The anime series Ranking of Kings took the world by surprise with its unique blend of fantasy, dark storytelling, and action-packed scenes. Now, with the first season adapted from Sōsuke Tōka’s manga, fans of the show are treated to Ranking of Kings: The Treasure Chest of Courage. While not a full second season, this anthology provides backstories, side stories, and additional content for those already invested in the world of Ranking of Kings.

This anthology features 10 episodes, each divided into two separate tales. Some episodes explore the events that took place during season 1, delving into the backstory of characters like Queen Hilling and her fight against Bosse. Others focus on stories that happened before and after the first season, providing a glimpse into the lives of characters like Ouken and the aftermath of Bosse’s defeat.

As with any anthology, the quality of the episodes varies. The transition to this format may have caused a slight loss in stakes and urgency, as the stories tend to be smaller in scale and disconnected from the main narrative. However, The Treasure Chest of Courage continues to excel in character development. It offers deeper insights into characters like Bosse and Bebin, making them more complex and compelling. The tale of Ouken, in particular, delves into the show’s rich lore and mythology, showcasing how his transformation affected his siblings and connecting to the overall ranking of kings.

Additionally, the anthology provides closure to the first season’s story by exploring the lives of Bojji and Daida after the defeat of Bosse. Bojji, the heart of the show, shines in these episodes with his memorable facial expressions and kind acts that endear him to viewers. Seeing him grow as a king and witnessing Daida’s adjustment to their new roles brings a satisfying conclusion to the initial storyline.

Ranking of Kings wouldn’t be complete without its stunning imagery, and WIT Studio goes above and beyond in this aspect. Animators have the freedom to experiment with camera angles and visual styles, resulting in episodes that resemble living picture books. The papercraft aesthetic in episodes 8 and 9 gives Bosse and Shiina a tangible presence, while the use of animation from the season-one ending sequence adds depth to young Miranjo’s encounter with a demon.

Overall, Ranking of Kings: The Treasure Chest of Courage provides an opportunity to delve deeper into the beloved characters and lore of the series. While the anthology format may have its differences, it still captures the heart and essence of the show, leaving fans eager for what’s to come.