English Dub Review: That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime: “Hope”

Overview: Ellen’s (Natalie Hoover) words offer a small glimpse of hope for Rimuru (Brittany Karbowski) when he needs it the most after the horrific attack inflicted on Tempest.  

Our Take: Like the name suggests, “Hope” offers a potential light at the end of the tunnel for Rimuru and the people of Tempest. One takeaway that is noticeable early on is how smoothly the episode transitions it’s tone back and forth from hopefulness to pure dread and then back to optimism. This is reflected in the lighthearted friendly banter with Hakurou and Gobta and then in Shion and Gobzo’s grim demise at the hands of Falmuth. 

Rimuru’s reaction to Shion’s death is a visceral one and it’s especially effective when taken into consideration Rimuru’s thoughts to the contrary. But the despair doesn’t linger too long with Ellen bringing some much needed good news. From here, this is where we start to get information overload somewhat. I say somewhat because while it is a whole lot to take in, it’s not dead on arrival.

Not only is Ellen an on-the-run princess from her own kingdom but she reveals a story that could be key in bringing back Shion, Gobzo and the other citizens by having Rimuru become a demon lord. While not officially revealed yet, it’s quite clear, based on the description of the girl at the heart of the tale, that Malim was transformed into a demon lord by the death of her dragon father. So while it is quite a bit, it’s not completely overwhelming as we still haven’t dealt with Malim and this was just a slight tease. Also Ellen’s royal status could be addressed later in the second cour of this season or even next season, but hopefully that plotline is executed with the proper care and development and isn’t just swept under the rug never to be seen again. 

Rimuru’s carefree nature has shown to be both a blessing and a curse, with his kingdom feeling the brunt of it. But in the case of Myulan’s heart being at stake, when it’s well-founded, it’s at its best and the most refreshing. It’s also comically hilarious just how overpowered Rimuru can be at times. To just make a heart from scratch and replace it as quickly as he took it away is absolutely bonkers, but in the best way possible.

One of Rimuru’s defining characteristics, his altruistic nature, shines through with his plans to make Youm, the king of Falmuth. But also his diplomacy with Rimuru wanting Youm in place to establish strong relations with Falmuth. For what is, ultimately, the greater good for both Tempest and especially Falmuth, on account of their crooked ruler. Also although not directly said, it will no doubt also be for trade too empowering both kingdoms even more so. Now the only thing that’s left to do is eradicate 20,000 soldiers, which is a decision that although I knew about ahead of time, still has me reeling. However, the ending nicely sets up that precedent with Rimuru making some much needed changes to his flawed ideology that is a welcome development in the wake of recent events. 

That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime dishes out a new entry, that while overstuffed at some points throughout, gives more exceptional moments with the character and sets exciting events into motion.