Mu Shen Ji

Aired: 2024-10-27

Status: FINISHED

Ratings: 69/100

Genres: Action, Adventure, Fantasy

Tags:

Total Episodes: 26

Duration: 20 min

Studio: bilibili

Source: OTHER

Format: ONA

Season:

Release Year: 0

Season No: 1

Director:

Watch:Bilibili, Official Site, Bilibili TV

Synopsis

In Can Lao village, there lived nine enigmatic elders and the young Qin Mu who was raised by the elders. One day, the cow that Qin Mu was herding surprisingly spoke human language.Since then, Qin Mu has become more aware of the dangers and enchantments of the forsaken land of Da Xu: demons descend with the darkness, divine bones dance in the ruins,

Tales of Herding Gods Season 1: A Spellbinding Journey into a Mystical World

Tales of Herding Gods (also known as Mu Shen Ji or The Shepherd’s Tale), a 2024 Chinese donghua (animated series) adapted from the Xuanhuan novel by Zhai Zhu, has taken the anime world by storm with its captivating storytelling, stunning visuals, and rich world-building. Premiering on October 27, 2024, on Bilibili, Season 1 of this fantasy epic has garnered over 300 million views, cementing its place as one of the standout donghua of the year. With 26 episodes (and counting, as the season extends to 37 episodes by June 2025), this series, produced by Sparkly Key Animation Studio and Bilibili, delivers a thrilling blend of action, mystery, and myth that keeps viewers hooked.

A World of Wonder and Danger

Set in the enigmatic land of Daxu, a forsaken realm where gods, demons, and ancient secrets reign, Tales of Herding Gods introduces us to Qin Mu, an orphan raised by nine mysterious elders in the Disabled Elderly Village. The story begins with a striking moment: the cows Qin Mu herds start speaking human language, unveiling the mystical and perilous nature of Daxu. From demons descending in darkness to divine bones dancing in ruins and a giant ship dragging the sun, the world is both breathtaking and treacherous.

Unlike typical donghua protagonists who gain power rapidly, Qin Mu’s journey is a slow burn, emphasizing gradual growth and resilience. Raised by elders with legendary pasts, he learns a diverse array of skills—battle arts, divine techniques, and cunning strategies—that set him apart despite lacking a spirit body. His unique physique and thick Qi allow him to challenge opponents beyond his realm, making him a compelling underdog.

The narrative follows Qin Mu as he ventures beyond his village, confronting challenges that test his courage and intellect. From leading the Heavenly Demon Sect to aiding in the suppression of a rebellion in the Yankang Kingdom, Qin Mu’s path is one of discovery and transformation. His journey intertwines with epic events, such as summoning a demon god and building the Sun-Shooting Divine Cannon, while he uncovers secrets about his own origins and the legacy of the Human Emperor.

Strengths of Season 1

1. Rich World-Building and Unique Setting: Tales of Herding Gods stands out for its imaginative and vivid world. The land of Daxu is filled with fantastical elements—dragon bones protecting their young, divine artifacts, and a mythology that feels both ancient and alive. The series takes time to flesh out its lore, giving depth to the world and its inhabitants, from the enigmatic elders to the rival sects Qin Mu encounters. Fans on platforms like Reddit have praised the donghua for its departure from the typical main-character-focused narrative, offering backstories for supporting characters like Qin Mu’s teachers, which enriches the storytelling.
2. Stunning Animation and Art: Produced by Sparkly Key Animation Studio, the series boasts exceptional 3D animation, with vibrant landscapes, intricate character designs, and fluid battle sequences. The visuals capture the grandeur of Daxu, from its eerie ruins to its bustling kingdoms, making every episode a visual treat. Reviewers on MyAnimeList have lauded the “jaw-dropping” art style, noting its ability to immerse viewers in the fantasy setting.
3. Character Development and Pacing: Unlike many donghua that rush the protagonist’s rise to power, Tales of Herding Gods takes a deliberate pace, allowing Qin Mu to evolve through hardship and learning. His personality—intelligent, cunning, yet occasionally naive—makes him relatable and distinct. The elders, each with their own legendary past, add layers to the story, with their teachings shaping Qin Mu’s unorthodox approach to challenges. Reddit discussions highlight the series’ focus on story and world-building over constant action, appealing to viewers who enjoy depth over flash.
4. Engaging Themes: The series explores themes of identity, destiny, and reform. Qin Mu’s journey to uncover his origins—later revealed to be tied to the “Son of Youdu” and the Qin Family—adds emotional weight to his quest. His role in sparking a new era of Taoist and magical reforms alongside figures like Xiao Yujing hints at a larger narrative of change and legacy.

Areas for Improvement

While Tales of Herding Gods has been widely praised, it’s not without flaws. The complex lore can feel overwhelming, especially for viewers unfamiliar with Xuanhuan novels, as the series introduces a large cast and intricate mythology. Some characters remain underdeveloped due to the expansive ensemble, and the pacing, while deliberate, may feel slow for those expecting constant action. MyAnimeList reviews note these drawbacks but argue that the series’ heart and depth outweigh its shortcomings.

Additionally, the donghua’s focus on world-building sometimes overshadows individual character arcs, particularly for side characters. Fans on Reddit have expressed hope that future episodes will flesh out these figures further, especially as the season progresses toward its climactic episodes.

Reception and Popularity

Season 1 has been a massive hit, with over 300 million views on Bilibili, 100 million of which were gained in just over a month. Its high ratings—9.6/10 to 9.9/10 for early episodes on IMDb—reflect its strong fanbase. Social media buzz, particularly on Reddit, compares it favorably to other top-tier donghua like Slay the Gods and Sword of Coming, praising its unique pacing and imaginative world. The series’ blend of action, mystery, and humor, combined with its focus on Qin Mu’s gradual rise, has resonated with audiences seeking a fresh take on the cultivation genre.

Where to Watch

Tales of Herding Gods is available on Bilibili’s official streaming platforms, with English-subbed episodes accessible on sites like Lucifer Donghua, Donghua World, and H-Donghua. Episodes range from 15 to 24 minutes, with quality options from 240p to 4K to suit various internet speeds. As of June 2025, 36 episodes have aired, with episode 37 set to release on June 28, 2025, at 11:00 PM on Bilibili.

Looking Ahead

With its first season still ongoing, Tales of Herding Gods has set a high bar for donghua in 2024. While some Reddit users express concern about the likelihood of a second season due to production challenges common in high-quality 3D series, the show’s popularity suggests strong potential for continuation. The remaining episodes of Season 1 promise to delve deeper into Qin Mu’s role as the Human Emperor and his reforms, setting the stage for even grander adventures.

Final Thoughts

Tales of Herding Gods Season 1 is a must-watch for fans of fantasy and donghua. Its blend of mythic storytelling, breathtaking animation, and a protagonist who grows through wit and perseverance makes it a standout. While its complex lore and slower pace may not suit everyone, those who dive into its world will find a richly crafted epic that rewards patience with wonder. Whether you’re drawn to Qin Mu’s journey, the mysteries of Daxu, or the stunning visuals, this series is a testament to the growing prowess of Chinese animation.

For those eager to explore this fantastical tale, head to Bilibili or trusted donghua streaming platforms to join Qin Mu on his path to carving out a legendary realm.