A review by booksandstrokes
Solo Leveling, Vol. 1 by Chugong

adventurous dark mysterious fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

Let me start by saying that my review is for the series as a whole. 

Solo Levelling starts with a RPG like premise, in a world where monsters exist within dimensional pockets accessed by 'gates'. Humans with enhanced abilities, known as hunters go into these gates to defeat these monsters before they can breach into Earth. Our hero, Sung Jin Woo, is the weakest even among the lowest ranked E level hunters. However, a special double dungeon results in him getting the unique ability to level up.

This manhwa adaptation of the light novels delivers action, art and story with equal panache! It draws you in and makes you invested in Jin woo's journey almost immediately, and you can't help but root for this underdog with little power but lots of heart. The art style is just gorgeous, and remains consistent throughout the manhwa, creating an immersive experience that makes you return for more.

The story is a blend of action, fantasy and RPG esque adventure with the right amount of humour. While it focuses on Jin woo for the most part, the members of his army stole my heart!
it felt surreal how I initially hated Igris, the High Orc and Beru, but later on became their biggest fan. The camera shy High Orc and saeguk stan Beru are my personal favourites.
. The only point where I felt let down by the story was the ending, for it felt like they used the easiest plot device available to fantasy.
I'm usually a huge fan of time travel, but giving Jin woo the cup of resurrection basically negated all the sacrifices made till that point


Overall, Solo Levelling is a Manhwa worth reading, especially if you are an action and RPG fan!
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