to every line, making the stakes feel incredibly real.

And, of course, the visuals. Fortiche's animation is beyond stunning, with action sequences that feel both cinematic and intimate. The use of lighting and color heightens the emotional impact, creating a sensory feast that's impossible to look away from.

Episode 8 is not just a highlight of the season-it's a testament to what storytelling can achieve when art, music, and narrative come together in perfect harmony. If the finale is even half as good as this, we're in for something unforgettable.

A perfect 10/10. Arcane is setting a bar that few shows, animated or otherwise, can hope to reach.

I say begins because let's face it this is essentially a Part 1 to a 2-part finale, even if not labeled as such. And it does it very well. You can see the little threads all coming together, characters' actions make sense for their story, even if they're tragic, and sometimes that's a gut-wrenching wish they'd do something else.

On top of great storytelling, there's the representation. Sure, the show has always been amazing on that end, but much like everything else, this episode brings it together, bringing the Caitlyn/Vi relationship to where it not only makes sense but is the best most satisfying progression. Truly great to see, especially so masterfully written.

This might not have been the most action packed or intense episode, but I actually didn't mind that they Slowed things down a bit just before the finale!

It allowed for a breathing room to piece together all the information we got, as well as showing us our characters motivations just before the final stand!

This episode made me realize just how difficult it is to see who are the good guys and who are the bad guys! Its all just a bunch of people with their own ideals, their own selfish reasons to protect or avenge.. getting stuck in this cycle of violence that never ends!

Now I can not wait to see where it all ends!

Wasn't gonna write a review, but looks like this episode recently became the only Arcane s2 episode to drop below a 9/10 on this website so I figured I should say something. This episode has some really great stuff. Is the pacing going at lightning speed? Yes but that's been happening for a while now. I'd argue that it's actually worse in episode 6, which is the most popular episode of the entire show. That's honestly my only big problem with this episode; everything else is great! It really shot the stakes into the air in preparation for the end of the show. And now for the elephant in the room: Violyn. That scene is probably what led to a lot of hate for the episode, but as a lesbian myself, I was so excited to see this level of representation. And honestly, it was just nice to see those two characters happy for once. 10/10!

The show is coming to a quick end and I'm so sad that it is. There has been a crazy amount of moments that are beyond great and emotionally captivating as well. This episode continues to deliver on all fronts while progressing the story. The way Viktor has grown as a character is wild. When I first saw him in the second episode of season 1 I would have never thought he would become who or what he is. I know a lot of fans will be happy about a scene that happens within a prison cell. Everything is so good but my favorite things have to be the flashbacks and soundtrack. I have been hoping for an all out war since the beginning of the show and I think the finale will be just that!