Dimension W is a 12 episode anime based upon the manga of the same name. The premise of Dimension W is that the fourth dimension was proven in 2036, which is in addition to the standard three spatial dimensions X, Y and Z, called Dimension W. Based upon this, the series could have had a heavy physics approach but ends up taking the more fantastical approach to the power of the new dimension which is beyond what you'd expect. Naturally, mankind has managed to harness of the power of Dimension W, mainly to create items called Coils that extract the seemingly infinite source of power from this dimension and convert it into electricity. These coils take on the shape similar to a flattened nail.
The plot takes place in 2071 and follows Kyoma, a Collector whose task is to track down and retrieve illegal coils. Coils are solely made by the New Tesla Corporation and are heavily regulated with unofficial coils being illegal. The world has changed with the invention of coils, as they are used to power everything from cars to cellphones. One night, Kyoma meets a robot called Mira who ends up joining him to track down illegal coils. What differentiates Kyoma from the rest of the characters is his dislike for coils. He sticks to using old fashioned non-coil technology and weapons. Of course, this makes it all the more ironic when he is partnered with Mira, whose very existence is based upon the coil that powers her and allows her to function.
While Kyoma is somewhat ordinary as a character, Mira is the highlight of the series. Yes, she is a robot, but she is apparently the most sophisticated robot ever created, closely mimicking a human from the appearance, texture and even personality. There will be plenty of times where Mira doesn't act like a robot. Furthermore, she is inexplicably cute and useful, having a good dynamic with Kyoma. Unfortunately, Dimension W does feel somewhat episodic with various self-contained plots in each episode but the overarching plot isn't that clear on what it is supposed to be. Then again, the series does a good job of getting you sucked in from the first episode when it explains the abilities of a coil, and further mysteries are quickly introduced. The answers are slow coming though but there are plenty of side distractions along the way that you don't mind it too much.
As the series goes on, you come to realize that Dimension W is more than just another spatial dimension or just something to electrical power from. It holds many more properties which transcend it to something more akin to an alternate reality. For example, it can hold memories in time and the characters keep going on about how the dimension holds different possibilities and alternate realities that did not come to realize, thus converting it into energy. Kyoma's backstory takes the focus in the second half of the series, fleshing out the character a it more and allowing the viewer to finally understand his actions. While his past relationships aren't that saddest ever, you feel for the guy.
The build up towards the final two episodes were probably the best in the series since it finally explained a few things. With that said, Dimension W felt like it never reached a peak though. Overall, Dimension W starts off strong with a promising premise but quickly plateau's and never really lifts its games. While that doesn't make Dimension W a bad anime, you can feel at times that it isn't going to where it wants to that quickly. Mira ends up being the one that keeps it all together, from the light fan service to her innocent personality. Watching or not watching Dimension W is up to you, as you're not missing out either way, Dimension W ends up being stuck between good and bad, becoming average in the process.
-------------------------------------------------
For other animation reviews, have a look at this page.
