English Dub Review: How a Realist Hero Rebuilt the Kingdom “First Begin with a Hero”

Overview:

When Kazuya Souma is unexpectedly transported to another world, he knows the people expect a hero. But Souma’s idea of heroism is more practical than most—he wants to rebuild the flagging economy of the new land he’s found himself in! Betrothed to the princess and abruptly planted on the throne, this realist hero must gather talented people to help him get the country back on its feet—not through war, or adventure, but with administrative reform!

Our Take:

It’s a new anime season so you know what that means. A new batch of isekai shows! I admit I love isekai and can’t get enough of it. But I do like there to be something fresh in them and this show delivers. Just how is it different? Well, that’s why you’re here right?

First off, the protagonist is in college and a lot more mature than your typical anime hero. He doesn’t ogle every woman he sees, not yet at least. He gets engaged in the first episode and doesn’t make a big deal about it, even going so far as to break it off since she might not be okay with it. Something tells me this relationship will be a focus moving forward.

Speaking of his fiance, that is another refreshing change. Yes, she is a princess but she isn’t a damsel in distress by any means. She is in the military and seems like she can take care of herself. What a forward country where not only will the king send his child to be in the military but that child is a woman? This show is starting off right for me.

One other thing that sets this show is apart is the actions that Souma takes. Yes, he is a “hero” but he isn’t gifted crazy abilities and isn’t instantly an amazing warrior. The title really tells everything you need to know about this show. He’s a realist and is looking to rebuild the country through economic and societal reforms. It’s really cool and I am looking forward to seeing what they do. If you are expecting a bunch of action and battles you might want to look somewhere else.

I got really into the story so most of this review is singing the praises of that. The animation is pretty good, there are some CGI parts that are really bad and noticeable but then other times it’s really well done. Also, I will wait for one more episode to give my comments on the voice acting. But this is a really stellar cast that Funimation gave us.