Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on Black Guild Company Employee Carelessly Broadcasts a Video of Him Fighting an S-class Monster on a Company Line Nationwide ~Corporate S*ave Sword Saint Becomes a Broadcaster~
First Impressions
Okay, that title is a mouthful, right? But beyond the sheer length, I was intrigued. The premise – a salaryman sword saint accidentally going viral – screamed potential for both action and comedy. I dove in hoping for a fun, escapist read, and for the most part, that's what I got.
What Works Well
The core concept is undeniably entertaining. Watching Tanaka, our protagonist, navigate the monster-filled world while still clinging to his corporate identity is genuinely funny. He's a caring guy, and I found myself rooting for him as he juggled his responsibilities with his newfound fame. The "netizen" aspect, with the live stream comments, adds another layer of amusement. When done right, these comment sections can be hilarious, and this novel generally delivers on that front. I also appreciated that, for the most part, the characters behaved reasonably. Tanaka, despite his power, felt grounded, making him a likable lead.
Areas of Concern
While the story is enjoyable, it does lean heavily into certain tropes. The biggest issue for me was Tanaka's density when it comes to romantic interests. It can get frustrating seeing him oblivious to the affections of multiple women, especially when it's pointed out repeatedly. I can see how some readers might find this tiresome. Also, the plot progression can feel a little slow at times. There's a lot of slice-of-life content, which is fine in moderation, but it can overshadow the main storyline.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
Okay, let's talk about the harem situation. It seems Tanaka has attracted quite the collection of admirers, including a childhood friend, a college student, his student, a Shoggoth (maybe?), and even an isekai'd elf princess knight! Apparently, things have progressed to the point of multiple kisses and confessions, but Tanaka's still seemingly focused on other things.
Final Verdict
Despite its flaws, "Black Guild Company Employee..." is a fun and engaging read. If you're looking for a lighthearted story with plenty of action, comedy, and a charming protagonist, this might be right up your alley. Just be prepared for some dense-protagonist moments and a potentially slow-burn plot. I'd give it a solid 3.5 out of 5 stars. It's not a masterpiece, but it's a genuinely enjoyable way to spend some time.
