The popular anime streaming service, Crunchyroll, has kicked off the new year with the English dub release of Possibly the Greatest Alchemist of All Time. The isekai fantasy anime, which premiered its dubbed version on January 1, 2025, is based on the light novel series by Kogitsunemaru. It follows the adventures of a hapless protagonist who stumbles into a fantastical world and unexpectedly becomes a powerful alchemist.
Isekai Antics and Accidental Alchemy
The story centers around Takumi Iruma, an ordinary individual who gets accidentally swept up in a summoning ritual meant for heroes. Transported to the magical world of Mildgard, Takumi finds himself not as a hero, but as a recipient of a goddess’s compensation for the mix-up. The goddess, Nolyn, grants him the ability to choose any skill he desires. Opting for a seemingly mundane “creation skill,” Takumi soon discovers that his choice is anything but ordinary. His “alchemy” skill turns out to be incredibly potent, allowing him to create anything from holy swords to flying ships.
This unexpected power propels Takumi into a journey filled with adventure, wealth, and the trials of being a powerful figure in a world he never intended to be a part of. Instead of the typical hero’s journey filled with battles, Takumi uses his skills to become a wealthy merchant and an undefeatable force, all while trying to maintain a peaceful existence.
A Twist on the Isekai Genre
Possibly the Greatest Alchemist of All Time offers a refreshing take on the isekai genre. Unlike many protagonists who are thrust into battle, Takumi’s strength lies in his creative abilities. He navigates the world not as a fighter, but as a craftsman, turning his unexpected alchemy skills into a means of survival and prosperity. This approach provides a unique perspective on the familiar isekai trope of overpowered characters. The series blends elements of fantasy, action, and isekai, promising a captivating watch for fans of the genre.
The English Dub Cast and Crew
Crunchyroll has assembled a talented team for the English dub of Possibly the Greatest Alchemist of All Time. The cast includes:
- Zac Loera as Takumi Iruma
- Lexa Childress as Nolyn
- Jacob Browning as Banga
- Rebecca Chiara Marano as Molly
- Bree Han as Elizabeth
- Mike Smith as Bobon
- Elise Baughman as Martha
- Katie Wetch as Akane
- James Marler as Akira
- Reagan Murdock as Yamato
- Katie Otten as Female Angel
- Jessica Peterson as Maple
The English dub is directed by Jerry Jewell, with Susie Nixon as the producer. The script adaptation is handled by Domonique French, with mixing by Neal Malley and engineering by Manuel Aragon.
Production Details
The original Japanese version is directed by Naoyuki Kuzuya at Studio Comet. Mitsutaka Hirota handles series composition, Sayaka Anezaki provides character designs, and Hiroshi Nakamura composes the music. The opening theme song is “TREASURE!” by DIALOGUE+, while the ending theme is “Twinkle Days” by harmoe.
Where to Watch
Possibly the Greatest Alchemist of All Time is available for streaming on Crunchyroll. The English dub premiered simultaneously with the Japanese version on January 1, 2025. The series is also available in other regions and may be found on platforms like JustWatch and Crunchyroll Amazon Channel.
Crunchyroll’s Winter 2025 Dub Slate
Possibly the Greatest Alchemist of All Time is just one of the many English dubs that Crunchyroll has planned for the Winter 2025 season. Other notable titles include:
- Dragon Ball DAIMA
- Solo Leveling Season 2
- The 100 Girlfriends Who Really, Really, Really, Really, REALLY Love You Season 2
- Ameku M.D.: Doctor Detective
- Headhunted to Another World: From Salaryman to Big Four!
- Honey Lemon Soda
- I Left my A-Rank Party to Help My Former Students Reach the Dungeon Depths!
- I May Be a Guild Receptionist, but I’ll Solo Any Boss to Clock Out on Time
- Magic Maker: How to Make Magic in Another World
- Medaka Kuroiwa is Impervious to My Charms
- ZENSHU
- The Apothecary Diaries Season 2
This extensive lineup of dubbed anime showcases Crunchyroll’s commitment to providing a wide variety of content to its audience.
A Closer Look at the Plot
Takumi Iruma’s journey begins with his accidental summoning to Mildgard. The goddess Nolyn, feeling responsible for the mishap, offers him a unique skill as compensation. Takumi, desiring a peaceful life, chooses the seemingly unimpressive skill of creation, which turns out to be the powerful ability of alchemy. This skill allows him to create a vast array of items, from basic necessities to advanced weaponry and transportation.
His first steps in the new world involve encountering various challenges and opportunities. From befriending a spider monster named Maple who produces valuable silk to navigating the requests of powerful individuals like Papek, Takumi’s life is far from quiet. He meets intriguing characters such as Maria, a human girl, and Sofia, an elf, who become essential to his growing enterprise. Takumi’s unique alchemy skill attracts attention, turning him into a wealthy and influential figure.
Themes and Genre
- Fantasy: The anime is set in a magical world with unique creatures and supernatural abilities, providing a rich backdrop for the story.
- Isekai: The protagonist’s transportation to another world and his subsequent adaptation to its customs and rules is a central theme.
- Alchemy: The creative skill of alchemy forms the core of Takumi’s abilities, leading to innovative solutions and interesting scenarios.
- Action: While not the primary focus, the show includes battles and conflicts, driven by the unique application of his alchemy skills.
- Adventure: The series is filled with Takumi’s journey of exploration and discovery in the new world, with a focus on how he manages to thrive.
Reception
The series has received positive early reviews for its lighthearted approach and unique take on the isekai genre. Some critics have noted that while the plot may follow familiar patterns, the focus on alchemy and the protagonist’s non-combative approach adds a unique charm. The show’s blend of familiar elements with unique twists makes it an enjoyable watch for fans of anime.
Conclusion
Possibly the Greatest Alchemist of All Time offers a fresh and engaging narrative in the isekai genre. With its unique approach to alchemy and a protagonist who chooses creation over combat, the anime stands out as a promising addition to Crunchyroll’s Winter 2025 lineup. The simultaneous English dub release ensures that a wide audience can experience this exciting adventure from the start. The anime promises a heartwarming and entertaining journey of a man who discovers that even seemingly mundane skills can lead to extraordinary adventures.
