Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on The Cannon Fodder Who Dies at the Start is Actually a Max-Level Retired Big Shot
I went into "The Cannon Fodder Who Dies at the Start is Actually a Max-Level Retired Big Shot" with a healthy dose of curiosity. The premise alone—a transmigrated MC destined to die early, only to be revealed as a hidden powerhouse—is enough to pique anyone's interest. With a mix of action, romance, and a dash of the supernatural, it seemed like it could be a fun ride.
First Impressions
The initial chapters definitely throw you into the deep end. We're thrust into an apocalyptic world with Chu Xihen, our MC, already in a relationship with Lou Su, one of the original novel's protagonists. The setup is intriguing: Chu Xihen is supposed to be cannon fodder, but clearly, things aren't going to go as planned.
What Works Well
Despite some early hiccups, the story does have its strengths. The twists and turns kept me guessing, especially when the backstories of Chu Xihen, the ML, and even some of the seemingly minor characters started to unfold. I appreciated the author's attempt to create a complex web of relationships and motivations. The aggressive characters and the enemies-to-allies trope are pretty well done.
Areas of Concern
I have to admit, the initial character interactions were a bit jarring. Lou Su's friends' animosity towards Chu Xihen felt forced and, frankly, a little nonsensical. It was hard to understand their hatred, and Lou Su's lack of reaction to their behavior towards his boyfriend was frustrating. The plot relies heavily on the concept that these characters are influenced by the plot, which makes it hard to accept their behavior at face value.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
Okay, let's talk spoilers. One reader pointed out a specific scene where one of Lou Su's friends attempts to eliminate Chu Xihen, and the subsequent interaction between Chu Xihen and Lou Su felt poorly written. I can see where they're coming from. The lack of a strong reaction from Lou Su after such a serious event definitely raises questions about his character's consistency.
Final Verdict
"The Cannon Fodder Who Dies at the Start is Actually a Max-Level Retired Big Shot" is a mixed bag. While the overarching plot and the eventual unveiling of character backstories are compelling, the initial character dynamics and some questionable writing choices detract from the overall experience. If you're willing to push through the early frustrations, you might find yourself enjoying the later developments and the unexpected twists. However, be prepared for some bumpy roads along the way.
