What is it: How NOT to Summon a Demon Lord
How NOT to Summon a Demon Lord is an anime that stands out in the isekai genre, where the protagonist is transported to a fantasy world. Based on the light novel written by Yukiya Murasaki and illustrated by Takahiro Tsurusaki, the series quickly gained popularity, both in Japan and internationally. The plot revolves around Takuma Sakamoto, a reclusive gamer who is transported to the game world of Cross Reverie, where he assumes the identity of his character, the powerful Demon King Diablo. The series mixes elements of comedy, action and ecchi, creating an engaging and fun narrative. The anime adaptation was produced by studio Ajia-do Animation Works and premiered in 2018, gaining a dedicated fan base.
In the How NOT to Summon a Demon Lord universe, Takuma Sakamoto, now Diablo, is summoned by two young women, Rem Galeu and Shera L. Greenwood, who try to enslave him using a spell. However, due to Diablo's magical ability, the spell is reflected, and the two end up becoming his slaves. From there, the story unfolds with Diablo trying to understand and navigate this new world, while helping Rem and Shera solve their own problems. The series is rich in captivating characters and exciting battle scenes, as well as exploring themes such as friendship, trust and overcoming personal trauma. The dynamics between the main characters is one of the anime's strengths, providing moments that are both hilarious and emotional.
The characters in How NOT to Summon a Demon Lord are one of the series' greatest attractions. Diablo, the protagonist, is a complex character who, despite his intimidating appearance and abilities, is actually an insecure and socially inept young man. Rem Galeu, a black panther, is a determined warrior who carries a dark secret, while Shera L. Greenwood is a cheerful, carefree elf who longs to escape the responsibilities of her royal lineage. Other notable characters include Alicia Crystella, a holy knight with a hidden agenda, and Edelgard, a subordinate of the real Demon King. Each character brings an additional layer of depth to the story, contributing to the development of the plot and keeping viewers engaged.
The setting of How NOT to Summon a Demon Lord is another aspect that deserves to be highlighted. The world of Cross Reverie is vast and detailed, with diverse races, cultures and regions. From dense forests and bustling cities to dangerous dungeons and imposing castles, the setting is richly constructed, providing an immersive backdrop to the adventures of Diablo and his companions. Magic and special abilities play a crucial role in the series, with Diablo utilizing a wide range of powerful spells to face his enemies. The combination of RPG elements with an immersive narrative makes How NOT to Summon a Demon Lord a unique experience for fans of fantasy anime.
The soundtrack to How NOT to Summon a Demon Lord also deserves a mention. Composed by Yusuke Kato, the music perfectly complements the anime's atmosphere, ranging from epic battle themes to softer, more emotive melodies. The series opener, “DeCIDE” by SUMMONERS 2+, and the series closer, “Saiaku no Hi demo Anata ga Suki.” by Yu Serizawa, are particularly memorable, capturing the essence of the series and leaving a lasting impression on viewers. The quality of the animation, combined with the immersive soundtrack, elevates the experience of watching the anime, making it even more captivating and enjoyable.
How NOT to Summon a Demon Lord is not just an entertaining series, but also an exploration of deeper themes. Diablo's struggle with his own identity and insecurities resonates with many viewers, while Rem and Shera's personal journeys touch on issues of self-acceptance and freedom. The series also touches on themes of power and responsibility, with Diablo often finding himself in situations where he must use his strength to protect those around him. The mix of humor, action and drama, along with well-developed characters and an engaging narrative, makes How NOT to Summon a Demon Lord an anime worth watching for any fan of the genre.
