Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on Cultivating in Online Games
I finally dove into "Cultivating in Online Games," and it's been quite the ride! With its blend of xianxia, VRMMORPG elements, and a dash of yaoi, it certainly offers a unique experience. The premise alone was enough to pique my interest.
First Impressions
Initially, I was drawn in by the concept of a cultivation world meeting a modern online game. The idea of an OP protagonist, Dugu Zhou, using his past-life knowledge to dominate the game Jiu Tian sounded like a fun power fantasy. However, I also went in with a little apprehension, hoping the power imbalance wouldn't overshadow the other elements of the story.
What Works Well
I found the humor and lightheartedness to be a major strength. The interactions between the characters, especially the side characters, were genuinely entertaining. The black cat monk and the lingzhi were particular standouts, adding a lot of flavor to the story. The gradual development of the relationship between Dugu Zhou and Ye Zhou also felt natural and unforced. It's refreshing to see a romance unfold without unnecessary drama or artificial obstacles. The plotline balances the angst of the past with the carefree environment of the game.
The exploration of the contrast between real-world cultivators and game players was fascinating. The idea that players, even evil ones, possess a certain innocence due to the nature of the game, while real-world cultivators face genuine moral dilemmas, created an interesting dynamic. The unique skills and abilities of the characters really add depth to the world.
Areas of Concern
While I thoroughly enjoyed the story, I can understand some criticisms regarding the MC's overwhelming power. While it makes sense that he leverages his past knowledge, it can feel a bit much at times. I also felt that the side characters could be more developed, as they were all interesting in their own right.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
Some readers have mentioned key plot points, such as the nature of the main quest line being tied to the leads' shared past, the reveal of the ML's health issues being linked to his incomplete soul, and the MC working as a consultant for the game in the real world. Be cautious moving forward if you wish to experience these revelations firsthand.
Final Verdict
Overall, "Cultivating in Online Games" is an enjoyable and relaxing read. If you're looking for a story that blends cultivation elements with a modern gaming setting, features a sweet romance, and doesn't take itself too seriously, this might be right up your alley. I'd recommend going in with an open mind and simply enjoying the ride!
