Many may think that an anime series will be boring if all it does is go around killing small green bastards, but in reality, while watching this anime, you will never feel like there is something missing, not a single minute of boredom. The main character has a tragic past which is related with goblins, and what happened many years ago is the reason why he wants to kill them all, during his journey as an adventurer he will join a party with partners from different races, and thanks to Goblin Slayers knowledge on goblins, they will massacre all of them without hesitation. One last thing about this anime, at the beginning of every episode there is a warning for sensible people, read it.
69 Reviews
A dark, but enjoyable, fantasy adventure
Tweekums6 January 2019
Warning: Spoilers
This anime series, set in a world where adventurers battle monsters, it introduced to us through a young priestess who is starting off at the lowest level of adventurers. She joins a group as they go off to battle goblins, low level monsters they believe will be easy to kill... things go horribly wrong but she survives thanks to an adventurer known as 'Goblin Slayer'; most adventurers of his level don't bother with goblins but for personal reasons he targets nothing else. After this she joins him as they take on various levels of goblins. As the series progresses they are joined by others and we learn more about why he wants to eliminate every last goblin.
This is a solid action/adventure anime which is shocking at times; notably in the opening episode. It is also fairly gory as goblins of all ages are slaughtered by the eponymous Goblin Slayer and those who fight alongside him. The tone is darker than most series in this genre with the possibility of death very real, even our hero gets seriously hurt at times, and it being quite clear what happens to the goblins' female prisoners. The story progresses well with the level of threat increasing as it progresses without merely feeling like the next level of a video game. Overall I'd definitely recommend this to fans of the genre and look forward to the promised second season.
These comments are based on watching the series in Japanese with English subtitles.
This is a solid action/adventure anime which is shocking at times; notably in the opening episode. It is also fairly gory as goblins of all ages are slaughtered by the eponymous Goblin Slayer and those who fight alongside him. The tone is darker than most series in this genre with the possibility of death very real, even our hero gets seriously hurt at times, and it being quite clear what happens to the goblins' female prisoners. The story progresses well with the level of threat increasing as it progresses without merely feeling like the next level of a video game. Overall I'd definitely recommend this to fans of the genre and look forward to the promised second season.
These comments are based on watching the series in Japanese with English subtitles.
Im Going to slay some Goblins, Are You Coming?
amiranda-3927431 March 2019
Warning: Spoilers
Updated:
Dear readers if you're like me, just a simple anime watcher, that heard rumors about a anime called Goblin slayer, that was so dark, that it triggered a ton of people, and that you just had to learn more or watch it to see for yourself, then I suggest you stop reading this review and go watch the first episode of GS, but I assure you once you do, you will not be able to stop until you finish the first season , the movie and season 2 in one binge. I usually am weary of dark anime, and this one sounded like it would be very dark, but I decided to test my stomach and give it a watch, and like I just said I binged watched the entire first season in one night and now I crave more. Let me start by saying the first episode is probably the darkest, and as the show goes on the darkness decreases and you can begin to see the nuance and even wholesome moments more. The first episode introduces us to a priestess who joins a group of young adventurers who are given the quest to wipe out a nest of goblins in a cave, despite being confident that this should be an easy task, the group is ambushed and mutilated by the goblins, and only the priestess is able to crawl away, and is rescued by a solo adventurer called Goblin Slayer, who is immediately shown to be a badass, as he wipes out the horde all by himself, and not just the men, but the women and the children too. The priestess then decides the best way to get over her traumatic experience is to join goblin slayer on his quests. Hilariously it turns out, goblin slayer only takes goblin quests, because he has made it his sole duty to commit genocide against the goblins, and the show reveals his reasons for this and the psychological trauma that it has left on him. Also, despite the show starting out with the priestess, the title named character becomes the central focus of the show, except for a few subplots that focus on minor characters. GS is portrayed as a mysterious, stoic man who is obsessed with killing goblins and always wears his helmet, and even when he takes off his helmet, his face is never shown, which will drive you crazy by the end, but the purpose of this is because his helmet is his true identity. And by God, does he look incredible, his aesthetics are clever and almost practical, what's interesting despite the show being 2d, sometimes hes made up of cgi that is obvious but doesn't ruin the scene. And when GS goes into berserker mode, it is just incredible to