After a six year hiatus, manga series Ao no Exorcist (Blue Exorcist) returns with a brand new sequel anime series. While there’s some confusion over the time placing, it should be noted that episodes 17-25 of the original anime contains story content exclusive to the anime therefore season two takes place after episode 16 of season one with a more canon direction. In season two Rin, Yukio, and Shura face a new threat looking to take the heart of Priests in the Kyoto arc.

Blue Exorcist: Kyoto Saga is an 2017 Shounen anime series, it is the sequel to Blue Exorcist and is produced by A-1 Pictures. It is licensed in the US by Aniplex of America. It is currently available for streaming in English on Daisuki and Crunchyroll.

Rin and co are back on the small screen after 6 long years.

Looking to follow a more canonical direction than the previous series, Ao no Exorcist: Kyoto Saga continues from where episode sixteen of season one left off with Rin having just defeated Amaimon and the crow demon. After realizing his true identity most of his friends have a lack of trust and for some newfound fear for Rin due to his heritage as a demon.

New animation style gives for a fresher looking Blue Exorcist.

THE GOOD: While others may be confused with the story placement, Blue Exorcist continues its strong story, this time following the canon of the manga. The animation style for Blue Exorcist has received an upscale to a more modern flare, and has been done beautifully. The new threat to the Exorcists is introduced fairly earlier, so it feels as if the second season won’t suffer from any pacing issues.

“Boobzilla” Shura & Yukio take charge in the premiere of season two.

THE BAD: Side characters get very little time in episode one which is a shame. Anime only fans will be extremely confused by the story placement,

A fair return for Blue Exorcist.

OVERALL THOUGHTS: Blue Exorcist: Kyoto Saga is a welcome return from the series’ six year break. While unaware viewers may take some getting used to the new canonical direction season two has taken, season two will undoubtedly give fans something to look forward to as the story advances further. Otaku Dome gives Blue Exorcist: Kyoto Saga Episode 1 an 80 out of 100.