“Record of Ragnarok” (Japanese: 終末のワルキューレ, Hepburn: Shūmatsu no Warukyūre, lit. “Doomsday Valkyrie”) stands as a captivating Japanese manga series, thoughtfully crafted by the creative duo Shinya Umemura and Takumi Fukui, and brought to life through the intricate illustrations of Ajichika. The essence of the narrative revolves around an intense fighting tournament, one that pits historical figures of great renown against deities hailing from diverse mythologies. This clash of titans holds humanity’s fate precariously in the balance, offering a spectacle that encapsulates both epic confrontations and existential significance. Commencing its journey in Coamix’s esteemed seinen manga publication, Monthly Comic Zenon, during the November of 2017, this tale has garnered attention and admiration. It’s worth noting that the series was also published by Tokuma Shoten at a point. Furthermore, this riveting narrative venture secured its place under Viz Media’s wing, earning a license for North American distribution in June of 2021, marking a significant step in its global recognition.
Transitioning seamlessly to the digital realm, the manga witnessed a transformation into an original net animation (ONA) format by Graphinica. The visual feast made its debut on Netflix in June of 2021, captivating audiences with its engaging storyline and stunning visuals. Following the resounding success of its initial venture into animation, a second season was masterfully brought to life by the collaborative efforts of Graphinica and Yumeta Company. This second season unfolded its narrative wings, unveiling its captivating story to fans in January of 2023, a testament to the enduring appeal of the series.
The foundation of the narrative is firmly established on the grand stage of the Gods’ Council, an assembly that convenes once every millennium to deliberate upon the future of humanity. This council, with its divine purview, reaches a grim consensus that humanity’s long and often irredeemable history spanning over seven million years, might warrant its extinction. Yet, the valiant Valkyrie known as Brunhilde emerges as the harbinger of hope. She endeavors to provide humanity a final opportunity to demonstrate its worthiness, urging the deities to consider holding the monumental Ragnarök tournament. This extraordinary tournament operates on a simple premise: should humanity triumph in seven out of thirteen epic battles against the formidable gods, their continued existence shall be preserved.
The stage for these epic confrontations is set with the Einherjar, distinguished human figures plucked from the annals of history. These Einherjar are bestowed the power of the valkyries, each endowed with a “Volund” – a weapon tailored to their combat style. This empowerment, however, comes at a cost, as the valkyries’ lives are linked to their chosen human’s fate. The very essence of life and death hangs in the balance as the Einherjar prepare to clash against the gods themselves.
Among the central figures, Brunhilde stands as a commanding presence. She takes up the mantle of leadership amongst the valkyries and passionately advocates for Ragnarök, driven by a profound disdain for the gods and a desire for retribution. Another notable Valkyrie is Göll, Brunhilde’s younger sister and a valkyrie-in-training, adding depth to the intricate network of characters. Randgriz, the fourth of the 13 valkyrie sisters, undergoes a transformative journey, culminating in a partnership with Lü Bu in the inaugural round, wherein her identity melds with the “Sky Piercer,” a potent halberd.
As the narrative unfolds, pivotal Valkyries like Reginleif, Hrist, Hlökk, and Thrud, among others, each contribute their unique strengths and vulnerabilities to the gripping battles. These battles, not mere physical clashes, become a canvas for exploring diverse personalities, honing their Volund-given abilities, and embracing the inexorable intertwining of their fates.
Human representatives, collectively known as Einherjar, take center stage with their remarkable stories. Lü Bu, a military luminary from the late Eastern Han dynasty, wields the Sky Piercer, forged in alliance with Randgriz. Adam, the progenitor of humanity, faces Zeus in a fateful encounter, displaying the power to replicate any technique he witnesses. Kojiro Sasaki, a renowned Japanese swordsman, unleashes the potential of the Monohoshizao, a gift from the valkyrie Hrist. The enigmatic Jack the Ripper, bearing gloves granted by Hlökk, leaves an indelible mark on the competition. Raiden Tameemon, a celebrated sumo wrestler, grapples with Shiva, harnessing his mawashi’s potential. Buddha himself enters the fray, choosing to champion humanity against the gods in a decision that sparks both admiration and conflict.
The pantheon of gods is equally robust, featuring the likes of Thor, the Norse god of thunder, armed with the mighty Mjölnir, and Zeus, the supreme figurehead of Greek deities. Poseidon, Hercules, Shiva, and more enter the fray, each with their distinct personas and powers, weaving a complex tapestry of conflict and ideology. Papiyas, the Demon Lord of the Sixth Heaven, and Beelzebub, the Philistine deity, inject layers of intrigue, altering the course of events in unexpected ways.
Amidst this grand spectacle, the series delves into its own mythological cosmology, embellished with names like Anubis, Hermes, and Apollo, adding depth to its universe. Siegfried, a half-human, half-god imprisoned in Tartarus, unveils his secrets, while supporting characters like Sieg and Hagen bring their own unique flavor to the narrative.
The manga’s appeal lies not only in its riveting battles and mythical showdowns but also in the intricate interplay of diverse characters. Each duel becomes a vessel for exploring humanity’s intrinsic strengths and flaws, the complexities of power dynamics, and the subtle nuances that define heroism, villainy, and redemption.
The series’ journey from the written word to the visual realm reflects its enduring resonance. It has successfully captured the imagination of readers and viewers alike, inviting them to traverse an expansive tapestry of history, mythology, and existential contemplation. With its carefully woven narrative, meticulously crafted characters, and a tapestry of epic clashes, “Record of Ragnarok” stands as a modern testament to the enduring allure of tales that pit humanity’s will against the divine forces that shape our world.