I’ve been hooked on ‘Arcane’ since its debut, drawn in by its vivid world and emotional storytelling. With Season 2 wrapping up in 2024, I’m revisiting it in 2025 to see how it holds up. 

The show, set in the ‘League of Legends’ universe, continues the tale of sisters Vi and Jinx in the cities of Piltover and Zaun. Let’s dive into five reasons why parts of Season 2 feel dated and five ways it remains a stunning achievement.

Why ‘Arcane’ Season 2 (2021-2024) Aged Poorly

Rushed Storytelling

The pacing in Season 2 feels like a sprint. With only nine episodes, key moments, like Jinx’s emotional arc, get squeezed, losing their depth. I wanted more time to feel her struggles, but the story races through pivotal scenes, leaving them less impactful. The rush to tie up loose ends makes the narrative feel cramped, especially compared to the slower, richer build of Season 1.

Underdeveloped Characters

Some characters, like Viktor and Mel Medarda, don’t get the attention they deserve. Viktor’s transformation into a machine-driven figure lacks clear motivation, feeling more like a plot device than a journey. Mel’s role as a cunning Noxian feels sidelined, with her arc left vague until the final episodes. This left me wanting more from characters who shone in Season 1.

Lore Inconsistencies

For ‘League of Legends’ fans, Season 2’s changes to the game’s canon sting. Viktor’s shift from a calculating inventor to a more emotional figure strays far from his established lore. These retcons, like altering the origins of Hextech, frustrated me as a longtime fan. The show’s canon status makes these changes feel jarring and less cohesive.

Uneven Tone

The balance between action and drama wobbles in Season 2. Light moments, like Vi and Caitlyn’s banter, clash with the grim stakes of Zaun’s rebellion. These shifts feel abrupt, pulling me out of the story. Unlike Season 1’s seamless blend of tones, Season 2 struggles to keep its mood consistent, making some scenes feel out of place.

Weakened Soundtrack

The music in Season 2 doesn’t hit as hard as Season 1’s iconic tracks. While there are standout songs, the score often feels less memorable, failing to elevate key moments. I missed the emotional punch of Season 1’s soundtrack, which perfectly matched the show’s energy. The rushed production may have limited the music’s impact.

Why ‘Arcane’ Season 2 (2021-2024) Aged Masterfully

Stunning Animation

The visuals in Season 2 are breathtaking. From Jinx’s chaotic fight scenes to Piltover’s glowing cityscapes, the animation feels cutting-edge even in 2025. Each frame bursts with color and detail, making every battle a visual feast. Fortiche’s artistry keeps the show looking fresh and unmatched in style.

Emotional Core

The bond between Vi (voiced by Hailee Steinfeld) and Jinx (Ella Purnell) remains the heart of the show. Their fractured relationship, filled with love and pain, delivers moments that still hit hard. Scenes like Jinx’s quiet breakdowns carry raw emotion, keeping me glued to their story. This dynamic makes Season 2 timeless.

Rich World-Building

Piltover and Zaun feel alive, with details like the Firelights’ rebellion and Hextech’s societal impact adding depth. The clash between wealth and struggle creates a vibrant backdrop that pulls you in. Even on rewatch, I’m captivated by how the show weaves lore into its character-driven narrative, welcoming both newcomers and ‘League’ fans.

Bold Themes

Season 2 tackles heavy ideas like class, trauma, and sacrifice with confidence. It avoids simple answers, diving into the messy realities of war and loyalty. The evolving bond between Vi and Caitlyn feels authentic and daring, pushing boundaries for animated series. This willingness to go deep keeps the show relevant.

Explosive Finale

The final episode, ‘The Dirt Under Your Nails,’ delivers a satisfying end. It blends jaw-dropping action with emotional closure, tying up Vi and Jinx’s arcs beautifully. The spectacle of the climax, paired with heartfelt character moments, makes it a standout. Rewatching it, I’m still moved by how it wraps up the series.

What’s your take on ‘Arcane’ Season 2—any moments that aged like fine wine or fell flat for you? Drop your thoughts in the comments!