watch. Despite all this GS is still portrayed as a compassionate man who despite being very skilled and strong is not invincible, and throughout the show many characters attempt to reduce his blood lust and act more like a human being again. Every other character in the show is not given as much character development as GS, but their simplicity is enough, and everyone is likeable. Despite being a loner, GS eventually gains a team made up of the priestess, an elf archer, a dwarf, and a lizardman shaman, who compose a fun ragtag group. Also, GS is shown to live with his childhood friend called farmgirl, who provides him with emotional support and also most of the fanservice in the anime. Despite not being considered a harem anime, GS still manages to gain a few admirers, but personally i feel he is already married to farmgirl. Like I said the show does have many wholesome moments, but still has many dark moments throughout, that reminds the viewer that this is a dangerous work, where anyone can die even GS. This risk level is what drives the show and makes every adventure that would just be a simple quest in another adventure anime, seem like a life-or-death situation for the characters, because it is. The first episode is the darkest because it needed to establish this dangerous fantasy world and the risks that come from hunting goblins, which is why the rape scenes, brutal killings and torture of female prisoners is necessary so you know how vile and evil the goblins are, and why you should support GS killing them in so many creative ways. This anime has great worldbuilding, excellent fight scenes, and compelling dialogue. The voice acting is incredible, the English dub is actually better than the original and the reason why is because Brad Hawkins gives GS a sense of humanity and personality over the original scary stoic voice, and when he talks about killing goblins, he either does it hilariously or passionately. Despite this technically being a dark anime, I believe the level of darkness it's been branded with, was greatly exaggerated. Yes, the violent action scenes are a staple, there are a few horrific moments, but they are not used for shock value but instead to carry the story. Despite this, the show maintains a sense of hope, has many wholesome moments, not to mention the humor is golden, especially when goblin slayer interrupts conversations to only talk about goblins, but you can see the show is a character study on making GS less intense and self-destructive. Lastly, I hope they make the second season fast, because I am in the mood to go hunting for some goblins alongside GS.
5 years later and we finally got season 2!
While the goblins crown movie was an excellent adventure, i was still craving for more goblin slayer adventures, thankfully season 2 continues the story from the movie and even brings back some of the characters that were introduced in that story. Right off the bat the most noticeable difference from season 1 is the art change, instead of improving on the art style of the first season, sadly season 2 took a downgrade, with the loss of that dark style i loved and the lack of the same prominent CGI that was in season which in my opinion is a plus. During the hiatus, goblin slayer gained a new studio, so the characters are drawn differently but mostly have their exact designs, the girls all look the same, but the men have these awful looking faces and even my goblin slayer looks so cheap looking at times. Thankfully the art style grows on you and the animation improves with each episode, with the action scenes obtaining the highest priority. Another small change is the voices, whole it has been 5 years the change in tone is noticeable, Brad Hawkins as goblin slayer is always amazing but some of the other VAs sound off. There are some truly heartfelt moments where we see the psychological toll his revenge genocide takes on him and how his friends want to help him grow past it, but he refuses to. This extra level of drama proved that this show was so much deeper than just its violent action, but rest assure we don't lose any amount of action, there is still plenty of gore and even a variety of new enemies besides goblins including orcs, a dinosaur, a sea serpent and even a secret dark cult. The dark tone from the first season is downplayed, but the danger of this fantasy world is always present, still demonstrating the lust and brutality of the goblins and why they need to be exterminated. Many of the side characters get their moment in the spotlight, especially priestess whose character developments makes her quite capable and even farm girl is given some more depth and my ship of her with goblin slayer is even more enforced by some romantic moments they share together this season (Hopefully they become a couple in season 3). Season 1 was so incredible that it is impossible for this season to surpass it, but at least this show continued the adventure, sometimes I even forget that this is a show and i feel i am just watching a slice of life from these characters. Despite the art style being frustrating at times, the story pretty much continues goblin slayers arc of becoming more human instead of the goblin slaying machine that he is. It took so long to get this season 2, that I am grateful for what I got, this anime is still one of my all-time favorites that balances the wholesome and dark moments very well and I hope season 3 won't take as long to come out as season 2 did. This world still needs some goblinating!
