Monochrome Factor

Nikaido Akira is a carefree high school student who enjoys cutting classes, sports and yet manages to still be one of the top students in school. When he met an entity from the shadow world, his normal high school life changed when he was forced to become a shin and pair up with Shirogane to restore balance in the world. Whatever nonsense Shirogane has been telling him about the shadow world is no joke at all, as he soon learns when he had his first fight. Akira's role in the struggle takes on a different meaning however when he finds out that he has more at stake than his easy life and his friends.

This 24-episode series follows the adventures of Shirogane, Akira and his friends as they explore the secrets of and fight the creatures from the shadow world. 

(Left) Shirogane and (right) Akira

From left: Master, Suzuno Aya, Kujo Haruka, Nikaido Akira, Shirogane, and Asamura Kengo

The magic or weapons used by the characters mostly come from Shirogane. Akira's transformation was also possible through that person from the shadow world. That in itself is interesting because of the diversity of their abilities, but the battles usually end up in draws. There is also no resolution towards the end of the series, only more revelations and promises of fights. There were too many opportunities for some awesome showdowns but none were done satisfyingly. The animation is weak as well. 

The typical good versus evil plot is not new although the twist put a little spark in the otherwise boring, episodic series. That little twist was a bit late to salvage the story however. 

The attempt at humor is also typical and not the type I appreciate very well. Kengo almost always ends up the receiver of jokes and is a "punching bag" for the lead character.

Akira also isn't so different from lead characters of  most series set in a high school environment. He's good-looking, popular, and a bit of a rebel. His opposite Shirogane on the other hand is powerful, mysterious and loyal to him almost to the point of obsession. From there we can easily assume that there will be a bit of romance between the two. The reasons for Akira and Shirogane's pairing up isn't new as well. Akira is forced to fight a battle he doesn't know yet and has to rely on Shirogane for protection. He is a destined hero about to end a long war and was picked not because of his abilities but because of his blood.

The series has some good moments and fans of the supernatural/horror genre might appreciate some of the fights, but overall the story is weak and predictable.

Rating: 6 out of 10