I remember when "Attack on Titan" burst onto the anime scene back in 2013. It was like a breath of fresh air in a genre often cluttered with high school settings and slice-of-life stories. The premise was intriguing: humanity on the brink of extinction, surrounded by colossal humanoid creatures known as Titans. As a longtime anime fan, I was excited to see where this series would take us.

The first season of "Attack on Titan" gripped me from the start. The grim atmosphere, the towering Titans, and the sense of hopelessness that shrouded the characters made for an intense and immersive experience. Eren Yeager, Mikasa Ackerman, and Armin Arlert were well-developed protagonists, and their journey to uncover the truth about the Titans was a compelling narrative.

The animation quality by Wit Studio was outstanding, especially during the jaw-dropping action sequences where the omni-directional mobility gear was used to fight Titans. The fluidity of movement and the sheer scale of the battles were a visual treat for any anime enthusiast.

However, as the series progressed, I couldn't help but notice some cracks in the armor. The pacing became erratic, with episodes of slow exposition followed by frenetic action. New characters were introduced at a rapid pace, making it difficult to form strong connections with them. The mysteries surrounding the Titans and the world they inhabited grew increasingly convoluted, leaving me with more questions than answers.

Another issue that emerged was the tonal shift in the story. The initial sense of dread and urgency gave way to political intrigue and philosophical debates. While these elements can enhance a story, they felt forced at times, causing the narrative to lose its focus.

The decision to split the final season into two parts further disrupted the flow of the story. It left viewers hanging with numerous unresolved plotlines, creating a sense of frustration rather than anticipation.

Character development suffered as well. Eren, once a relatable protagonist driven by a desire for vengeance, underwent a transformation that made him less empathetic. The moral complexities that were initially explored were overshadowed by an increasingly black-and-white worldview.

The animation quality, too, saw a decline, particularly in the final season. While some episodes still delivered stunning visuals, others were marred by inconsistent art and animation.

In conclusion, "Attack on Titan" began as a promising and groundbreaking series that challenged the conventions of anime. Its first season was a thrilling ride, but as the years passed, it lost its way. The complex narrative, once a strength, became convoluted, and the tonal shifts left me feeling disconnected from the characters and their struggles.

While I appreciate the ambition and creativity that went into "Attack on Titan," I can't help but feel that it didn't fulfill its early promise. I rate it 6/10 because, despite its flaws, it still managed to captivate me at times and deliver memorable moments, but the inconsistency and lack of a satisfying conclusion left me somewhat disappointed.