What's the phenomenon of Solo Leveling?

The second season of the *Solo Leveling* anime is here! This adaptation of the popular South Korean manhwa, brought to life by A-1 Pictures, plunges viewers into a world where hunters battle monsters emerging from portals.

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?

Earth is under siege. Gates to other dimensions have opened, unleashing hordes of monsters impervious to conventional weaponry. Only hunters, individuals with special abilities, can combat this threat. Ranked from E-rank to S-rank, these hunters face increasingly dangerous dungeons. Sung Jin-woo, a low-ranking hunter, finds himself trapped and facing death. His sacrifice, however, grants him an unprecedented power: the ability to level up, transforming his life into a game-like experience complete with quests and leveling menus. His journey to become stronger begins.

Why has the anime become so popular?

The anime's success stems from several factors. Firstly, A-1 Pictures, renowned for adapting popular manga and light novels (like *Kaguya-sama: Love is War*, *Sword Art Online*, and *Erased*), faithfully recreated the beloved manhwa. The result is a consistently action-packed experience with a straightforward narrative, easily accessible to viewers of all ages. The studio cleverly uses lighting and shadows to create an immersive atmosphere, enhancing both tense and lighter moments.

The second reason for its popularity is Jin-woo himself

Jin-woo's journey resonates with audiences. Initially dubbed "The Weakest Hunter," his selflessness and willingness to sacrifice himself for his team, despite his financial responsibilities, sets him apart. He's not a flawless hero; he makes mistakes, learns from them, and earns his power through dedication and hard work. Viewers connect with his relatable struggle and appreciate his earned abilities, a refreshing change from many overpowered protagonists.

Finally, the marketing played a big role

The memorable "God" statue, frequently appearing in memes, piqued the curiosity of many, drawing attention to the series beyond its existing fanbase.

Why does the anime receive criticism?

Some criticize the clichéd plot and abrupt shifts between action and calmer scenes. Jin-woo's rapid evolution from underdog to powerhouse is seen by some as an author-insert or Mary Sue character. The supporting characters, while functional, lack the depth to fully complement Jin-woo's journey. Manhwa readers also point out that the pacing, while suitable for the source material, doesn't translate perfectly to the anime format.

Is it worth watching?

Absolutely! If you crave non-stop action with a focus on the protagonist's journey, the first season is highly binge-worthy. However, if Jin-woo's story doesn't grab you within the first couple of episodes, you might find the rest less engaging. The same could be said for the second season and the related gacha game.