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A Goblin Slayer’s Work is Never Done

Goblin Slayer II is the long-awaited second season of the series that I could only describe as anime’s answer to Game of Thrones. When it first premiered, it left an unforgettable impression on viewers while deconstructing the fantasy genre as a whole. These defining elements continue in Season 2 while also allowing for our heroes to grow. 

This is not a story about a group of heroes who set out to save the world from a Demon King or a Lord of Darkness. Instead, it’s the story of “the other guys”. The adventures that have to do the work that nobody wants to do. There is no fame or glory in protecting the world from goblins but they do it because someone has to. 

It should be noted that I’m anime only regarding the series. Hence this review will not be comparing Goblin Slayer II with the manga or light novel. Instead, my critique will be based on the anime adaptations’ own merit.

Have You Reached Heaven

Goblin Slayer follows the adventures of the titular hero and his adventure party. While most adventure parties look for glory by fighting dragons or demon lords, our hero has devoted his life to exterminating goblins. It’s not a glamorous job but someone has to do it. Joining him are Priestess, High Elf Archer, Dwarf Shaman, and Lizard Priest. The plot of Season II is broken into three arcs.

The first segment revolves around Goblin Slayer mentoring Wizard Boy upon discovering that his sister was a member of Priestess’s first adventure party, which was decimated in the series premiere. In the second act, the group participates in the wedding of the High Elf Archer’s sister, only to find themselves compelled to rescue the forest from a goblin nest. The concluding act involves the group escorting Sword Maiden to the capital, where they are subsequently hired to rescue a princess from goblins. Throughout their journey, each character confronts personal challenges, fostering not only individual growth but also a deeper connection within the group.

Once There Was Youth

Goblin Slayer II builds upon the foundation laid by its predecessor of deconstructing the fantasy genre. Unlike Season 1, which garnered attention with a startling beginning, the sequel largely moves away from those initial shocking elements. While the initial shock captured my interest, it was the substance of the narrative that truly drew me into the series. It doesn’t align with the intensity of Berserk, nor does it rely on shock value like Redo of Healer – a relief, to say the least. Instead, Goblin Slayer II dares to challenge not only the genre’s conventions but also our expectations of the characters.

Several pivotal character progressions center around Priestess, High Elf Archer, and Sword Maiden. Despite growing as an adventurer, Priestess faces obstacles in her ascent through the guild ranks. Her opportunities are hindered by the perception that her fellow adventurers bear the brunt of each adventure. To prove her worth, she must showcase to the guild her indispensability to her party. High Elf Archer, typically the most reserved party member, starts revealing aspects of her personal life and fosters a deeper connection with Goblin Slayer. Lastly, Sword Maiden grapples with her paralyzing fear of goblins, a confrontation that becomes an integral part of her character arc.

Naturally, a series centered around goblin-slaying wouldn’t be complete without its share of intense moments. Despite the common perception of goblins as weak adversaries, our heroes experience a different reality. They find themselves engaged in fierce battles against some of the most formidable foes encountered thus far. The narrative highlights a crucial point – the evolution of goblins, a fact often overlooked by many. This evolution poses a significant threat, compelling our heroes to step up and save the world from this escalating menace.

This consent evolution in character and world allows the series overall to grow. Goblin Slayer II demonstrates that a series about a generic adventurer party going against goblins has a lot to offer. It doesn’t get stale nor does it overuse the same genre tropes. 

Now There Is Nothing but Ash

While Goblin Slayer II does excel in storytelling and character development, it falls short in pacing. Too often suspense is built up only for the episode to end. Not helping is that everything is resolved within the first five minutes of the next episode. I find this story’s pacing to be annoying as it undermines the build-up while the conclusion doesn’t have the same impact a week later. 

Mirre Goblins Morghūlis

The second season of Goblin Slayer continues to go against genre expectations while also seeing an evolution in its world and characters. We do see our heroes in more vulnerable moments while also watching them open up. At the same time, the threat posed by goblins is more dire than ever. However, there are moments when the poor pacing does undermine the build-up.  

Goblin Slayer II once again deconstructs the fantasy genre while staying fresh with a dire threat along with character growth. It may look like a generic fantasy series with all the Tolkienist cliches. That notion is tossed aside for a story that picks apart ones idea of the genre.

Disclaimer: I watched it on Crunchyroll, which I pay for myself.

8Bit/Digi is an independent media outlet that provides insight into the gamer community of the San Francisco Bay Area.

Goblin Slayer II (aka Season 2)

9

Excellent

9.0/10

Pros

• A deconstruction of the fantasy genre.
• Evolution in its world and stronger character growth.
• Knows when to be shocking and intense for story value.
• The threat posed by goblins is more dire.

Cons

• Poor pacing that at times undermines the build-up to intense moments.