Dear readers if you're like me, just a simple anime watcher, that heard rumors about a anime called Goblin slayer, that was so dark, that it triggered a ton of people, and that you just had to learn more or watch it to see for yourself, then I suggest you stop reading this review and go watch the first episode of GS, but I assure you once you do, you will not be able to stop until you finish the first season , the movie and season 2 in one binge. I usually am weary of dark anime, and this one sounded like it would be very dark, but I decided to test my stomach and give it a watch, and like I just said I binged watched the entire first season in one night and now I crave more. Let me start by saying the first episode is probably the darkest, and as the show goes on the darkness decreases and you can begin to see the nuance and even wholesome moments more. The first episode introduces us to a priestess who joins a group of young adventurers who are given the quest to wipe out a nest of goblins in a cave, despite being confident that this should be an easy task, the group is ambushed and mutilated by the goblins, and only the priestess is able to crawl away, and is rescued by a solo adventurer called Goblin Slayer, who is immediately shown to be a badass, as he wipes out the horde all by himself, and not just the men, but the women and the children too. The priestess then decides the best way to get over her traumatic experience is to join goblin slayer on his quests. Hilariously it turns out, goblin slayer only takes goblin quests, because he has made it his sole duty to commit genocide against the goblins, and the show reveals his reasons for this and the psychological trauma that it has left on him. Also, despite the show starting out with the priestess, the title named character becomes the central focus of the show, except for a few subplots that focus on minor characters. GS is portrayed as a mysterious, stoic man who is obsessed with killing goblins and always wears his helmet, and even when he takes off his helmet, his face is never shown, which will drive you crazy by the end, but the purpose of this is because his helmet is his true identity. And by God, does he look incredible, his aesthetics are clever and almost practical, what's interesting despite the show being 2d, sometimes hes made up of cgi that is obvious but doesn't ruin the scene. And when GS goes into berserker mode, it is just incredible to watch. Despite all this GS is still portrayed as a compassionate man who despite being very skilled and strong is not invincible, and throughout the show many characters attempt to reduce his blood lust and act more like a human being again. Every other character in the show is not given as much character development as GS, but their simplicity is enough, and everyone is likeable. Despite being a loner, GS eventually gains a team made up of the priestess, an elf archer, a dwarf, and a lizardman shaman, who compose a fun ragtag group. Also, GS is shown to live with his childhood friend called farmgirl, who provides him with emotional support and also most of the fanservice in the anime. Despite not being considered a harem anime, GS still manages to gain a few admirers, but personally i feel he is already married to farmgirl. Like I said the show does have many wholesome moments, but still has many dark moments throughout, that reminds the viewer that this is a dangerous work, where anyone can die even GS. This risk level is what drives the show and makes every adventure that would just be a simple quest in another adventure anime, seem like a life-or-death situation for the characters, because it is. The first episode is the darkest because it needed to establish this dangerous fantasy world and the risks that come from hunting goblins, which is why the rape scenes, brutal killings and torture of female prisoners is necessary so you know how vile and evil the goblins are, and why you should support GS killing them in so many creative ways. This anime has great worldbuilding, excellent fight scenes, and compelling dialogue. The voice acting is incredible, the English dub is actually better than the original and the reason why is because Brad Hawkins gives GS a sense of humanity and personality over the original scary stoic voice, and when he talks about killing goblins, he either does it hilariously or passionately. Despite this technically being a dark anime, I believe the level of darkness it's been branded with, was greatly exaggerated. Yes, the violent action scenes are a staple, there are a few horrific moments, but they are not used for shock value but instead to carry the story. Despite this, the show maintains a sense of hope, has many wholesome moments, not to mention the humor is golden, especially when goblin slayer interrupts conversations to only talk about goblins, but you can see the show is a character study on making GS less intense and self-destructive. Lastly, I hope they make the second season fast, because I am in the mood to go hunting for some goblins alongside GS.
5 years later and we finally got season 2!
While the goblins crown movie was an excellent adventure, i was still craving for more goblin slayer adventures, thankfully season 2 continues the story from the movie and even brings back some of the characters that were introduced in that story. Right off the bat the most noticeable difference from season 1 is the art change, instead of improving on the art style of the first season, sadly season 2 took a downgrade, with the loss of that dark style i loved and the lack of the same prominent CGI that was in season which in my opinion is a plus. During the hiatus, goblin slayer gained a new studio, so the characters are drawn differently but mostly have their exact designs, the girls all look the same, but the men have these awful looking faces and even my goblin slayer looks so cheap looking at times. Thankfully the art style grows on you and the animation improves with each episode, with the action scenes obtaining the highest priority. Another small change is the voices, whole it has been 5 years the change in tone is noticeable, Brad Hawkins as goblin slayer is always amazing but some of the other VAs sound off. There are some truly heartfelt moments where we see the psychological toll his revenge genocide takes on him and how his friends want to help him grow past it, but he refuses to. This extra level of drama proved that this show was so much deeper than just its violent action, but rest assure we don't lose any amount of action, there is still plenty of gore and even a variety of new enemies besides goblins including orcs, a dinosaur, a sea serpent and even a secret dark cult. The dark tone from the first season is downplayed, but the danger of this fantasy world is always present, still demonstrating the lust and brutality of the goblins and why they need to be exterminated. Many of the side characters get their moment in the spotlight, especially priestess whose character developments makes her quite capable and even farm girl is given some more depth and my ship of her with goblin slayer is even more enforced by some romantic moments they share together this season (Hopefully they become a couple in season 3). Season 1 was so incredible that it is impossible for this season to surpass it, but at least this show continued the adventure, sometimes I even forget that this is a show and i feel i am just watching a slice of life from these characters. Despite the art style being frustrating at times, the story pretty much continues goblin slayers arc of becoming more human instead of the goblin slaying machine that he is. It took so long to get this season 2, that I am grateful for what I got, this anime is still one of my all-time favorites that balances the wholesome and dark moments very well and I hope season 3 won't take as long to come out as season 2 did. This world still needs some goblinating!
