Why Now Is the Moment to Own Frieren on Disc

Season two of Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End has just arrived, but before diving into the latest episodes, I’m tempted to revisit the earlier adventures of the silver-haired mage. While streaming is as easy as firing up the Crunchyroll app on a PS5, there’s something about owning a tangible copy that digital simply can’t match. For those of us who’ve been amassing anime discs since the days of clunky VHS, the urge to snap up these editions while they’re still available is hard to resist.

Like many contemporary releases, the first season is split into two volumes. The initial set, covering episodes 1 to 16, is currently going for $55.98 on Crunchyroll, and it’s even $14 off at the moment. Collectors will appreciate the inclusion of art cards featuring Frieren, Fern, Stark, and Sein. Of course, to complete the set, there’s Part 2—episodes 17 to 28—also at $55.98, which means a full rewatch is within reach, provided you don’t mind picking up both boxes.

Physical Editions: What’s in the Box?

Part 1 comes with both Blu-ray and DVD formats, so compatibility with your PS5 is a given. The discs themselves are adorned with striking images of the main cast, and the art cards are a proper treat for anyone who likes to display their collection. In the UK, this set is priced at £29.99, which feels reasonable for what’s included.

For the latter half of the season, Part 2’s cover art showcases the original Hero Party, Himmel front and centre. This box also contains both disc formats and another batch of art cards, including one of the Dragon King slayers. UK fans can find this set for £29.99 on Amazon, though it’s worth noting that both parts are currently discounted in the US, making it a good time to buy if you’re across the pond.

Why Split Releases Still Make Sense

Some might grumble about the season being divided into two boxes, but those who remember the days of two or three episodes per tape will likely take it in stride. It’s become fairly standard for modern anime, especially when the original broadcast was split into separate cours. At least the discounts soften the blow, and the extra art cards are a nice touch.

With the US editions now on backorder, it’s clear that plenty of fans have had the same idea: secure a physical copy before they’re gone. It’s not uncommon for renewed interest in a series to send box sets flying off the shelves, only to reappear online at inflated prices. No one wants to be at the mercy of resellers, so acting quickly is wise.

Collecting for Keeps

Streaming is convenient, but there’s no guarantee your favourite series will always be available. Having a physical edition means you’re not reliant on subscriptions or the whims of streaming platforms. As Frieren’s second season continues to draw attention, these sets are unlikely to linger in stock for long.

For those whose enthusiasm for Frieren extends beyond the screen, there’s also a tempting array of merchandise—official figures from SEGA and Good Smile Company, for instance. The Himmel figma, complete with a fabric cape, is particularly hard to ignore, even for the most disciplined collector.

There’s also a limited edition of Part 2, currently marked down to $175.98, for those who fancy something a bit more exclusive. And if you’re on the lookout for your next anime obsession, it might be worth considering which series you’d like to own outright, ready to watch on your PS5 whenever the mood strikes.