English Dub Review: Sword of the Demon Hunter: Kijin Gentosho “The Embodiment of Jealousy”

Overview

Back in the winter of 1839, when Jinya was still just Jinta, there were rumors of strange phenomena occurring near the Modori River. Byakuya orders Jinta to investigate.

Our Take

This time around, we get a sort of flashback episode that places Jinya, Shirayuki, Suzune, and Kiyomasa at the center, revisiting earlier moments in their lives to highlight the emotions and relationships that continue to shape the story. Rather than moving the timeline forward, the episode uses reflection and atmosphere to remind viewers of the bonds and tensions that defined the past. The return of these familiar faces adds both nostalgia and depth, even if some may find the backward focus a slower approach.

Through its character-driven lens, the episode emphasizes themes of love, loyalty, and the sacrifices demanded by duty. Jinya’s struggles and Suzune’s frustrations feel particularly resonant, while Kiyomasa’s presence adds another layer of complexity. Subtle interactions and gestures between these characters build on the emotional core, balancing quieter, heartfelt moments with more intense sequences, even if the visual quality wavers at times.

Overall, this episode strengthens the emotional foundation of the series by placing Jinya, Shirayuki, Suzune, and Kiyomasa back into focus, using heartfelt character work and emotional resonance to ground the story. While the slower pacing and reliance on flashbacks may divide viewers, the themes of connection, struggle, and responsibility come through with sincerity, making this chapter both a reflective pause and a meaningful bridge to the next arc. With new storylines hinted at and fresh faces teased in the opening and ending, it sets the stage for future developments while inviting audiences to reflect on the weight of Jinya’s past. And with the 2nd half of season 2 jump-starting, I can’t wait to see where this goes next!