Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on Great Dao Commander
Alright, let's dive into "Great Dao Commander." I've been following this one for a bit, and it's definitely a mixed bag, but ultimately, I think it's worth checking out if you're looking for something a little different in the Xianxia genre.
First Impressions
Initially, I was a bit put off. The setup is pretty standard: reincarnation, a cheat item, and the whole "trash to treasure" trope. The MC transmigrates into the body of a young cultivator, which is a story I've read a hundred times. However, I will say that the MC's origins in a post-apocalyptic world, rather than modern Earth, adds a tiny bit of uniqueness. I agree with others who felt the early chapters were a bit confusing, but I encourage you to push through.
What Works Well
What really grabbed me was the MC's approach to cultivation and self-improvement. He's not afraid to show off, to cheat, or to scheme to get ahead. It's refreshing to see a protagonist who actively seeks out opportunities and isn't afraid to make enemies along the way. He understands the need to advance quickly to survive, and I really appreciated his proactive nature. He makes plans and executes them rather than just waiting for things to happen. The cultivation system itself is also quite unique, involving deciphering cultivation methods from mysterious writings. It's a cool twist on the usual Qi and Dantian power-ups. The world-building is also well done. It's not dumped on you all at once, but revealed gradually as the story progresses. This slow-burn approach to world-building really allows you to become invested in the world.
Areas of Concern
However, I can't ignore some of the criticisms. While the MC is generally portrayed as intelligent, some of his schemes can be a bit… questionable. I've also seen complaints that the sect treats the MC poorly, which might be a turn-off for some readers. Also, there is the issue of translation quality, depending on where you are reading.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
Some readers have pointed out specific plot points that they found unbelievable. For example, the MC convincing a powerful enemy to give away artifacts and cripple himself. This is a pretty absurd scenario, and I can understand why some readers might find it jarring. There's also the backstory with the MC's wife, who scammed him out of his fortune. This plot point seems to be a source of confusion for some.
Final Verdict
Overall, I'm giving "Great Dao Commander" a solid 4 out of 5. Despite its flaws and occasional plot holes, it offers a unique take on the Xianxia genre with a proactive and cunning protagonist. If you're willing to overlook some of the issues, you might find yourself enjoying this one as much as I am.
