Chained Soldier [Season 2 Episode 1]

Chained Soldier Season 2 Episode 1: Back with a Bang (and Better Visuals)

Let’s cut straight to the chase—Chained Soldier is back, and if you loved the first season’s mix of demon-slaying action, harem hijinks, and unapologetic fan service, Season 2 Episode 1 doesn’t miss a beat. For those who need a quick recap: Yuuki Wakura, our “pet” protagonist with the power to boost his female comrades’ abilities (yes, really), is still serving Commander Kyouka Uzen and the 7th Demon Defense Squad. Their mission? Fight off monsters from the Mato, interdimensional portals that keep popping up to ruin Earth’s day. Simple enough, right? But Season 2 kicks things up a notch with a studio switch to Passione (known for Interspecies Reviewers—need we say more?) and a promise of spicier content.

First off, the animation. Fans were split on Season 1’s quality, but Episode 1 of Season 2 silences most critics. Passione brings cleaner lines, more vibrant colors, and smoother fight scenes—though some eagle-eyed viewers noted a few abrupt cuts during Ren Yamashiro’s badass terrorist takedown. Still, compared to Season 1’s occasional jank, this feels like a glow-up. One fan on MyAnimeList summed it up best: “It’s as if we’ve never left with the antics of Yuuki and the 4 girls, but now it looks way better.”

Speaking of antics, Yuuki’s confidence has grown—he’s no longer the flustered newbie of Season 1. When he introduces himself to the 6th Squad’s Commander Tenka Izumo, her cute clap of approval says it all: our guy’s leveling up. But let’s be real, the real stars here are the new characters. Ren Yamashiro, the Supreme Commander with Gojo-esque swagger and a love for dogs (Makima vibes, anyone?), steals every scene she’s in. Voiced by the iconic HanaKana, Ren exudes power and mystery—you can’t take your eyes off her. And let’s not forget Azuma Fubuki, the 6th Squad’s sharp-tongued beauty, or the MILF alert that is Himari’s mom. The harem just got a whole lot more competitive.

Now, the fan service. Season 1 played it safe, but Hidive already confirmed Season 2 will be “much spicier.” Episode 1 teases this with Kyouka’s half-naked “reward” scene (classic Yuuki) and Mira’s playful molestation of a teammate mid-battle (don’t ask—just go with it). Manga readers know the good stuff is coming, and fans are hyped: “Hoping I won’t have to wait for Blu-rays,” one user commented, crossing their fingers for uncensored goodness.

But it’s not all fun and games. The episode sets up bigger stakes with the 6th and 7th Squads teaming up to take down a Shuuki (those gross Mato monsters). Yuuki’s training pays off—his new moves hint at even more power-ups this season. And let’s not overlook the emotional beats: Tenka’s quiet support for her “future sister” (wink, wink) adds heart to the chaos.

Critics will say it’s still the same old ecchi formula, but honestly? Who cares? Chained Soldier knows its audience. It’s not trying to be a masterpiece—it’s trying to be entertaining, and it succeeds. The mix of action, humor, and eye candy is perfect for a Thursday night watch.

Final thoughts: Season 2 Episode 1 is a solid start. The animation upgrade is noticeable, the new characters are fire, and the fan service is dialed up just enough to leave us wanting more. Whether you’re here for the fights, the waifus, or Yuuki’s chaotic journey, this episode delivers. As one fan put it: “We’re so back, and better than ever.”

Now, let’s just hope the Blu-rays drop soon—we need that uncut content.

Rating: 8/10 — A fun, fan-pleasing return that sets the stage for an even wilder Season 2.

Chained Soldier Season 2 Episode 1 is now streaming on HIDIVE.