Chivalry of a Failed Knight [Season 1 Episodes 1-12]

Chivalry of a Failed Knight: A Hidden Gem for Underdogs Everywhere

Let’s be real—most anime heroes are either chosen ones with godlike powers or geniuses who make saving the world look easy. But what if the protagonist is just… bad at the thing everyone else excels at? Enter Chivalry of a Failed Knight (or Rakudai Kishi no Cavalry if you’re into the original Japanese title), a 2015 series that turns the “chosen one” trope on its head. Produced by Silver Link and Nexus, this 12-episode ride follows Ikki Kurogane, a student at Hagun Academy who’s labeled the “Worst One” because his magical abilities are weaker than a smartphone battery at 1%. Yeah, you read that right—his own family disowns him for being “ordinary.” Ouch.

But here’s the kicker: Ikki doesn’t let that stop him. He’s determined to become a Mage-Knight, even if it means training until his hands bleed. And when he meets Stella Vermillion, a fire-wielding princess from a prestigious magical family, things get interesting. Stella’s got the power, the attitude, and the kind of confidence that makes you want to cheer and roll your eyes at the same time. Their relationship starts as a rivalry—she’s the top student, he’s the laughingstock—but quickly turns into something deeper. Think: enemies-to-lovers, but with more sword fights and less bickering (okay, maybe some bickering).

What makes this show stand out? For starters, it’s not just about flashy magic battles (though there are plenty of those—seriously, the animation during fight scenes is chef’s kiss). It’s about resilience. Ikki’s journey isn’t about suddenly getting superpowers; it’s about outsmarting opponents who underestimate him. Fans on MyAnimeList love how relatable he is—one user even called him “the ultimate underdog” because he doesn’t rely on plot armor. Instead, he uses strategy, speed, and a whole lot of grit to win fights. Stella’s character development is equally satisfying. She starts off as a stuck-up royal but learns to respect Ikki’s strength, and their banter feels natural, not forced.

The romance is another highlight. Unlike some anime where love feels like an afterthought, Chivalry of a Failed Knight makes it central. Stella isn’t just a love interest—she’s Ikki’s equal, pushing him to be better while he does the same for her. Their chemistry is off the charts, and the show balances sweet moments (like Stella defending Ikki from bullies) with intense action sequences. Plus, there’s no unnecessary fanservice—just two people who grow to care for each other deeply.

Of course, no show is perfect. Some critics say the pacing is a bit fast, especially in the later episodes, and the supporting characters could use more depth. But honestly? For a 12-episode series, it packs a punch. The final battle against the main antagonist is emotional, epic, and ties up loose ends while leaving room for more (though let’s be real—we’re still waiting for Season 2, Silver Link).

If you’re into action, fantasy, and romance with a side of “never give up,” this is the show for you. It’s not the most groundbreaking anime out there, but it’s fun. It’s the kind of series you binge in a weekend, then rewatch just for the fight scenes and the cute moments between Ikki and Stella. And let’s not forget the soundtrack—those battle themes will have you hyped up for days.

In a world of over-the-top isekai and generic shonen, Chivalry of a Failed Knight is a breath of fresh air. It’s a reminder that strength isn’t about how much magic you have—it’s about how hard you’re willing to fight for what you believe in. So grab your popcorn, turn off your phone, and get ready to root for the “Worst One” who becomes a hero. You won’t regret it.

Final Verdict: 8/10. A must-watch for underdog story lovers and romance fans alike. Just don’t blame us if you start yelling “GO IKKI!” at your screen.

(Psst—if you finish the anime and want more, the light novels go way beyond Season 1. Trust us, the wait for Season 2 is torture.)