Completed Umineko Episode 2 and it was really good. I'm not quite sure what's going on lol, but I'm liking it. EP 2 changes from EP 1's murder mystery to a more supernatural drama of wits. Plenty of characters get more depth to their characterisation, like Battler for example-

who's quite a lot better in this episode, a lot more heroic and badass. The outcome for him in this episode is quite heartbreaking though. His dynamic with Beatrice is awesome and speaking of Beatrice...

Beatrice is an incredibly effective villain in many ways, both in her dynamics with the cast and how she toys with them, but also how she adds to the stylistic elements and simmering thematics. There are hints to some complex characterisation too, but we're not yet there.

Shanon and George get some much needed extra characterisation, and their romance and how they stand up against Beatrice is compelling. It's not super unique, but well-executed in terms of how it's integrated into Uminkeo's specific narrative.

Kanon & Jessica were great. Kannon gained LOTS of characterisation, so his moments were more emotional in this ep than in ep 1, where I didn't really like him much at all. Jessica got plenty of development too, but it wasn't as interesting, but luckily she's still very likeable.

Rosa while less sympathetic than Natsuhi, was still really good. I'm glad she didn't just the exact same character arc as Natsuhi, and Rosa and Maria's relationship was easily the most emotionally resonant part of the episode.

Overall, very good episode, I enjoyed it more than episode 1, the characterisation is getting better, and while I'm more confused at stuff now than before, especially the Meta world aspects, I'm sure it'll all make sense in the end. I'm excited to get into episode 3 this week.