Abilities have given select humans the power to face the monsters that emerge from gates, shaping a new dynamic between them and these supernatural threats. Despite this evolution, only a small fraction of the population possesses the strength necessary to become hunters.
Those who gain these abilities are classified as hunters, individuals far superior in strength compared to ordinary people. However, with this power comes the responsibility of entering dungeons and confronting creatures capable of ending their lives in an instant.
A white tiger emerges when the battle demands it (Photo: Solo Leveling/Lucasfilm Ltd)Hunters are divided into various classes, and their skill sets differ greatly. Some possess only basic enhancements, such as heightened reflexes and increased endurance, while others demonstrate extraordinary abilities that place them on an entirely different level.
Solo Leveling showcases a range of these powers, with some being so overwhelming that they seem almost unfair.
1. Transformation – Baek Yoonho
Baek Yoonho, a formidable S-Rank hunter, is widely recognized for his remarkable transformation ability. Even without activating this power, his physical capabilities far exceed those of lower-tier hunters. However, when he fully unleashes his potential, he assumes the form of a humanoid beast resembling a white tiger.
Entering this state grants Baek Yoonho an immense boost in both strength and speed, amplifying his power to an extraordinary degree. His durability also reaches new heights, making him a nearly unstoppable force. Despite these advantages, he refrains from using his beast form unless the situation truly demands it.
Additionally, he has the unique ability to selectively transform specific parts of his body rather than undergoing a full transformation. Equipped with razor-sharp claws and fangs, his mere presence is enough to instill fear in weaker hunters.
2. Barrier Magic – Yuri Orloff
Yuri Orloff proves that not every S-Rank hunter specializes in combat. Just as there are high-ranking healers, some hunters focus on support-based abilities, and Orloff’s expertise lay in barrier magic. Although his offensive capabilities were lacking compared to other S-Rank hunters, his defensive skills more than made up for it.
His barriers were strong enough to restrain even top-tier hunters, an impressive feat that demonstrated his unique strength. Additionally, he developed a method to make his barriers self-sustaining, which enabled him to contain an S-Rank gate temporarily.
While the giants that emerged from the gate eventually shattered it, few hunters possessed the raw power required to break through his defensive structures.
3. Ruler’s Authority/Capture – Sung Jin-Woo, Thomas Andre, and the Rulers’ Vessels
A telekinetic skill known as Ruler’s Authority, also referred to as Capture, allows Sung Jin-Woo to manipulate objects and pull them toward himself. Despite its simplicity, the skill’s adaptability and raw power make it one of his most frequently utilized abilities in combat.
Barrier magic strong enough to hold back even the strongest (Photo: Solo Leveling/Lucasfilm Ltd)Other than Sung Jin-Woo, this power is exclusive to the Rulers and their chosen vessels. When Thomas Andre activated Capture, the effect was so intense that Jin-Woo compared it to a black hole pulling everything inward.
Fortunately, Jin-Woo was able to counter this ability using his mastery of Ruler’s Authority, preventing himself from being drawn in. This telekinetic force is reserved solely for the Rulers and their vessels, but since Ashborn was once a Ruler, Jin-Woo inherited the ability upon succeeding him.
4. Bloodlust – Sung Jin-Woo
Bloodlust, also known as Murderous Intent, is an ability demonstrated by multiple characters throughout Solo Leveling. The sheer presence of this skill often triggers the system’s response, compelling Sung Jin-Woo to eliminate potential threats.
While several hunters possess bloodlust, Jin-Woo’s version manifests as an ability that allows him to overwhelm enemies with fear, rendering them paralyzed and unable to resist. Though this technique proves ineffective against powerful adversaries, it excels in large-scale battles against weaker opponents.
By inducing terror in his enemies, Jin-Woo avoids the hassle of individually eliminating thousands of lower-level threats, making it a highly efficient skill in combat.
5. Reinforcement – Thomas Andre
Before Sung Jin-Woo claimed the spotlight, Thomas Andre was widely regarded as the strongest hunter and held the top rank globally. His already immense physical prowess set him apart, but it was his ability, Reinforcement, that truly cemented his status as an unstoppable force.
When activated, Reinforcement encases Thomas’ entire body in golden scales, drastically increasing his durability. Given his naturally massive physique, the addition of these scales makes him appear like an indomitable war deity, a presence that few would dare challenge.
During his intense battle against Sung Jin-Woo, even Jin-Woo’s attacks left his hands bruised upon striking Thomas’ reinforced body. This showcased just how resilient and near-invulnerable Reinforcement made him in combat.