Dive into a realm of captivating Fantasy anime this Fall! For people new to anime, seasoned anime vets, and everyone in between, each anime offers something different that is refreshing for the genre. Whether you’re a newcomer to anime, a seasoned enthusiast, or somewhere in between, each series promises a unique and refreshing experience within the genre. Among the standout titles this season are “The Rising of the Shield Hero” Season 3, “Shangri La Frontier,” and “Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End.”
A Fantasy Isekai Way of Life
For those unfamiliar with Rising of the Shield Hero, it is about Iwatani Naofumi who is transported to another world after discovering a mysterious book in a library. He is chosen as the Shield Hero, one of the Four Cardinal Heroes tasked with battling the Waves of Catastrophe alongside the sword, spear, and bow heroes. Initially eager for adventure, Naofumi’s enthusiasm is shattered when he is betrayed, losing everything including his wealth, reputation, and trust in others. In his newfound solitude, he acquires a slave named Raphtalia and resolves to face the Waves and the challenges of this unfamiliar world alone.
Coming off a lackluster previous season regarding the Tortoise arc, that felt rushed and almost out of place, this new season seems to be getting back on track regarding the waves and providing more backstory for the main protagonists. Though there are only 2 episodes so far, they can capture your attention with elements of action, suspense, and mystery making you want more. This is one I would recommend you add to your list if you haven’t already.
Full Dive Into This Anime (Dad Joke of The Day)
Shangri la Frontier is a breath of fresh air from the other fantasy adventure anime around. Dare I say it seems to be what SAO(Sword Art Online) would have been if it didn’t take the route it took. You meet Rakuro Hizutome (Sunraku) who only cares about one thing: beating crappy VR games. He devoted his entire life to these games and could clear them all in his sleep. One day, he decides to challenge himself and play a popular god-tier game called Shangri-La Frontier. But he quickly learns just how difficult it is.
Three episodes in and I can’t wait to see what happens next. Each episode gives you a little of everything, comedy, exposition about the world, character development, and tension, all without someone’s life being in danger. It’s a great ode to gamers out there who play games just because they want to have fun. This anime should be on the top of your watch list, but if you can’t wait the manga will scratch that itch for you.
Keeping An Age Old Promise
After the party of heroes defeated the Demon King, they restored peace to the land and returned to lives of solitude. Generations pass, and the elven mage Frieren comes face to face with humanity’s mortality. She takes on a new apprentice and promises to fulfill old friends’ dying wishes. She then embarks on her quest to grant these wishes. Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End is the anime that took me by surprise and gives the truest sense of an adventure fantasy anime.
Each episode is beautifully animated and even the action scenes feel like they are right out of a fairy tale with magic and dragons. The story isn’t lacking either, it does a great job of pulling on your heartstrings with emotional scenes about regret and dying wishes and gets you rooting for each character. It isn’t as fast-paced as the other fantasy anime but you will always leave an episode feeling like a lot has happened and the story is progressing in the right direction.
Overall, this season’s Fantasy anime lineup has proven to be a treasure trove of captivating stories, offering something for everyone. Whether you’re drawn to epic battles, gamer-centric narratives, or heartfelt journeys, these series are shining examples of the genre’s enduring appeal. Don’t miss out on the rich and immersive worlds they offer.
