The world-building in Kugane Maruyama’s masterpiece is vast, with the various overlord anime countries providing a rich backdrop for Ainz Ooal Gown’s quest for world domination. Unlike the standard fantasy setting, the "New World" features a complex web of political alliances, racial tensions, and historical grudges that existed long before the Great Tomb of Nazarick arrived. Understanding the landscape of these overlord anime countries is essential for any fan looking to grasp how a single skeleton mage managed to upend centuries of established international order.
In this comprehensive 2026 guide, we break down the major human nations, the demihuman territories, and the fallen civilizations that define the map. Whether you are following the journey of the "Bloody Emperor" or the tragic fall of the Re-Estize Kingdom, this breakdown covers every corner of the known world.
The Primary Human Nations of the North
For much of the early series, the story focuses on three major human powers: the Re-Estize Kingdom, the Baharut Empire, and the Slane Theocracy. These nations share borders and a long history of conflict, though their internal structures could not be more different.
Re-Estize Kingdom
The Re-Estize Kingdom was once a sprawling feudal state with a population of roughly 9 million. However, by the time Ainz appeared, the nation was rotting from within. It was split between the Royal Faction and the Noble Faction, leading to constant civil unrest. This internal weakness, combined with the criminal influence of the "Eight Fingers" syndicate, made it an easy target for Nazarick's machinations.
Baharut Empire
Located northeast of Nazarick, the Baharut Empire is a highly centralized absolute monarchy. Under the leadership of Jircniv Rune Farlord El-Nix—often called the "Bloody Emperor"—the nation purged its corrupt nobility and transitioned into a meritocratic society. The Empire is known for its professional standing army and the Imperial Magic Academy.
Slane Theocracy
The Slane Theocracy is the oldest human nation and operates as a religious fundamentalist state. They worship the Six Great Gods (who were likely players from YGGDRASIL) and promote a doctrine of human supremacy. Because humans are physically weaker than most demihumans in the New World, the Theocracy uses secret special forces known as "Scriptures" to ensure human survival.
| Nation | Government Type | Primary Military Strength | Status in 2026 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Re-Estize Kingdom | Feudal Monarchy | Peasant Levies & Warrior Troops | Annexed/Destroyed |
| Baharut Empire | Absolute Monarchy | Professional Knights & Magic Casters | Vassal State |
| Slane Theocracy | Ecclesiocracy | Six Scripture Special Units | At War |
💡 Tip: The annual wars between the Empire and the Kingdom were actually a strategic ploy by the Empire to drain the Kingdom’s resources without committing to a full-scale invasion.
The Rise of the Sorcerer Kingdom
The most significant shift in the history of the overlord anime countries occurred with the founding of the Sorcerer Kingdom of Ainz Ooal Gown. Centered in the city of E-Rantel, this nation is unique because it is ruled by an undead king and seeks to create a multi-racial utopia.
The Sorcerer Kingdom’s military is incomparable to any other nation. By using high-tier undead like Death Knights as tireless laborers and police officers, Ainz has achieved a level of public safety and economic efficiency that human nations can only dream of. However, this "utopia" is enforced by overwhelming fear and the absolute power of the Floor Guardians.
Demihuman and Heteromorphic Territories
Beyond the human-centric lands lie various nations populated by elves, dwarves, and beastmen. These regions often feature harsher environments and different magical traditions, such as the forgotten art of Runecraft.
The Dwarf Kingdom
Deep within the Azerlisia Mountains, the Dwarf Kingdom lives in subterranean cities. They once thrived on Runecraft, but the efficiency of Tier Magic caused their traditional arts to decline. After being pushed to the brink of extinction by the Quagoa tribes, they formed a trade alliance with Ainz, providing Nazarick with skilled smiths in exchange for protection.
The Elf Country
Located south of the Slane Theocracy, the Elf Country is a vast woodland nation currently locked in a brutal war of attrition. The nation is ruled by a powerful but narcissistic Elf King who views his own subjects as disposable. The Slane Theocracy’s "Holocaust Scripture" has been systematically invading their territory to reclaim "Godkin" bloodlines.
