The Banished Court Magician Aims to Become the Strongest [Episode 12]

The Banished Court Magician Aims to Become the Strongest Episode 12: A Fiery Finale That Leaves Fans Wanting More

When Alec Huguette first got booted from the royal court for “only” being good at support magic, no one thought he’d end up here—standing atop a crumbling dungeon, his staff crackling with a power that’s equal parts healing and destruction. Episode 12 of The Banished Court Magician Aims to Become the Strongest doesn’t just wrap up the first season; it sets the stage for a showdown that’s been brewing since Alec’s exile. And let’s be real—after 11 episodes of slow burns and character growth, this finale was exactly what fans needed.

First off, let’s talk about the animation. Gekkou, the studio behind this series, really stepped up their game for the big finish. The fight scenes? Chef’s kiss. When Alec faces off against the dungeon’s core guardian, the way his support magic morphs into offensive spells—like that scene where he uses a barrier to reflect a fireball back at the boss—was so smooth I had to rewind it twice. The colors popped, the movements were fluid, and you could tell every frame was crafted with care. It’s a far cry from the early episodes, where some of the background art felt a little flat. But hey, growth is part of the show’s DNA, right?

Now, the plot. Episode 12 picks up right where we left off: Alec and his ragtag team (shoutout to Lila, the rogue with a heart of gold, and Kael, the grumpy warrior who’s low-key Alec’s biggest fan) are deep in the Yorha Dungeon, trying to stop the core from destabilizing. The tension builds slowly at first—there’s a lot of “we need to work together” dialogue that feels a bit cheesy, but honestly, it’s earned. These characters have been through so much together, from Alec teaching Lila how to use a healing potion to Kael finally admitting he respects Alec’s magic. So when they all combine their skills to take down the guardian? It’s not just a win for the team—it’s a win for anyone who’s ever been underestimated.

But let’s get to the good stuff: the fan reactions. Over on MyAnimeList, the forums are blowing up. One user, MagicLover2000, wrote, “That final scene where Alec’s staff glows with all the magic he’s learned? I screamed. This is why I love underdog stories!” Another, SupportMain4Life, added, “Finally, a show that doesn’t treat support magic like it’s useless. Alec’s ‘weakness’ is his superpower, and Episode 12 proves it.” Even the critics are chiming in—AnimeNewsNetwork gave the episode an 8/10, calling it “a satisfying conclusion that leaves room for more.”

Of course, no episode is perfect. Some fans pointed out that the pacing felt a bit rushed in the middle. The dungeon’s backstory—about how it was built by a forgotten mage—was glossed over, and I’ll admit, I wanted to know more about that. But honestly? The emotional beats more than made up for it. When Alec finally confronts the court mage who banished him (yes, he shows up in the dungeon—drama!), their exchange is raw. Alec doesn’t yell or fight; he just says, “I didn’t need your approval to be strong.” It’s a quiet moment, but it hits harder than any spell.

And let’s not forget the ending. After the dungeon collapses, Alec stands outside, looking at the horizon. The camera pulls back, and we see a shadowy figure watching him from the trees. Is it a new enemy? A potential ally? The showrunners are clearly setting up a second season, and I for one am here for it. The final shot—Alec smiling, his staff in hand—feels like a promise: “I’m just getting started.”

So, should you watch Episode 12? If you’ve been following the series, absolutely. It’s a love letter to anyone who’s ever been told they’re not good enough. And if you’re new? Start from the beginning—you won’t regret it. The Banished Court Magician Aims to Become the Strongest isn’t just another isekai; it’s a story about finding your strength in unexpected places. And Episode 12? It’s the perfect example of why we keep coming back to anime—for the magic, the heart, and the hope that even the underdogs can win.

Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’m off to rewatch that final fight scene. Again.

Final Verdict: 9/10. A must-watch for fans of underdog stories and epic magic battles.

Stream it now on Crunchyroll—you won’t be disappointed.