TO BE HERO X [Season 1 Episode 1]

TO BE HERO X – Season 1 Episode 1: A Spectacular, Fast-Paced Debut

Introduction

TO BE HERO X burst onto the scene with its first episode, and boy, did it make an entrance. Directed by Li Haolin and produced by powerhouses like Bilibili, Aniplex, and BeDream, this Chinese donghua (animation) series is already turning heads with its unique premise, stunning visuals, and breakneck pacing. The show dives into a dystopian world where heroes derive their powers from public trust—measured as literal data—and follows the top-tier hero known as “X.” But Episode 1 doesn’t waste time easing you in; it throws you straight into the deep end, and fans are loving it.

The Good: Animation, Music, and That Cliffhanger

1. The Animation is Next-Level

One thing everyone agrees on? The animation is gorgeous. The episode blends 3D CGI with traditional 2D hand-drawn sequences, creating a dynamic visual style that feels fresh. Fans on MyAnimeList couldn’t stop raving about it:

• “The animation is top-notch and definitely the thing that stands out the most. The creative freedom given to these animators really brought every moment to the next level.”
• “This was a gorgeous first episode with movie-quality stylization.”
• “PEAK PEAK PEAK PEAK PEAK SO FUCKING PEAK OH MY GOD. I WILL KISS EVERYONE WHO ANIMATED THIS. ON THE MOUTH. WITH TONGUE.” (Okay, that one’s a bit intense, but you get the point.)

The transitions between 3D and 2D are seamless, especially during high-energy action scenes. Some compared it to Arcane or Spider-Verse, which is high praise for a debut episode.

2. The Soundtrack Slaps

Music plays a huge role in setting the tone, and the OST doesn’t disappoint. Fans noted how well the score complements the action, with one user pointing out:

• “The musical direction? The OST is perfectly enhancing the script and action… The transition into Inertia at the very end also put a whole new layer of meaning into the song.”

The opening theme also got a shoutout for being “freaking iconic,” so expect some bangers as the series progresses.

3. That Cliffhanger, Though

No spoilers, but the ending left fans shook. One commenter summed it up perfectly:

• “That cliffhanger at the end was devious!”

Another added: “The final part pulled a vocal ‘what?!’ from me.”

If you love a good twist, this episode delivers.

The Divisive: Pacing and World-Building

1. The Pacing is Fast

The biggest point of contention? The breakneck speed of the episode. Some loved it:

• “I love the animation and love that it is fast-paced but didn’t feel fast-paced at all. Everything just flowed so well for me.”

Others? Not so much:

• “The pacing was incredibly fast, and it feels like you’re thrown into everything at once. I don’t know how to feel about that.”

A few fans hope the show slows down in future episodes now that the groundwork is laid.

2. The 3D Animation Debate

While most praised the visuals, some weren’t sold on the 3D-heavy approach:

• “I didn’t quite expect the 3D animation to be present throughout the entire episode, but it’s not terrible, and I’ll definitely get used to it.”

Others argued that the blend of styles works well, especially for a show with such a unique premise.

The Verdict: A Must-Watch?

The consensus? TO BE HERO X Episode 1 is a strong start. It’s visually stunning, packed with action, and leaves you hungry for more. Some minor pacing issues aside, fans are hyped for what’s next.

As one user put it:
“This episode marks literal history within the industry. We can say this one here is the perfect first episode and goes beyond anyone’s expectations.”

If you’re into fast-paced, visually innovative anime with a twisty plot, this is one to watch.

Final Rating: 8.5/10 (with room to grow!)

What’s Next?

With 24 episodes confirmed, TO BE HERO X has plenty of time to flesh out its world and characters. Will the pacing stabilize? Will X live up to the hype? Only time will tell—but for now, Episode 1 has set the bar high.

What did you think of the premiere? Drop your thoughts below! 🚀