TL;DR: By the Grace of the gods (S1) is a peaceful, wholesome fantasy anime with minimal violence, no real gore, and a strong emphasis on kindness, healing, and chosen family. While it includes magic and light emotional themes, it remains gentle in tone and highly suitable for younger viewers or families looking for something uplifting and safe.
Section 1: By the Grace of the gods (S1; 12 Episodes) — At a Glance
Anime Summary | Taken directly from MyAnimeList
Deep in the forest, far from any human contact, there lives a child named Ryouma Takebayashi. He engages in the rather strange hobby of keeping various types of slimes as pets. Furthermore, despite his young age, he has a sturdy physique and good compatibility for magic. All of this is because, having endured much hardship in his previous life, three gods grace Ryouma with a second chance to pursue one goal: savor the wonders of life.
After three years of comfortable solitude pass by, Ryouma meets people that will change his current life forever. When he encounters and helps some soldiers tend to their wounded comrade, the group convinces him to accompany them to visit the nearby town’s ducal family. Ryouma agrees and soon embarks on a journey to explore the vast world beyond his home.
Genres & Themes
Adventure, Fantasy, Isekai (Reincarnation), Slice of Life
MyAnimeList Rating
PG-13+ | Teens 13 and Older
The Anime Momma Rating
G+ | Kid-Friendly / Family
Section 2: Star Levels
Each category below is rated on a five-star scale:
⭐ = very little present | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ = a lot present
- Action/Violence Level: ⭐☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
- Addiction Level: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (3/5)
- Blood/Gore Level: ☆☆☆☆☆ (0/5)
- Inappropriate, Heavy, or Mature Themes or Conduct: ⭐☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
- Alternative Lifestyle Themes: ⭐☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
- Level of Magical Elements: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
- Level of Romance: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (3/5)
Section 3: Star Levels — Explained
Action/Violence Level
The action in this series is very gentle and approachable, especially compared to most fantasy anime. While Ryoma does encounter creatures like goblins or wild beasts, the battles are quick, clean, and not the main focus of the story.
Most encounters are resolved with simple magic or strategy, without lingering on violence or intensity. Overall, this is a very safe introduction to fantasy-style action for younger viewers.
Addiction Level
I absolutely adore this anime—it is easily one of my personal favorites. This is the kind of show you could binge in a single day, but it’s also perfectly suited for slower watching.
Even in shorter sittings, it leaves you feeling refreshed, peaceful, and genuinely encouraged. It’s one of those rare series that doesn’t just entertain—it fills your cup.
Blood/Gore Level
There is very little to no blood or gore in this series. Any combat that does occur is handled lightly and without graphic detail, making it very approachable for sensitive viewers.
Inappropriate, Heavy, or Mature Themes or Conduct
There are a few light, comedic moments where Ryoma is hugged by more well-endowed female characters, causing him to become flustered. However, these moments are brief, innocent in tone, and not played in a suggestive way.
One of the more meaningful “heavier” themes in this series is actually very beautiful: the importance of chosen family.
- Ryoma, who lived a difficult and lonely life before his reincarnation, is overwhelmed by the kindness and love he receives from the Jamil family. In one particularly touching moment, he remembers his mother from his previous life—her love, her sacrifice, and the way she cared for him even when he overworked himself.
It’s a very emotional scene, and watching Ryoma allow himself to be comforted is incredibly heartwarming. Moments like this are what make this series so special.
Alternative Lifestyle Themes
The only notable point here is the technicality that Ryoma was an adult man in his previous life (39yo) and is now a child in this new world.
While he does form a close bond with Eliaria, it is important to note that:
- Ryoma does not dwell on his past life in a romantic sense
- His behavior and emotional development align with his current age
- Their relationship remains very innocent and age-appropriate (if anything, their relationship appears to be more innocent than their age)
This is handled gently and does not present itself in a concerning way within the story.
Level of Magical Elements
Magic is central to this series and is more often used in a fun, playful manner than as something that is used for fights or violence. Ryoma is blessed by the gods of his new world with abilities in magic, alchemy, monster taming, and much more.
One aspect I especially appreciated is that the gods of this world– Sielfall– clearly distinguish themselves as being limited to their own realm, even implying that there is a greater God beyond their understanding. For families of faith, this can be a reassuring distinction and even open the door for meaningful conversations.
Level of Romance
The romance in this series is incredibly sweet and completely G-rated.
Ryoma and Eliaria are shy, respectful, and innocent in their interactions. Even something as simple as holding hands is a big moment for them, and anyone who teases them is left with nothing but their embarrassed expressions. Their dynamic is wholesome, gentle, and rooted in kindness rather than romance-driven tension.
Section 4: Special Notes for Parents & Guardians
This is one of those rare anime that truly feels safe to rest in. It carries a calm, steady tone that makes it easy to watch with younger viewers or even as a family wind-down show.
One quick note: Crunchyroll lists a “profanity” warning. In the English dub, there is little to no noticeable profanity. If you prefer subtitles, it may be worth previewing just to be sure of your comfort level.
Final Thoughts
This series is, simply put, a breath of fresh air.
In a genre that often leans heavily into action, darkness, or intensity, By the Grace of the gods chooses something different: gentleness, growth, and quiet joy.
It opens the door for conversations about:
- Finding peace after hardship
- The importance of surrounding yourself with uplifting people
- Rest, healing, and starting again
If you are looking for an anime that feels safe, comforting, and genuinely life-giving, this is one I would wholeheartedly recommend for families.
Read Next: By the Grace of the gods (Season 2) – Anime Review
Thank you for reading this review and I look forward to seeing you in our next one. 💛
At The Anime Momma Blog, my goal is simple: helping parents understand the anime their kids love so families can watch with wisdom and discernment, so that great conversations may be had along the way.
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