Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on I Said Make My Abilities Average!
"I Said Make My Abilities Average!" is a web novel with a premise that immediately grabbed my attention: a protagonist reincarnated with "average" abilities who is, in reality, anything but. After diving in, I found a story that, while enjoyable, has its ups and downs.
First Impressions
Initially, I was charmed by the comedic setup. Mile, our main character, wants nothing more than to be average, but due to a lazy god's skewed definition, she ends up incredibly overpowered. The early chapters are genuinely funny, with Mile's attempts to blend in constantly backfiring in spectacular fashion. It's a fun twist on the overpowered protagonist trope.
What Works Well
The humor is definitely a strong point. Mile's naivete and lack of common sense, combined with her extraordinary abilities, create some truly hilarious situations. I also appreciate the lighthearted adventure aspect. The story doesn't take itself too seriously, and it's easy to get swept up in Mile and her party's adventures. The author also makes an attempt to explain the magic using "nanomachines", which is a cool concept.
Areas of Concern
As I read further, I noticed some recurring issues. The plot can feel repetitive, with the same "underestimated party" scenario playing out multiple times. This can lead to a sense of fatigue, especially as the story progresses. I also found myself wishing for more depth in the side characters. While they're fun, they often feel one-dimensional compared to Mile.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
Some readers may find issues with certain plot developments. For example, the party's tendency to spare villains, even after lengthy discussions about the practicality of doing so, rubbed some people the wrong way. This can create a disconnect between the story's stated values and its actual events.
Final Verdict
Overall, "I Said Make My Abilities Average!" is a decent read if you're looking for a lighthearted and humorous isekai story. While it has its flaws, the comedic premise and the likable protagonist make it an enjoyable experience. However, if you're seeking a deeply intricate plot or complex character development, you might want to look elsewhere.
