You can expect the usual mix of stereotypes and plot clichés commonly associated with the genre, but instead of embracing them with open arms, Konosuba mocks them at every opportunity with witty writing to boot. Instead of an intricate plot with extensive lore, we were treated to the daily struggles of lowly adventurers. Instead of a looming sense of fate and destiny, we were treated with kill quests of giant toads and magical cabbages. Instead of a goody-two-shoes protagonist, we were treated to an egotistical shut-in that’s mostly out for himself, introduced in the humblest manner possible.
The characters were well designed and written, each member of the main party were peculiar in their own ways with various eccentricities. Discussing them here might spoil the plot so I will refrain from going into detail, but Kazuma was definitely one of the best protagonist I’ve seen as of late, while Megumin was memorable with her chuuni aesthetics and obsessive passion of “magic”.
Art is brilliant for the most part, there were little reuse of frames besides a few seconds of guild announcements and townsfolk dashing for shelters. Animation is smooth and expressive, close-in shots of characters were often detailed and fitting. The spell sequences especially looked the part with no expanses spared, I was glad that the same consistent level of quality was kept throughout the entire show.
If I had to nitpick, I would say 10 episodes were too short for the show’s own good. Granted that it had to be done for prevent a single gag from being overly drawn, among other budget related reasons. However some small parts were cut from the light novels, namely the introduction of Wiz, which inevitably damaged the shows pacing at times. The musical scores were a tad underwhelming too, none of the tracks were memorable or impressive, though the OP and ED were adorable and appropriate.
Without a doubt, this show was a highlight of 2016 and a must see. I have enjoyed the entirety of it, every episode from start to finish. It is also one of those shows that’s highly rewatchable, the type that you can leave running every other month and steal a peek while you’re busy doing stuff. Seriously, you should stop reading this and watch it already.
