English Dub Review: Chillin’ in Another World with Level 2 Super Cheat Powers “A Level 2 Hero Candidate”

Overview

Based on the Japanese light novel series written by Miya Kinojo and illustrated by Katagiri. The story follows Banaza, a merchant, who has doubts about a world with racial discrimination of otherworldly creatures. One day, he’s summoned to The Magical Kingdom of Klyrode in another world as a hero candidate. However, his level 1 abilities and stats are on par with those of ordinary citizens. At least until he’s left abandoned and somehow reaches Level 2…


Our Take

Banaza, an ordinary merchant from Paluma, finds himself thrust into the annual battle against the Dark One’s demon forces, despite lacking any combat or magical skills. To compound matters, a misfortune renders him unable to return home. Deemed unworthy as a hero and abandoned in a foreign world, Banaza finds himself cast aside to the fringes of the kingdom by a douchey king intent on his removal.

Despite Banaza’s predicament, the story doesn’t really pick up until he somehow reaches “Level 2” of his abilities that end up surprising even himself (and the audience) as he inadvertently becomes overpowered which is signified by an Infinity symbol which he had no idea what it means, much to the shock of those around him. As he assumes a new identity and embarks on quests, he proceeds to help a young girl which ends up having unforeseen consequences…

Overall, while the episode sets up an intriguing plot with Banaza’s massive changes in this fantastical realm. It felt quite by-the-numbers in its story tropes. It almost feels like Rising of the Shield Hero but minus the drama or controversy. And with the way it ended, I’m curious to see how it all plays out.