I was feeling ready to move on from Season 2’s first major battle but in hindsight, I should’ve considered that with Kaiju No. 9, things are never so easy. While Kafka and Gen did successfully defeat No. 9, it turns out that neither copy was actually the real one, or the “Alpha” as the daikaiju puts it. The Alpha has actually been hiding in plain sight as one of the First Division’s support officers. It not only wants Kafka’s powers but also the No. 2 gauntlets from Isao. As you’ll tell from watching the episode, the real No. 9 has gotten a lot stronger, even sporting a new look to convey that. Kind of cheap that No. 9 got a power boost offscreen but I have to admit that giving its “Beta” and “Gamma” copies the original design is a clever misdirect and it’s intriguing to think what No. 9 must’ve done for its upgrade.
Even though No. 9 is after the gauntlets, Isao is forced to fight it alone as he’s the only one in the area with any chance of taking on a daikaiju. Despite the danger, Isao’s personal support officer, Akira Kurusu (Ryota Suzuki) volunteers to stay and provide tactical support. Kind of random to give this guy a bit of the spotlight but I do admire his bravery and it’s a decent excuse to have someone explain what happens in the ensuing fight.
The fight between Isao and Kaiju No. 9 is very entertaining but as you might’ve guessed, this is indeed the show writing off its strongest and most experienced good guy in order to better pit the main heroes and the main villain against each other. The signs are pretty darn telling. Like, Isao was able to fight Kafka while holding back but he almost lost that fight in the end. By his own admission, the Director General admits that he’s not as powerful as he was at his prime. It’s hard to imagine then that he could fight against No. 9’s new and improved form. I think the biggest giveaway is the episode exploring Isao’s relationship with his daughter. At the beginning of the episode, he gives genuine praise to Kikoru for her contributions in the recent battle. There’s also a flashback during the fight with No. 9 where Isao reflects on Kikoru’s childhood, admitting that he’s not the best father he could’ve been and that he hopes that he at least provided a future for his daughter. It’s great finding out what Isao truly feels underneath his stern exterior but suffice to say, it’s a massive death flag for the character.
The ending is delightfully cruel. I don’t know if I would’ve preferred it if No. 9 completely wiped the floor but it sure is agonizing that Isao could’ve beaten it if he could withstand the strain of the No. 2 gauntlets for a little longer. Cutting before you see No. 9 absorb and assimilate Isao is pretty great too. Like, you’re more inclined to think that Isao doesn’t make it but that little bit of direction does evoke a sliver of hope. I know Kikoru would have to find out sooner or later but having No. 9 briefly use Isao’s fight and therefore reveal what’s happened to the poor girl is crazy. It really sells the gravity of the situation.
So what now? The episode sets up Kafka and Gen teaming up against No. 9 and believe me, that has potential for another solid fight. That said, No. 9 was strong enough to defeat Isao and that was before it obtained the power of Kaiju No. 2. I expect this next fight to be a bit of a curb stomping towards our heroes.
Watch Kaiju No. 8 on Crunchyroll
Xenodude Scribbles 