Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on Demon King, Retry! (WN)
Demon King, Retry! is a web novel that definitely grabbed my attention, though it's a bit of a mixed bag. While it has some genuinely refreshing elements, it also dips into familiar isekai tropes that can be a little tiresome.
First Impressions
Initially, I was drawn to the premise of an older, more mature protagonist being transported to another world as a Demon Lord. It felt like it had the potential to subvert the typical power fantasy. And in some ways, it does. The MC isn't your run-of-the-mill, wish-fulfillment character, and the world he finds himself in has some interesting political and economic complexities. However, the early chapters felt a little rushed, and the initial goal of finding a way back home seems to get sidelined pretty quickly.
What Works Well
What I enjoyed most about Demon King, Retry! is its humor. It's not laugh-out-loud funny all the time, but there are moments that are genuinely amusing. The author seems to be self-aware, even throwing in parodies of other popular novels. I also appreciated the gradual unveiling of the world and its characters. The Demon Lord's subordinates are more than just cardboard cutouts, and the story hints at a larger, more intricate plot with a mysterious antagonist. The MC's interactions and unintentional empire-building are entertaining to watch.
Areas of Concern
My biggest issue with the novel is its reliance on harem tropes. While the story attempts to add twists and turns, the constant influx of young girls falling for the MC's various personas can feel a bit repetitive and detract from the overall narrative. Also, the story is not completed. It feels like it ends abruptly, leaving several plot threads unresolved.
Final Verdict
Demon King, Retry! is a decent isekai novel with some unique elements that help it stand out from the crowd. If you are looking for a lighthearted read with a mature protagonist and don't mind the harem elements, this might be worth checking out. Just be aware that the story is ongoing and ends on a cliffhanger. I'd give it a solid 3.5 out of 5 stars.
