Solo Leveling: A Rising Phenomenon in Gaming Culture

The second season of **Solo Leveling**, a South Korean manhwa turned anime by the acclaimed Japanese studio A-1 Pictures, is already underway. This gripping series 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?

In an alternate version of Earth, mysterious gates have begun to appear, unleashing hordes of monsters. Traditional weaponry proves futile against these beasts, leaving the task to a select group of individuals known as hunters. These hunters are ranked from the lowest E-rank to the highest S-rank, with dungeons filled with monsters also categorized similarly. The protagonist, Sung Jin-woo, starts as an E-rank hunter, barely able to navigate regular dungeons. After his group becomes trapped and he sacrifices himself to save others, Jin-woo is bestowed with a unique ability to level up, making him the only person in the world capable of changing his rank. His life transforms into a game-like experience, complete with a futuristic interface, as he embarks on a journey to become stronger.

Image: ensigame.com

Why has the anime become so popular?

The popularity of **Solo Leveling** can be attributed to three main factors. First, the anime is a faithful adaptation of the beloved manhwa. A-1 Pictures, known for successful adaptations like Kaguya-sama: Love is War, Sword Art Online, and Erased, managed to maintain the essence of the original work, delivering a continuous, action-packed experience that captivates audiences of all ages. The studio effectively creates an immersive atmosphere, using visual techniques such as darkening the screen during tense moments to highlight crucial scenes, while maintaining a bright and carefree atmosphere during normal times.

Image: ensigame.com

The second reason for its popularity is Jin-woo himself

Jin-woo's journey from an underdog, dubbed "The Worst Weapon of Humanity" due to his initial lack of combat skills, to a formidable hunter is inspiring. His willingness to sacrifice himself for his trapped group, despite his financial responsibilities to his family, earns him the ability to enhance his skills. Unlike typical protagonists, Jin-woo earns his powers through hard work and dedication, resonating with viewers who appreciate characters that grow through effort and perseverance.

Finally, the marketing played a big role

The marketing campaign, featuring the memorable statue of God with its toothy grin, sparked curiosity and interest among those unfamiliar with the manhwa, further boosting the anime's popularity.

Why does the anime receive criticism?

Despite its popularity, **Solo Leveling** has faced criticism. Some argue that the plot is clichéd and the transitions between action and calm scenes are abrupt. Critics also point out that Jin-woo's rapid transformation from an underdog to a powerful figure can seem overly grandiose, with other characters appearing as mere background figures lacking depth and development. Additionally, fans of the manhwa have noted that the anime's pacing feels rushed compared to the source material.

Image: ensigame.com

Image: ensigame.com

Is it worth watching?

Absolutely. If you're a fan of high-octane action and the journey of a protagonist who earns his strength through perseverance, **Solo Leveling** is definitely worth watching. However, if the story doesn't grab you within the first couple of episodes, you might not find the subsequent seasons or related games as engaging.