Series & First Appearance
Zel (ゼル) is a prominent character in the anime and manga series Ishuzoku Reviewers, created by Aloha Higa. He makes his debut as a main character in the first episode of the anime adaptation, which aired in January 2020, as well as in the first chapter of the corresponding manga, published in 2016.
Profile at a Glance
Zel appears to be in his early 20s, functioning as one of the main protagonists in the series. As a founding member of the Interspecies Reviewers, he plays a crucial role in evaluating the various species and their brothels in this fantasy world. Zel is notably recognized for his elven heritage, which bestows him with keen senses and agility, and he often wields magical abilities related to his race.
Personality & Motivations
Zel is characterized by his open-mindedness and adventurous spirit, often displaying a carefree attitude towards life and love. His enthusiasm for exploring the intricacies of interspecies relationships drives much of the series’ plot. He exhibits a certain charm and flirtatious nature, particularly towards female characters, and enjoys sharing his experiences with friends. A notable quirk is his tendency to get overly excited about new species and experiences, reflecting his inherent curiosity.
Abilities / Powers
As an elf, Zel possesses enhanced agility, dexterity, and longevity, which make him adept in both physical endeavors and magical pursuits. His combat style typically includes the use of elemental magic—particularly spells that can influence emotions or physical sensations—which he incorporates into his explorations. However, while Zel is skilled at utilizing his abilities to gain the favor of others, he often relies on his charm rather than combat prowess to navigate difficult situations.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Throughout Ishuzoku Reviewers, Zel actively participates in various story arcs centered on evaluating brothels across different races. His notable development occurs during encounters that challenge his perceptions of love, morality, and the cultural nuances of the various species. Each review not only informs but also reflects his evolving understanding of interspecies dynamics and relationships. The relationships he builds across species serve to deepen his character and reveal his growing sense of empathy and understanding.
Notable Relationships
Zel’s closest allies include his fellow Reviewers, particularly Mika, who shares his enthusiasm for exploration, and other characters from different species he interacts with. His open-mindedness fosters camaraderie among the group, allowing them to work together effectively despite their differing backgrounds. While he does not have a prominent rival, his interactions often lead to friendly competitions or debates regarding the merits of various races, which further enriches the narrative.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One of Zel’s most memorable moments occurs during the first episode where he enthusiastically reviews a brothel related to a newly introduced species. His enthusiastic recounting of experiences serves as a humorous yet insightful commentary on the cultural differences he and his team face. A humorous quip from Zel, “Who knew adventure could be so… enlightening?” highlights his light-hearted approach to exploring serious themes in the narrative.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Zel’s character has garnered significant fan appreciation, reflected in his ranking among the top characters in various popularity polls, with 436 members marking him as a favorite. His voice has been rendered in Japanese by Yuusuke Kobayashi and in German by Felix Mayer, contributing to his character’s appeal in different regions. The character design captures traditional elven aesthetics while blending it with a comedic and adventurous personality, which is central to the show’s overall tone. Zel’s open approach to interspecies relationships also raises discussions around social norms and taboos, making him a focal point for thematic exploration within Ishuzoku Reviewers.
