The weakest E-rank hunter of all mankind, Sung Jinwoo and his evolutionary, unconfirmed second awakening has everyone questioning the future of hunters and ranks. In a world plagued with dangerous dungeons and deadly monsters, these ranks exist to protect humanity and its defenders.
Despite his lack of strength, Jinwoo participates in a high-risk raid which nearly costs him his life. After this near-fatal encounter, he experiences what can only be described as a second awakening (though never confirmed). Jinwoo is granted access to a mysterious interface, known only as ‘The System‘ which provides him with tasks, quests and abilities that only he can see and interact with.
With the help of the System, Jinwoo embarks on a journey of self-improvement, taking on increasingly difficult challenges to level up and strengthen himself. As he gains new powers and becomes more capable, he begins to evolve from the weakest hunter into a formidable force which dubs him as a “false ranker”, as each task he completes enables him to uncover new potential in his abilities, and he also learns of the dark secrets surrounding these dungeons.
Solo Leveling -Arise from the Shadow- picks up right where the first season left off, continuing with Jinwoo’s job change quest. The story continues with a high-intensity, adrenaline-pumping battle against the formidable Knight Commander Igris the Bloodred, alongside mages and knights. This thrilling fight sets the stage for what is to come, as Jinwoo pushes himself to new limits, facing even more dangerous challenges. Although the ‘necromancer’ class change was not in Jinwoo’s bingo card, neither was his promotion to ‘The Monarch of Shadows’. But hey, what the system wants, shall be delivered.
This twist was perfect for the season finale, leaving viewers eagerly anticipating what comes next setting the stage for his evolution. The epic showdown leads seamlessly into the next arc of the series – The Red Gate. Where new enemies, alliances, and mysteries await, further developing Jinwoo‘s journey as he grows in strength, uncovering the deeper secrets of his powers.
Just as the System had foretold, Sung Jinwoo’s transformation into a power necromance with his “army of the dead” that will follow his every command can only be described as epic. Solo Leveling -Arise from the Shadow- kicks off with a bang, immediately drawing fans into Jinwoo’s evolution from the weakest E-rank hunter into a force to be reckoned with. The opening episode title, “You Aren’t E-Rank, Are you?” sets the stage for an action-packed season with Jinwoo about to face a battle he never signed up for.
Packed with intense, bold and striking visuals which were perfectly complemented by the immersive sound design, amplified the impact of this battle. This climatic battle left me on the edge of my seat, eager to see how Jinwoo’s new abilities will evolve and what challenges lie ahead. With the Red Gate arc in full swing, new allies and rivals begin to emerge. This arc sets the stage for strong confrontations and alliances with the changing dynamics of hunters, dungeons and monsters!
Like the manhwa, the visuals and effects truly bring the South Korean action-fantasy to life. The animation makes use of its dark moody colour palette which complements the series’ intense and often gritty atmosphere. Every battle and challenge pull viewers into the action with stunning fight sequences that highlight Jinwoo’s evolving strength.
Having had read the manhwa (yes, all 200 chapters), I am excited to see this tale be brought to the screen. Solo Leveling written by Chugong, illustrated by the late Dubu (Redice Studio) and adapted by studio A-1 Pictures has fans in a chokehold. The fast-paced action in season 1 drew direct homage to the manhwa which has me anticipating that season 2 will follow just as closely. Although the first season did feel a little rushed and condensed, I have high hopes that the rest of Solo Leveling -Arise from the Shadow- will deliver.
Don’t miss out on this action-packed animated series, now streaming on crunchyroll.com!
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