People often judge this series without watching it and believe that it was just a copy and pasted Futari Wa. I strongly disagree. This cast is one of the best. Mai and Saki, at first glance, seem like Nagisa and Honoka but there are key differences. The tone of this installment is much lighter with villains more often used for comedic relief. Mai and Saki are also more optimistic and much faster friends compared to their predecessors.
The side cast were also more memorable. Kenta with his comedy and his family. Hitomi and Yuuko who were similarly high energy like Saki.
I also found Minori much more tolerable compared to Ryouta
The villains were funny and their designs were so unique and fun. The twist with Akudaikan and Gohyaan was out of nowhere and very interesting.
Finally, Michiru and Kaoru. Their gradual redemption and their relationship with Dark Fall was so awesome to see. Their characters had so much depth.