Divine Gate [Season 1 Episode 1 to Episode 12]

Divine Gate: A Messy Journey to Nowhere?

When Divine Gate first aired in January 2016, it promised an ambitious blend of mythology, elemental powers, and a quest to reshape the world. Adapted from a Japanese smartphone game, the anime followed “Adapters”—individuals gifted with unique abilities—as they sought the legendary Divine Gate, a portal merging the living world, heavens, and underworld. On paper, it sounded like a recipe for something epic. But by the time the credits rolled on Episode 12, fans were left scratching their heads, laughing in disbelief, or just plain frustrated.

The Premise: Potential Wasted

The show’s premise had all the ingredients for a compelling story. The idea of a gate that could rewrite reality, combined with Norse mythology and Arthurian legends, should have been a goldmine. Characters like Akane, Midori, and Aoto were set up with intriguing backstories—trauma, loss, and a desire for change. Yet, as the episodes progressed, the narrative spiraled into chaos.

Fans on MyAnimeList and other forums didn’t hold back. One user summed it up: “At first, I enjoyed this show in a ‘so bad that it’s funny’ kind of way, but then it got boring, and I still don’t know WTF this show was actually about.” Another echoed, “The plot was confusing, and now that it ended, I’m even more confused.”

The Characters: Who Even Were They?

Aoto, the brooding protagonist with a tragic past, seemed like the emotional anchor. Midori’s quest for answers about her friend’s death could have been poignant. Akane’s fiery determination had potential. But none of them got the development they deserved. Instead, the show introduced a parade of side characters—Loki, Arthur, Santa (yes, Santa)—who either overstayed their welcome or vanished without explanation.

The relationship between Loki and Arthur was a particular point of contention. “Loki and Arthur still have the strangest relationship ever,” one fan groaned. Another joked, “Santa is still OP, the cake is still a lie, and Loki remains a douche in every role he gets.”

The Plot Holes: A Gate to Nowhere

By the finale, the show’s biggest sin wasn’t just its messy storytelling—it was the sheer number of unresolved threads. Did Santa survive? What happened to Aoto’s brother? Why did characters who supposedly died suddenly reappear? “The quantity of plot points they left unfinished is insane,” one viewer ranted.

The climax, where the trio rejects the Divine Gate’s power, was meant to be profound. Instead, it felt unearned. “They go through all this trouble to reach the Gate, only to say ‘nah’? That’s not deep—that’s lazy,” a fan criticized. The Deus ex Machina revivals of dead characters didn’t help. “Resurrecting in Skyrim is harder than in Divine Gate,” someone quipped.

The Verdict: A Trainwreck Worth Watching?

Despite the backlash, Divine Gate had its defenders. A few fans praised the opening theme or the occasional emotional beat. “The OP was quite good,” one admitted, “but that’s the only reason I’m giving it a 3/10.” Others found humor in its absurdity. “Too bad the comedy of the season is over,” a user laughed. “I laughed too much at the second half.”

But for most, the show was a missed opportunity. “This had good potential but ended up a mess full of clichés,” sighed one viewer. Another bluntly declared, “Fuck this pretentious pile of shit. I hope it doesn’t get a second season.”

Final Thoughts

Divine Gate is the kind of anime that makes you wonder how it got greenlit in the first place. Was it rushed? Did the writers lose the script? Or was it always destined to be a confusing, half-baked adaptation? Whatever the case, it’s a fascinating case study in how not to execute a high-concept story.

If you’re looking for a so-bad-it’s-good experience, Divine Gate might entertain you—for all the wrong reasons. But if you crave coherence, emotional payoff, or even basic logic, steer clear. As one fan perfectly put it: “Thank god this series is finally over.”

Rating: 3/10 (Generous points for the OP and occasional unintentional comedy.)

Would you watch a second season of Divine Gate? Or is this one gate best left closed? Let me know in the comments!