What's the phenomenon of Solo Leveling?

The second season of the anime adaptation of the popular South Korean manhwa, Solo Leveling, is already captivating audiences. Produced by A-1 Pictures, this anime plunges viewers into a world where portals to other dimensions unleash monstrous creatures upon Earth. Conventional weapons are useless against these beings; only specially gifted individuals, known as hunters, possess the power to combat them. Hunters are ranked from E-rank to S-rank, mirroring the difficulty of the monster-filled dungeons they face.

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?

The story centers on Sung Jin-woo, an E-rank hunter—the lowest of the low. Initially struggling to even clear basic dungeons, a fateful mission traps his team, forcing Jin-woo to make a desperate, self-sacrificing choice. This act grants him the extraordinary ability to level up, transforming him into the only hunter capable of personally increasing his rank. His life takes on a game-like quality, complete with a semi-transparent interface guiding his progress as he embarks on a journey to become stronger.

Why has the anime become so popular?

Solo Leveling's success stems from several factors. First, its adaptation closely mirrors the beloved manhwa source material, a feat A-1 Pictures, known for their work on titles like Kaguya-sama: Love is War and Sword Art Online, expertly executes. The anime delivers consistent, action-packed sequences, keeping viewers engaged without overwhelming them with complex plotlines or world-building. The pacing is carefully managed, revealing the world gradually, maintaining focus on the main narrative. A-1 Pictures also masterfully crafts an immersive atmosphere, using light and shadow to enhance the tension and excitement of each scene.

The second reason for its popularity is Jin-woo himself

Jin-woo's journey from underdog ("The Worst Weapon of Humanity") to powerhouse is compelling. His initial selflessness, sacrificing himself to save his team despite his financial responsibilities, is a defining moment. He's not a flawless hero; he makes mistakes, learns from them, and earns his power through hard work and dedication. Viewers connect with his relatable struggles and appreciate his earned abilities, a refreshing contrast to many born-with-it protagonists. His commitment to leveling up, understanding the cost of each level, resonates with audiences.

Finally, the marketing played a big role

The memorable "statue of God" image, widely circulated in memes, generated significant curiosity and drew in viewers unfamiliar with the manhwa.

Why does the anime receive criticism?

Despite its popularity, Solo Leveling faces criticism. Some find the plot formulaic, with abrupt shifts between action and calmer moments. The hero's rapid progression and seemingly exaggerated feats are seen by some as unrealistic, bordering on a Mary Sue archetype. The supporting characters often feel underdeveloped, lacking the depth and complexity of the protagonist. For viewers seeking nuanced characters, other anime might be a better fit. Additionally, some manhwa readers feel the anime's adaptation fails to fully translate the source material's pacing to the screen.

Is it worth watching?

Absolutely, if you enjoy non-stop action with a focus on the protagonist's journey and less emphasis on secondary characters. The first season offers a binge-worthy experience. However, if Jin-woo's story doesn't grab you within the first couple of episodes, you may find the series less engaging, regardless of the second season or the related gacha game.