6.6/10
The isekai genre has become one of the most crowded categories in anime. Every year brings new stories about ordinary people being transported into fantasy worlds filled with magic, monsters, kingdoms, and powerful abilities. Because of this, many series struggle to stand out from the competition.
Demon Lord, Retry! is one of those anime that initially flew under the radar but gradually built a loyal fanbase thanks to its unique protagonist, lighthearted humor, and entertaining fantasy adventures.
Based on the light novels written by Kurone Kanzaki, Demon Lord, Retry! follows a game developer who suddenly finds himself trapped inside the body of the most powerful character from his online game. Rather than becoming a traditional hero, he must navigate a new world while everyone believes he is a terrifying Demon Lord.
While the series may not have the massive budget or popularity of some modern isekai giants, it offers a fun mix of comedy, action, world-building, and character interactions that make it a surprisingly enjoyable watch.
The franchise expanded significantly in 2024 with Demon Lord, Retry! R, which adapted later story arcs and introduced many new characters and adventures.
Demon Lord, Retry! – Official Trailer
What Is Demon Lord, Retry! About?
The story begins with Akira Ono, a regular working adult and the creator of a long-running MMORPG called Infinity Game.
As he prepares to shut down the game’s servers, something impossible happens.
Instead of logging out, he suddenly awakens inside the game’s world while inhabiting the body of his most powerful character, Hakuto Kunai—the infamous Demon Lord.
The fantasy world resembles the one from his game but contains many differences he does not recognize.
As Kunai begins exploring, he quickly discovers that:
- People fear the title “Demon Lord”
- The world faces political and social conflicts
- Powerful enemies are moving in the shadows
- Strange forces may be responsible for his transportation
Along the way he gathers allies, solves local problems, defeats dangerous threats, and searches for answers about how he arrived in this strange world.
Why Demon Lord, Retry! Feels Different From Other Isekai
Many isekai stories focus on young heroes who gradually become stronger.
Demon Lord, Retry! takes a different approach.
Hakuto Kunai starts as an experienced adult with immense power and leadership abilities.
Rather than learning how to survive, he spends much of the series trying to understand the world around him while solving problems through intelligence, negotiation, and strategy.
The contrast between Kunai’s intimidating appearance and his surprisingly reasonable personality creates many of the series’ funniest moments.
People constantly assume he is evil because he is called the Demon Lord, while he often ends up helping villages, saving children, and improving the lives of those around him.
Highlights
- Mature protagonist
- Comedy based on misunderstandings
- Strong world-building
- Fantasy politics
- Powerful but responsible main character
- Mix of action and slice-of-life moments
Who Is Hakuto Kunai?
Hakuto Kunai
Hakuto Kunai is the avatar controlled by Akira Ono after being transported into the fantasy world.
At first glance, he looks exactly like the stereotypical villain:
- Tall
- Intimidating
- Dressed like a mafia boss
- Constantly smoking
- Possessing overwhelming power
However, beneath the appearance is a practical and surprisingly kind individual.
Kunai prefers diplomacy whenever possible and often acts more like a mayor, businessman, or problem solver than a conqueror.
His interactions with the world’s inhabitants become one of the anime’s biggest strengths.
The Most Important Characters
Aku
Aku
Aku is the first major companion Kunai meets.
After enduring years of mistreatment and isolation, she quickly forms a strong bond with him.
Their relationship becomes one of the emotional foundations of the series, with Kunai gradually viewing her as a daughter figure.
Key Details
- First companion
- Orphaned child
- Loyal to Kunai
- Provides emotional heart of the story
Luna Elegant
Luna Elegant
Luna is one of the Holy Maidens of the Kingdom of Holy Light.
Initially arrogant and overconfident, she undergoes significant character development after meeting Kunai.
Her growing respect for him creates many of the anime’s comedic and dramatic moments.
Key Details
- Holy Maiden
- Powerful magic user
- Tsundere personality
- Major recurring ally
Yuu Kirino
Yuu Kirino
One of Kunai’s NPC creations from Infinity Game.
Yuu is a brilliant scientist capable of creating inventions and medical breakthroughs that seem almost impossible within the fantasy setting.
Her loyalty to Kunai is absolute.
Zero Kirisame
Zero Kirisame
Zero is one of the franchise’s most entertaining characters.
Originally designed as a joke character by Akira Ono, Zero becomes an unexpectedly powerful force in the story.
His flashy personality and over-the-top heroics create some of the anime’s most memorable scenes.
