The first season of "Arcane" emerged as a game-changer, leaving an indelible mark on both action cartoons and the video game cartoon genre. It introduced a revolutionary forty-five minute drama format, previously reserved solely for live action series, and presented CGI animation of astonishing visual splendor on the small screen. While "Castlevania" held the distinction of being the first adult video game cartoon and the first not regarded as a cheesy guilty pleasure, it operated within the context of anime imitation as Western adult action cartoons were yet to gain widespread acceptance.

Audio/Visual Prowess: A Visual and Auditory Feast

The second season of "Arcane" effortlessly surpasses the first in terms of audio/visual excellence. It showcases some of the most breathtaking sequences ever animated for television. Animated on a feature film budget, the visuals rival those of Pixar or Dreamworks. There are numerous scenes that experiment with diverse animation techniques, leaving viewers in awe. The action sequences remain as amazing as in the first season, a testament to the consistent quality. Additionally, the contemporary pop-infused audio reaches an unprecedented level of quality. If audio/visuals were the sole determining factor, this would undoubtedly be the greatest television cartoon of all time.

Plot and Character Challenges

Although audio and visuals approach perfection in television animation, the writing of "Arcane" does have notable flaws. The first season deserves high praise for its plot, which told a deep, profound, and personal story about two sisters taking different paths in an unequal world. The story was complex with numerous moving parts. However, the three-year gap between seasons hindered viewers' ability to recall last season's events. The series jumps in without a proper recap, leaving viewers confused. The second season takes a different direction, with various plots that often feel random and lacking in direction. It includes elements like time travel, interdimensional travel, character mutations, and more. The ambiguous ending leaves viewers desiring a more satisfying resolution to the sibling rivalry between Jinx and Vi. It seems that more seasons are needed to flesh out these ideas and avoid a rushed conclusion.

Setting the Stage for the Animated Universe

We know that there are plans for more spinoffs based on different characters in the "League of Legends" video game series. It appears that the second season threw everything at us to set up this animated universe rather than being a self-contained show. It is hoped that the rest of the animated universe will focus on smaller, intimate stories rather than overwhelming viewers with convoluted plots. If "Arcane" had an extra season, it could have reached masterpiece status. For now, it remains a flawed masterpiece, captivating audiences with its visual and auditory grandeur while struggling with narrative coherence.