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Mushoku Tensei excels in its subtlety in displaying the depressive tendencies of Rudeus. After the events of Season 1, he regresses back into a similar state to his previous life - a withdrawn pessimist. As early in Episode 1’s opening scene, he is shown slumped with a disinterested attitude to those around him; the rain falls - a parallel to his mental state.
Though he avoids socialising, Rudeus puts up a sickeningly (to Soldat) polite façade when talking to others. This is simply his coping mechanism in order to avoid being hated - following his abandonment by Eris. Yet, teaming up with Counter Arrow and witnessing their unwavering determination to fight to the end rejuvenates Rudeus’ fighting spirit, albeit slightly. When he returns, he burns his remaining connection (bundle of hair) to Eris, signifying his acceptance of loss.
Mushoku Tensei emphasises that depression can become a downward spiral if not stopped in its tracks. Highlighted is the imperativeness of avoiding self-depreciation while concurrently cherishing what holds value to oneself. Thereafter, this can become one impetus to continue to move forward, slowly but steadily.
Later, his fallout with Sara and the discovery of his erectile dysfunction led to Rudeus nearly committing suicide. This is immediately stopped by Soldat, who then invites Rudy to join his party as an adventurer. Through his time with them, our main character is able to improve his fragile mental state and build self-worth once again - being surrounded by those supportive.
However, wounds heal but scars will remain. This saying is evident in Episode 6, during which Rudeus is encircled by a dozen students. His reaction (see image below) to his situation - one very similar to bullying, causes him to recall the events that led him to regress into a NEET. Clear is the fact that he still has not completely overcome his trauma, this is executed effectively and realistically by the anime. He is saved by Fitz (Sylphy), who is able to better Rudeus’ mental state and grow closer to him throughout the cour.
On a separate note, the anime is successful in immersing its viewers in the world of Mushoku Tensei. The controversial elements in slavery and his treatment of the Beastgirls are not addressed as an abnormality - helping the story in its alluring world-building.
Firstly, regarding slavery - I think that it would be more surprising if a fantasy world like the Six-Faced World was devoid of this. While contemporary society rightly condemns this practice, it's crucial to acknowledge that fictional worlds need not adhere to our own moral standards. Our MC does not adopt a strong ethical stance on every matter, a departure from the archetype of a conventional hero of justice. Besides, he explicitly mentioned that he does not view Julie as a slave, but rather as a disciple akin to Zanoba. The character of Rudeus Greyrat is a refreshing deviation from the typical foolhardy altruistic, one dimensional Isekai protagonist.
Now, on the treatment of Linia and Pursena. To be blunt, there is no justification for his extreme actions - this is the nature of Rudeus. It is worth recalling, that he also received a similar unjust punishment from their kinsmen. That being said, it is clear that he did not plan for the shocking sight Fitz was greeted with when she entered Rudeus’ room. This lack of planning ahead may be a sign of his ongoing developing maturity.
While not immediately apparent, Sylphy's character growth has become evident since her introduction in the first cour of Season 1. While her inherent nature and affection for Rudeus remain unchanged, she re-emerges as a more independent, assertive individual who is willing to advocate for others. Unlike the source material, she is immediately introduced as Sylphiette to the viewer, rather than the androgynous Fitz. This facilitated Episode 0 to be presented from her POV, allowing viewers to gain insight the bonds between herself and her companions whilst showing how the childhood friends’ paths converged once again.
Animation: 85/100
It is relatively obvious that there is a decrease in visual quality when juxtaposed to the high standards set by Season 1. Unfortunately, especially in the first few episodes, there were moments where still shots were used often and the animation felt choppy. Thankfully this did eventually improve to a quality similar to the preceding cours.
Still, one can appreciate the attention to detail littered throughout the season. These include Nanahoshi humming a Studio Ghibli song (foreshadowing her being Japanese) to Rudeus growing ever so slightly taller than Sylphy between episodes. However, the most symbolic was in Episode 7 (07:15) during which the route that Rudeus and Sylphy traversed serves as a profound allegory of their respective journeys since Turning Point 1. While Sylphy’s manifests as seamless and unobstructed bridge, Rudeus’ encounters clear imepdiments which he must metaphorically ‘leap’ over to make progress.
It’s the minute details that show the careful artistry invested into the creation of this anime.
Audio: 90/100
The following section will primarily delve into an analysis of the opening theme, Spiral:
In the first sequence, Eris, Sylphy, and Roxy are personified to be birds with the colours red, green, and blue respectively, and are shown to have escaped like cages, signifying their newfound independence. Meanwhile, the unknown female silhouette crumbles showing Rudeus’ current declining psychological well-being and new insecurities.
Rudeus initially appears miserable and abandoned but gains strength to search for his mother, guided by a blue bird. Roxy's enduring influence is evident, paralleling her role in helping him overcome his reclusive past.
As the sequence unfolds, we are shown a more confident Rudeus slowly but steadily making his way up an emblematic ‘Spiral’ staircase. Behind him, is a red bird, who glances uneasily at Rudeus before taking off her separate way.
A green bird that gradually becomes white is, of course, Sylphy (the same as hair’s change in colour). Similar to Roxy, she is able to open the eyes of our MC (whose eyes are visible for the first time), and he reaches out to her.
When Rudeus awakens in Ranoa, we can see his pendant glow emerald, alluding to this season’s main heroine. Furthermore, in contrast to the beginning of the OP, Rudeus’ downcast look turns hopeful as he now gets up willingly, with more conviction.
On a separate note, this cour's OST upholds the brilliance from Season 1, complementing the story and animation. Similarly, the ending does a great job of capturing Sylphy’s feelings towards Rudeus - which fits perfectly into this cour.
Enjoyment: 95/100
Having read the web novel, I was satisfied with this cour as a whole, though it is undeniable that there were parts that could certainly have been improved. Nonetheless, every episode felt like it was over in an instant - something few shows are capable of doing.
Conclusion:
Undoubtedly, Mushoku Tensei stands out as one of the most controversial anime. Nevertheless, it is an anime that inspires and motivates. This is not a story about escaping reality, it is one which causes one to seek amelioration.
That with just a little bit more courage, there is a tomorrow that can be changed.I believe that Season 2 Part 1 was successful in its discreet yet significant character development, deep immersion, and powerful symbolism alongside many other merits. Though the cour was devoid of a ‘Turning Point’ unlike the previous instalments, it still did not fail to produce a thoroughly captivating anime.
Now, as we eagerly await Part 2, one of the most anticipated arcs, I can only pray that Studio Bind will be able to exceed our already lofty expectations.
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