I've watched several animated series, either through Newgrounds or YouTube, and the results have been varying in terms of quality and production ease. Generally speaking, the quality of the content and the hiatuses between episodes were intertwined, with well animated shows and fan-projects having years between even Episode 1 and Episode 2, making them ultimately forgettable when competing with network shows that simply have the resources to produce more content far quicker.
And then came along Epithet Erased; a remarkably well-written show with regular weekly installments so far. Some may scoff at the animation style(not the art style, though, which is pleasant to the eyes and makes every character distinct). However, through expressive designs, expertly choreographed direction, and solid effects, the computer puppetering of models goes from being one of the shows most glaring shortcomings into one of its most unexpected strengths. Even when the perspective is shifted to a bird's eye view of just the character's profiles, it manages to be expressive and well-timed.
The narrative of the show is also rather compelling, especially in regards to the cast of characters, who's expressive designs, superb vocal direction, and lovable writing makes each of them a wonderful surprise. The biggest downside to the plot, however, is that it lacks a clear focus for the overall narrative. It has a power-stealing Maguffin for the cast to chase, but after the first few episodes, it becomes more of an afterthought. While none of the roughly half-hour episodes feel like a drag, there seems to be little plot progression after the first arc. Only 6 episodes are available on VRV, and even less so on YouTube, so this might be a temporary problem, but it does have me slightly concerned about the possible longevity of the show if it cannot find a clear narrative to follow.
None the less, the shear fun of the show ranks it above most web shows, and certainly above most web shows of purely original content. Thus, I give it a solid 9/10.
