Have you ever wondered what would happen if the boundaries between our world and the fantastical suddenly disappeared? Not because of some inter-dimensional invasion, but because the veil that kept us from seeing what was always there simply lifted away?

In this mind-bending episode of Realm Jumpers, Andrew and Jordan explore an existence where humans wake up to discover that magic, elves, dragons, and all manner of fantasy creatures have always existed alongside us—we just couldn't perceive them until now. The scenarios they craft are equal parts hilarious and terrifying, from Florida Man hunting dragons to world governments scrambling to exploit new magical resources.

The hosts dive deep into the societal implications of such a revelation. Would our weapons even work against magical beings? Would you abandon your day job to join an adventurer's guild? And who would adapt fastest to this new reality—zombie apocolypse preppers, governments, or everyday people? Perhaps most provocatively, they ask whether you'd step through a mysterious portal with no guarantee of return, especially if you had family to consider.

What makes this episode particularly engaging is how it uses fantasy to explore very human reactions to paradigm shifts. The conversation weaves between genuine philosophical questions about how we'd react to such a world and lighter moments speculating about treasure hunting, magical powers, and whether Deku from My Hero Academia would make the best survival guide author in this new reality.

Whether you're a fantasy enthusiast, worldbuilding fan, or simply curious about how humanity might handle a complete reshaping of reality, this episode offers thought-provoking scenarios that will have you questioning what you'd do if you woke up tomorrow to find an elf walking their dire wolf past your driveway. What would your first move be?

🎵 Music Credits:

Intro: Visions – Adv3n7ur35, Ian Locke

Outro: Nakusita Kakera – Ian Post

Music licensed via Artlist.io

📰 Realm Rumors:

https://www.polygon.com/entertainment/611146/anime-expo-2025-every-announcement-frieren-bleach-black-clover-cyberpunk

Magic systems are the beating heart of many beloved anime series, determining not just how battles unfold but often shaping entire worlds and societies. What makes powers like Nen, Cursed Energy, and Alchemy so compelling? We're breaking down the rules, limitations, and pure spectacle that define anime's most creative supernatural frameworks.

Starting with Hunter x Hunter's meticulously crafted Nen system, we explore why its six distinct categories and clear progression create such a satisfying power structure. When comparing this to Jujutsu Kaisen's visually stunning but somewhat less defined cursed energy, interesting patterns emerge about what makes certain systems feel more coherent than others. The discussion heats up when we contrast Bleach's soul-based abilities with Black Clover's grimoire powers, highlighting how different approaches to fantasy magic can still create compelling storytelling frameworks.

The conversation takes unexpected turns through Fairy Tail's friendship-powered magic, One Piece's Devil Fruits, and Fullmetal Alchemist's scientifically-grounded alchemy, revealing our surprising picks for most well-constructed systems. We even debate whether having an overpowered isekai skill tree would be preferable to a logically consistent magic system (spoiler: consistency might make better stories, but we'd all choose the skill tree for ourselves). Between passionate defenses of our favorites and brutal takedowns of systems that break their own rules, you'll walk away with fresh appreciation for the thought that goes into these supernatural frameworks. Plus, don't miss our rundown of exciting upcoming summer anime worth watching!

🎵 Music Credits:

Intro: Visions – Adv3n7ur35, Ian Locke

Outro: Nakusita Kakera – Ian Post

Music licensed via Artlist.io

📰 Realm Rumors:

https://www.crunchyroll.com/news/seasonal-lineup/2025/6/18/summer-2025-anime-crunchyroll

Fantasy tropes are the comfort food of storytelling—sometimes predictable, often criticized, yet we keep coming back for more. From tavern scenes where empires fall to reluctant heroes who never wanted their power, certain patterns persist across books, anime, and games for good reason.

In this episode, Andrew and Jordan dive into the fantasy clichés they'll defend to the death and the ones that make them groan despite secretly loving them. They start with the quintessential fantasy tavern—that humble setting where heroes meet and quests begin. From the Prancing Pony in Lord of the Rings to the revolutionary planning sessions in Mistborn, these establishments never seem to lose their charm or narrative usefulness.

The conversation moves to the emotional gut-punch of mentor deaths, examining why authors keep killing off the coolest characters. Is Kelsier's death in Mistborn necessary storytelling or just manipulation? What about Ned Stark in Game of Thrones? Our hosts debate when this trope works and when it feels like a cheap trick that leaves protagonists struggling to fill the void.

Next, they explore the desert warrior tribes that populate fantasy landscapes—from the Aiel in Wheel of Time to the Hidden Sand Village in Naruto—and why these cultures are consistently portrayed as the deadliest fighters in their universes. They also dive into the significance of named magical weapons and the suspicious tendency of fantasy royalty to wear hoods in public.

The discussion tackles the ubiquitous reluctant chosen one and found family dynamics that appear in virtually every fantasy ensemble cast. Andrew offers a passionate critique of how some series use found families as shortcuts around meaningful character development, contrasting examples that get it right with those that fall flat.

