Solo Leveling: A Rising Phenomenon in Web Novels

The second season of Solo Leveling is already underway, captivating fans with its thrilling narrative and dynamic action sequences. This South Korean manhwa, now adapted into an anime by the Japanese studio A-1 Pictures, follows the journey of hunters who navigate through portals to battle formidable enemies.

Table of Contents

• What is the anime about?
• Why has the anime become so popular?
• The second reason for its popularity is Jin-woo himself
• Finally, the marketing played a big role
• Why does the anime receive criticism?
• Is it worth watching?

What is the anime about?

Set in an alternate version of Earth, Solo Leveling introduces a world where mysterious gates have begun to appear, unleashing monsters that conventional weapons cannot harm. Only a select group of individuals, known as hunters, possess the ability to combat these creatures. These hunters are ranked from E to S, with the protagonist, Sung Jin-woo, starting at the lowest rank, E. Struggling to clear even basic dungeons, Jin-woo's life takes a dramatic turn when he sacrifices himself during a mission, only to be rewarded with a unique ability to level up. This power transforms his life into a game-like experience, complete with a futuristic interface and quests, propelling him on a path to become stronger.

Image: ensigame.com

Why has the anime become so popular?

Solo Leveling's popularity can be attributed to three key factors. First, its origin as a beloved manhwa set the stage for A-1 Pictures to faithfully adapt the source material, a task they have successfully accomplished with other notable series like Kaguya-sama: Love is War and Sword Art Online. The anime maintains a continuous action-packed narrative, simplifying the plot and world-building to keep viewers engaged without overwhelming them. The studio's use of lighting and atmosphere further enhances the immersive experience, darkening the screen during tense moments and brightening it during more serene scenes.

Image: ensigame.com

The second reason for its popularity is Jin-woo himself

Jin-woo's journey from the underdog, dubbed "The Worst Weapon of Humanity," to a formidable hunter resonates deeply with viewers. His willingness to sacrifice himself for his team, despite his financial responsibilities, showcases his selflessness, which is rewarded by the System with the ability to enhance his skills. Unlike many protagonists, Jin-woo earns his powers through hard work and dedication, making his journey relatable and inspiring. His mistakes, such as skipping training and facing the consequences, add depth to his character, making his eventual success all the more satisfying.

Finally, the marketing played a big role

The anime's marketing strategy, featuring the memorable statue of God with its toothy grin, became a viral sensation, sparking curiosity among those unfamiliar with the manhwa and drawing them into the series.

Why does the anime receive criticism?

Despite its popularity, Solo Leveling has faced criticism for its reliance on clichéd plots and abrupt shifts between action and calm moments. Some viewers feel that the narrative overly glorifies Jin-woo, portraying him as a near-perfect character, akin to a Mary Sue. The supporting characters often lack depth, serving more as background figures to Jin-woo's story. Additionally, fans of the manhwa have noted that the anime's pacing feels rushed compared to the source material, which had a more gradual build-up.

Image: ensigame.com

Image: ensigame.com

Is it worth watching?

Absolutely. If you're a fan of high-octane action and a compelling protagonist's journey, Solo Leveling is a must-watch. The first season offers a binge-worthy experience for those who enjoy action-driven plots with minimal focus on secondary character development. However, if Jin-woo's story fails to captivate you within the first two episodes, it might not be the right fit for you. This also applies to the second season and the related open-world gacha game.