Übel Blatt [Season 1 Episode 1 to Episode 12]

Übel Blatt: A Dark Fantasy Tale of Betrayal and Revenge – Season 1 Review

Übel Blatt (Season 1, Episodes 1-12) is a dark fantasy anime that premiered in January 2025, adapting Etorouji Shiono’s manga of the same name. The story follows Köinzell, a young swordsman wielding the infamous “black sword,” as he seeks vengeance against the “Seven Heroes” who betrayed and murdered his former comrade, Ascheriit. With a mix of brutal action, political intrigue, and a protagonist shrouded in mystery, the anime promised a gripping tale of revenge—but did it deliver? Let’s dive into what fans had to say.

The Premise and World-Building

The first episode sets the tone with a brutal betrayal: Ascheriit, once a revered hero, is killed by his own allies after defeating the evil forces of Wischtech. Years later, Köinzell emerges, carrying Ascheriit’s legacy and a thirst for vengeance. The world of Übel Blatt is grim, filled with corrupt nobles, mythical creatures, and warriors with hidden agendas. Fans praised the show’s dark atmosphere, comparing it to classics like Berserk.

One fan noted:
“The world-building is solid. You can feel the weight of Köinzell’s past and the corruption of the empire. It’s not just mindless violence—there’s a story here.”

However, others felt the anime rushed through key details, leaving newcomers confused. A common complaint was the lack of exposition, forcing viewers to piece together the lore themselves.

The Characters: Strengths and Weaknesses

Köinzell is the standout character, a brooding anti-hero whose quiet intensity drives the narrative. His fights are brutal and calculated, showcasing his growth from a lone wanderer to a force of reckoning. Fans loved his dynamic with supporting characters like Geranpen, a fan-favorite who miraculously survives despite the odds.

“Geranpen’s survival was the best twist! His tentacle powers are ridiculous, but I’m here for it,” one viewer joked.

On the flip side, some found Köinzell’s relentless pursuit of revenge frustrating.
“He charges into battles knowing he’s outmatched, causing unnecessary suffering. It’s hard to root for someone so self-destructive,” a critic pointed out.

The “Seven Heroes,” the main antagonists, received mixed reactions. While their betrayal sets the plot in motion, their individual motivations felt underdeveloped. Fans of the manga noted that the anime skipped crucial backstory, making them feel like one-dimensional villains.

Animation and Adaptation Issues

The animation quality was a major point of contention. While the final fight between Köinzell and Ichfeis (one of the Seven Heroes) was praised for its fluidity and intensity, earlier episodes suffered from stiff movements and inconsistent art.

“They clearly saved the budget for the finale. The last fight was epic, but the rest of the season looked like a slideshow,” one fan remarked.

Another issue was censorship. The manga is known for its graphic violence and mature themes, but the anime toned down the gore and removed sexual content entirely. Some fans felt this stripped the story of its raw, gritty edge.
“This should’ve been a true seinen, but the censors turned it into a watered-down version of itself,” a disappointed viewer wrote.

The Ending: A Cliffhanger or a Letdown?

The season finale left things open-ended, with Köinzell’s revenge far from complete. While some fans appreciated the setup for a potential second season, others felt it lacked closure.

“It didn’t even feel like a finale—just another episode. I need more!” one fan pleaded.

The fight between Köinzell and Ichfeis was a highlight, with poetic undertones—two swordsmen who could have been master and student, now locked in a deadly duel. However, the pacing in the second half felt rushed, cramming too much into the final episodes.

“The manga takes its time with these moments. The anime just sprinted to the finish line,” a reader complained.

Final Verdict: Worth Watching?

Despite its flaws, Übel Blatt has a dedicated fanbase. Those who enjoyed the dark fantasy elements and Köinzell’s journey found it compelling, even if the execution was flawed.

“It’s not perfect, but I had fun. If you like revenge stories, give it a shot,” one fan recommended.

However, manga readers were less forgiving, calling the adaptation a missed opportunity.
“Just read the manga. The anime butchered it,” was a common sentiment.

For newcomers, Übel Blatt offers a decent introduction to its world, but don’t expect a masterpiece. If you’re craving a dark, action-packed tale with a brooding protagonist, it might scratch that itch—just be prepared for some rough edges.

Rating: 6.5/10 – Flawed but entertaining. Here’s hoping a potential Season 2 learns from its mistakes.

What did you think of Übel Blatt? Did the adaptation do justice to the manga, or did it fall short? Let’s discuss in the comments!