Shin no Nakama ja Nai to Yuusha no Party wo Oidasareta node, Henkyou de Slow Life suru Koto ni shimashita

Banished from the Hero’s Party, I Decided to Live a Quiet Life in the Countryside

Banished from the Hero’s Party, I Decided to Live a Quiet Life in the Countryside: A Refreshing Take on Fantasy in Season 1

Banished from the Hero’s Party, I Decided to Live a Quiet Life in the Countryside (or Shin no Nakama ja Nai to Yūsha no Pātī o Oidasareta no de, Henkyō de Surō Raifu Suru Koto ni Shimashita) is a Japanese anime series that premiered in October 2021, adapted from the light novel series by Zappon and illustrated by Yasumo. Produced by Wolfsbane and Studio Flad, Season 1 of this fantasy slice-of-life anime offers a unique departure from the high-stakes heroics typical of the genre, blending adventure, romance, and introspective themes into a heartwarming and grounded narrative. With 13 episodes, the first season captivated audiences with its focus on personal growth, relationships, and the pursuit of a simpler life. Here’s an in-depth look at what makes Season 1 of Banished from the Hero’s Party a standout anime.

A Premise Rooted in Simplicity

The story follows Red, formerly known as Gideon Ragnason, a skilled knight and member of the Hero’s Party, a group destined to defeat the Demon Lord Taraxon. Despite his contributions, Red is expelled from the party by the mage Ares Srowa, who deems him a liability due to his relatively weaker Divine Blessing, “Guide.” Rather than wallow in rejection, Red embraces the opportunity to leave the chaos of adventuring behind and settles in the quiet frontier town of Zoltan. His new dream? To open an apothecary and live a peaceful life gathering herbs and helping locals. However, his past catches up when Rit, a spirited adventurer and princess of Loggervia, arrives and asks to move in, sparking both romance and challenges to his quiet life.

Unlike many fantasy anime that focus on world-saving quests or overpowered protagonists, Banished from the Hero’s Party stands out for its emphasis on the “slow life” concept. It explores whether someone can truly escape their past and find fulfillment in ordinary moments, all while weaving in enough action and intrigue to keep viewers engaged. This balance of calm domesticity and lingering ties to adventure sets the tone for Season 1’s charm.

Compelling Characters and Relationships

At the heart of Season 1 is Red, a refreshingly grounded protagonist. Far from the invincible heroes common in fantasy, Red is competent but not omnipotent, relying on his knowledge of herbs, tactical skills, and quiet determination. His Divine Blessing, “Guide,” allows him to survive in any terrain, which he uses to excel as an apothecary, but his humility and desire for a simple life make him relatable. Voiced by Ryōta Suzuki, Red’s reserved yet noble personality shines through, especially in his interactions with others.

Rit, voiced by Kanon Takao, is the perfect foil to Red’s understated demeanor. A former adventurer and princess, she’s bold, confident, and unapologetically in love with Red. Their romance is a highlight of the season, avoiding the usual anime tropes of prolonged pining or harem dynamics. Instead, their relationship develops naturally, with heartfelt moments that feel genuine and refreshing. The chemistry between Red and Rit, from playful banter to quiet confessions, anchors the show’s emotional core.

The supporting cast adds depth to the story. Ruti Ragnason, Red’s sister and the Hero, grapples with the burdens of her powerful Divine Blessing, which suppresses her emotions and forces her into a role she doesn’t fully embrace. Voiced by Naomi Ōzora, Ruti’s stoic yet tragic presence contrasts with Red’s freedom to choose his path. Ares, the antagonistic mage voiced by Taku Yashiro, is driven by jealousy and obsession, making him a flawed but compelling villain. Other characters, like the assassin Tisse and former party members like Yarandrala, enrich the narrative by highlighting the consequences of Red’s departure and the dynamics of the Hero’s Party.

