Kijin Gentoushou [Season 1 Episode 3]

Kijin Gentoushou Season 1 Episode 3: A Slow Burn of Pain and Mystery

If you’re into historical fantasy with a side of existential dread, Kijin Gentoushou (also known as Sword of the Demon Hunter) is shaping up to be one of those rare gems that balances action, emotion, and world-building without losing its edge. Episode 3, titled simply “Episode 3,” continues the journey of Jinta (or Jinya, as some fans call him), the demon hunter with a tragic past, as he navigates a world where demons and humans coexist—often violently.

The Plot Thickens (or Doesn’t?)

This episode takes a slower approach compared to the previous two, focusing less on flashy demon-slaying and more on character dynamics and the lingering mystery of a serial killer (or demon) terrorizing the town. Fans on MyAnimeList had mixed feelings about the pacing—some called it a “nothing burger” ending, while others appreciated the slow burn, calling it a necessary setup for future chaos.

One standout moment was the introduction of Mosuke, a demon with a heartbreaking backstory. His wife was brutally murdered, and his pain resonated deeply with Jinya, who’s no stranger to loss. The voice acting here was praised, with one fan noting, “When Mosuke described how his wife was kidnapped, raped, and murdered… I just lost it.” It’s rare for an anime to tackle such heavy themes without feeling exploitative, but Kijin Gentoushou manages to pull it off with raw sincerity.

The Good, the Bad, and the Sus

The episode also introduced Ofuu, a mysterious girl who’s either a red herring or the actual killer—fans can’t decide. Comments like “Can we trust this girl???” and “Please tell me the girl is not the demon” flooded the discussion threads. The ambiguity keeps things intriguing, especially since the show has already established that not all demons are evil (looking at you, Mosuke).

Visually, the episode maintained its consistency, though some fans pointed out minor audio sync issues and awkward still frames. Still, the atmospheric art style and the hauntingly beautiful flower metaphors (yes, flowers) added layers to the storytelling. One fan even drew parallels between Jinya and Mosuke, noting how both are tied to their pasts like “winter sakura trees”—beautiful but burdened by time.

The Bigger Picture

What’s fascinating about Kijin Gentoushou is how it subverts the typical “demon hunter” trope. Jinya isn’t just a mindless killer; he’s a conflicted man who’s starting to question his own prejudices. As one fan put it: “It would’ve been easy to just make a protagonist that kills all demons indiscriminately, but this show gives them depth.”

The historical setting (late Edo period, around 1853) also adds weight to the narrative. References to the “Black Ships” of Commodore Perry hint at the changing world Jinya inhabits—one where humans and demons alike are grappling with their place in history.

Final Thoughts

Episode 3 might not have delivered the explosive climax some were hoping for, but it succeeded in deepening the lore and characters. The emotional beats hit hard, the mystery remains unsolved, and the stage is set for even darker developments. As one fan aptly summarized: “This is the calm before the storm.”

If you’re looking for an anime that’s more than just flashy fights—one that makes you feel—Kijin Gentoushou is worth your time. Just brace yourself for the pain.

Rating: 7.5/10 (Slow but impactful—like a dagger to the heart.)

What did you think of Episode 3? Drop your theories below!