The Rising of the Shield Hero

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The Rising of the Shield Hero

The Rising of the Shield Hero (Tate no Yuusha no Nariagari) is an isekai dark fantasy anime based on the light novel series by Aneko Yusagi. Unlike many isekai where the protagonist is celebrated, this series flips the script—Naofumi Iwatani, summoned as the Shield Hero, is immediately betrayed, branded a criminal, and forced to rise from nothing.

With its themes of resilience, betrayal, and found family, Shield Hero explores what it truly means to earn trust, power, and redemption in a hostile world.





The Rising of the Shield Hero – Overview

Naofumi Iwatani is summoned to another world as one of the Four Cardinal Heroes. While the others receive weapons of legend, he is given only a shield—the weakest weapon. Betrayed and cast aside, Naofumi must rebuild his life from scratch, relying on his wits and the loyalty of his companions, Raphtalia and Filo.

Together, they confront the Waves of Catastrophe, corrupt rulers, legendary monsters, and rival nations, slowly turning Naofumi from despised exile to respected leader.


Anime Details

Studio: Kinema Citrus
Seasons: 4 (ongoing)
First Air Date: January 9, 2019
Original Work: Light novel by Aneko Yusagi
Volumes: 20+ (ongoing)
Genre: Isekai, Dark Fantasy, Action, Drama
Streaming Platforms: Crunchyroll, Netflix (select regions)


Story Summary

Betrayed by those who summoned him, Naofumi builds his legend from the ground up. With Raphtalia, a demi-human swordswoman, and Filo, a powerful Filolial, he faces world-ending calamities, political conspiracies, and divine beasts.

Over time, Naofumi grows from a bitter, distrusted hero into a true leader whose compassion and cunning inspire allies across kingdoms. Each season raises the stakes—from battling monsters to uncovering his allies’ hidden pasts—while forcing him to question what it means to be a hero.


Season Breakdown

Season 1 (2019) – The Outcast Hero Rises

Naofumi is betrayed and falsely accused, forcing him to start with nothing. He forms bonds with Raphtalia and Filo, building his strength and reputation. Together, they protect villages from the deadly Waves of Catastrophe.

Season 2 (2022) – Spirit Tortoise Awakens

Naofumi faces new worlds and enemies, including the colossal Spirit Tortoise. He meets Glass, L’Arc, and Therese from another world, learning that the Waves are far more complex than he imagined.

Season 3 (2023) – Trials of the Shield Hero

Naofumi strengthens his hold in the world, confronts rival heroes, and learns of Raphtalia’s noble lineage. New companions join his party as he faces political intrigue and dangerous conspiracies.

Season 4 (2025) – The Phoenix Stirs

Season 4 focuses on Raphtalia’s homeland, Q’ten Lo, where her royal lineage sparks conflict. Branded a revolutionary figure, she confronts her past while Naofumi prepares for the awakening of the Phoenix, a calamity that threatens the world.


Main Characters

  • Naofumi Iwatani – The Shield Hero, once despised, now a true leader.

  • Raphtalia – Naofumi’s sword and closest ally, revealed to be of noble blood.

  • Filo – A cheerful Filolial queen who fights with incredible power.

  • Motoyasu, Ren, Itsuki – Other Cardinal Heroes who often clash with Naofumi.

  • Malty Melromarc (Myne) – The deceitful princess who framed Naofumi.


Themes and Style

  • Betrayal and Redemption – From scapegoat to savior.

  • Legacy and Identity – Raphtalia’s lineage reshapes her destiny.

  • Courage Against Fate – Facing Waves, monsters, and betrayal.

  • Found Family – Loyalty and trust forged in hardship.


Animation & Visuals

Kinema Citrus highlights fantasy landscapes, emotional character arcs, and large-scale battles. Season 4 expands the world with new nations, creatures, and the looming Phoenix threat.


Where to Watch

You can stream The Rising of the Shield Hero on:


Popularity and Reception

  • Over 11 million light novel copies sold worldwide.

  • Praised for darker storytelling and character depth.

  • A major influence in modern isekai anime.


Final Thoughts

The Rising of the Shield Hero stands apart as an isekai that doesn’t hand its hero easy victories. Naofumi’s journey—marked by betrayal, resilience, and loyalty—is a testament to rising from nothing. With Season 4 exploring Raphtalia’s past and the looming threat of the Phoenix, the stakes are higher than ever.

If you enjoy dark fantasy, emotional character arcs, and a story where the hero earns every triumph, Shield Hero is a must-watch.

Location: Tokyo, Japan

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