Top Episodes of ‘Kaiju No. 8’ Season 1 Ranked

‘Kaiju No. 8’ burst onto the anime scene with a fresh take on the monster-fighting genre, blending high-stakes action with a heartfelt story about chasing dreams. The first season, aired from April to June 2024 on TV Tokyo and streamed on Crunchyroll, follows Kafka Hibino, a 32-year-old underdog who transforms into a kaiju while trying to join the Defense Force.

With 12 episodes and a special ‘Hoshina’s Day Off’ episode, the season mixes humor, intense battles, and character growth, making it a standout in 2024’s anime lineup. I’ve ranked all 12 episodes from least to most impactful, focusing on their story, action, and emotional weight.

12/12 Episode 3: Kafka’s Last Shot

This episode sees Kafka Hibino tackling the Defense Force entry exam, his final chance to join before he’s deemed too old. The stakes feel high, but the pacing drags as it focuses on setup and introducing competitors like the talented Shinomiya Kiriko.

While it lays groundwork for Kafka’s struggle to hide his kaiju powers, the episode lacks the action or emotional punch of others. It’s a necessary bridge but feels slower compared to the season’s high-energy moments.

11/12 Episode 1: The Man Who Became a Kaiju

The season opener introduces Kafka, a kaiju cleanup worker haunted by his unfulfilled dream of fighting alongside his childhood friend Mina Ashiro. A flashback to their past adds heart, but the episode spends much of its time world-building.

It’s engaging enough with Kafka’s accidental transformation into a kaiju, yet the action is minimal. The charm of Kafka’s goofy personality shines, but it’s more about setting the stage than delivering a standout moment.

10/12 Episode 7: Aftermath of Battle

Following an intense fight, this episode slows down to show the Defense Force recovering and reflecting on their clash with Kaiju No. 9. It dives into team dynamics and hints at the mystery of Kafka’s powers.

While the character moments are solid, the lack of action makes it less gripping. It’s a breather episode that sets up future conflicts but doesn’t pack the same thrill as others.

9/12 Episode 2: Escape from the Kaiju

Kafka, now a kaiju, flees after his transformation, only to face another monster. The episode ramps up with his first taste of kaiju power, showing his potential while keeping the tension of his secret.

It’s a step up from the premiere with a solid chase sequence, but the action feels brief. The focus on Kafka’s panic and inexperience makes it relatable, though it’s not the season’s peak.

8/12 Episode 6: First Mission

Kafka’s first official mission as a Defense Force member unfolds in Sagamihara, where the team battles a kaiju horde. His cleanup crew experience helps him spot weaknesses, proving his worth despite his lack of physical prowess.

The action is exciting, and seeing the team in sync is fun, but it’s more of a setup for bigger battles. It’s a solid episode that highlights Kafka’s growth but doesn’t fully steal the show.

7/12 Episode 5: Exam Chaos

The Defense Force exam takes a chaotic turn when a kaiju attack disrupts the test. Kafka uses his powers to save others, risking exposure, while Reno and Shinomiya shine as rising stars.

This episode balances action and character stakes well, with Kafka’s desperation to succeed hitting hard. It’s thrilling but overshadowed by later episodes with more intense battles.

6/12 Episode 8: Kaiju No. 9 Emerges

Kaiju No. 9, a sentient and deadly monster, makes its chilling debut, overpowering Reno and Iharu. Its human disguise and unnatural strength add a creepy layer to the story.

The episode’s strength lies in its tension and the introduction of a formidable villain. While the fight is brief, it sets up a major rivalry that elevates the season’s stakes.

5/12 Episode 4: Power Unleashed

During the exam, Kafka’s forced to use his kaiju powers to save his team, delivering a jaw-dropping moment where he defeats a kaiju with a single punch. The animation pops, and the stakes feel personal.

This episode marks a turning point, showing Kafka’s potential as a hero. It’s a crowd-pleaser, though later episodes build on this intensity with deeper emotional weight.

4/12 Episode 9: Clash of Titans

Kafka, as Kaiju No. 8, faces off against Kaiju No. 9 in a cinematic showdown. The fight is fast-paced, with stunning visuals showcasing Kafka’s raw power against No. 9’s cunning.

The episode nails the balance of action and emotion, as Kafka fights to protect his friends. It’s a thrilling setup for the season’s climax, though it’s not the finale.

3/12 Episode 10: Aerial Assault

Tachikawa base faces a devastating attack from a powerful kaiju, pushing the Defense Force to their limits. Kafka grapples with whether to reveal his powers to save his team.

The high-stakes action and team camaraderie make this episode shine. It’s a heart-pounding moment that shows the Defense Force’s unity and Kafka’s growing resolve.

2/12 Episode 11: Captured

Kafka is caught as Kaiju No. 8 and faces the Defense Force’s leaders, who debate his fate. The tension is thick as Kafka’s secret unravels, and his inner struggle with his kaiju side deepens.

This episode blends suspense and character depth, making you root for Kafka’s redemption. It’s a gripping lead-in to the finale, with emotional stakes at their peak.

1/12 Episode 12: Kafka’s Resolve

The season finale delivers as Kafka fights to control his kaiju form against Isao, a Defense Force leader. The battle is intense, with Kafka’s determination to prove his humanity shining through.

This episode wraps the season beautifully, blending action, heart, and a tease of future conflicts. It’s the perfect capstone, leaving you eager for season two.

What’s your favorite ‘Kaiju No. 8’ episode, or did I miss a moment that stole the show for you? Drop your thoughts in the comments!