The Rising of the Shield Hero – Season 1 (2019)

The Outcast Hero Rises

Season 1 of The Rising of the Shield Hero introduces Naofumi Iwatani, a college student transported to another world as one of four legendary heroes. While others are celebrated, Naofumi—armed only with a shield—is falsely accused, betrayed, and shunned. This brutal beginning sets the stage for his transformation from despised exile to true hero.

Season 1 Overview

Title: The Rising of the Shield Hero Season 1
Episodes: 25
Air Date: January 9, 2019 – June 26, 2019
Studio: Kinema Citrus
Streaming Platforms: Crunchyroll, Netflix (select regions)
Opening Theme: "RISE" by MADKID
Ending Theme: "Kimi no Namae" by Chiai Fujikawa

Story Summary

Naofumi begins his journey in betrayal, abandoned after being falsely accused by Princess Malty. Alone and powerless, he purchases Raphtalia, a demi-human slave, who becomes his sword and closest ally. Together, they endure discrimination and hardship, forming bonds that define Naofumi’s growth.

The season covers Naofumi’s rise from an outcast to a respected warrior, facing the first Waves of Catastrophe, battling powerful monsters, and slowly earning allies despite the kingdom’s scorn.

Major Arcs Covered

1. Summoning of the Heroes – Naofumi is summoned with Motoyasu, Ren, and Itsuki, but quickly betrayed.

2. Raphtalia’s Growth – She evolves from a frightened child into a strong swordswoman.

3. Waves of Catastrophe – Naofumi defends villages despite the kingdom undermining him.

4. Melromarc Politics – Corruption and deceit deepen Naofumi’s mistrust of authority.

Key Themes

• Betrayal and Trust – Naofumi rebuilds trust with Raphtalia and Filo.

• Resilience – Rising from outcast to protector.

• Found Family – Bonds formed outside bloodline define true loyalty.

Main Characters – Season 1

• Naofumi Iwatani – The Shield Hero, despised yet determined.

• Raphtalia – A demi-human who becomes Naofumi’s trusted companion.

• Filo – A Filolial queen raised by Naofumi, strong and loyal.

• Princess Malty (Myne) – The scheming royal who betrays Naofumi.

• Motoyasu, Ren, Itsuki – The other Cardinal Heroes, often at odds with Naofumi.

Where to Watch Season 1

You can stream The Rising of the Shield Hero – Season 1 on:

• Crunchyroll

• Netflix (select regions)

Final Thoughts

Season 1 lays the foundation of Naofumi’s legend—his fall from grace and slow climb to respect. With heartfelt bonds, intense battles, and a raw portrayal of betrayal, it captures the essence of rising stronger through despair.