Audience reviews
20 · Sample from the first available page, separate from the total number of ratings.
Connoisseur5910
Well,
Season 2 takes everything that made the first season interesting and turns the psychological warfare up another level.
And once again, Ayanokoji is the star of the show.
This season really demonstrates just HOW good he is at understanding people. Not simply academically intelligent, but able to recognize fears, weaknesses and desires and then build an entire strategy around them.
The development involving Kei Karuizawa was probably my favorite part of the season. Their relationship becomes much more important, and watching Ayanokoji gradually turn her into someone he can rely on for information is fascinating. The whole bullying storyline gets quite uncomfortable at times, but it also gives Kei much more depth than I expected her to have.
What I love about Ayanokoji is that even when…
Read at the sourceAngeVNs
This is the first season where a lot of people were complaining about the anime adaptation moving way too fast, to the point where many say to just straight-up read the light novels.
I took the middle approach by watching the anime while reading the equivalent light novel volumes at the same time.
To some degree, I can agree that people who complain about the anime moving a little too fast compared to the light novels are missing out on a bunch of interesting details, mostly around actually seeing Ayanokōji’s thoughts. That at least gives some depth and understanding of why he acts the way he does, instead of him just being the overpowered (planning-wise) stoic protagonist he’s known for.
But that brings up the question: do I still think an anime-only viewer can enjoy the series? Person…
Read at the sourceDeepthicklong
It'a probably the best out of 4 seasons, or maybe it is becayse i have watched this one in hindi dub which i prefer to watch, but haven't watched seasom 4 in my language.
I re-watched this season after 4 years and this is my opinion
The 1st season was only the build up and not so important but this one is packed and will not let you get bored. I can't say the main plot progresses much but we do get to witness some main plot elements here and there.
Animation wise this can be called a big step ahead from the first one and really great. Some scenes are such that you will find a similar artstyle in pretty much most other anime. This is because they have handled the shadows too good, especially in the final fight scene.
I love ryuen, and his encounter with koenji was eye candy for me as i…
Read at the sourceFrousties
It's a bit of an improvement over the first season, and the presentation is overall slightly better, but still, nothing much of real interest happens.
The premise is still massively wasted, this is Classroom of the Elite (singular)
I don't really like repeating myself in those reviews, especially when all of my issues with season 1 are mostly here too.
We get a bit more backstory about Ayanokoji, but instead of focusing on this, which is imo more interesting than the cookie-cutter plot, we put the focus on more uninteresting special tests. (like seriously how the fuck does this school even work)
Horikita still feels just as much sidelined as usual, if not more, and she barely feels like a character, especially when her brother gets into the picture where she just acts.... weird. I thoug…
Read at the source_Bubassotto_
An excellent continuation, more than that, a clear evolution in practically all the points that left something to be desired in the first season of Classroom of the Elite.
The second season of Classroom of the Elite not only continues the story, but also significantly expands on what was presented before. Here, we finally see a more consistent development of the characters, something that was really lacking at the beginning of the work. Characters like Kiyotaka Ayanokoji and Kei Karuizawa gain much more depth. They cease to be just interesting archetypes and begin to have clearer layers of personality, motivations, and internal conflicts.
Ayanokoji, in particular, continues to be the highlight. His cold, calculating, and manipulative nature not only remains, but is explored more directly…
Read at the sourcepersonaltorture
The basic premise of the show presents itself as a battle of psychological warfare between students across four classes as they try to earn enough points in order to reach the top being class A.
It has an interesting pool of characters that each have their own goals and ambitions, with some doing whatever means necessary to achieve them.
I found myself to be thoroughly invested in the plot that was unfolding and involved myself in all the ways it could play out. It was always exciting to see how Ayanokouji (the main protagonist) would manipulate events in unpredictable ways unbeknownst to us, the viewer, and all other characters involved. Ayanokouji is quite a mysterious character, which adds to his unpredictability in the show. While there could be an argument that he's quite boring (the…
Read at the sourceKranst
The second season of Classroom of the Elite resumes after the mid-arc conclusion and is the beginning of an inevitable confrontation between Ryuuen and his group. This entry has more direction compared to the previous, and features more communication, development, and progression in the cast. Many story beats lead somewhere, and their conclusions are satisfying. More time spent and familiarity with these characters greatly benefit this series in terms of enjoyment. Of note, Ayanokouji and Horikita had great interactions with Karuizawa and Sudou, respectively. Although Kushida still sucks... Even still, the underwhelming production quality and surface-level exploration of concepts leave this anime feeling just adequate.