Roble Holy Kingdom
The Roble Holy Kingdom is defined by its "Great Wall," built to keep out the demihuman tribes of the Abelion Hills. It is a nation of paladins and priests who harbor deep prejudices against non-humans. Following the invasion by the demon Jaldabaoth (a disguised Demiurge), the nation was split into North and South, eventually becoming a puppet state under the influence of the Sorcerer Kingdom.
Special Military Units of the New World
Each of the overlord anime countries relies on elite units to maintain their borders against the monstrous threats of the New World.
| Unit Name | Nation | Specialty | Notable Members |
|---|---|---|---|
| Black Scripture | Slane Theocracy | Godkin/Top-Secret Missions | Antilene Heran Fouche |
| Blue Roses | Re-Estize (Adventurers) | Adamantite-rank Combat | Lakyus, Evileye |
| Four Imperial Knights | Baharut Empire | Personal Guards of the Emperor | Baziwood Peshmel |
| Paladin Order | Holy Kingdom | Anti-Evil/Monster Combat | Remedios Custodio |
Remote and Fallen Civilizations
The lore of Overlord extends far beyond the current map, touching on civilizations that have either collapsed or remain isolated from the main conflict.
- Argland Council State: A superpower ruled by a council of five Dragon Lords, including the Platinum Dragon Lord. It is one of the few nations that could potentially pose a threat to Nazarick due to their access to Wild Magic.
- Inveria: The fallen kingdom of the "Rainbow-Eyed" people. It was destroyed over 200 years ago by a mysterious undead plague, leaving behind ruins that Evileye once called home.
- Dragon Kingdom: A human nation founded by the Brightness Dragon Lord. It is currently ruled by Queen Draudillon, who must constantly sacrifice her own people's lives to fuel Wild Magic spells to repel Beastmen invasions.
- Beastman Commonwealth: A powerful demihuman nation on the central continent known for its "Golems" and physical superiority over humans.
Warning: Travelers heading toward the Abelion Hills should be aware that the region is no longer a lawless land of warring tribes but is now a strictly managed "breeding farm" and military outpost for the Sorcerer Kingdom.
Geopolitics and the Future of the New World
As of 2026, the map of the overlord anime countries has been irrevocably altered. The Re-Estize Kingdom is effectively gone, replaced by the expanding borders of the Sorcerer Kingdom. The Baharut Empire has accepted its role as a vassal, ensuring its survival at the cost of its sovereignty.
The next major conflict centers on the Slane Theocracy. Having realized that Ainz Ooal Gown is responsible for the brainwashing of Shalltear Bloodfallen and the disruption of their long-term plans, the Theocracy is preparing for a total war that they are unlikely to survive. Meanwhile, the Argland Council State remains the "wild card," watching from the sidelines as the undead king consolidates his power.
FAQ
Q: Which of the overlord anime countries is the strongest?
A: Currently, the Sorcerer Kingdom is the undisputed strongest nation due to the level 100 Floor Guardians and Ainz’s access to World Items. Among the "natural" New World nations, the Argland Council State and the Slane Theocracy are considered the top superpowers.
Q: Why did Ainz destroy the Re-Estize Kingdom instead of making it a vassal?
A: While Ainz initially considered vassalization, a series of misunderstandings by his subordinates (specifically Demiurge and Albedo) and a provocation by a minor noble led to the "scorched earth" policy to serve as a warning to the rest of the world.
Q: Are there other players in these countries?
A: While no other active players from YGGDRASIL are currently confirmed to be alive, many nations were founded or influenced by past players, such as the Six Great Gods of the Slane Theocracy and the Eight Greed Kings.
Q: What is the status of the Holy Kingdom in 2026?
A: The Holy Kingdom is currently a puppet state. While it has a "Holy King," the real power lies with the doppelganger replacement and the cult of personality surrounding Ainz Ooal Gown, led by Neia Baraja.
For more updates on the evolving map of the New World and character deep-dives, stay tuned to our 2026 guide series.
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