Review of Black Clover Episode 162: “The Great War Breaks Out”

WARNING: Spoilers for Black Clover Episode 162

My heart is still racing. After last week’s attack on the Golden Dawn, I thought I was prepared for anything that Black Clover could throw at me.

I could not be more wrong.

The Dark Triad feels like endgame content and for good reason. Their power is off the charts. Not only that, they know exactly what buttons to push to throw people over the edge.

We knew Vanica was on her way to the Heart Kingdom but I certainly wasn’t thinking about where Dante was headed. With a title of “The Great War Breaks Out,” I thought this episode would focus on an assault of the Heart Kingdom led by Vanica. While there was an element of “get ready she’s on her way,” I was lulled into a sense of false security when Asta showed up at the Black Bulls’ hideout and we moved away from the Heart Kingdom.

I imagined we’d see what the rest of the squad was up to. Maybe drop in to the Captains’ meeting to see what the battle strategy is against the Dark Triad. I didn’t expect another ambush. An ambush that leaves Asta in a state of chaos and Gauche on the brink of death. Am I worried that Gauche won’t make it? Yes I am, because last week showed us not everyone is going to survive this arc.

I was right to believe that a critical threat to his friends would push Asta into embracing more of his devil’s power. It’s both terrifying and captivating to watch. I’m still reeling from the adrenaline rush of that fight. Everything that we’ve seen Asta learn over the course of this show is on display: tracking qi, long range attacks, coordinated attacks with his teammates, and sheer force of will. Everything that is Asta bleeds through even while he seemingly loses control. His magic is never giving up and there is no way he is backing down.

Recent news articles say Black Clover will end with episode 170. Speculation is in flux on if it’s just a break or if it’s truly over. Either outcome, I will be relishing every single episode moving forward. If this was the warm-up act then “Dante vs the Captain of the Black Bulls” is going to be a showstopper.

Until next week!