Not one for the kids
Spring01923 March 2019
The main protagonist, Goblin Slayer, never fails to deliver new and creative ways of slaying goblins. Instead of fussing over elite quests and obtaining elite status, Goblin Slayer and his crew focus on the low-rank monsters which terrorize the common people.
The show does not hide how brutal its world is. They heavily detail exactly what goblins are capable of and how violent and threatening they can be - - several scenes are quite disturbing, so I do not recommend it for young viewers.
The show does not hide how brutal its world is. They heavily detail exactly what goblins are capable of and how violent and threatening they can be - - several scenes are quite disturbing, so I do not recommend it for young viewers.
Totally spotlights the PTSD that effects
jpmuzz-6791521 October 2021
This isn't a simply braindead action for action sake anime. Adding real life results from actions and consequences is better than most shows out there. Goblin Slayer did for fantasy what Ghost in the Shell did for Cyber Punk. It showed a real world thought provoking narrative.
Goblin Slayer starts off strong with a very captivating first episode, but loses the hype and momentum it started off with halfway through the story.
CasuallViewer14 February 2021
Goblin Slayer is off to a great start with its introductory episode and doesn't spare a moment in getting right to the action. Goblin Slayer's stoicism makes for a great protagonist in a supposedly dark fantasy genre when things get downright gory and unsightly. For the first few episodes, Goblin Slayer and priestess form a duo with an interesting relationship of an unexperienced aspiring adventurer and one who's underestimated due to only accepting one type of quests.
However the appeal and hype of the series dies down towards the mid part when a more generally appealing fantasy adventure feel and atmosphere was mixed into the story, making it almost like a generic fantasy adventure anime instead of the uncompromising style it presented in the first few episodes. Goblin Slayer's character also takes a slow dive after a while. While he is ranked fairly high amongst adventurer ranks, he seems to have been nerfed, or at least does not seem as strong as he was initially made out to be, most likely due to the need for the other characters who accompany him to be of more use and assistance to him in their journeys. Adding other adventurers is not a problem if it adds more character to the story, but in this instance it gets in the way of seeing Goblin Slayer as the skilled adventurer that he should be, combat-wise, seeing as to how he's used to slaying goblins all the time by himself before he met his companions. On the plus side, he is consistently showcased to be a smart tactician, which plays a big role in his battles.
That being said, there was definitely something lost with Goblin Slayer by bringing in more adventurers to his side. While it is interesting to see how his character develops and how he interacts with others with his personality, it also compromises his character by having to introduce others by his side to assist him and gets in the way of making him THE Goblin Slayer.
However the appeal and hype of the series dies down towards the mid part when a more generally appealing fantasy adventure feel and atmosphere was mixed into the story, making it almost like a generic fantasy adventure anime instead of the uncompromising style it presented in the first few episodes. Goblin Slayer's character also takes a slow dive after a while. While he is ranked fairly high amongst adventurer ranks, he seems to have been nerfed, or at least does not seem as strong as he was initially made out to be, most likely due to the need for the other characters who accompany him to be of more use and assistance to him in their journeys. Adding other adventurers is not a problem if it adds more character to the story, but in this instance it gets in the way of seeing Goblin Slayer as the skilled adventurer that he should be, combat-wise, seeing as to how he's used to slaying goblins all the time by himself before he met his companions. On the plus side, he is consistently showcased to be a smart tactician, which plays a big role in his battles.
That being said, there was definitely something lost with Goblin Slayer by bringing in more adventurers to his side. While it is interesting to see how his character develops and how he interacts with others with his personality, it also compromises his character by having to introduce others by his side to assist him and gets in the way of making him THE Goblin Slayer.
An enjoyable adventure so far!
lucikruxapacheboo9 November 2018
While the faint of heart may quickly turn away from this anime, the plot is paced well and up to episode five it is a very interesting adventure. The first episode does well to set the tone of the rest of the show, and introduces the first of a loveable cast of side characters. Note, that this review was written when only five episodes were out. All five of those episodes were enjoyable, and I found no reason to dislike them. If you liked the anime Overlord, you may enjoy this.
Entertaining but nothing special
paschy-1287428 July 2020
First episode is an absolute slaughter lol. I wouldn't say you should watch it, cause there are definitely better animes out there. Before the last 2 episodes I would have given it a 6/10. The story is not deep at all and the action also isn't great, but it's watchable.
