Puchi Forma [Season 1 Episode 2]

“Puchi Forma” Season 1, Episode 2: A Mixed Bag of Potential and Pacing Issues

“Puchi Forma” (also known as “Your Forma”) is a sci-fi detective anime that blends futuristic technology with classic mystery tropes. Directed by Takaharu Ozaki and produced by a team that includes voice talents like Kana Hanazawa and Kensho Ono, the show has been generating buzz—though not always for the right reasons. Episode 2, titled “A Black Box,” continues the story of Officer Echika and her android partner, Harold, as they navigate a world where technology and human emotions collide.

The Good: World-Building and Character Dynamics

One of the strongest aspects of Puchi Forma is its world-building. The concept of Your Forma, a technology designed to protect against viral encephalitis, is intriguing, and the show does a decent job of immersing viewers in its futuristic setting. The dynamic between Echika and Harold is central to the episode, with fans divided on how well it’s executed. Some appreciate the slow-burn development of their relationship, while others find it lacking depth—especially since the anime reportedly skips content from the first light novel volume.

The Brain Dive feature, a futuristic investigative tool, remains a highlight. Fans praise its execution, calling it “exactly how I imagined it while reading.” The visuals and music also receive consistent praise, with the ending theme (ED) being a standout for many.

The Bad: Predictability and Pacing

Where Puchi Forma stumbles is in its storytelling. The kidnapping plot in this episode is criticized for being too predictable. As one fan put it, “That the main would get kidnapped or attacked when she left the bar was pretty obvious.” The lack of suspense in the mystery elements leaves some viewers underwhelmed, especially since the show is marketed as a detective series.

Another major complaint is the pacing. Many fans feel the anime is rushing through key emotional beats. A notable example is the bridge scene between Echika and Harold, which is supposed to be a pivotal moment but falls flat for some. “After like two eps I can’t really bring myself to really care,” admits one viewer. Light novel readers are particularly frustrated, as they believe skipped content from the source material is robbing the story of its emotional weight.

The Ugly: Adaptation Issues

The decision to skip the first volume of the light novel has sparked heated debates. Some argue it makes the anime feel like “it’s in the mid of a second season but only has 2 episodes.” Others defend the choice, pointing out that the second volume focuses more on societal interactions with androids—a theme that aligns better with the show’s premise. Still, the lack of background for Echika and Harold’s relationship is a recurring criticism.

The dialogue also comes under fire. Some fans describe it as “empty,” while others call out lazy writing, particularly in scenes involving police procedures. “No cyber-cop would have an open and easily accessible port like that,” complains one viewer, highlighting inconsistencies in the show’s logic.

Final Verdict: A Show with Potential, But Needs Work

Puchi Forma Episode 2 is a mixed bag. It excels in aesthetics and world-building but struggles with pacing, emotional engagement, and narrative cohesion. While some fans are hooked by the mystery and character dynamics, others are already considering dropping the series.

For now, the show remains a “wait and see” for many. If future episodes can tighten the storytelling and delve deeper into the characters’ motivations, Puchi Forma could evolve into something special. Until then, it’s a decent—if flawed—entry in the sci-fi detective genre.

Rating: 6.5/10
“Visually solid, but the emotional beats need work.”

What did you think of Episode 2? Let us know in the comments!