Sentouin, Hakenshimasu! (Combatants Will Be Dispatched!): A Complete Review and Analysis
Introduction
Sentouin, Hakenshimasu! (or Combatants Will Be Dispatched!) is a blend of action, fantasy, and comedy created by Natsume Akatsuki, the same author behind the popular series KonoSuba. It started as a light novel in 2017 and quickly gained attention for its humorous and unique take on the isekai and fantasy genres. Later, it was adapted into a manga and an anime, continuing to charm audiences with its quirky characters, unpredictable plot, and witty humor.
Origins and Background
The Transition from Light Novel to Anime and Manga
Natsume Akatsuki first launched Sentouin, Hakenshimasu! as a light novel series in 2017, with illustrations by Kakao Lanthanum. Its success allowed it to be adapted into a manga in 2018, serialized in Monthly Comic Alive, and later into an anime series in 2021, animated by J.C. Staff. The anime adaptation was directed by Hiroaki Akagi and featured voice talents like Yusuke Shirai as Combat Agent Six and Miyu Tomita as Alice Kisaragi. The anime adaptation brought the chaotic and often absurd humor of the original light novel to life, attracting both fans of KonoSuba and new viewers.
Connection to Natsume Akatsuki's Style
Akatsuki's signature style, combining outlandish humor with a fresh take on familiar fantasy tropes, is evident in Sentouin, Hakenshimasu!. Fans of KonoSuba will recognize the emphasis on character-driven comedy, but Sentouin, Hakenshimasu! distinguishes itself by incorporating sci-fi elements and a more satirical tone. This blend creates a unique experience, as the story is not just a traditional fantasy but also a parody of the genre itself.
Plot Overview
Sentouin, Hakenshimasu! follows the misadventures of Combat Agent Six, a low-ranking operative for the evil Kisaragi Corporation, and Alice Kisaragi, an advanced android designed to assist him. Tasked with infiltrating and taking over a fantasy world, Six and Alice must use their wits, technology, and unconventional methods to conquer the new world while dealing with the local inhabitants and their own chaotic team.
The story kicks off when Six and Alice are sent to the new world with the mission to establish a foothold for the Kisaragi Corporation. As they navigate this unfamiliar fantasy realm, they encounter various quirky allies and adversaries, including Snow, a fallen knight, and Rose, a chimera with a love for eating strange creatures. The humor arises from the absurdity of their mission and the constant clash between Six's underhanded tactics and the fantasy world's more traditional values.
Character Analysis
Combat Agent Six: A Villain with Questionable Tactics
Combat Agent Six is the protagonist, though his role as a "hero" is highly unconventional. He serves the Kisaragi Corporation, which has no qualms about using unethical means to achieve its goals. Six is shameless, opportunistic, and willing to do whatever it takes to gain an advantage, often leading to humorous but morally ambiguous situations. His character is a departure from the typical isekai hero, making him both refreshing and unpredictable. This anti-hero approach aligns well with the series’ satirical tone, poking fun at the conventional tropes of fantasy heroes.
Alice Kisaragi: The Logical Yet Sarcastic Android
Alice Kisaragi, designed to assist Six, is an android with a sharp tongue and a no-nonsense attitude. Her intelligence and rational thinking often contrast with Six’s impulsive nature, leading to a dynamic partnership filled with banter and comedic moments. Alice serves as the voice of reason, though her dry sarcasm adds a layer of humor to even the direst situations. Her character offers a sci-fi twist to the fantasy setting, blending technological elements with the magical aspects of the world.
Snow, Rose, and Grimm: Misfit Allies
The supporting characters in Sentouin, Hakenshimasu! are as chaotic as the protagonists. Snow is a former knight who joins Six’s team, motivated by her greed and desire for money. Her constant attempts to improve her status and acquire rare items create numerous comedic scenarios. Rose, a hybrid chimera girl, is straightforward and innocent but with a voracious appetite, adding another layer of unpredictability to the group. Grimm, a necromancer obsessed with curses, brings a darker sense of humor, as she frequently curses herself and others by accident.