Amazing
fileeditformat21 October 2018
Really fun to watch so far, very inspiring and quickly becoming one of my favorite TV shows ever. This show will age well, the undertones are well layered and it promotes positive values. The show quickly becomes something very different than the first episode so don't buy into your first impression, this is most definitely a thinking show. 10/10
Wrong market
Nonomemes1 June 2022
An hyper polarized story Evil Vs Good of the guy who seek revenge over the goblins, creatures described as unworthy of any respect or grace (including children) , an hazard for 2022 standards, maybe a step too much for the average influencer .
One scene in the first episode can be disturbing also for adults so not for minor (I see rating in europe pretty low) .
The story is tense, this I liked, also dark, but also very short and value empty overall, maybe shonen but not suitable due to violence level and other stuff... . Speaking of which, the Cowgirl we do not understand the role (sarcasm) ... also a minus to the series . The other characters are all decent level, but nothing that really break the screen.
One scene in the first episode can be disturbing also for adults so not for minor (I see rating in europe pretty low) .
The story is tense, this I liked, also dark, but also very short and value empty overall, maybe shonen but not suitable due to violence level and other stuff... . Speaking of which, the Cowgirl we do not understand the role (sarcasm) ... also a minus to the series . The other characters are all decent level, but nothing that really break the screen.
Love it
nielsenluhrkasper27 February 2019
A show that redeems itself after the first episode, but needlessly grotesque.
CameronAsselstine25 May 2022
Warning: Spoilers
This show was an absolute pleasure to watch as a whole. The animation is stunning, the characters are engaging, and the world is clearly painted as a dangerous landscape wherein monsters are very much a real and present danger to the common people.
Notoriously, this show is known for its rape scene in the first episode. The intention of the entire ordeal was to show that you can't survive on tenacity alone; goblins in this world are brutal, cunning, and cruel. The way they chose to go about the rape scene, however, was entirely empty and worthless. They used to rape of a woman just to prove a point about the world, which just leads me to believe this decision was made not only to be edgy, but to appease a viewer base that enjoys this kind of dark fetish.
The problem I have with it was not the rape itself, nor the way in which it was portrayed. It's legitimately an interesting angle to suggest that female goblins do not exist, and that in order to reproduce they must take on human female mates. The issue arises in the fact that this character was given no chance of redemption. We never see her again or hear from her; she was simply a "character" put in with the entire purpose of being raped and that's it.
By the end of the first season, there are a number of people that joined the party of the Goblin Slayer. Why could the woman that had been raped been written in as a stronger, deeper character that didn't want her identity to be defined by being raped in that cave? Why was it the shy little wizard girl that came along for the ride after nothing bad happened to her? The far more interesting angle, in my eyes, would have been for this character to have not been just "the girl who got raped" and instead "the girl who kicked ass and get revenge".
It was lazy and grotesque writing based in some blatant sexism which actually will hinder its success to a wider audience. As a whole, I'd be embarrassed to recommend this show to someone, as liking this show would surely paint you poorly in a friend's eyes.
Well-produced show with needless rape scene that actually didn't add anything more to the story than it would have, happening entirely off screen and being told instead of shown.
I understand this is an adaptation of written material so they were bound by the source slightly. This is indeed a criticism of the story as a whole, and not just the show.
Notoriously, this show is known for its rape scene in the first episode. The intention of the entire ordeal was to show that you can't survive on tenacity alone; goblins in this world are brutal, cunning, and cruel. The way they chose to go about the rape scene, however, was entirely empty and worthless. They used to rape of a woman just to prove a point about the world, which just leads me to believe this decision was made not only to be edgy, but to appease a viewer base that enjoys this kind of dark fetish.
The problem I have with it was not the rape itself, nor the way in which it was portrayed. It's legitimately an interesting angle to suggest that female goblins do not exist, and that in order to reproduce they must take on human female mates. The issue arises in the fact that this character was given no chance of redemption. We never see her again or hear from her; she was simply a "character" put in with the entire purpose of being raped and that's it.
By the end of the first season, there are a number of people that joined the party of the Goblin Slayer. Why could the woman that had been raped been written in as a stronger, deeper character that didn't want her identity to be defined by being raped in that cave? Why was it the shy little wizard girl that came along for the ride after nothing bad happened to her? The far more interesting angle, in my eyes, would have been for this character to have not been just "the girl who got raped" and instead "the girl who kicked ass and get revenge".
It was lazy and grotesque writing based in some blatant sexism which actually will hinder its success to a wider audience. As a whole, I'd be embarrassed to recommend this show to someone, as liking this show would surely paint you poorly in a friend's eyes.
Well-produced show with needless rape scene that actually didn't add anything more to the story than it would have, happening entirely off screen and being told instead of shown.
