The Red Ranger Becomes an Adventurer in Another World [Season 1 Episode 8]

The Red Ranger Becomes an Adventurer in Another World – Episode 8 Review: A Flashback That Hits Hard

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Introduction

The Red Ranger Becomes an Adventurer in Another World has been a wild ride since its premiere, blending the over-the-top energy of classic Super Sentai with the ever-popular isekai genre. Episode 8, titled “Bonds of the Past,” takes a step back from the usual monster-of-the-week formula to delve into the backstory of our hero, Kizuna Red (aka Tougo Asagaki). Directed by Keiichiro Kawaguchi and produced by Satelight, this episode manages to balance emotional depth with the show’s signature absurdity—though not without some divisive reactions from fans.

Plot Summary

The episode opens with Raniya, the elf warrior, confronting Azir, the sand-controlling villain who was once her friend. As the battle escalates, Red steps in and reveals his own tragic past through a flashback sequence. We learn that before becoming a Ranger, Tougo was a soccer-loving teen with dreams of going pro. His best friend, Kiyohiro, was a talented pianist whose strained relationship with his father led him down a dark path.

Kiyohiro eventually becomes Bondkiller, a monster created by the evil Betrayis, forcing Tougo to fight his former friend in a heartbreaking showdown. The flashback is intercut with present-day action, emphasizing how Red’s past fuels his determination to save Azir from corruption.

Fan Reactions: The Good, The Bad, and The Hilarious

The episode has sparked a lot of discussion, especially around its tonal shift. Here’s what fans are saying:

1. The Emotional Punch
   Many viewers praised the flashback for adding depth to Red’s character. One fan on MyAnimeList noted:

   “Finally, we get to see why Red fights so hard for his friends. The Kiyohiro twist was heartbreaking—I didn’t expect this show to hit me in the feels!”

Another added:

“The soccer vs. piano dynamic was a clever way to show how two friends drifted apart. It’s rare for a sentai parody to take its characters this seriously.”

1. The Pacing Problem
   Not everyone was sold on the flashback’s execution. Some felt it disrupted the momentum:

   “The episode was good, but the flashback dragged. We just had a cliffhanger with Azir, and suddenly we’re in a high school drama?”

A Reddit user joked:

“I came here for explosions and Megazords, not a tearjerker about piano recitals!”

1. The Cameos and References
   Eagle-eyed fans spotted nods to other anime, including a subtle Aquarion reference (the “12,000 years” line). One commenter quipped:

   “Of course the guy who wrote this also worked on Kamen Rider. The melodrama is peak Tokusatsu.”

2. The Villain Debate
   Azir’s backstory divided opinions. Some found him compelling:

   “He’s not just a generic bad guy—he’s a fallen hero, and that makes him way more interesting.”

Others weren’t impressed:

“Azir’s motivation is still kinda weak. ‘I got sad and now I control sand’? Really?”

Animation and Music

Visually, the episode shines in its quieter moments. The flashback scenes are softer, with a muted color palette that contrasts sharply with the vibrant action sequences. The soundtrack, as always, nails the emotional beats—especially during Kiyohiro’s piano scenes.

That said, some fans wished for more consistency:

“The fight with Azir was cool, but the flashback animation felt like it was from a different show.”

Final Verdict: Does It Work?

Episode 8 is a risky but rewarding detour. It deepens Red’s character and sets up future conflicts (will the other Rangers appear in this world?). While the flashback pacing could’ve been tighter, the emotional payoff is worth it.

Rating: 8/10 – A solid mix of heart and humor, even if it stumbles a bit along the way.

What’s Next?

With Azir’s arc wrapping up, fans are speculating about the next villain. Will Betrayis return? Will we see more of the Kizuna Rangers’ past? One thing’s for sure: this show isn’t afraid to mix goofy gags with genuine drama.

As one fan perfectly summed it up:

“It’s like Last Action Hero for sentai fans—ridiculous, self-aware, and somehow deeply emotional.”

Catch The Red Ranger Becomes an Adventurer in Another World on Crunchyroll, and let us know your thoughts in the comments!

What did you think of Episode 8? Love it or hate it? Drop your hot takes below! 🔥