The group dynamics of Six, Alice, Snow, Rose, and Grimm form the core of the series' humor, as their clashing personalities and motivations lead to hilarious misunderstandings and chaotic situations.
Themes and Analysis
Satire of the Fantasy and Isekai Genres
One of the most notable aspects of Sentouin, Hakenshimasu! is its satirical approach to the fantasy genre. It subverts typical tropes by placing villains in the protagonist's role and exploring how an organization driven by profit and power might approach a magical world. Unlike traditional isekai protagonists who aim to save or protect the world, Six and Alice’s mission is to conquer it. This twist leads to numerous comedic situations, as their villainous methods often clash with the expectations of the fantasy world’s inhabitants.
Power and Responsibility in a New Light
Although the series is primarily comedic, it also touches on the theme of power and responsibility. Six, despite his unscrupulous methods, occasionally grapples with the consequences of his actions and the responsibilities that come with his mission. Alice, on the other hand, remains focused on their goals, but she also learns to adapt to the quirks of the new world. This interplay between power and ethics adds a layer of depth to the story, making the characters more than just comedic figures.
Exploring Loyalty and Team Dynamics
The relationships between the characters, particularly the dynamic between Six and Alice, explore themes of loyalty and trust. While they are agents of an evil organization, their partnership relies on mutual respect and a shared goal. This exploration of camaraderie within a morally grey context adds an unexpected layer of sincerity to the series, allowing for character development amidst the humor.
World-Building and Setting
A Fantasy World with a Technological Twist
The world of Sentouin, Hakenshimasu! is rich with traditional fantasy elements, such as kingdoms, knights, and monsters, but the introduction of futuristic technology through Alice and Six creates a unique blend of genres. The series often plays with the contrast between magic and technology, using it as a source of both conflict and comedy. The advanced gadgets of the Kisaragi Corporation give Six and Alice an edge, but they also struggle to adapt to the local culture and customs, leading to amusing misunderstandings.
Cultural Clashes and Adaptation
The cultural clash between Six’s technologically advanced mindset and the fantasy world's more traditional values is a recurring theme. This clash is often the source of the series’ humor, as Six tries to impose his modern and often selfish outlook on a world that operates by different rules. The way he exploits the local customs for personal gain while dealing with unexpected challenges makes for a unique narrative that differentiates Sentouin, Hakenshimasu! from other fantasy stories.
Impact and Reception
Reception Among Fans and Critics
Sentouin, Hakenshimasu! has been well-received by fans of Natsume Akatsuki’s work, especially those who appreciate the blend of comedy and fantasy seen in KonoSuba. The series' humor and unique character dynamics have made it a standout in the isekai genre, offering a refreshing take that balances action with satire. While some viewers may find the protagonist's morally grey behavior off-putting, others appreciate the unconventional approach and the series’ willingness to subvert expectations.
Anime Adaptation: Staying True to the Spirit
The anime adaptation, produced by J.C. Staff, successfully captures the chaotic energy and humor of the original light novel. The animation and voice acting bring the characters to life, particularly the interactions between Six and Alice, which are central to the series' charm. Although the adaptation has a more limited scope compared to the light novel, it has managed to maintain the essence of Akatsuki’s writing, making it a suitable entry point for new fans.
Conclusion
Sentouin, Hakenshimasu! is a unique addition to the fantasy and isekai genres, offering a blend of sci-fi elements, absurd humor, and unconventional character dynamics. With its satirical approach to familiar tropes, it stands out as a series that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. Whether you're a fan of Natsume Akatsuki’s previous work or simply looking for a fresh take on the isekai genre, Sentouin, Hakenshimasu! provides a hilarious and engaging experience that challenges traditional fantasy narratives while delivering plenty of laughs along the way.