Many fans argue that The Rising of the Shield Hero Season 1 is still the strongest part of the series. That is an opinion, not a fact, and viewers disagree. But there are clear reasons why the first season stands out from the later ones.
A Sharper Hook
Season 1 begins with Naofumi Iwatani summoned as one of four Cardinal Heroes. He receives the Legendary Shield, the only defensive weapon, while the other heroes get a sword, a spear and a bow. After a cruel betrayal damages his reputation, he buys a tanuki demi-human girl named Raphtalia and later hatches a bird-like monster, Filo. Rebuilding trust from nothing gives the season a clear emotional drive.
Focused Stakes
The first season ran for 25 episodes from January to June 2019, produced by Kinema Citrus. Its conflict is personal and easy to follow. Viewer reviews on Anime-Planet say later seasons lack the excitement and action of the first, and that Season 4 in particular reads like a side quest.
A Production Dip in Season 2
Season 2 ran for 13 episodes in 2022 after a delay, and DR Movie handled the animation instead of Kinema Citrus. Several viewers call it a clear downgrade. Kinema Citrus returned for Season 3 in late 2023, which one outlet says recovered some narrative strength.
The Case for the Later Seasons
Not everyone agrees. Season 4, which aired from July 9 to September 24, 2025 with 12 episodes, has been praised for polished animation, steady pacing and no filler. It follows Naofumi’s trip to Q’ten Lo to protect Raphtalia, which gives her a bigger role. A fifth season was announced after the Season 4 finale.
So Which Is Better?
If you value a tight hook and rising tension, Season 1 is hard to beat. If you prefer character-driven journeys, the later seasons have more to offer. All four seasons total 62 episodes, so it is easy to sample and decide. For more fantasy discussion, see our look at why The Eminence in Shadow is so entertaining.
Sources: Wikipedia, Anime-Planet, Soap Central, Dubbing Wiki.