“Solo Leveling” is a South Korean web novel series by Chugong that has been adapted into a popular webtoon and light novel, and eventually an anime series produced by A-1 Pictures. The narrative focuses on Sung Jin-Woo, in a world where portals connect it to a realm filled with monsters and dungeons. Initially deemed as the weakest hunter, he swiftly transforms into a figure akin to a protagonist in a video game, where strength levels up with each encounter, evoking a sense of gratifying progression reminiscent of classic RPGs.
The allure of “Solo Leveling” lies not only in its captivating storyline but also in its innovative premise. The emergence of gates, unleashing hordes of menacing creatures, sets the stage for a thrilling spectacle similar to the grandeur of “Pacific Rim.” This infusion of sci-fi elements heightens the stakes, propelling the narrative forward with an exhilarating blend of action and intrigue.
Central to the series is Sung Jin-Woo’s evolution, a character arc with both depth and nuance. His transformation evokes parallels to the enigmatic Light Yagami from “Death Note,” as he grapples with newfound power and the moral implications it entails. The last episode very much showed this as he gains the title “Shadow Monarch” and the ability to bring the dead back to life as his “shadow army.” This juxtaposition of strength and darkness adds a layer of complexity to his character, elevating him beyond the confines of a typical protagonist.
While I thought the animation quality falls short of the visuals by its contemporaries like “Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba” or “Mob Psycho 100,” the discrepancy is mitigated by the sheer strength of its narrative, with its exciting plot twists and compelling character dynamics.
One area of contention, though, lies in the episodic endings, which often culminate in frustrating and anticlimactic cliffhangers. While effective in maintaining suspense, these abrupt conclusions annoy the hell out of me. Nevertheless, this minor flaw does little to detract from my overall enjoyment of the series.
When it comes to the series’ supporting characters, “Solo Leveling” showcases a diverse ensemble, albeit with less impact. While some secondary characters leave an impression, others fade into the background, their potential untapped. Yet, this is forgivable since this is just the first season.
In conclusion, “Solo Leveling” emerges as a captivating addition to the anime landscape, boasting a compelling narrative and memorable characters. Despite its minor flaws, it left me eagerly anticipating its second season and beyond. As the journey continues, “Solo Leveling” stands poised to captivate audiences with its potential and immersive world-building. I highly recommend it.
You can stream and watch Solo Leveling on Crunchyroll or Netflix if you are in the Philippines.
PADDYLAST INC. 