Battle Through The Heavens NF [Season 1 Episode 177]

Battle Through The Heavens NF: Episode 177 – A Rollercoaster of Emotions and Fan Outrage

Let’s cut to the chase: if you’re a die-hard fan of Battle Through The Heavens, Episode 177 of Season 1 (or whatever they’re calling it now—don’t get me started on the confusing season numbering) is the kind of episode that’ll make you scream into your pillow one minute and cheer the next. But first, let’s get the basics straight. This donghua (Chinese anime) is based on Tiancan Tudou’s hit web novel, and it’s all about Xiao Yan, a young warrior trying to reclaim his lost glory in a world of martial arts and alchemy. The original Season 1 dropped way back in 2017, but there’s been a reboot called Origin in 2022—because why keep things simple, right?

Now, Episode 177. Let’s talk about the elephant in the room: the Medusa controversy. If you’ve been scrolling MyAnimeList forums lately, you’ve probably seen the chaos. Fans are losing their minds over rumors that the studio might be sidelining Medusa—you know, the badass snake queen who’s been Xiao Yan’s ride-or-die since Season 4. Some are even saying they might replace her with Gu Xun’er as the sole female lead. Cue the collective gasp.

One fan ranted, “Medusa appearing to save Xiao Yan in Season 4 is one of my favorite moments—HOT and BADASS!” And honestly, who can blame them? Medusa is the definition of a strong female character—she’s not just eye candy; she’s got power, sass, and a backstory that makes you root for her. Replacing her with Xun’er, who some fans find “bland,” feels like a slap in the face. Another user put it bluntly: “Some people need to learn how NOT to mess with the original source that people loved.” Preach.

But it’s not all doom and gloom. The episode itself? It’s packed with the kind of action that made us fall in love with the series. Xiao Yan’s alchemy skills are on fire (literally), and the fight scenes are so fluid you’ll forget to blink. The animation studio (whoever they are this season—seriously, the turnover is wild) didn’t skimp on the visuals. The battle sequences are crisp, the magical effects pop, and you can almost feel the energy radiating from the screen.

Then there’s the Yunyun subplot. If you’ve been following Season 4.5 (yes, that’s a thing), you know the Sect is the worst. One fan summed it up perfectly: “FUCK that Sect… everyone but Yunyun needs to be dead.” Episode 177 leans into that anger, giving Yunyun a moment to shine that’ll make you want to high-five your screen. She’s been underrated for too long, and it’s about time she got her due.

But let’s circle back to the Medusa drama. The rumors are everywhere—some say the new female writers and producers don’t like the idea of multiple love interests, so they’re axing Medusa’s pregnancy arc and pushing her to the background. Fans are divided: some are boycotting the series, while others are holding out hope that the studio will backtrack. “I hope not! Medusa is simply awesome,” one user pleaded. It’s a classic case of “don’t fix what isn’t broken.” The original novel’s love triangle (or square, depending on how you count) is part of its charm. Messing with that risks alienating the core fanbase.

For new viewers, Episode 177 might feel a bit overwhelming—there’s a lot of backstory to unpack. But if you’re here for the action, you won’t be disappointed. The pacing is tight, the stakes are high, and you’ll be on the edge of your seat wondering what Xiao Yan will do next. Just be prepared to dive into the forums afterward to join the Medusa defense squad.

In conclusion, Episode 177 is a mixed bag. The action is top-tier, Yunyun gets her moment, and the animation is stunning. But the Medusa rumors are casting a shadow over everything. If you’re a fan, you’ll watch it—you have to. But be warned: you might end up yelling at your screen more than once. Here’s hoping the studio listens to the fans and keeps Medusa where she belongs—front and center.

Final Verdict: 7/10. Great action, but the drama off-screen is overshadowing the on-screen magic. Watch it for the fights, stay for the Yunyun hype, and pray for Medusa’s return.

P.S. If you’re looking for similar martial arts series while you wait for the next episode, check out Douluo Dalu—it’s got multiple seasons and a loyal fanbase. Just don’t say I didn’t warn you about the rabbit holes. 😉