The Rising of the Shield Hero is a new Crunchyroll anime co-production set to begin streaming in Janurary 2019. Today, some new official comments from the creative staffs were released that give some clues (but not spoilers!) for what’s in store in this his heroic adaptation of the hit light novel and manga series. Read on and enjoy!

The Rising of the Shield Hero Director: Takao Abo

What was your first impression of this anime when you received the offer?

Takao Abo: Because this is my first another world-themed anime, it took time to grasp my own image how to show it in animation. As the title suggests, this anime's charms are the indomitable spirit of the protagonist who is trying to work his way up, and his passion for his friends, so I wanted to focus on these aspects.

You have a wonderful voice cast for the main characters. How did you feel when you first heard their voices with the anime visuals?

It was exactly same as I imagined. As the story goes forward, the cast are doing a good job to express each character's growth. Especially with Naofumi, his inner feelings that can't be shown easily are expressed with short words. I have enjoyed the main cast of heroes’ exchange of dialogue, which is sometimes hostile and sometimes cooperative, in every episode.

Please tell us some highlights of this upcoming anime.

Four powerful heroes fighting, big conspiracies, and Raphtalia's dedicated love toward Naofumi.

The Rising of the Shield Hero series composition writer: Keigo Koyanagi

What was your first impression of this anime when you received the offer?

I thought it would be my first another world-themed anime. And I worked for the anime's production studio Kinema Citrus several times before, but this is the first time to work with director Abo as series composition writer, so I was enthusiastic about fulfilling his expectations.

You have a wonderful voice cast for the main characters. How did you feel when you heard their voices with the anime visuals?

I have already attended the voice recording sessions a few times, and I am always fascinated by the cast’s performances. They understand their characters deeply and come to the studio with a prepared acting plan individually. Probably it is a common thing, but I feel happiness inside me from them.

Please tell us some highlights from the upcoming anime.

Along with all the staff members, including the director, I am working very hard every day to figure out how to deliver the novel's appeal through visuals. In addition, more incredible cast members will join as the story goes forward. I would appreciate if you can watch the anime while focusing on such elements.

The Rising of the Shield Hero character designer/Chief animation director: Masahiro Suwa

We have been working diligently for the upcoming premiere,. Please look forward to it!

Watch The Rising of the Shield Hero on Crunchyroll in early 2019!