I understand this is an adaptation of written material so they were bound by the source slightly. This is indeed a criticism of the story as a whole, and not just the show.
Oblivious Stupidity
BoutTime1319 April 2021
Granted I just got through the first 3 episodes, the sheer level of stupidity from the pathetic weakling priestess is plain insulting. The pitifully weak, meager, whiny, cry baby, barely has the nerve to sign up as an adventurer then of course decides she should join even more naïve, stupid, weak, arrogant newbs. Predictably they die horribly and we see how truly worthless and pathetic the priestess is, yet in the end she decides it would be in her best interest to continue on her path of literally pissing herself in fear while being totally overwhelmed and completely inadequate.
Whatever happens, be prepared for any and ALL reason and logic to not exist in this "realm". Yes this is anime, but gravity exists, the sky is blue, and fire burns. Nevertheless, this epically stupid priestess "hero" fully utilizes her mousy voice to whine, nag, and complain as her strongest "power" and it literally made me nauseas watching just one show.
I gave it two stars because it couldn't get anymore stupid or completely ridiculous than the eye-rolling nonsense the first 3 episodes was completely comprised of. I swear the only ingredients for anime today is a "loner" who really isn't alone, a whiny, crying, out of her league little girl who can't help but limp after their "master" like a puppy, some big breasted idiot that is required to fawn over the hero, and most importantly the hero has to say "I MUST GET STRONGER!!". Just to be safe, let's throw in some gratuitous cleavage and violence and voila..GOBLIN SLAYER!
Whatever happens, be prepared for any and ALL reason and logic to not exist in this "realm". Yes this is anime, but gravity exists, the sky is blue, and fire burns. Nevertheless, this epically stupid priestess "hero" fully utilizes her mousy voice to whine, nag, and complain as her strongest "power" and it literally made me nauseas watching just one show.
I gave it two stars because it couldn't get anymore stupid or completely ridiculous than the eye-rolling nonsense the first 3 episodes was completely comprised of. I swear the only ingredients for anime today is a "loner" who really isn't alone, a whiny, crying, out of her league little girl who can't help but limp after their "master" like a puppy, some big breasted idiot that is required to fawn over the hero, and most importantly the hero has to say "I MUST GET STRONGER!!". Just to be safe, let's throw in some gratuitous cleavage and violence and voila..GOBLIN SLAYER!
Goblin Slayer is no Berserk 2 but if you willing to give it a chance someday it might be there
phanthinga30 December 2018
Goblin Slayer is probably the most controversial and the most hated anime show of 2018 for the first episode only and as a manga reader I really don't understand why cause from my point of view the first episode actually toned down the level of gore and nudity a lot compared to the manga and it all to serve one purpose that is to show us as the viewer know how messed up a dark fantasy anime can get after so many fast food Isekai anime ruined the definition of the term "Dark Fantasy" with OP main character and their cheat code ability.That being said Goblin Slayer is not a perfect anime or even a good adaptation from the source material cause like I said before it toned down and cut a lot plus the horrible CGI Slayer and the rushed production in the animation department clearly not helping the anime at all but with the season 2 announcement in the season finale I can only hope that studio White Fox will learn from their mistakes and move on to give us the faithful adaptation of Goblin Slayer that we deserve
(DOOM / 4) + (Middle Earth) + (Game of Thrones - Explicit Nudity) = Goblin Slayer
screwloose-232389 May 2019
Warning: Spoilers
Though Goblin Slayer had it's backlash of controversy on its very first episode, the show is definitely worth taking a peek at. Actually, a peek is an understatement. Watch the entire show, because its possibly the best anime I've ever watched in my life, bar none (though I will admit that the ending did suck a bit). But the storytelling, the blend of CGI and anime... it's all so good! Goblin Slayer is the closest you're going to get to a good DOOM-like adaptation, and it's freaking awesome!
A lot of potential but not quite there
TheBlackSwordsmann29 October 2021
Warning: Spoilers
Goblin Slayer is a dark fantasy anime that has a little bit of everything but doesn't necessarily do any of those things at a high level except for the character designs and animation. The artwork and animation looks amazing and definitely love the character designs. Goblin Slayer is unique in the sense that there is a heavy focus on rape and sexual assaults by goblins. I guess it adds to the somewhat bland plot and story, makes you feel for and connect with the characters because of some of the things they've experienced or witnessed their family members/friends experience. I really liked the character interactions, I felt the chemistry that the main squad has between each other really helps elevate the show, keeping things interesting and funny. Most of the women in the show are sexy, adorable and very curvaceous, which I know a lot of people enjoy. The thing that bothers me most about Goblin Slayer is the fighting scenes that just seem so stagnant and so anti climatic. One of the boss fights ended with a very low impact knife to the neck that I felt was so lame and in some of the other fight scenes the characters just stand still and swing their swords, no sense of athletic ability and versatility in fighting styles for most of the fighters. That bothers me because a show that's so heavily focused on villages being terrorized men being killed and women getting kidnapped and gang raped by goblins, you'd want the fight scenes to be epic and vicious and it sometimes doesn't feel that way. The story sometimes felt like there was no sense of direction and stagnant. For example The anime leaves out some cool parts of the manga and because of that lack of direction the story has, they took the manga and implemented the arcs out of order and it had no impact whatsoever. Overall, I still enjoyed the characters, their personalities, the artwork and the goblins enough to still give it a 7. The series is not over yet and I feel it can definitely get a lot better with season 2.
