The popular anime series, Shangri-La Frontier, has returned for its second season, bringing with it a host of new characters and storylines. Fans have eagerly anticipated the continuation of Rakuro Hizutome’s adventures in the virtual world, and the latest updates promise an even more engaging and dynamic experience. Season 2 premiered on October 13, 2024, and is currently airing new episodes weekly.
The Abyss City Arc
Season 2 dives into the Abyss City arc, promising new challenges and a deeper exploration of the game’s lore. This arc will introduce new regions, quests, and dungeons for Sunraku and his allies to navigate. The animation for this new arc is being handled by Studio C2C, with Toshiyuki Kuboka returning to direct, and Hiroki Ikeshita as assistant director. Kazuyuki Fudeyasu is in charge of series composition, and Ayumi Kurashima is responsible for character designs.
New Characters
Along with the returning cast, the second season introduces several new characters, each with their own unique roles and backstories. Among the new cast members are:
- Akane Akitsu, voiced by Yuka Terasaki, is a player marked by one of the Seven Colossi, specifically Siegwurm the Sky Ruler.
- Ceecrue, voiced by Natsuki Hanae, is Akane’s helper from Rabituza.
- Stude, voiced by Aki Kanada, is another new addition to the cast.
- Araba, voiced by Toru Sakurai, who also joins the ranks of the show’s characters.
These new characters are expected to bring fresh dynamics and challenges to Sunraku’s journey within Shangri-La Frontier.
Returning Cast
Many of the fan-favorite characters from the first season will be returning for season 2, with their respective voice actors reprising their roles. The main cast includes:
- Yuma Uchida as Sunraku/Rakuro Hizutome: The protagonist of the series, a skilled gamer known for his ability to conquer challenging games.
- Azumi Waki as Psyger-0/Rei Saiga: A fellow player and friend of Sunraku, known for her expertise and strategic gameplay.
- Yoko Hikasa as Arthur Pencilgon/Towa Amane: Another key ally of Sunraku, often providing valuable support and assistance.
- Makoto Koichi as Oicazzo/Kei Uomi: A friend of Sunraku’s who also plays Shangri-La Frontier.
- Rina Hidaka as Emul: A non-player character (NPC) within the game.
- Akio Otsuka as Vysache: Another NPC character who is an important part of the game world.
- Yumiri Hanamori as Psyger-100.
- Sayaka Senbongi as Animalia.
- Seichiro Yamashita as Orcelott.
The English dub also features a talented cast of voice actors:
- Eric Vale voices Rakuro/Sunraku.
- Molly Zhang voices Emul.
- Corey Pettit voices Rei/Psyger-0.
- Brittany Karbowski voices Kei/Oikatzo.
- Brianna Roberts voices Towa/Pencilgon.
- Ian Sinclair voices Aramis.
- Lindasy Seidel voices Bilac.
- Brittany Lauda as the Female Narrator.
- Stephanie Young voices Mana.
- Gabe Kunda voices Professor.
These returning characters and their voice actors ensure continuity and familiarity for viewers, while the new additions bring a sense of freshness to the season.
Plot and Story Arcs
Season 2 picks up where the first season left off, with Sunraku continuing his journey in Shangri-La Frontier. New challenges are presented through formidable enemies and a deeper dive into the game’s lore. The anime is expected to explore previously uncharted areas of the game, introducing new quests and dungeons that Sunraku and his allies will have to overcome.
The season will also delve into the Traveling Wolf, Be Ambitious Arc, featuring a climactic battle against Lycagon the Nightslayer. This arc promises to deliver high-stakes action and further character development.
Deeper Dive into the Game World
The narrative will continue to unravel the mysteries within the game world. As Sunraku progresses, he will uncover more about the hidden secrets of Shangri-La Frontier, and how the world itself could be forever changed. The stakes are higher than ever, and viewers can expect to see more intense battles and complex storylines.
Production and Release
The second season of Shangri-La Frontier premiered on October 13, 2024, on Crunchyroll. New episodes are released every Sunday. The English dub of the series began airing on October 27, 2024, also on Crunchyroll.
The opening theme song for the first part of season 2 is “Queen” performed by Lisa, and the ending theme is “Anya no Dancer: Dancer in the Dark Night” by Otoha. The second part of the season, which began on January 5, 2025, features a new opening theme song, “Frontiers” by Awich, and a new ending theme song, “realitYhurts” by CVLTE.
Where to Watch
Shangri-La Frontier Season 2 is available for streaming on Crunchyroll in North America, Central America, South America, Europe, Africa, Oceania, the Middle East, Cis, Indian subcontinent, and Southeast Asia. The series is also licensed by Muse Communication in Southeast Asia.
Conclusion
With new characters, exciting story arcs, and a deeper dive into the world of Shangri-La Frontier, Season 2 promises to be a captivating experience for fans of the series. The introduction of the Abyss City arc, the addition of new cast members, and the return of beloved characters set the stage for an even more dynamic season.
