The much-awaited 1st Episode of Tsurune Season 2, aka Tsurune – The Linking Shot – or Tsurune: Tsunagari no Issha (ツルネ ―つながりの一射―) is here, and it has again managed to deliver a delightful watch. So without further ado, let us jump right into this review. 

Tsurune Season 2 Episode 1 Overview

When the first season of this franchise dropped, we did not think it would be able to make a name for itself in the competitive sports anime market. But, it managed to set itself apart by becoming one of the very first anime that solely focuses on Kyudo, a Japanese martial art of archery.

This second season will be directed by Yamamura Takuya, who has worked on fan favourites like Koe no Katachi, Violet Evergarden, Clannad: After Story, and Chuunibyou demo Koi ga Shitai! Ren, etc.  

Tsuruoka Youta will be directing the music for this series, and we have heard his works on anime like Koe no Katachi, Violet Evergarden, Mahou Shoujo Madoka★Magica, Hellsing Ultimate, etc. 

Kyoto Animation studios will be handling the animation, and we fans can rest assured of the quality as we have already received masterpieces like Koe no Katachi, Violet Evergarden, etc, from them.

– Tsurune Season 2 Episode 1 Review Contains Spoilers –

Tsurune Season 2 Episode 1 Review and Recap – Yagoe: Calling The Shots

The first thought that came to mind with episode 1 of this anime is how absolutely gorgeous the animation is. You immediately get transported to the serene and peaceful world of Tsurune. 

The episode starts with a monologue by Minato, where he essentially talks about what Kyudo is to him. How the relationship between bow and arrow is very much similar to oneself and the target. 

When the arrow leaves the bow, and when he hears the sound of Tsurune, all his senses and the world around him expand to new directions going to renewed heights. Through this monologue only, we understand just how essential and deep Minato’s connection is with Kyudo.

But it is not the time for Minato to practise his beloved sport as no club activities are allowed during the school sports tournament. To confront him, his friends Nanao, Kaito, and Ryouhei dash towards the Kyudo practice ground. Even though they scold Minato for doing archery on his own, you can tell that they, too, want to join in.

But that is when the president of the club, Seiya, comes in and being the sensible person he is, he tells them how it is bad for them to practise without taking any rest. Refuting his advice, Kaito even challenges him that he can easily manage both club activities and the upcoming sports tournament. But at the Futsal game, Seiya and Minato easily defeat Kaito with strategy and athletism.

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Later we see our beloved Masa san give some significant and essential tips on how to aim properly. We also learn about Yagoe, the act of calling the shot, and how it can help with the archer’s concentration. 

But perhaps the best news we got by the end of this episode is that the regional tournament champion can actually get a direct entry to the nationals. This gives Kirisaki High School a great chance to bounce back. But things will not be as easy as many new opponents are expected to come who would try their best to get to the top.

Verdict 

This anime is a treat to the eyes. Kyoto Animation is definitely the best choice for this anime that portrays the sophisticated sport of Kyudo. Even the music accompanying the scenes is ethereal and makes you relish the story.

This anime is not fast-paced like other sports anime, and I believe it is better that it is not. Tsurune sets its own stride, and we just become witnesses to the character’s journey. Watch this anime on HIDIVE.

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