A little bit underrated
akarunkumar-4861317 June 2021
need Mind prepration
miladvaziri21 October 2018
Warning: Spoilers
I was really shocked by watching this anime for first time, i really didn't expect this kind of violence and blood, before watching this anime you need to prepare your mind ;-)
in my idea it doesn't need that much of violence but respect to people like this and producers
It will have set backs
ripstar-7605911 October 2018
Warning: Spoilers
I am a loyal fan to this series and am extremely happy to see the anime adaptation, the series contains blood and gore while it mellows out a bit better after the first few fights its still there, because of this you might want to beware that. Also they are painting the goblins in the traditional sense so there will be rape while it isn't seen it is definitely implied.
Not for the faint hearted, but otherwise quite the spectacle.
Wolfkin199330 September 2019
The pilot episode, is quite graphic (for anyone whose sensitive to that), but if you can stomach that, the rest of the series is a breeze. I personally found it enjoyable, although the "Recap Episode" wasn't necessary (unless you're airing this on TV) & the finale was quite the spectacle, especially when you start hearing the BGM (background music), that's when you know "SH!T JUST GOT REAL...". I look forward to future seasons. (Bonus point from me for being one of the few anime to have Lizardmen as allies instead of enemies).
An awesome anime
beltraoslayer4 May 2019
I have to admit that I never was a fan of animes a few years ago, but when I started with this one, man it was amazing.
Characters that you will learn to like them, good story and awesome fight scenes. You can watch it, as a big fan of this amazing anime
Ok
kashifmeh-925-2926227 October 2020
The premise / background is interesting and draws you in. Unfortunately, the story never really develops and the characters are sort of one dimensional.
The hero keeps his helmet / armour on the entire time like a five year old wearing his spiderman costume. The supporting characters are mainly beautiful women, portrayed as weak, needing his help and falling for him (which he fails to notice).
There are some good fight scenes but sort of predictable. There is also an awful lot of repetition of major scenes (like waking up in the morning, checking the fields, the girl making breakfast, going to the market and so on).
It would have been so much better if they could have included scenes from his formative years / struggle before he practically became unbeatable as a goblin slayer.
The hero keeps his helmet / armour on the entire time like a five year old wearing his spiderman costume. The supporting characters are mainly beautiful women, portrayed as weak, needing his help and falling for him (which he fails to notice).
There are some good fight scenes but sort of predictable. There is also an awful lot of repetition of major scenes (like waking up in the morning, checking the fields, the girl making breakfast, going to the market and so on).
It would have been so much better if they could have included scenes from his formative years / struggle before he practically became unbeatable as a goblin slayer.
Overrated
JosephPalacios12 March 2019
Warning: Spoilers
Generic and boring but has an overwhelming edgy first episode. The first episode didn't work because Goblin slayer didn't want to spend any time to develop these characters. Killing off a bunch of randoms does get me emotional invested. The rest of the series is just another fantasy anime. Berserk handle these themes and subject better then Goblin slayer, so go read that instead.
10 out of 10. And I'll explain exactly why. This show has a strong spine and the message is so damn admirable.
angiris2 June 2019
Warning: Spoilers
This show does NOT stray from being shocking. But make no mistake, it isn't done for the reason of just being shocking. Something certain reviewers here would actually realize if they watched more than a single episode.
Aside from the fact that this anime is super fun, cool, epic, cute, kickass and so much more I want to touch on the specific thing being how it deals with making monsters feel like actual monsters and the toll it has on the heroes.
So many complain about it but utterly fail to understand the point and its a damn shame because after just seeing episode 7-8 you get such an incredible character and explanation to just how deep this actually is.
How even the most legendary, prestigious of heroes have their demons. How no matter how fierce, outstanding and epic ones accomplishments have been or foes proven to be, trauma... can linger.
