Helck [Season 1 Episode 1 to Season 1 Episode 24]

Helck Season 1: A Hidden Gem with Heart and Humor

If you’re looking for an anime that blends action, comedy, and emotional depth in a way that feels fresh, Helck might just be the underrated gem you’ve been missing. The first season, spanning 24 episodes, wrapped up in December 2023, leaving fans both satisfied and hungry for more. The story follows Helck, a human hero who shockingly aims to become the next Demon King—not to conquer, but to destroy his own race. It’s a premise that hooks you from the start, and the execution, while imperfect, delivers a memorable ride.

The Premise: A Twist on Classic Tropes

Three months after the Demon King’s defeat, the demon world is in chaos. With no ruler, they hold a tournament to crown a successor, and the strongest contender is none other than Helck—a human. His motives are shrouded in mystery, and his cheerful, almost goofy demeanor contrasts sharply with the grim reality of his mission. Alongside him is Vamirio, one of the Four Heavenly Kings, who starts off distrusting Helck but gradually forms a bond with him.

The show cleverly subverts expectations. Instead of painting demons as pure evil and humans as righteous, it flips the script, exploring themes of morality, loyalty, and the cost of war. Fans on MyAnimeList praised this twist, with one user noting, “It’s not your typical ‘humans good, demons bad’ story. The layers keep unfolding, and by the end, you’re questioning everything.”

The Finale: Emotional Payoff and Lingering Questions

The season finale, To a Future With Hope, brings Helck face-to-face with Alicia, a former comrade turned enemy. Their reunion is heartbreaking, filled with unspoken grief and unresolved tension. Meanwhile, Vamirio confronts her own doubts, culminating in a powerful moment where she declares, “Let’s save the humans!”—a stark reversal from her earlier stance.

Fans were divided on the finale. Some loved the emotional weight, like one Reddit user who wrote, “Helck’s expression when he sees Alicia almost made me cry. This show was a surprise—I loved every second.” Others felt it was more of a setup for Season 2 than a true conclusion. “It didn’t feel like an ending,” another fan remarked. “More like the beginning of the real battle.”

The Strengths: Characters and Chemistry

What truly elevates Helck is its cast. Helck himself is a fascinating protagonist—outwardly jovial but hiding deep pain. Vamirio’s growth from a hotheaded warrior to a leader with conviction is one of the season’s highlights. And then there’s Piwi, the adorable (and mysterious) bird-like creature who stole hearts. “I’m going to miss Piwi the most,” admitted a MyAnimeList user. “He’s the unsung hero of this show.”

The dynamic between Helck and Vamirio is another standout. Their banter evolves into genuine camaraderie, and by the finale, their trust in each other feels earned. “Vermilio’s speech about saving humans was touching,” one fan noted. “It showed how far she’s come since Episode 1.”

The Weaknesses: Pacing and Production

Not everything about Helck is flawless. The pacing can be uneven, with some episodes dragging while others rush through key moments. The animation, while serviceable, isn’t groundbreaking. “The story carried the show, not the visuals,” a fan pointed out. “It’s a shame because the manga’s art is stunning.”

Some viewers also criticized the adaptation for skipping or glossing over manga details. “If you’re curious, read the manga from the start,” advised one commenter. “There’s so much the anime didn’t cover.”

Fan Reactions: Love It or Leave It

The discourse around Helck is polarizing. On one side, there are fans who adored its mix of humor and heart. “One of the most underrated shows of the year,” gushed a Reddit user. On the other, some found it underwhelming. “Mediocre adaptation,” shrugged another. “The manga is far better.”

The score on MyAnimeList sits at a modest 7/10, reflecting this divide. But as one fan wisely put it, “A 7 isn’t bad—it’s a solid show with room to grow. And with that finale, Season 2 could be incredible.”

Final Verdict: Worth the Watch?

Absolutely. Helck isn’t perfect, but it’s a refreshing take on fantasy tropes with characters you’ll grow to love. The emotional beats hit hard, the humor lands, and the finale—while open-ended—sets the stage for an even more compelling continuation.

As one fan perfectly summarized: “It’s a story about friendship, sacrifice, and the blurred lines between good and evil. And honestly, we need more anime like this.”

Here’s hoping Season 2 gets the green light soon—because if there’s one thing everyone agrees on, it’s that we need more Piwi.