The popular isekai light novel series, Potion-danomi de Ikinobimasu!, officially translated as I Shall Survive Using Potions!, received a television anime adaptation that premiered in October 2023. The series, based on FUNA’s original novels, transports protagonist Kaoru Nagase to a new world with the unique ability to create potent potions.
From Web Novel to Animated Series
The I Shall Survive Using Potions! series began its journey on the Shōsetsuka ni Narō (“Let’s Be Novelists”) website in 2015, written by FUNA. Kodansha later began publishing the light novel volumes with illustrations by Sukima in June 2017. The success of the web and light novel versions led to a manga adaptation by Hibiki Kokonoe, which ran from June 2017 to November 2021. A sequel manga by Futsū Onshin started in August 2022.
The Story of Kaoru Nagase’s Reincarnation
The premise of I Shall Survive Using Potions! centers on Kaoru Nagase, who loses her physical body due to a mistake made by a deity overseeing Earth. As compensation, Kaoru is offered reincarnation into a less technologically advanced world. However, Kaoru, not content with merely being reborn, demands specific abilities. She requests a magical Item Box, the capacity to understand and speak all languages, and the return of her body as it was when she was fifteen years old. Most crucially, she asks for the power to create any potion she desires, with any effect. With these newfound powers, Kaoru embarks on a quest to establish a stable and peaceful life in her new, unfamiliar surroundings.
Production and Key Personnel
The anime adaptation of I Shall Survive Using Potions! was produced by the studio Jumondou. Nobuaki Nakanishi served as the director, with Takayo Ikami handling the series composition. Chisato Kikunaga was responsible for character designs, and Hiroaki Tsutsumi composed the music.
Voice Cast and Theme Songs
The series features a talented voice cast bringing the characters to life. Rin Kusumi voices the protagonist, Kaoru. Other key cast members include Tomoyo Takayanagi as Francette, Moeka Koizumi as Emile, Haruki Iwata as Belle, and Natsuki Kitagawa as Layette. Nao Tōyama also joined the cast as Celestine. The opening theme song for the anime is “tailwind” by Katagiri, while the ending theme song is “Love Is a Potion” by Harmoe.
International Release and Reception
Crunchyroll licensed the series for streaming outside of Asia, making it accessible to a global audience. The anime aired from October 8 to December 24, 2023. Fans and critics alike have engaged with the series, contributing to its online community and discussions.
