Shadowhunters

*cause visuals are cool*

Of course, objectively and aesthetically the black, tattoo-like look is much more pleasing. They look even, consistent, and…well, just likey some fancy tattoo.

But I have to say, I liked the different shades of red in season 1, not because of how it looked, but because it made sense. These runes are soared into flesh (at least that’s what happens in the series, don’t start with book logic a series should be understandable on its own) and of course that leaves scars which go through various stages of healing. So the fact that some runes were old, almost pale told viewers “oh, this is old”, another rune might look especially new and so on. I also loved that Alec had one rune that was basically barely visible anymore, because it implied runes could fade.

And that is, from a logical point of view, so important. Because your body only offers so much space to draw on. After ten years in the shadow hunting business, you’d be covered in those pretty black tattoo things from season 2. But in season 1? The runes would heal and disappear eventually. So signs that you only need once (Like Clary’s demon summoning rune) would simply disappear and make room for other, new runes. Those that are frequently used like for healing or better vision wouldn’t fade because of usage.

Jace and Simon in the Season 2B trailer

+bonus