Read at the sourceNB_Cooks
This is where Classroom of the Elite actually gets good a lot of the bad fan service in season 1 is gone and the plot continues with great new special exams and we see Ayanakoji’s character get fully fleshed out. We also get to know a lot more of class 1-D like Kei and her arc which leads to an insane fight. I understand how others may not enjoy this show as it might come off as corny but if you give it an honest chance then I think you will find yourself heavily intrigued. Overall great season and can’t wait for season 4!
Read at the sourcealnj
When Ayanokoji said at the end of the first season that "all people are tools", I think the writer really meant it. Nearly every student in this show is a plot device, not a character. They are tools to further the plot that surrounds Ayanokoji, not people with their own stories. The few characters that get their motivations revealed or hinted this season honestly have anticlimactic backstories. What happens to these characters is mild and ineffectual in comparison to the warped personality and perverted worldview the characters are left with as a result. They are just written to be assholes so viewers can feel good when the glorious 200 iq Ayanokoji puts them in their place.
Speaking of assholes, no character who is consequential to the plot this season is likeable. They are all either v…
Read at the sourcearifandi13
This is the season where I truly started to love Classroom of the Elite. I totally understand if some people were confused by the first season (2017). Many viewers probably said things like, “What even is this anime?”, “It’s so unclear,” or even, “Cringe, just like its fanbase.” And honestly, I don’t blame them.
But in Season 2, everything starts to click.
Characters that once seemed minor or irrelevant begin to show their importance and depth. One standout is Kei Karuizawa. If you remember, she barely had any presence in Season 1. But here, she becomes a key character in the story.
(And I hope this doesn't count as a spoiler 😅)
While the main focus is still on Kiyotaka Ayanokoji, Kei’s storyline is genuinely engaging—and sometimes, even sweet. Really sweet. Like, sugar-sweet. Hehehe…
Read at the sourcePanda_Roll
The plot thickens.
Well, more like actually start to take form. The show seems to have an identity crisis and can't decide if it's Battle Royale or danganronpa. Minus the style in both of course.
The show sends mixed messages. The "school" throws resources into the void at what seems like a last minute arranged challenge, normally fine for an anime but that suspension of disbelief bridge can only take so much. There needs to be a point or reason behind it not just... cuz...
Another issue is community vs individual. In two seasons the classes are always scored as a communal unit so the core message seems to be work as a group, fine. But then you get "individual" scores that only have one single function for both seasons and that is = If an individual makes a mistake, the whole group w…
Read at the sourceAnik5087
Season 2 elevates Classroom of the Elite to a whole new level. What started as a slightly edgy, mysterious school anime turns into a full-blown psychological warzone. This season gives us more of Ayanokoji’s terrifying intelligence and manipulative brilliance, peeling back layers of his past and philosophy. The tension in group dynamics, the constant power plays, and the use of strategy over brute force make it incredibly addictive.
One of the best things here is the way the story subtly builds suspense without screaming about it. You’re left wondering who’s really in control — until Ayanokoji reminds you that he always was. Some side characters still need more depth, but the show is clearly playing the long game.
If you enjoy mind games and slow-burning psychological power shifts, Seaso…
Read at the sourcehexashadow13
tl;dr: A more character focused sequel that channels the strengths of the first season in a new direction.
The second season of Classroom of the Elite is quite a bit different from the first season. This primarily comes down to how the focus is less on winning the ‘games’ individually, and more on the circumstances surrounding them and the long term impacts on the characters involved in them. The first and third arc this season still have special exams and there are still tricks used to win those special exams, but this takes a backseat to other matters and just in general isn’t as impressive as the climaxes of the arcs in the first season. The second arc is about the sports festival and though Class D is ultimately the victim of Class C’s schemes, they don’t really execute any major sche…
Read at the sourceTryingT0L1ve
The second season of Youkoso Jitsuryoku Shijou Shugi no Kyoushitsu e is a noticeable improvement compared to the first. While the first season felt like we were simply passive observers with little engagement, the second season shifts gears. We begin to feel more involved, immersed in every plan and strategy, which immediately boosts the enjoyment by at least 50%. After all, part of the fun in a series like this is seeing whether the schemes and tactics will succeed or fail, and being part of that process makes the anime much more compelling.
