[Kaioshin Sama]

I really like the rocking opening, probably the best I've heard this season, and it also has some dramatic shots of Shana in what I refer to as "Come Get Some" poses. Speaking of Shana, Rie Kugimiya storms onto the scene again as Shana causing me to smile, cheer and laugh as she works through situations involving fawning over Yuji, intimidating the teacher and the Tomogura with her growly voice, and acting all embarassed and chipper while eating her Melon Bread and talking to Yuji. I don't think there any many Seiyuu quite so good at bringing out the most in characters as Kugimiya.

Spoiler for The Episode Itself:

They should have called this episode Chain of Memories, as that's basically what it is. Each character gets something to do in this episode, but none of it really matters as it's all being conjured up by Yuji. Yuji also get's to play the Dr. Wily stage and try to fight each of the bosses again, but ultimately it's up to him to solve the puzzle and escape the fantasy and for Shana to then defeat the giggly Parasol Tomogura. I felt everything was well done, I also don't see how this is much of a recap so much as a bridge to the next series, much like.....Kingdom Hearts Chain of Memories. It's also clear that giggle monster isn't dead either, so there's definitely more to be had. My favourite part of the episode was Shana's method for protecting Yuji from Giggle Monsters barrage. Was it to shield him? No. Was it to tell him to watch out no? No. Was it to kick him out of the Area of Effect? Yes. Nice to see the lolidom personality hasn't left Shana.

Overall this is my favourite first episode of the new season (although I still haven't seen Celestial Beings), and the ending theme was good too. Hopefully either song isn't replaced by a Kotoko horrorshow too soon (preferably ever), as I'm really enjoying them right now. Overall a Nine Out of Ten from me.