Ranking of Kings looks like a children’s storybook. It hits like emotional devastation. Don’t judge by appearance—this is masterful storytelling wearing simple art.
The Setup
Bojji is a deaf, tiny prince who can’t wield a sword in a kingdom that values strength. Everyone expects his brother to become king. When Bojji befriends a shadow creature named Kage, his journey to prove himself begins.
The Art Style Trick
The simple, rounded art suggests children’s anime. This disguises mature themes: parental trauma, disability, political corruption, and genuine tragedy. The style makes harsh content accessible rather than exploitative.
Emotional Devastation
Ranking of Kings earns tears repeatedly. Bojji’s struggles against discrimination, Kage’s friendship, and the complicated villain motivations create emotional complexity that anime rarely achieves. It respects characters enough to hurt.
The Twists
Nothing is as it seems. Characters you hate become sympathetic. Heroes have darkness. The reversals aren’t cheap—they’re set up carefully and pay off emotionally.
Verdict
9/10 – Ranking of Kings is disguised masterpiece. Its simple appearance filters out viewers who’d reject its emotional depth, leaving those willing to engage. Essential viewing for anyone who believes anime can be art.