The episode wraps with anime industry news, including Jujutsu Kaisen's impressive performance on bestseller lists and the trend of series saving their climactic content for theatrical releases rather than streaming platforms.

Whether you're a fantasy novel devotee, an anime enthusiast, or simply curious about what makes these genres tick, this episode offers insights into the storytelling patterns that define our favorite fictional worlds. Subscribe now and join our journey through the realms of fantasy and anime!

🎵 Music Credits:

Intro: Visions – Adv3n7ur35, Ian Locke

Outro: Nakusita Kakera – Ian Post

Music licensed via Artlist.io

📰 Realm Rumors:

https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/daily-briefs/2025-06-16/jujutsu-kaisen-manga-ranks-no.2-on-nyt-june-bestseller-list/.225611

https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2025-06-16/dan-da-dan-2nd-season-anime-theatrical-screening-earns-usd5-million-in-u.s/.225652

Ever wonder what would happen if anime's strongest characters threw hands without magic or special powers? That's exactly what we're exploring in this adrenaline-pumping episode dedicated to raw physical might across the anime multiverse.

We're diving deep into what makes characters like Rock Lee truly special – how in a world where everyone has flashy jutsu, this taijutsu master relies solely on physical training to become legendary. That iconic moment when he drops his weights against Gaara? Pure goosebumps. Then there's Guts, swinging a sword the size of a tree through armored knights and demonic hordes with nothing but human determination driving his impossible feats of strength.

From the mythological might of Berserker in Fate/Stay Night to All Might's weather-changing punches, we celebrate characters who embody different aspects of physical power. Whether it's Eren Yeager's titan-transforming rage, Escanor's noon-powered pride, Saitama's one-punch solutions, or Sung Jin-woo's infinite growth potential, each brings something unique to this conversation. And of course, no discussion about strength would be complete without mentioning the martial arts master himself – Goku, casually sparring with gods on weekends.

What makes these characters compelling isn't just their ability to demolish mountains – it's how their strength reflects their personalities, their growth, and their place in their respective universes. We're breaking down what makes each of these powerhouses special while keeping the conversation fun and accessible.

Ready to join us for this strength-fest across anime worlds? Hit subscribe and let us know which powerhouse characters we missed in your comments. This is one anime debate where we're celebrating the epic moments rather than arguing who'd win in a fight!

🎵 Music Credits:

Intro: Visions – Adv3n7ur35, Ian Locke

Outro: Nakusita Kakera – Ian Post

Music licensed via Artlist.io

📰 Realm Rumors:

1. https://otakuusamagazine.com/japanese-government-comes-up-with-new-initiatives-to-expand-animes-reach/
2. https://www.cbr.com/twins-hinahima-ai-anime-animator-opportunity/
3. https://www.windowscentral.com/gaming/diablo-4-just-teased-its-next-ip-collaboration

Ever stared at your TBR pile and felt both pride and despair? You're not alone. In this intimate, laughter-filled discussion, we explore the fantasy reader's eternal struggle with books that keep multiplying faster than we can read them.

Mistborn's unique metal-burning magic system takes center stage as we dissect what makes Brandon Sanderson's worldbuilding so compelling. "That is one of the most unique magic systems I've ever actually seen," Jordan confesses, explaining how it rekindled his love of reading. We venture through the broader Cosmere universe and why Stormlight Archive might be the perfect next step for fantasy readers looking to level up their experience.

The conversation takes a grittier turn as we compare Sanderson's methodical style with Joe Abercrombie's raw, darkly humorous approach in books like "The Devils." This "jarring" transition between authors reveals the rich diversity within fantasy literature—from high fantasy epics to monster-filled adventures featuring vampires who mysteriously grow younger as the story progresses.

Our frustrations boil over when discussing both Hollywood's tendency to butcher fantasy adaptations and the publishing industry's celebrity favoritism. The recent controversy of a reality TV star receiving a two-book deal based merely on a concept strikes a nerve, highlighting the uphill battle most authors face. "At least have it done," we argue, questioning an industry that sometimes values platform over craft.

Whether you're a seasoned fantasy reader or just beginning your journey into these magical realms, this episode offers both recommendations to expand your reading horizons and validation that yes, it's perfectly normal to have hundreds of unread books waiting for attention. Your TBR pile isn't a failure—it's a promise of adventures yet to come.

🎵 Music Credits:

Intro: Visions – Adv3n7ur35, Ian Locke

Outro: Nakusita Kakera – Ian Post

Music licensed via Artlist.io

The spring anime season has reached its halfway mark, and we're diving into what's working, what's flopping, and which shows have completely caught us off guard.

My Hero Academia: Vigilantes stands out as a refreshing take on hero work through the lens of unsanctioned adults rather than sanctioned teenage students. The series explores what happens when heroes don't reach certain neighborhoods, with standout character Knuckle Duster stealing the show as he throws hands without any quirk to back him up. We're seeing fascinating connections to the main series, including early appearances from villains like Stain before his ideology fully formed.

