Review of The Rising of the Shield Hero

*Review contains spoilers* Story 8/10 Who doesn't like a story with the underdog rising above beyond difficulties? This anime is a fun and easy watch regardless of you being an adventure genre lover or not. I liked how the anime took its time to build the relationship between Naofumi's and his girls gang and really enjoyed the sense of camaraderie and loyalty that develops between them. It has a bit of emotional scenes, especially those related to Raphtalia and her background. Art 8/10 & Sound 7/10 Nothing too special about this areas in this anime, but it looks well made. Characters 8/10 Naofumi begins this journey as a sweet and naiveguy, who soon enough finds out that not everyone could be easily trusted. He gets unfairly mistreated and even begins to resent having a "useless" weapon. I really enjoyed seeing his growth and how he came to understand his and the shield's true purpose and power. Naofumi is a good person at heart. We see how he saved Raphtalia and took care of her. If you add those two things, you can figure out why he was given a shield (protection). Raphtalia, as expected, develops romantic feelings for him, which you find yourself hoping are soon returned. Yes, Naofumi goes a bit through a dark phase when he doesn't want to be bothered with people, but he soon finds himself part of a group again.

You get to hate the bad guys (Mirelia, the King, Kitamura), that means their roles were well executed. Plus we do get the satisfaction of Naofumi proving himself to them and them actually being forced to take back their words.

Enjoyment 9/10
I enjoyed watching this anime and following Naofumi's journey. Its not the best thing you will see, but it doesn't disappoint either.

Overall 8/10