Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on Godly Student
"Godly Student" is quite a ride, and not always in a good way. This web novel throws you headfirst into the life of a reincarnated immortal alchemist who suddenly finds himself in the body of a modern-day, somewhat degenerate, rich young master. It's a premise ripe with potential for wish fulfillment, but the execution is, shall we say, uneven.
First Impressions
Initially, I was intrigued by the idea of an overpowered immortal navigating the mundane world of high school and modern society. The early chapters promise a blend of slice-of-life, comedy, and a touch of wish fulfillment as the MC rediscovers his abilities and starts attracting attention. There's a certain charm to the setup, especially if you're willing to suspend your disbelief.
What Works Well
Some readers have found the initial interactions with the harem members entertaining. The MC's shamelessness, while potentially off-putting to some, can be amusing in the right context. I can see the appeal of a fast-paced, easy-to-read story where the protagonist gradually regains his OP status. A few readers have mentioned that if you don't take the story too seriously, it can be an enjoyable, lighthearted read.
Areas of Concern
However, the novel quickly veers into problematic territory. A recurring criticism is the MC's inconsistent personality and questionable decision-making. Despite being a thousand-year-old immortal, he often acts like an immature and impulsive teenager. He tends to share his secrets with random strangers, and has a habit of letting his enemies off the hook. This lack of consistent character development and the repetition of plot points can make the story feel monotonous and frustrating. The slow progress of the main story arc has also been a major point of contention for many readers.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
Several reviewers mentioned specific plot points that highlight these issues. For instance, the MC often spares those who have wronged him or his loved ones, even after they've posed a serious threat. The way the people around him react to his displays of power is often unrealistic, with them barely batting an eye at things that should be mind-boggling. Also, his relationships lack depth, with him constantly declaring his "love" for every beautiful woman he meets, cheapening the meaning of the word.
Final Verdict
Ultimately, "Godly Student" is a mixed bag. While it may offer some initial entertainment with its wish-fulfillment elements and harem antics, its inconsistent character development, repetitive plot, and questionable decision-making make it a difficult read for many. Unless you're willing to turn off your brain and embrace the absurdity, you might find yourself growing increasingly frustrated with the MC's actions and the story's lack of direction. Proceed with caution.