Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on Legend
"Legend" is a web novel that sparked a lot of different feelings in me. It's one of those stories that seems to have a core appeal, but also some glaring issues that hold it back from being truly great. I went in expecting a fun isekai adventure, and while I got elements of that, the overall experience was a bit of a mixed bag.
First Impressions
The initial chapters pulled me in with the promise of a protagonist reborn with immense power and the knowledge of a legendary mage. The idea of him navigating a new world with these advantages was exciting. I was ready for some classic isekai fun, watching him overcome challenges and grow stronger.
What Works Well
What I found most enjoyable was the dynamic between the main character, Rei, and his griffin companion, Set. Their interactions, while simple, added a touch of lightheartedness to the story. I also appreciated the premise of Rei and Set gaining new skills by absorbing monster cores. That's a cool system that adds a layer of progression beyond just leveling up. The author also seems intent on making this a long series, focusing on world-building and slow-burn character development. For some, that's a massive plus.
Areas of Concern
However, the story does have some significant drawbacks. The pacing can be incredibly slow, dragging out events and making it feel like a chore to read at times. I also noticed that some found the characters to be quite bland and lacking in personality. The interactions between them can feel stilted and unnatural, which makes it hard to connect with them on an emotional level. The plot, or lack thereof, is another point of contention. It often feels like Rei is just going through the motions, completing quests without any clear overarching goal. This lack of direction can make the story feel aimless and uninspired. Some mention the introduction of romance as a turnoff, finding it forced and detracting from the main story.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
Some readers have expressed frustration with Rei's power level and how it's handled. Despite having immense mana and the memories of a powerful mage, he often relies on his physical abilities, making his magical prowess feel underutilized. Additionally, some feel that the introduction of a love interest who quickly becomes as strong, if not stronger than, Rei undermines his character and makes him seem less compelling.
Final Verdict
Overall, "Legend" is a decent read if you're looking for a slow-paced isekai adventure with a focus on world-building and monster hunting. However, be prepared for bland characters, a lack of plot, and some questionable character progression. It's not a terrible novel, but it could definitely benefit from some improvements in pacing, character development, and plot direction. I'd give it a cautious recommendation.
