The Heroic Legend of Arslan (Arslan Senki) is a sweeping fantasy novel series written by acclaimed author Yoshiki Tanaka. First published in 1986 and concluded in 2017, the story draws inspiration from ancient Persian history and the classic Amir Arsalan epics.
Over its 30-year literary journey, Arslan Senki has seen several anime and manga adaptations across various creative visionaries. This includes a six-episode OVA (original video animation) series released from 1991 to 1995. Manga artist Chisato Nakamura first brought the property to comics in the mid-90s.
In 2013, Fullmetal Alchemist creator Hiromu Arakawa spearheaded another Arslan manga for Kodansha’s Bessatsu Shōnen Magazine. Her vivid take later inspired a 2015 anime adaptation from Studio Lindenfilm spanning two seasons.
Between the intricate fantasy novels and their illustrative interpretations, Yoshiki Tanaka’s fictional world has come alive through various media.
Through three decades of publication history and beyond, The Heroic Legend of Arslan persists as a crowning achievement of fantasy fiction alongside its diverse artistic renditions. Yoshiki Tanaka’s boundless imagination continues to find new creative outlets.
1. The Heroic Legend of Arslan
- Episodes: 25
- Released: Spring 2015
Nestled in the kingdom of Pars was the Royal Capital of Ecbatana, a magnificent city ruled by the formidable King Andragoras.
Arslan, a young prince endowed with a sharp intellect, struggles to meet the expectations set by his father and the kingdom. Despite his efforts, he feels inadequate compared to the king.
At the tender age of 14, Arslan experiences his first battle, only to witness the devastation of his beloved empire as war engulfs the land, leaving destruction in its wake.
Yet, it is Arslan’s destiny to rise as a leader. Despite the hardships he faces, he must embark on a journey to reclaim his lost kingdom and fulfill his rightful role as its ruler.
2. The Heroic Legend of Arslan: Dust Storm Dance
- Episodes: 8
- Released: Summer 2016
After successfully navigating the challenges of mediating for a royal successor in Sindhura, Arslan and his companions return to Pars, only to encounter Hilmes, the valiant general adorned in a silver mask, blocking their path.
Despite repelling Hilmes and resuming their journey towards the capital, a more significant threat looms over the land of Pars, growing increasingly imminent.
The novel adaptation of Arslan Senki is celebrated as a masterpiece in Japan, which led to its adaptation into manga and subsequent popularity spanning 31 years. Unfortunately, an official translation of the novel is not yet available. Therefore, I recommend exploring the manga adaptation by Hiromu Arakawa.
However, it’s worth noting that the manga adaptation progresses slowly. Consequently, after episode 10 in the first season, subsequent episodes diverge from the manga storyline due to the lack of source material. Episodes 9 through 10 cover chapters 19 to 23 of the manga, so starting around that point or from the beginning is advisable for a comprehensive understanding of the story.
