REVIEW: ‘Ranking of Kings: Treasure Chest of Courage,’ Episode 1

Bojji and Kage’s story continues in Ranking of Kings: Treasure Chest of Courage with the premiere of Episode 1 on Crunchyroll. Ranking of Kings is fantasy adventure anime based on the Japanese fantasy manga series written and illustrated by Sōsuke Tōka. The series is directed by Yosuke Hatta (Boogiepop) at WIT Studio, with series composition by Taku Kishimoto (Fruits Basket), character designs by Atsuko Nozaki, and music by MAYUKO (Cells at Work!).

Ranking of Kings tells a coming-of-age story in a fantastical world centered on a young prince named Bojji. Born to a pair of mighty giants, Bojji was cursed, stripped of all his giant strength and size, and born deaf. Most of his subjects and retainers consider him completely unfit to be king. Disheartened and still determined, Bojji meets his first true friend Kage, a member of the assassin, who is one of the first to believe he has what it takes to become a great king.

Ranking of Kings: Treasure Chest of Courage is not the new season but a new collection of stories in Ranking of Kings world. The special is described as a collection of short stories showing past events of courage and personal growth by the cast of characters.

When I initially heard the news of the new Ranking of Kings episodes dropping, I was thrilled to see how the story would pick up from the Season 1 finale. Some questions and plotlines were left unanswered, and the news of new episodes meant the story would start exploring those elements and take us on a new adventure with Bojii and Kage.

Although, Ranking of Kings: Treasure Chest of Courage, Episode 1 did not meet my initial expectations. That does not mean the episode was a letdown by any means. This collection of short stories is a great way to expand on Bojji’s character development and growth during his time training in the Underworld. Additionally, the new episode shows more of Bojji’s physical training and how he grows and matures into a wiser character.

If you are new or unfamiliar with Ranking of Kings, Treasure Chest of Courage is an excellent way to get into the series. The episode’s opening briefly summarizes the events that led Bojji to his training so newcomers are not lost. Additionally, if you are a fan of fantasy adventure anime but want something more original, then, Ranking of Kings is a perfect watch for you.

Ranking of Kings animation team delivers a gorgeous fantastical anime with vibrant colors, landscapes, and diverse character designs. The opening and ending credit sequences perfectly display all of these elements and some fantastic music. PEOPLE 1 performs the opening theme song “GOLD,” and Aimer performs the ending theme song “Atemonaku” (Aimlessly). I especially love how the credits show us the world through Bojji’s perspective and how he views the world.

Overall, Ranking of Kings: Treasure Chest of Courage is a delightful watch and a great way to learn more about Bojji’s experiences and growth. It is a perfect watch for any fantasy adventure fan, especially if you want an original and compelling story. Accompanied by delightful music from beginning to end and stunning animation, this episode did not disappoint.

Ranking of Kings: Treasure Chest of Courage streams weekly on Crunchyroll.