Unlike countless other anime fans, I did not delve into the expansive world of Solo Leveling until this year. Although the anime adaptation's first episode debuted on January 7, 2024, and the web novel that the series is based on has been around since November 2016, the franchise unfortunately never flew across my radar.
Eventually, all the praise from fans, the awards, all the anime milestones, and the popularity Solo Leveling achieved made it impossible for me to ignore the fantasy anime any longer, and I decided to finally give Solo Leveling the chance it deserved. I am only six episodes in, just shy of halfway through the first season, and am already enthralled by the spellbinding animation, simple but gripping storyline, and, of course, Sung Jinwoo's likability as a protagonist.
Based on Visuals Alone, Solo Leveling is a Work of Art
A-1 Pictures' Animation in Solo Leveling is Charmingly Familiar in Some Ways, But Still Distinctive
I was always impressed by the brief clips and screenshots of scenes from Solo Leveling that I happened to come across, but the true quality of its animation did not quite stand out to me until I watched a full episode. In particular, the fight scenes captured my attention, specifically, Jinwoo vs. the Statue of God in the second episode, "If I Had One More Chance," and Jinwoo's first time fighting various Magic Beasts in a dungeon by himself after reawakening. Every frame was so meticulously animated, making it impossible for me to take my eyes off the screen.
Don't Wait Until 2028, Solo Leveling Season 3 May Release Sooner Than You Think
Despite the recent Solo Leveling announcement producer Sota Furuhashi made, season 3 may still debut earlier than fans anticipate.
The animation is both familiar, reminding me of other series animated by A-1 Pictures, like Your Lie in April or Erased, but also distinctive, with details like the designs of the Magic Beasts and the glowing auras around characters when fighting that feel so unique to Solo Leveling. It may have been the unavoidable visual intrigue that first drew me in, but it was the compelling plot that kept me returning to watch more after the first handful of episodes. The idea of a weak character growing stronger is pretty common in anime, but Solo Leveling handles this trope uniquely.
Jinwoo is One of the Best Anime Protagonists I've Seen Thus Far
His Gradual Journey Feels More Realistic and Satisfying Than Characters Who Are Strong From the Beginning
Sung Jinwoo is one of the he was the lowest-ranked Hunter in the entire party.
Tired of Waiting For Solo Leveling Season 3? Then Watch These 10/10 Anime on Crunchyroll
Solo Leveling season 3 may not be released for a few years, but do not worry because Crunchyroll has some 10/10 anime series to watch in the meantime.
I also found the beginning of Jinwoo's character arc very inspiring, as well as his relationships with others in his life. He devotes himself to the meaningful goal of becoming a successful Hunter, even though he suffers pain and humiliation from his fellow Hunters, who constantly tease him for his frailty and lack of power. His dedication to saving his mother and providing for his sister propel him forward against adversity and fear, which makes him incredibly likable and interesting to watch grow and advance as a Hunter, once he does finally experience his second awakening.
The Video Game Elements in Solo Leveling Differentiate It From Other Series
Framing Jinwoo's Journey as a Game Kept Me Engaged in Watching Him Complete New Tasks and Quests
Finally, as a fan of video games, Jinwoo's journey up the ranks as a Hunter being compared to the progression of marking off tasks and quests in a game is an intriguing way to mark his victories. Another huge draw of the series for me was watching Jinwoo learn the rules of the new "game" and, armed with that knowledge, beat stronger foes and increase his strength. Overall, although it can be difficult to judge an anime after only a few episodes, there is absolutely no doubt in my mind that Solo Leveling is a hit worth the hype.
Solo Leveling
- Release Date
- 2024 - 2025-00-00
- Directors
- Shunsuke Nakashige
- Writers
- Noboru Kimura
Cast
Taito BanShun Mizushino (voice)-
Genta NakamuraKenta Morobishi (voice)
WHERE TO WATCH
- Creator(s)
- Chugong
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