Record of Ragnarok – Season 1 (2021)

When Humanity Defied the Gods

Season 1 of Record of Ragnarok introduces one of the most extreme and unforgettable premises in modern anime — a divine tribunal where gods vote unanimously to wipe out humanity, only to be challenged to a brutal tournament that will decide mankind’s fate.

This season lays the foundation for everything that follows. It establishes the rules of Ragnarok, the ideological divide between gods and humans, and the emotional weight carried by every battle. More than just spectacle, Season 1 is about proving that humans deserve the right to fight back.

This is where Ragnarok begins — and where fear turns into defiance.

Season Overview

Title: Record of Ragnarok – Season 1
Japanese Title: 終末のワルキューレ Season 1
Episodes: 12
Air Date: June 17, 2021
Studio: Graphinica
Streaming Platform: Netflix (global), Amazon Prime  Video, Blu-ray/ DVD
Opening Theme: “KAMIGAMI” by Maximum the Hormone
Ending Theme: “Fukahi” by SymaG

Story Summary

Every thousand years, the Council of Gods gathers to judge humanity. Observing endless wars, corruption, and destruction, the gods decide that humans are beyond redemption and must be erased.

Before the verdict can be carried out, the Valkyrie Brunhilde invokes Ragnarok, an ancient clause that allows humanity one final chance to survive.

The conditions are merciless:

• Thirteen gods

• Thirteen human champions

• One-on-one battles to the death

• First side to reach seven victories decides the fate of humanity

To make humans capable of killing gods, the Valkyries perform Volundr, fusing their souls with human warriors to become divine weapons.

Season 1 follows the opening rounds of Ragnarok, as humanity faces overwhelming divine power for the very first time — not knowing whether survival is even possible.

Round Breakdown

Round 1 – Thor vs. Lu Bu

The opening battle sets the tone for Ragnarok. Lu Bu, history’s strongest warrior, challenges Thor, the Norse god of thunder.

Both fighters seek an opponent worthy of their strength. Despite Lu Bu’s unmatched ferocity and ambition, Thor’s divine power proves superior, granting the gods the first victory and establishing their terrifying dominance.

Round 2 – Zeus vs. Adam

One of the most emotionally powerful fights in the series. Adam, the first human and father of mankind, fights not for glory or revenge — but to protect his children.

Using his ability to copy divine techniques, Adam pushes Zeus to his absolute limit. Though Adam ultimately falls, his stand leaves a permanent impact on both sides, proving that humans can rival gods through sheer love and willpower.

Round 3 – Poseidon vs. Sasaki Kojiro

Humanity’s first victory. Sasaki Kojiro, history’s greatest loser, faces Poseidon, a god who embodies perfection and superiority.

Through constant adaptation and learning from defeat, Sasaki overcomes Poseidon’s flawless technique. His victory shifts the balance of Ragnarok and ignites hope — humanity can win.

The Birth of Hope

Season 1 is about transition. Humanity begins as spectators to its own extinction, powerless and afraid. By the end of the season, that fear transforms into belief.

Sasaki Kojiro’s victory is a turning point — not just in the score, but in mindset. The gods realize that humans are not merely insects to be crushed. They are fighters capable of growth, adaptation, and defiance.

This psychological shift becomes the driving force behind the darker, more complex conflicts seen in Seasons 2 and Seasons 3.

Character Foundations

• Brunhilde — Introduced as the mastermind behind Ragnarok, cold and unyielding in her hatred of the gods.

• Göll — Serves as the emotional anchor of the season, reacting to the brutality of Ragnarok as a frightened observer.

• Adam — Becomes the symbolic heart of humanity’s resistance, remembered long after his defeat.

• Sasaki Kojiro — Represents humanity’s greatest strength — the ability to grow through failure.

Themes & Tone

• Defiance Against Extinction — Refusing divine judgment.

• Strength vs Growth — Static gods versus evolving humans.

• Pride & Arrogance — Divine superiority challenged.

• Sacrifice — Fighting without guaranteed victory.

• Hope Through Loss — Meaning beyond winning.

Season 1 carries a dramatic, mythic tone, balancing raw spectacle with emotional impact.

Animation & Presentation

Animated by Graphinica, Season 1 features bold character designs and dramatic framing. While some battles rely heavily on still shots and narration, the visual style emphasizes weight, scale, and intensity.

The series leans into theatrical presentation, treating each fight as a legendary confrontation rather than a traditional action sequence.

Where to Watch

You can watch Record of Ragnarok – Season 1 on:

• Netflix (all seasons, global)

• Amazon Prime  Video

• Blu-ray/ DVD

Popularity & Reception

Season 1 generated massive global attention upon release, becoming one of Netflix’s most-discussed anime titles of 2021.

While animation quality sparked debate, fans praised:

• The unique gods-vs-humans premise

• Faithful manga adaptation

• Emotional storytelling, especially Adam’s fight

• Memorable character designs

The season’s success paved the way for the more refined and thematic storytelling of Season 2.

Final Thoughts

Season 1 of Record of Ragnarok is not about winning — it is about earning the right to stand.

Through sacrifice, loss, and one crucial victory, humanity proves it deserves to fight for its future. The gods begin Ragnarok with arrogance, but they end the season with doubt.

And once doubt exists…
extinction is no longer guaranteed.