The naval combat matters less than you'd think, this is a show about factions fractured by ideology, each side convinced they're saving the world. Character introductions are scattered and shallow, which kills momentum early. For game players, seeing these ships animated hits a certain way that carries the first half, but the story never justifies why you should care about the larger conflict beyond "pretty girls in danger."

Naval warfare takes a surreal turn in a world where warships fight as girls. When the Sirens, an alien force armed with technology far beyond anything humanity possesses, appear from the sea, the Eagle Union, Royal Navy, Sakura Empire and Iron Blood set aside their differences and form Azur Lane, winning an early victory. Clashing ideals soon break that union apart: Sakura Empire and Iron Blood split off as the Red Axis, hoping to harness Siren power for their own ends. Enterprise, the veteran called the Grey Ghost, carries Azur Lane's hopes while hiding a fragile, sea-fearing heart behind her stoic front. Meanwhile, Javelin, Laffey and Unicorn keep trying to befriend Ayanami, a Red Axis spy, despite standing on opposite sides. Adapted from a Chinese mobile shooter, the result is sci-fi action with an ecchi streak.