Isekai as a whole has always been a weird genre. While I do think it actually has the potential to be interesting on paper, a lot of shows were sadly overwhelmed by dry theatrics such as harem, overpowered MC, and directly following the goal of defeating the demon lord. Thankfully, this was barely the case for Konosuba, the kind of isekai that disobeys the basic rules with its own utility.
STORY: 88%
First of all, the concept behind it. The concept of it is to defeat the demon king. Sounds basic? Like a lot of isekais, yes. Can it ruin the progression and scriptwriting? Well... not even close. Konosuba overcomes the simplistic concept by turning the show into a parody. The show doesn't even progress but in a way that makes it very fun to watch with the characters dicking around instead of progressing their levels. While the story is very funny and charming, it has a little bit of qualms such as the panty-stealing scenes; while I still find it funny, it was sometimes admittedly uncomfortable to look at.
CHARACTERS: 93%
The characters are easily my favorite part of the show, with each having their own characteristics and personalities.
Kazuma Satou, the MC of the show, is a NEET who has bad luck and believes that all genders are equal.
Aqua is a goddess who has her potential to be a great goddess with her water and light powers but decides to focus mostly on alcohol.
Megumin is an archwizard who has an obsession on explosive magic, is actually manipulative, and likes piggybank rides.
Darkness is a masochist who gets embarrassed everytime.
To be honest, I don't really find them completely useless. Sure, they're pretty weak but there are aspects where their strengths shine. Aqua can still revive Kazuma. Megumin's explosion, while still extremely limited, still packs a punch. The main cast are overall lovable dicks with their fun dynamics. Very satisfying to see them shame on each other but, at the same time, still loving each other. The main cast aren't the only thing keeping the show amazing in the first place, we also got a few side characters shining as well.
Yunyun is a friendly lady who has zero chances on gaining a friend. Her interactions and rivalry with Megumin were very refreshing and funny seeing those two arguing against each other. Yunyun introduces, Megumin, while knowing her before, pretends that she doesn't know. Play games with each other and surprise or not surprise, Megumin will always win.
Beldia is an armored headless horseman who wants to live in a quiet life. Destroy his castle and you know you messed up, even if he's not that much of a threat. His complains easily makes him a funniest character in the entire series (I'll thank Patrick Seitz for the voice acting.)
Wiz is a friendly shopkeeper who is probably the only sane character in the show alongside with Yunyun.
Hans is... well... Hans.
The characters are very charming and brought a large impact to the story whether you like them or hate them.
ART: 84%
The art style is nice, creative, and colorful even though it looks a little generic.
Though, what's very impressive is how DEEN animates Megumin's explosion. And let me tell you, it beautiful. It's very hard to describe how outstanding the explosion magic was. All I can say is is that they spent their dedication on such an entertaining magic scene.
Character designs are nice, with Megumin's being one of my personal favorite aesthetics in fiction.
SOUND: 92%
I like both the opening and ending. They're catchy and energetic.
OST is very welcome as they reflect each event quite nicely.
Though, what hits hard is the voice acting. The voice acting in both sub and dub are well-scripted and provide tons of personality of each character. (Although, I personally prefer the dub a little more as it feel a little more faithful to the characters' idiocity.)
ENJOYMENT: 95%
At first, I thought this was going to be yet another generic isekai judging from the premise but after watching it and having experiences with it, Konosuba is easily one of the best shows out there. It's funny, cute, deep, and it doesn't force you through MMORPG bs. If you're looking for a different isekai, I highly suggest you give it a try.
PERSONAL RANK: 9/10 (S+ Tier)
