Get ready, fans! The highly anticipated second season of "From Old Country Bumpkin to Master Swordsman" is making its grand return, bringing more adventure, humor, and heartwarming moments. Anime enthusiasts worldwide can mark their calendars, as the series is set to stream exclusively on Amazon Prime Video starting July 9, 2024. This exciting announcement comes alongside the reveal of a brand new ending theme song, adding another layer of anticipation for the upcoming season.
New Music and Global Streaming Details Revealed
The latest commercial for "From Old Country Bumpkin to Master Swordsman" Season 2 has officially announced and previewed the ending theme song: "Mikansei" (Unfinished) performed by the popular band BLUE ENCOUNT. This captivating track promises to close each episode with a memorable sound, building on the series' distinct atmosphere. Fans already know that the rock band Unicorn will perform the opening theme song, "Kurenai no Ha" (Crimson Leaf), setting a dynamic tone from the very beginning. With both opening and ending themes now revealed, the stage is set for a fantastic auditory experience complementing the visual storytelling.
For global viewers, Amazon Prime Video will exclusively stream the anime worldwide starting July 9 at 12:15 a.m. Japan Standard Time (July 8 at 11:15 a.m. Eastern Daylight Time). Japanese audiences will get an earlier premiere on July 8 at 11:45 p.m. JST (10:45 a.m. EDT) within the "IMAnimation W" programming block on TV Asahi and its affiliated channels. The season will also air on AT-X and BS Asahi in Japan. NBC Universal also recently unveiled a stunning new key visual in horizontal format, giving fans a glimpse into the exciting developments awaiting Beryl Gardinant and his students.
The Stellar Returning Cast
The beloved characters of "From Old Country Bumpkin to Master Swordsman" will be brought to life once again by their original talented voice actors, ensuring a seamless continuation of their captivating personalities. Hiroaki Hirata returns as the protagonist, Beryl Gardinant (note: the anime's website clarifies the spelling as Gardenant). His performance as the powerful yet humble sword instructor is a cornerstone of the series.
Joining him are:
- Nao Tōyama as Allucia Citrus
- Hitomi Ueda as Surena Lysandra
- Yūki Hirose as Curuni Crueciel
- Hinaki Yano as Ficelle Harbeller
- Chiwa Saitō as Lucy Diamond
- Kaito Ishikawa as Henblitz Drout
- Arisa Nakada as Myui Flare
- Ryōta Ōsaka as Spur
- Ai Kayano as Rose Marblehart
- Hidenobu Kiuchi as Gatoga Lazorne
This accomplished ensemble cast is ready to deliver another round of stellar performances, further immersing viewers into the rich world of swordsmanship and magic.
Consistent Excellence: The Returning Production Staff
Fans will be pleased to know that the core creative team behind the success of the first season is largely returning for the second. This continuity in staff promises a consistent vision and high-quality production for the new season. Akio Kazumi, acclaimed for his work on titles like "Loner Life in Another World," is once again directing the series at Passione and Hayabusa Film. Kunihiko Okada, known for "The Demon Sword Master of Excalibur Academy," is back in charge of the series scripts, ensuring the narrative remains engaging and true to its source material.
Satsuki Hayasaka, also from "The Demon Sword Master of Excalibur Academy," returns to design the characters and serve as chief animation director, maintaining the distinctive visual style. Yasuharu Takanashi, renowned for his compositions in "Fairy Tail," is once again at the helm of the music, promising an impactful soundtrack. Additional returning staff members include:
- Assistant Directors: Nozomu Koga, Masaru Kawashima
- Conceptual Design: Suzume Shima, Ley Yumeno
- Color Key Artist: Sakie Suzuki
- Art Director: Taiki Yamashita
- Compositing Director of Photography: Kenichi Ikeda
- 3D Animation Production: YAMATO WORKS
- Editing: Ayako Tan
- Sound Director: Hisayoshi Hirasawa
This experienced and dedicated team is poised to deliver a second season that lives up to, and potentially surpasses, the high standards set by its predecessor.
The Enduring Story of Beryl Gardinant
For those new to the series or needing a refresher, "From Old Country Bumpkin to Master Swordsman" tells the story of Beryl Gardinant, a humble sword instructor in a secluded rural village. Despite his past dreams of becoming a legendary master swordsman, Beryl now embraces a quiet life. However, his world is turned upside down when a famous former pupil arrives with life-changing news: Beryl has been appointed as a special instructor for the prestigious knights of the Liberion Order!
Reluctantly, Beryl travels to the capital, where he reunites with several of his former students. To his astonishment, they have become incredibly successful—elite knights, a brilliant wizard, and even an adventurer who has achieved the highest possible guild rank. Beryl, in his humility, believes they no longer need his guidance. Yet, his devoted students are unwavering in their desire for his continued tutelage. The series explores Beryl's journey as he grapples with his new position, navigates the complexities of the capital, and tries to find a moment's peace amidst the adoration and demands of his powerful pupils. It's a charming tale of unexpected fame, enduring mentorship, and rediscovering one's own worth.
A Universe Expanding: Novels and Manga
"From Old Country Bumpkin to Master Swordsman" originates from Shigeru Sagazaki's light novel series, which began its serialization on the Shōsetsuka ni Narō website in November 2020. Square Enix publishes the novel volumes with captivating illustrations by Tetsuhiro Nabeshima, and J-Novel Club has licensed the series for English readers.
The popularity of the story has also led to multiple manga adaptations. Kazuki Satō launched the primary manga adaptation in Akita Shoten's Dokodemo Young Champion magazine in August 2021, with Yen Press releasing it in English. Additionally, the franchise has expanded with two exciting spinoff manga series:
- "Katainaka no Ossan, Kensei ni Naru Gaiden: Hajimari no Mahō Kenshi" (From Old Country Bumpkin to Master Swordsman Spinoff: The Beginning of a Magic Swordsman) debuted on Square Enix's Manga UP! service in November 2024. Itsuki Watanabe is credited for composition, and Megumu Soramichi is drawing the manga.
- "Katainaka no Ossan, Kensei ni Naru Gaiden: Ryūsōken no Kiseki" (From Old Country Bumpkin to Master Swordsman Spinoff: Miracle of the Dragon-Armored Sword) launched in Square Enix's Young Gangan magazine in February 2025. Sasami Hazama is drawing the art, and Zenji Yotsuya is credited for composition. This spinoff focuses on Surena Lysandra's journey to become a Black Rank adventurer.
These multiple adaptations highlight the widespread appeal and depth of Beryl Gardinant's universe.
Get Ready for More Swordsmanship and Adventure!
With a worldwide streaming date locked in, an exciting new ending song, a returning cast of beloved characters, and a dedicated production staff, "From Old Country Bumpkin to Master Swordsman" Season 2 is set to be a highlight of the summer anime season. Prepare to join Beryl Gardinant as he continues his endearing and action-packed journey. Don't miss out on the exclusive premiere on Amazon Prime Video starting July 9!
