Review of The 8th Son? Are You Kidding Me?

“The 8th Son? Are You Kidding Me?” reminded me of “I Was Reincarnated as the 7th Prince so I Can Take My Time Perfecting My Magical Ability” at the beginning. However, they took different paths after a couple of episodes. The 8th Son turned into a slice of life, friendship and adventure focussed anime with its overpowered main character. Still, when I compare the two, the approach to the subject matter they ring similar and for sure, 8th Son was released 3 years prior to the 7th Prince. There are issues with animation quality, the drawings are like from a decade ago as another commentator pointedout. Moreover, at points, we just see the same scenery over and over again to make us understand things are happening at the same place or there are scenes with very slow camera motion with next to no movement from the frame. The intro and outro musical number are pedestrian, to be honest. The thing is, if you forget about the first few minutes and the token reference here and there, we can even watch it without thinking it is an isekai anime.
There is a small harem that is built but it is not disturbingly made. There is the necessary token sage/mage, idiotic elder brother, bad guy who isn’t too bright, and the unexpected ally as one expect from an isekai adventure. However, it is a heartwarming story and consequently it is a heartwarming anime. It always gives a positive vibe, it shows how one shouldn’t limit oneself with existing conditions and work for the better life, and it shows how friendship is important. Besides, there is something like a cute main character that we find it in The 8th Son. I believe these points make “The 8th Son? Are You Kidding Me?” quite a nice anime to watch. It is easily recommended.