Reviewed by Kana
Who it's for, and whether it holds up.
My Thoughts on World of Immortals
I dove into World of Immortals with a mix of excitement and trepidation, given its xuanhuan tag and the buzz surrounding its anime adaptation. The premise of a protagonist thrust into a higher realm filled with mythical beasts definitely piqued my interest. After spending some time with it, I've got a pretty good feel for what this novel offers.
First Impressions
My initial impression was a bit rocky. The early chapters felt somewhat disorienting. It took me a little while to grasp the cultivation system and the world's overall structure. The story does throw you right into the action, which can be both a blessing and a curse.
What Works Well
One aspect that really stood out to me was the beast companion dynamic. The way the main character interacts with the creatures on the island is genuinely engaging. It's not just about domination or servitude; there's a sense of camaraderie and mutual respect that I found refreshing. The survival aspect is also well-executed. The protagonist isn't overpowered, and he has to rely on his wits and resourcefulness to navigate the dangerous environment. The mystery surrounding the island itself and its sealed dragons kept me invested, wanting to uncover more about its secrets.
Areas of Concern
However, I can't ignore some of the criticisms I've seen and experienced myself. The pacing can be inconsistent. Some parts drag on, especially the descriptions of female characters, which, at times, feel excessive and redundant. The relationship between the MC and one particular female character seems to be a point of contention for many, with some finding it frustrating and even off-putting. Also, while the action is frequent, the fight scenes can be somewhat vague and difficult to visualize. I sometimes found myself struggling to understand the flow of combat and the specific techniques being used.
⚠️ Spoiler Warning
Some readers have pointed out that the "Dragon Island" arc essentially acts as a very long prologue, setting the stage for later events. Be aware that if you're looking for immediate gratification, it may take a while to get to the core of the story.
Final Verdict
World of Immortals is a mixed bag. It has moments of brilliance, particularly in its world-building and beast interactions. However, it's also hampered by pacing issues, repetitive descriptions, and somewhat confusing fight scenes. If you're willing to be patient and overlook some of its flaws, you might find yourself enjoying the intriguing world and the protagonist's struggle for survival. For me, it's a solid 3 out of 5. I'm curious enough to see where the story goes, but I'm also hoping that some of the issues get addressed as the translation progresses.