Windbreaker continues delivering jaw-dropping fight sequences that rank among the best action animation this season, though its weekly release format has highlighted some pacing issues. When you're waiting for those spectacular rooftop beatdowns, the character development episodes can test your patience. Yet this deep character work is building toward something special, particularly with supporting characters like Akihiko Nirei determined to stop being dead weight.

The season's disappointments include Fire Force, which despite solid animation hasn't captured our hearts the way its spiritual predecessor Soul Eater did, and The Beginning After The End, whose compelling story is tragically undermined by animation quality so poor it's been described as a "slideshow presentation." How the author could choose this studio remains one of anime's greatest mysteries.

On the surprising front, Chinese animation To Be Hero X has emerged as an unexpected gem, featuring a fascinating world where powers are directly tied to public trust and popularity. This anthology-style series explores different heroes facing unique challenges in a system where losing fame means losing strength—sometimes with bizarre consequences like one hero who becomes physically unable to sit down.

Beyond the shows themselves, we tackle industry issues like the shutdown of major piracy site Anime Heaven and the concerning advance of AI in animation production. Whether you're watching on Crunchyroll or sailing the digital seas every week, the spring season offers plenty worth discussing. What shows have captured your attention this season?

What happens when a dare turns into a creative mission? For writer Jordan Troche, it sparked a journey into crafting rich fantasy worlds that blend biblical mythology, medieval adventure, and anime-inspired storytelling. In this deeply personal conversation, Jordan pulls back the curtain on his creative process and the evolution of his unique narrative style.

The conversation begins with Jordan revealing how "The Fallen," his 50-chapter webcomic series, emerged from a challenge to create stories without the filler that often plagues popular series. Drawing inspiration from ancient texts like the Dead Sea Scrolls, Jordan transformed obscure biblical references to Nephilim into a compelling dark fantasy universe where monster hunters navigate a pre-flood world teeming with otherworldly threats.

Jordan offers invaluable insights into the contrasting demands of webcomic scripting versus novel writing. While creating visual direction for artists requires technical precision, novel writing demands a different discipline—one that Jordan believes has been enhanced by his experience with concise comic scripting. He discusses his organic "pantsing" approach to storytelling, where endings may be planned but the journey itself unfolds through discovery, allowing characters and plots to evolve naturally beyond initial outlines.

Most poignantly, Jordan addresses the emotional challenges of independent publishing. With refreshing candor, he describes the journey from creative fulfillment to the often disappointing realities of marketing and reader engagement. His hard-won advice for aspiring creators? Define success on your own terms before finishing your work, and never let publishing struggles diminish your love for storytelling.

As the webcomic landscape continues expanding globally, with more independent works being adapted into animation, Jordan sees unprecedented opportunities for diverse creators to bring their visions to life. His parting wisdom resonates with creators at any stage: stop second-guessing yourself. Your unique perspective means that even familiar story frameworks can become something extraordinary through your distinctive creative lens.

Whether you're a writer, artist, or passionate fan of imaginative storytelling, this episode offers both practical guidance and heartfelt encouragement to pursue your creative vision with confidence and persistence.

The power of a great rivalry has fueled some of anime's most memorable moments, but not all rivals are created equal. When does a rivalry elevate storytelling, and when does it become a tired trope?

We're kicking things off with the granddaddy of them all: Goku versus Vegeta. This rivalry set the template—proud prince against carefree warrior—evolving from deadly enemies to reluctant allies to something surprisingly close to friendship. Vegeta's journey from villain to hero represents perhaps the most successful rivalry arc in anime history, setting a high bar for everything that followed.

But has anyone truly improved upon this formula? Naruto and Sasuke attempted to follow this blueprint but stumbled into contrived motivations and questionable character choices. We dig into why Sasuke's endless angst and illogical decisions undermined what could have been a more compelling dynamic. Meanwhile, Light and L from Death Note took the rivalry concept in a completely different direction, creating an intellectual chess match with deadly stakes that required no friendship undertones to be utterly captivating.

Modern series like My Hero Academia and Black Clover have tried putting fresh spins on the rivalry trope. Bakugo's transformation from Midoriya's bully to respected peer unfolds with genuine character development, while Yuno and Asta maintain a supportive competitive relationship that begins with friendship rather than antagonism. These newer takes demonstrate how rivalries can still feel fresh when they avoid simply copying what came before.

What makes a truly great anime rivalry? Is it the spectacular battles, the character growth, or something more fundamental about how competitors push each other beyond their limits? Join us as we analyze the evolution of this essential anime trope and discover which rivalries genuinely changed the game.

Want to tell us about your favorite anime rivalry? Hit follow on your podcast app, subscribe on YouTube, and jump into the conversation online!

🎵 Music Credits:

Intro: Visions – Adv3n7ur35, Ian Locke

Outro: Nakusita Kakera – Ian Post

Music licensed via Artlist.io

📰 Realm Rumors:

• https://comicbook.com/anime/news/beginning-after-the-end-anime-canceled-petition/
• https://screenrant.com/devil-may-cry-anime-failure-op-ed/
• https://www.cbr.com/crunchyroll-ai-plan-u-turn/