Themes of Choice and Identity

One of Season 1’s strongest elements is its exploration of Divine Blessings, a system where each person’s role in life is dictated by a supernatural gift bestowed at birth. These Blessings, ranging from combat prowess to mundane skills, shape societal expectations and personal destinies. The show questions whether individuals are bound to follow their Blessings or can forge their own paths, a theme that resonates deeply with Red’s journey. His choice to abandon adventuring for a quiet life challenges the notion that one’s value lies solely in their predestined role.

This theme extends to other characters, particularly Ruti, whose Hero Blessing grants immense power but robs her of emotional freedom. Her struggle to reconnect with her humanity and her brother adds emotional weight to the season, especially in the later episodes. The show also touches on societal pressures, as seen in characters like Albert, who is driven by his Blessing to fight, even at the cost of personal connection. These deeper themes elevate Banished from the Hero’s Party beyond a simple slice-of-life tale, inviting viewers to reflect on autonomy and purpose.

A Blend of Genres and Pacing

Season 1 masterfully balances multiple genres: fantasy, adventure, romance, and slice-of-life. The early episodes focus on Red’s tranquil life in Zoltan, with scenes of herb-gathering, apothecary work, and lighthearted moments with Rit. These slower, cozy episodes establish the show’s relaxed tone, but the pacing picks up as Red’s past resurfaces. Action scenes, such as confrontations with monsters or Ares’ schemes, are well-animated and satisfying without overshadowing the character-driven story.

The romance between Red and Rit is a standout, with a refreshing lack of clichés. Their relationship progresses organically, from Rit’s bold decision to live with Red to their mutual support in facing challenges. The show avoids unnecessary drama, delivering a love story that feels authentic and emotionally rewarding. Meanwhile, subplots involving the Hero’s Party and the looming threat of the Demon Lord provide just enough tension to keep the stakes high without detracting from the focus on personal growth.

Animation and Soundtrack

Wolfsbane and Studio Flad deliver solid animation, with vibrant character designs and lush backgrounds that bring the countryside of Zoltan to life. The action sequences are competently executed, though the show’s strength lies in its quieter moments, such as Red and Rit’s intimate scenes or the serene landscapes. The soundtrack, with its soothing melodies and upbeat opening theme, complements the show’s tone perfectly, enhancing both the cozy and dramatic moments.

Reception and Impact

Season 1 received praise for its unique premise and well-paced storytelling. Fans appreciated its departure from overused isekai tropes, as it’s set in a fantasy world without reincarnation or modern-world transplants. On platforms like MyAnimeList, it earned a score of 6.98, reflecting a generally positive reception, though some noted the slower start and a finale that felt slightly underwhelming due to its reluctance to fully embrace darker tones. Critics lauded the romance and character development, with Rotten Tomatoes highlighting the show’s refreshing take on relationships and its blend of action and calm.

The season’s focus on Red and Rit’s relationship and the theme of defying predetermined roles resonated with audiences tired of formulaic fantasy anime. Its success led to a second season, which aired from January to March 2024, continuing the story of Red’s life in Zoltan. The light novel series, with over 1,000,000 copies in print by November 2020, also saw increased popularity following the anime’s release.

Final Thoughts

Banished from the Hero’s Party, I Decided to Live a Quiet Life in the Countryside Season 1 is a delightful blend of fantasy, romance, and introspection that offers something for everyone. Its focus on a protagonist choosing peace over glory, coupled with a heartfelt romance and thought-provoking themes, makes it a standout in the crowded fantasy genre. While the finale may not fully capitalize on its darker setup, the season’s strengths—likable characters, a refreshing romance, and a well-crafted world—make it a binge-worthy experience. For those seeking a fantasy anime that prioritizes personal stakes over epic battles, Season 1 is a must-watch.

You can stream Banished from the Hero’s Party Season 1 on platforms like Crunchyroll, Prime Video, or Apple TV, available in both subbed and dubbed formats. Whether you’re a fan of romance, fantasy, or slice-of-life, this anime offers a heartfelt journey that’s both comforting and engaging.