The summer 2024 anime lineup introduced one of its standout titles, Wistoria: Wand and Sword. This dark fantasy series has quickly captivated audiences with its blend of magic, sword fighting, and a protagonist’s determined journey. The story centers on Will Serfort, a student at Rigarden Magical Academy, who dreams of becoming a powerful magician, despite lacking any magical abilities. Instead, Will has mastered swordsmanship, earning admiration from both his peers and professors through his combat prowess in the academy’s dungeons.
Adaptation of a Popular Manga
The anime is based on the Wistoria: Wand and Sword manga, created by Fujino Omori and illustrated by Toshi Aoi. The manga has an ongoing storyline, and while the anime is still in its early stages, only covering the initial chapters, it has already gained a following among new and old fans alike. The first season of the anime adapts a portion of the manga, with more of the story expected to unfold in future seasons.
Plot Overview: Magic and Swords in a Dark Fantasy World
In the world of Wistoria: Wand and Sword, humanity was nearly wiped out when invaders descended from the sky centuries ago. Five powerful mages formed a protective barrier to save the world, and now, students at Rigarden Magical Academy are tasked with maintaining this legacy. They train to become the next generation of powerful magicians, responsible for preserving the world’s safety.
The story follows Will Serfort, a determined student who lacks any magical abilities but is exceptional with a sword. His goal is to reunite with his childhood friend, Elfaria Albis Serfort, one of the world’s most powerful magicians. Along the way, Will encounters numerous challenges, makes both friends and enemies, and learns more about his own potential.
How Many Manga Chapters Has the Anime Adapted?
The first season of Wistoria: Wand and Sword adapts the first 20 chapters of the manga, spanning volumes 1 to 5. This covers Will’s final year at the academy, where his lack of magical skills is becoming more pronounced. He compensates for his shortcomings by excelling in written exams and earning extra credit by battling monsters in the academy’s dungeon.
When one of his professors discovers Will’s unconventional path to success, he puts him to the test. If Will fails, he faces expulsion from the academy. However, despite the odds, Will succeeds, revealing his true ambition: to reunite with Elfaria, who resides in Mercedes Caulus, a magical tower that overlooks the entire academy.
The Manga’s Progression and Ongoing Storyline
The Wistoria: Wand and Sword manga was first published in December 2020 in Kodansha’s Bessatsu Shōnen Magazine. Since then, it has grown to 40 chapters, collected across 10 tankobon volumes. In May 2023, the manga’s first part concluded, with the second part currently underway. The manga has garnered widespread acclaim and was even nominated for the 2021 Next Manga Awards.
For English readers, the manga has been licensed by Kodansha USA, with 8 of the 10 volumes available. Fans of the anime can rest assured that the first season of the show faithfully covers the first 5 volumes of the manga, meaning the source material is readily available for those eager to continue the story.
Key Storylines in the Manga
After the first season of the anime, the manga continues with Volume 6, in which Will faces setbacks in his exams. His determination is tested again when demons attack during the academy’s Terminalia festival, and Will is forced to defend his friends. This battle pushes him to his limits, challenging him to unlock more of his untapped potential as he prepares for the final push toward graduation and his long-awaited reunion with Elfaria.
Where to Watch and Read Wistoria: Wand and Sword
The Wistoria: Wand and Sword anime debuted in July 2024, with episodes airing weekly on Japan’s TBS Television Network. For international fans, the series is available for streaming on Crunchyroll in both dubbed and subbed formats.
The manga continues to be serialized in Bessatsu Shōnen Magazine, with new chapters released regularly. Fans can also explore the Wistoria universe further through the prequel light novel Wistoria: Wand and Sword Grimoire Acta – The Tears of the Beginning, which was published in Japan in July 2024.
With its rich storylines, intriguing characters, and magical world, Wistoria: Wand and Sword promises to remain a fan-favorite in both anime and manga form.