And Goblin Slayer higlights this fact, both show and character himself, comments on this in such a fantastic way that underlines how this theme is very much intended for narrative reasons, not for visual shock. It magnifies how some fights are internal, how we must deal with them ourselves and grow stronger. Find our own salvation,
How sometimes we must accept our past to harden and find purpose and embrace who we are, letting us drive us towards a better direction, knowing the things we know, having seen the world in a different light. The past shapes us but we can define how.
And how even the mightiest of heroes have their demons... and while Goblin Slayer can, noble as he is, defend this incredible woman and legendary hero who shares her horrific tale of assault, promising he will guard her and always be there to slay the demons that haunt her, since for her the trauma is too much, the message is still underlined with the express clarity that she is not alone,and he himself has demons as well, but he accepts them, uses it to make him stronger. Making him what he is.
The Goblin Slayer. A man forged into a weapon. An absolutely amazing mix of both 2 dimensional character behavior on his outer shell with an ever fascinating 3rd dimension inside that emphasizes the weight of this shows messaging. It is so damn heroic and inspirational, whilst at the same time utter naked truth about topics that haunt us, but by not straying from this we all develop.
All of which are forms of trauma that people deal with. Both in real life and in the anime. And I am so incredible proud of these creators for having the courage to bring this up, to talk about it, presenting such an incredibly deep dimension of story to our amazing heroes.
Not just how vulnerable they actually are, by no means invulnerable, but furthermore the fact that they have a psyché, and it is not remotely without its merits... or weaknesses that everyone, including us the viewers must figure out how to deal with.
It is such an incredibly good show for touching on so many themes. Controversial to some, profoundly interesting and philosophically, let alone psychologically vital to me personally.
I can't wait for more Goblin Slayer. Thank you to all who's involved with this. What an absolute masterpiece. Thank you for not holding back and so intellectually using these themes to bring forth such an empathetic, and relatable narrative.
Absolutely earned a 10 out of 10 in my book.
The fun thing about the messaging here is how the show directly touches upon the core complaints being the rough themes. Demonstrably proving just how human this story is. How incredibly bold the writers were. I hope more will come to realize this.
Thank you, creators. What an absolutely great anime and contribution to both art and philosophy.
Aside from the fact that this anime is super fun, cool, epic, cute, kickass and so much more I want to touch on the specific thing being how it deals with making monsters feel like actual monsters and the toll it has on the heroes.
So many complain about it but utterly fail to understand the point and its a damn shame because after just seeing episode 7-8 you get such an incredible character and explanation to just how deep this actually is.
How even the most legendary, prestigious of heroes have their demons. How no matter how fierce, outstanding and epic ones accomplishments have been or foes proven to be, trauma... can linger.
And Goblin Slayer higlights this fact, both show and character himself, comments on this in such a fantastic way that underlines how this theme is very much intended for narrative reasons, not for visual shock. It magnifies how some fights are internal, how we must deal with them ourselves and grow stronger. Find our own salvation,
How sometimes we must accept our past to harden and find purpose and embrace who we are, letting us drive us towards a better direction, knowing the things we know, having seen the world in a different light. The past shapes us but we can define how.
And how even the mightiest of heroes have their demons... and while Goblin Slayer can, noble as he is, defend this incredible woman and legendary hero who shares her horrific tale of assault, promising he will guard her and always be there to slay the demons that haunt her, since for her the trauma is too much, the message is still underlined with the express clarity that she is not alone,and he himself has demons as well, but he accepts them, uses it to make him stronger. Making him what he is.
The Goblin Slayer. A man forged into a weapon. An absolutely amazing mix of both 2 dimensional character behavior on his outer shell with an ever fascinating 3rd dimension inside that emphasizes the weight of this shows messaging. It is so damn heroic and inspirational, whilst at the same time utter naked truth about topics that haunt us, but by not straying from this we all develop.
All of which are forms of trauma that people deal with. Both in real life and in the anime. And I am so incredible proud of these creators for having the courage to bring this up, to talk about it, presenting such an incredibly deep dimension of story to our amazing heroes.
Not just how vulnerable they actually are, by no means invulnerable, but furthermore the fact that they have a psyché, and it is not remotely without its merits... or weaknesses that everyone, including us the viewers must figure out how to deal with.
It is such an incredibly good show for touching on so many themes. Controversial to some, profoundly interesting and philosophically, let alone psychologically vital to me personally.
I can't wait for more Goblin Slayer. Thank you to all who's involved with this. What an absolute masterpiece. Thank you for not holding back and so intellectually using these themes to bring forth such an empathetic, and relatable narrative.
Absolutely earned a 10 out of 10 in my book.
The fun thing about the messaging here is how the show directly touches upon the core complaints being the rough themes. Demonstrably proving just how human this story is. How incredibly bold the writers were. I hope more will come to realize this.
Thank you, creators. What an absolutely great anime and contribution to both art and philosophy.
See also
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