From the approach an Isekai like any other, without great individuality. If it weren't for the mostly gloomy atmosphere and the betrayal at the beginning. These two things represent this Isekai and ensure that it is more popular than it actually deserves.
Don't get this wrong, "Shield Hero" is by far one of my favorites among the Isekai and probably one of my more likable favorites in general.
Among other things, this anime managed to put together a sympathetic troop, with a very appealing protagonist. It is a very good and captivating introduction and a mysterious plot.
The biggest problem and the reason why this series has lost quality for many, including me, is that the story breaks off completely from episodes 5-6. Somehow it holds up to episode 12, but from then on it is below average. The episodes are poorly executed, there is no tension, it is sluggish and the important developments seem to have no impact. Whereas the first episodes of the season were extremely intense.
And only by cutting off this potential, nothing can come of the first season.
By the way, the anime adaptation is full of censorships from the novel/manga, which make some scenes seem much more harmless than they should.
Story [4]
Apart from "fighting the mysterious waves", the concept is quite simple. The hero has to fight for his honor and his life, which was almost stolen from him. He forms a group and ensures that his reputation increases. This flow is kept almost through to the end and there aren't many resolutions in season one. Given the length of the novel, this is not surprising either.
Characters [4]
I like Naofumi, Raphtalia and Filo too. All 3 are sympathetic, even if I can understand why Filo is a thorn in the eye for many. Naofumi is a very promising protagonist who has a personable charisma and has some personality. Raphtalia is still untreated, but aside from the minimal fan service, she is a stronger female personality with character. Filo is Filo, a hyperactive bird creature who doesn't add much to the plot other than being an active supporter.
- The problem is, I can hardly take the troupe seriously because they are practically a loli harem. As much as it hurts me, I have to accept that fact. Their character relationships are also largely based on this. At least it's always nice to see how the characters feel about Naofumi. Melty is so far a difficult character to assess due to her short screen time.
The use of fan service on these characters has been hugely questionable, among other things. Especially with a newly born Filo. I already see certain fetishes there.
Most of the supporting characters are below average or poor. In this regard, of course, the 3 other heroes were deliberately written as stupidly as possible. Hateful characters are beautiful, but these are just mindless and incomprehensibly stupid. Most of the other supporting characters have no personality whatsoever.
On the positive side, I have to say "Malty" who is practically the primary antagonist of the first season and yet is a very fascinating character. They were later even more surprising than I thought. In any case, its very presence gives the first 5 episodes a perfect touch. Her screen time was practically relevant for the first season, without her the whole thing would hardly have worked.
Animations [6]
At first, the animations had a subtle dynamic, which almost completely disappeared over the course of the episodes. The later episodes were mostly animated in an average way and had hardly any dynamism or charisma.
Music [6]
Both intros have that certain "something" and are above average thanks to a catchy song. The visual representation also helps.
The Osts are not okay and underline some scenes satisfactorily.
The first season of Shield Hero could have been stunning, as long as more effort had been put into adapting and implementing the plot. Unfortunately, this is the unchanging result and I hope for a great improvement in season two.
Nevertheless, this anime is well worth watching and has certain qualities that should not be ignored.
Enjoyment - 7
Overall - 5
