Michelle Topham 
Re:Monster: A cool tale of reincarnation and survival
The ongoing Re:Monster anime follows the journey of Tomokui Kanata, a man who meets an unfortunate demise in the modern world and is unexpectedly reborn as a goblin baby named Gobrou.
But this isn’t your typical goblin tale as Gobrou retains memories from his previous life, granting him an unusual advantage.
As if that weren’t enough, on the first day he heads out to find food, he discovers that devouring creatures grants him status boosts.
In this harsh alternate world, where survival is the ultimate game, Gobrou’s evolution unfolds with both competence and camaraderie.
If you are wondering if the new isekai anime might be your thing, here then is an explanation of the Re:Monster anime plot, as well as some of the things viewers are saying about it so far.
The Re: Monster plot
The latest in a long line of isekai anime is adapted from a now-almost classic light novel series written by Kogitsune Kanekiru and illustrated by Yamaada.
The nicely-paced first episode of the Re:Monster anime kicks off with Tomokui’s reincarnation into the just-born baby body of a lowly goblin.
Imagine the shock of waking up after being stabbed to death as a human and seeing yourself as a bald, gnarled, green-skinned goblin, surrounded by a horde of other tiny goblin babies.
But Gobrou isn’t your average goblin. In fact, he is a walking anomaly.
That’s due to his past memories granting him both intelligence and experience, and his newfound strength allowing him to thrive in a world where might makes right.
As Gobrou navigates this perilous realm, the ‘level ups’ he earns from eating various animals mean only days after he is born he has already transformed into a Hobgoblin.
In other words, a taller, stronger, faster version of himself. Except with hair.
Soon Gobrou and the goblin/hobgoblin friends he makes as he powers up are working together to overcome challenges, and create the best lives for themselves that they can.
Viewer reactions to Re:Monster
The Re:Monster anime has sparked discussions and debates among anime fans since its first episode premiered earlier this month, with some loving the anime while others have their reservations.
Interestingly, however, the viewers who have read the Re:Monster light novels seem to be enjoying the anime series its based on more than those who haven’t, as they feel it has been well-adapted.
They also understand the sub-plot in all of this (Gobrou won’t ever be a “nice guy” as his only aim in life is to power up to be the best monster he can be), whereas non-manga readers are still under a misapprehension that has probably been cleared up a bit with Episode 3.
Some of the comments viewers are making about Re:Monster after the first two episodes of the anime have been released go like this:
- Unique premise: Some viewers specifically point out they appreciate the fresh take on reincarnation. While other series explore similar themes, Re:Monster stands out due to its focus on goblins and the intricate mechanics of status boosts. Viewers are also intrigued by the potential for character growth and evolution, and want to see where that leads. Those who have read the manga though, know where it leads and, apparently, that’s nowhere pretty.
- Comparisons to “Tensei shitara Slime Datta Ken”: Some viewers have been drawing parallels between Re:Monster and the popular isekai anime “Tensei shitara Slime Datta Ken” (aka That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime). Both involve reincarnation into non-human forms and the evolution that comes with that, but Re:Monster takes a darker tone. Some argue, however, that Slime Datta Ken executes the concept better. (I don’t think it does — they both do it well, for differing reasons!)
- Character development: Right from the get-go, Goburou’s character is compelling. His flaws, motivations, and reasons for action add depth and make him seem more real. Other characters are nicely fleshed out as well, and grow in personality and motivation quite quickly. The character design is also beautifully done.
- Animation quality: The animation by Studio Deen is receiving mixed reviews so far. While some scenes are visually captivating, others lack polish. Even viewers who are enjoying the animation are still hoping for more consistent quality as the series progresses. In its favor, however, at least we’re not getting bad 3D, which many anime are including nowadays just to “look cool”. (Hint: They don’t!). The anime’s art style too is solid. (** The scene in Episode 2 with Goburou fighting the Red Bear does have nice animation quality, by the way). Update: It drops more though in Episode 3.
- World-building: The Re:Monster anime introduces a fascinating world with diverse creatures, societies, and power dynamics, and then does a nice job with the world-building right from Episode 1. Some viewers have commented they appreciate the attention to detail, and hope for further exploration of that world, as its premise is more unusual than most isekai anime.
- A speed-run: On the negative side, Re:Monster manga readers are complaining about the “speed run” of the anime, saying it is skipping over some of the darker scenes of what is quite a brutal manga, as well as ignoring scenes that may not be “important” to the plot, but definitely add character and atmosphere to the story. Viewers who haven’t read the manga, however, probably won’t notice anything lacking. (I haven’t and, so far at least, I don’t). Plus, being so fast-paced, keeps the anime interesting.
The Re:Monster anime invites us into a realm where survival isn’t guaranteed, and evolution is the key to thriving. It also introduces some of the more unusual characters in the anime world.
Whether you are a fan of goblins, dark fantasy, or unconventional protagonists, so far the anime is a strange but fun ride.
Each of the two well-paced episodes out so far also blend action, fantasy, and a dash of dark humor well. Thus making it an enticing watch for fans of the isekai genre.
Where to watch the Re:Monster anime series?
Re:Monster is streaming via Crunchyroll, with two episodes out and the third episode due on April 11th.
With more than 11,000 ratings left on that platform so far, those viewers are currently giving the anime an extraordinarily high 4.9 out of 5.0. (Update: It dropped to a 4.4 out of 5.0 by the time the anime ended, compared to viewers’ rating on My Anime List, which is now at a dismal 6.56 out of 10).
If you’re an isekai fan (and who isn’t?), it isn’t your typical isekai fare, but I would say you should definitely give it a shot.
Check out the Re:Monster trailer below and you may see why.
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