The success and popularity of Solo Leveling is straight up a dream for any anime-manga series. Only a few series reach the masses the way Solo Leveling has, and that makes some fans question if the manhwa and its anime adaptation are even worthy of such acclaim from the audiences.
This discourse has sparked a debate about the hype surrounding the series, making it seem like one of the most overrated titles of present times. While there must be some merit to this discussion, it diminishes the things Solo Leveling does right.
From using a simple formula and presenting it in visually appealing ways, both the manhwa and the anime have cracked a simple code of success. There are some clear indicators that suggest that the anime deserves every bit of the attention directed its way.
Solo Leveling’s popularity is more than just hype
Solo Leveling manhwa began its run in 2018 and garnered popularity all over the world. It wouldn’t be wrong to say that it introduced manhwa as a format and medium to many international fans. The pre-existing fanbase of the manhwa made it easier for the anime to gain traction.
The anime adaptation was eagerly anticipated and the hype was unmatched. However, the manhwa’s pre-existing fanbase wasn’t the only reason the anime became so popular in such a short span of time. It worked on the same principles that made the manhwa popular, even elevated the same formula in many ways.
Without over promising depth or live-changing revelations, Solo Leveling ensured that there’s enough entertainment to keep the audience hooked. A basic storyline was made easy and even enjoyable to consume, and how it was done is the most interesting part.
A simple formula that worked wonders
The manhwa by Chugong and Dubu featured spectacular art and was a main highlight. The simple journey of powering up was paired with beautiful art and exciting fights. Sung Jinwoo’s aura and his interactions were the perfect fix for the itch fans felt for mindless entertainment. Similarly, the art was replaced with stunning animation in the anime. The fluid animation and vibrant colors also accentuated the appeal of the fight sequences.
![If ‘Solo Leveling’ Fans Hated Sung Jinwoo’s Reunion With His Mother, They’ll Hate [Spoiler] Even More](https://fwmedia.fandomwire.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/08122650/solo-leveling-6-768x432.jpg "If ‘Solo Leveling’ Fans Hated Sung Jinwoo’s Reunion With His Mother, They’ll Hate [Spoiler] Even More")
Unlike other anime with more complex storylines, one doesn’t need to keep an eye on subtle hints of foreshadowing. Solo Leveling keeps things simple but presents them in extraordinarily entertaining and visually pleasant ways. It never promised fans that there will be layers of detail, the only thing it promised was entertainment, and every episode checks off that mark.
Even though fan theories and discussion threads are proof that fans want something new, complex, and challenging to watch, Solo Leveling is a testament to the contrary. There’s a mass audience that simply wants to have a good time. Solo Leveling ensures this good time with great animation, enthralling fights and likable characters, albeit maybe not the most well-written ones.
Solo Leveling is available to stream on Crunchyroll.
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