The Devil Is a Part-Timer! – Anime, Light Novels, and Complete Guide

What is The Devil Is a Part-Timer! About?

At its heart, The Devil Is a Part-Timer! is a story that flips the traditional fantasy formula on its head. Instead of remaining in the magical realm of Ente Isla, the Demon Lord Satan Jacob and his loyal general Alciel are transported to modern-day Tokyo after being defeated by the hero Emilia Justina.

On Earth, without access to their demonic powers, Satan—now known as Sadao Maou—must adapt to everyday human life. To survive, he works part-time at a fast-food restaurant called MgRonald’s (a parody of McDonald’s). Emilia, too, ends up in Japan, living under the alias Emi Yusa, and what follows is a blend of workplace comedy, character-driven drama, and fantasy intrigue as both worlds collide in often humorous and heartwarming ways.

Is The Devil Is a Part-Timer! Worth Watching?

Yes—this series is absolutely worth experiencing for anime and light novel fans who enjoy:

• Comedy with a fantasy twist – The humor comes from the absurdity of a feared Demon Lord struggling with rent, bills, and fast-food customers.

• Character growth – The once-feared Satan becomes more human and even heroic, while Emilia struggles with her own conflicted feelings toward him.

• Lighthearted but meaningful storytelling – Beyond jokes, the series explores morality, redemption, and the idea that “good” and “evil” aren’t always black and white.

• Multiple adaptations – With novels, manga, and anime, fans can choose their preferred medium to enjoy the story.

For those seeking a mix of fantasy action, comedy, and slice-of-life charm, this series is highly recommended.

Why Should I Watch The Devil Is a Part-Timer!?

• It’s a refreshing take on the isekai genre, reversing the trope by bringing magical beings into our world rather than sending humans to fantasy realms.

• The series combines relatable struggles like working part-time, paying rent, and handling relationships with epic fantasy elements.

• It offers memorable characters with unique dynamics—especially the unusual chemistry between Maou, Emi, and Chiho.

• The story balances comedy and drama, giving viewers both laugh-out-loud moments and heartfelt, emotional arcs.

• With the anime’s two seasons and completed novel series, it provides a satisfying narrative arc.

Cast and Characters

Main Characters

• Sadao Maou / Satan Jacob – Former Demon Lord, now a fast-food worker. Despite his past, he often uses his powers to protect others.

• Emi Yusa / Emilia Justina – The Hero from Ente Isla who pursued Satan to Japan. Strong-willed, conflicted, and central to the story’s emotional core.

• Chiho Sasaki – A kind-hearted high schooler and Maou’s co-worker at MgRonald’s who develops feelings for him.

• Shirō Ashiya / Alciel – Maou’s loyal general, now his frugal and responsible housemate.

• Hanzō Urushihara / Lucifer – A fallen angel who becomes a reluctant ally, known for his love of video games and lazy lifestyle.

• Suzuno Kamazuki / Crestia Bell – Maou’s neighbor and inquisitor from Ente Isla, who struggles to adapt to Earth.

Supporting Characters include Mayumi Kisaki (Maou’s manager), Alas Ramus (a mystical child linked to both Maou and Emi), Olba Meyer (a corrupt church official), Sariel (an archangel adversary), and others from both Ente Isla and Earth.

Episodes / Seasons / Release Order

• Anime Season 1 (2013) – 13 episodes, produced by White Fox, covering early volumes of the light novel.

• Anime Season 2 (2022) – Produced by 3Hz, aired July–September 2022.

• Season 2, Part 2 (2023) – Continued the story, airing July–September 2023.

• Future Sequel – A continuation has been teased, suggesting more adaptations may follow.

In addition to the anime, the light novel series runs 21 main volumes, with manga adaptations and spin-offs including:

• The Devil Is a Part-Timer! High School! (alternate-universe spin-off)

• Hataraku Maō-sama no Meshi! (food-focused manga spin-off)

Production and Development

The light novel series began when Satoshi Wagahara submitted his story to the 17th Dengeki Novel Prize in 2010, winning the Silver Prize. The first novel was published in 2011, and its unique premise quickly attracted a strong readership.

The anime adaptation was first announced by ASCII Media Works and produced by White Fox in 2013, with Naoto Hosoda directing. In 2021, a long-awaited second season was confirmed, with 3Hz taking over animation and Daisuke Tsukushi directing.

The series has since been adapted across multiple media forms, with Blu-ray specials, manga spin-offs, and even anthology releases celebrating its popularity.

Reception and Critical Response

The Devil Is a Part-Timer! has been praised for:

• Unique premise – A rare blend of fantasy and workplace comedy.

• Strong character development – Especially in how Maou evolves from a feared Demon Lord to a more humanized character.

• Comedic timing – The balance of humor and slice-of-life elements is widely regarded as one of the show’s strongest aspects.

However, some fans have noted pacing inconsistencies in Season 2 compared to the first, with animation quality differing due to the studio change. Still, the series maintains a loyal following.

Box Office

As a light novel and anime series, The Devil Is a Part-Timer! primarily generated revenue through book sales, manga volumes, Blu-ray releases, and streaming rights. Notable highlights include:

• Strong light novel sales in Japan, leading to over 3 million copies in circulation during its peak.

• Anime Blu-ray releases in both Japan and North America, helping boost international recognition.

• Continued merchandising and spin-off sales driven by the enduring popularity of the main characters.

Legacy and Impact

The series left a lasting impression by:

• Subverting the isekai trend, showing how fantasy villains might live ordinary lives in modern society.

• Inspiring fan discussions about morality, redemption, and the “gray areas” between good and evil.

• Building a dedicated fanbase that campaigned for years for a second season, which was eventually delivered in 2022–2023.

• Becoming a gateway anime for new fans who enjoy humor-driven series with just enough fantasy action to keep things exciting.