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. This anime, produced by A-1 Pictures, plunges viewers into a world where portals unleash monstrous creatures upon Earth, and only a select few—hunters—possess the ability to combat them. The hunters are ranked from E-rank to S-rank, mirroring the dungeon difficulty levels where these battles take place.

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 follows Sung Jin-woo, an E-rank hunter, the weakest of the weak. During a perilous dungeon raid, his team is trapped, and Jin-woo, facing his own inadequacy, makes a selfless sacrifice. This act triggers an unexpected reward: the ability to level up, a power unique to him. He gains a game-like interface, allowing him to systematically enhance his abilities and rise through the ranks, transforming his life into a thrilling journey of self-improvement and power.

Why has the anime become so popular?

*Solo Leveling*'s popularity stems from several factors. Firstly, its faithful adaptation of the beloved manhwa. A-1 Pictures, known for successful adaptations like *Kaguya-sama: Love is War* and *Sword Art Online*, expertly translated the source material's action-packed narrative into an engaging anime experience. The story is easy to follow, focusing on the main plot without overwhelming viewers with complex world-building. The studio also masterfully uses lighting and shadow to create an immersive atmosphere, enhancing the tension and excitement of the action sequences.

The second reason for its popularity is Jin-woo himself

Jin-woo's journey from underdog to powerhouse is compelling. Initially dubbed "The Weakest Hunter," his early struggles and selfless act resonate with viewers. He's not a flawless hero; he makes mistakes and learns from them, earning his power through dedication and perseverance. This relatable aspect, coupled with his unwavering commitment to improving himself, makes him a captivating protagonist. Viewers appreciate his earned abilities, a refreshing contrast to characters born with inherent power.

Finally, the marketing played a big role

The memorable "God" statue, a striking visual from the series, quickly became a viral meme, sparking curiosity and drawing in viewers unfamiliar with the manhwa.

Why does the anime receive criticism?

Despite its popularity, *Solo Leveling* faces criticism. Some point to a clichéd plot and abrupt shifts in tone between action and calmer moments. Others find Jin-woo's rapid ascent to power excessive, labeling him as a Mary Sue. Furthermore, the supporting characters often feel underdeveloped, lacking depth beyond their initial traits, a critique particularly relevant for viewers seeking nuanced character development. Finally, some manhwa readers find the anime's pacing too fast compared to the original source material.

Is it worth watching?

Absolutely, if you enjoy action-packed anime with a focus on the protagonist's journey and less emphasis on complex supporting characters. However, if Jin-woo's story doesn't grab you within the first couple of episodes, you might find the series less engaging. The same could be said for the second season or even the open-world gacha game based on the series.