The latter half of the prologue in Solo Leveling delivered an electrifying experience, raising anticipation for what’s to come.
Yet, the anime appears to lean heavily on well-worn themes like the transformation of a weak protagonist into a formidable force and the revelation of hidden strength. These elements have fueled excitement among viewers eager to see the lead character prove his worth.
Jinwoo’s underestimated strength keeps viewers eager for his growth (Photo: Solo Leveling/Lucasfilm Ltd)Should the series struggle to maintain the momentum established in its opening moments, it may find itself following the same trajectory as other anime that failed to sustain early hype.
The Anime’s Initial Innovation Gives Way to Familiar Genre Conventions
Before and after its much-anticipated premiere, Solo Leveling generated immense buzz. However, despite the strong foundation laid in its prologue, the series appears to be steering toward more conventional storytelling methods.
The early appeal of Solo Leveling stemmed from its unique blend of a modern setting infused with dungeon portals and the protagonist’s solitary, game-like progression.
While the debut episodes displayed originality, by the time episode four aired, the show seemed to be settling into traditional isekai and shonen formulas.
One recurring theme involves an immensely capable hero being misjudged as weak, a trope that often leaves audiences frustrated.
A remarkable example occurs in episode four’s concluding scene, where Sung Jin-Woo underestimates his pivotal role in defeating a D-rank boss, leading him to dismiss any expectation of recognition.
Solo Leveling Moves Away from its Most Compelling Premise
This commonly used plot device is further reinforced by another familiar isekai concept—the protagonist initially perceived as weak stumbles upon an extraordinary power that transforms them into an unstoppable force.
Jin-Woo’s long-standing reputation as the weakest hunter only adds to the anticipation surrounding his journey, amplifying the audience’s desire to see him overcome adversity.
From a critical standpoint, relying too much on these well-known themes may not be enough to sustain Solo Leveling at the level of acclaim it has reached.
The second episode stood out because of its intense and strategic survival challenge, where Jin-Woo and his group faced a deadly riddle enforced by terrifying, Attack on Titan-style statues.
That harrowing sequence created an unmatched sense of danger, making Jin-Woo’s subsequent power-ups feel less impactful in comparison.
Solo Leveling Risks Falling into the Same Trap as Other Overhyped Series
Interestingly, Jin-Woo himself acknowledges a sentiment that critical viewers might share during his climactic battle in episode four.
While confronting a formidable B-rank boss, he realizes the current threat pales in comparison to what he endured against the statues.
The brilliance of that earlier scene lay in how it broke away from standard isekai and fantasy conventions, forcing the protagonist to rely on intellect rather than sheer strength to overcome insurmountable odds.
As the story progresses, the anime appears to be embracing a more traditional path, focusing on the protagonist’s gradual increase in power—a staple of isekai stories.
While this approach isn’t inherently flawed, the immense attention surrounding Solo Leveling sets a higher standard for originality.
Much of the current enthusiasm may be fueled by fans of Chugong’s original web novel and its subsequent manhwa adaptation, who are eagerly awaiting the adaptation of future chapters.