However, despite this improvement, there remains a lingering frustration with the lack of character development, particularly with Ayanokoji. He was designed to be apathetic and emotionally detached, which works for the narrative to a degree, but it…
Read at the sourceAnimeExplorer21
I thought Season 1 was wild, but this... this is on a whole different level.
Like, remember that scene where Ayanokouji and Horikita are trying to navigate the school festival, and they get ambushed by that group of students from Class C? The way Ayanokouji just calmly takes control of the situation, using his wit and cunning to turn the tables on them... it was like watching a masterclass in psychological manipulation. And Horikita's reactions were priceless - I loved seeing her try to keep up with Ayanokouji's antics.
And then there's the infamous "exam arc" - I won't give away too many spoilers, but let's just say it was intense. The way the students were pitted against each other, forced to make impossible choices and confront their own demons... it was like watching a train wreck in…
Read at the sourceBlkAngle
I just finished rewatching this anime for the fifth time, and I’m excited to share my thoughts! It’s definitely one of my all-time favorites, and I can’t get enough of its mysterious vibe and the intense mental battles it portrays. That’s what really captivates me about anime! The main character is definitely one of my top ten favorites. I especially love the survival arc on the island; it’s easily one of my favorite parts of the whole series, and it never fails to impress me.
Ayanokuji is such an intriguing character—totally emotionless yet somehow really captivating. He has this cool, indifferent attitude paired with a sharp mind, but he’s always on the lookout for ways to come out on top, without worrying about anyone else. It’s fascinating how well-written his character is.
While t…
Read at the sourcerobert788
Youkoso Jitsuryoku Shijou Shugi no Kyoushitsu e 2nd Season (2022)
Okay, loved season 1, kind of glad I didn't wait for this as it's a few years down the line of anticipation. For the record, I watched season 1 and immediately moved on to season 2.
In season 2 the story progresses further with much deeper interactions and side characters getting much more action. The action of side characters is great because instead of just getting a, 'Oh that character went through some stuff' or maybe a 5-second flashback you get to see them progress. You realise everyone here is pretty messed up and the school has much more meaning than a normal high school. It is a school of reform in the harshest way possible.
The artwork has moved on and looks even better than the 2015 PV, and the 2017 season 1.…
Read at the sourceSmilomaniac
My reviews usually focus less on the show itself and more about the practical viewing experience, with exceptions of course.
'Classroom of the Elite' is a psychological drama mixed with a 'who's about do it' (rather than a who done it) puzzle of where seemingly impossible situations play out and are explained at the end, so you get to guess how the characters do it and why.
If you can handle the smug over-intelligent teenagers being ludicrously predictive (as in they predict the future, not that they're predictable) and the pseudo-Machiavellian scheming, then this is highly entertaining.
Regardless of how good or bad these seasons are as adaptations of the light novels, the premise has massive issues.
The idea, as it continues to be, is that high schoolers are put in an ultra competitiv…
Read at the sourceGintokiee
what a great season Ayanakojiiiiii love
.
The fight it was so good and precise how i thought he would fight if ever
op&ed were great .
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i always loved how in the first season he had no feelings but would develop as a character and this season took it to another high..
manipulates lies fights has a shady past Still a great MC..
I like how these anime try to invest you fully in the plot so you can think about it too by showing everything with a good pacing
it doesn't feel like too much we have a idea how will the mc be affected and it makes it 10 times better seeing him get out of the situation...
it was great to see they sticked to the original art style of first without changing which made it a nostalgic and good vibes...
all n all good season...
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until the next season is ready to bing…
Read at the sourceSenseiSempai-san
The Classroom of The Elite Season 2 is here and boy, what a blast. This season goes on so quick. The story line is more tight and the action pace is (almost) relentless. Somehow it still feels a bit meh at times.
We do get more characters development and they can be crucial to the viewers understanding the characters more. Plus their role in the scheme of things. Ayanokoji and Horikita continues their hot and cold type relationship in the classroom trying to survive the brutal exams and expulsion system of the school. Wil lthey both stay till the end? Surely they do.
Looking forward to Season 3 then as it is only fitting that this series has more to offer.
Read at the source