Demon Lord, Retry! Anime (2019)
The first anime adaptation aired during the Summer 2019 season.
Produced by Ekachi Epilka, the series adapted the early portions of the light novels and introduced viewers to Kunai’s journey.
The anime quickly gained attention because of:
- Fun protagonist
- Relaxed pacing
- Comedic dialogue
- Interesting side characters
- Unique take on the Demon Lord concept
While some viewers criticized the animation quality, many found the characters and storytelling enjoyable enough to overlook the production limitations.
Season 1 Overview
- Released: 2019
- Episodes: 12
- Studio: Ekachi Epilka
- Genre: Isekai, Fantasy, Comedy, Adventure
Demon Lord, Retry! R (2024)
After years of waiting, the franchise returned with Demon Lord, Retry! R.
Rather than functioning as a simple second season, the series adapts material from the revised manga and novel storyline while introducing additional characters, factions, and conflicts.
Produced by Gekkou, the 2024 adaptation continued Kunai’s adventures and expanded the world significantly.
The sequel explores:
- New regions
- More political conflicts
- Stronger enemies
- Additional NPC allies
- Greater mysteries surrounding Kunai’s arrival
For fans who enjoyed the original anime, Retry! R offers considerably more world-building and character development.
Season 2 Highlights
- Released: 2024
- New studio
- Expanded story arcs
- More supporting characters
- Larger scale conflicts
Light Novels and Manga
Before the anime adaptations, Demon Lord, Retry! started as a web novel published online in 2016.
Its popularity eventually led to official publication by Futabasha under the Monster Bunko label. Later, a revised edition was released with updated content and illustrations.
The franchise also received:
- Original manga adaptation
- Revised manga adaptation (Retry! R)
- English releases by J-Novel Club
Today, the novels remain the most complete version of the story.
Is Demon Lord, Retry! Worth Watching?
Absolutely—especially for fans of relaxed isekai adventures.
The series succeeds because it does not try to be overly serious or excessively dark.
Instead, it focuses on:
- Fun characters
- Humor
- Fantasy world-building
- Creative situations
- A charismatic protagonist
While it lacks the production values of larger franchises, many viewers discover that its charm outweighs its technical shortcomings.
If you enjoy shows like:
- Overlord
- That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime
- How Not to Summon a Demon Lord
then Demon Lord, Retry! is likely worth adding to your watchlist.
Why Should You Watch Demon Lord, Retry!?
The biggest strength of the series is its protagonist.
Hakuto Kunai is not a typical teenage hero.
He is an adult who approaches problems with patience, experience, and common sense.
That alone makes him stand out in a crowded genre.
Biggest Strengths
- Unique main character
- Entertaining comedy
- Strong supporting cast
- Fun fantasy setting
- Interesting NPC mechanics
- Relaxed storytelling
- Memorable character interactions
- Expanded story in Retry! R
Watch Order
For the best experience, watch the franchise in the following order:
Anime Watch Order
- Demon Lord, Retry! (2019)
- Demon Lord, Retry! R (2024)
This follows the chronological progression of the story.
FAQ
Is Demon Lord, Retry! finished?
No. The light novel and manga versions continue beyond the anime adaptations.
Is Demon Lord, Retry! R a sequel?
Yes. It continues adapting later material from the franchise and expands the story considerably.
How many anime seasons are there?
There are currently two anime adaptations:
- Demon Lord, Retry! (2019)
- Demon Lord, Retry! R (2024)
Who is the strongest character?
Hakuto Kunai is generally considered one of the most powerful characters due to his administrator abilities and access to powerful NPC allies.
Is Demon Lord, Retry! similar to Overlord?
There are similarities, particularly the premise of a powerful game-related character entering another world. However, Demon Lord, Retry! is much lighter, more comedic, and less focused on conquest.
Conclusion
Demon Lord, Retry! may not always receive the same attention as the biggest isekai franchises, but it remains one of the genre’s more entertaining hidden gems.
With a charismatic protagonist, memorable supporting cast, enjoyable humor, and a growing fantasy world, the series offers a refreshing alternative to many modern isekai stories. The addition of Demon Lord, Retry! R has also helped expand the franchise and introduce a new generation of viewers to Hakuto Kunai’s adventures.
For fans looking for a fun fantasy anime with plenty of charm, comedy, and surprisingly heartfelt moments, Demon Lord, Retry! is definitely worth a second chance.