Before, My Girlfriend Gacha Pulls Were Always Stuck on NTR. But Now It’s Upgraded to Dsr (Great Skill) in My College Life Novel Review

My Thoughts on Before, My Girlfriend Gacha Pulls Were Always Stuck on NTR. But Now It’s Upgraded to Dsr (Great Skill) in My College Life

This title definitely grabbed my attention, and after diving in, I can see why it's such a mixed bag for readers. The premise is undeniably intriguing: a protagonist dealing with the fallout of past betrayals as his college life becomes entangled with the very people who hurt him. However, the execution seems to be where things get complicated.

First Impressions

The initial chapters hook you with the "NTR" element, but it quickly becomes apparent that this isn't just another revenge story. It's attempting to be a romantic comedy with a heavy dose of drama, a combination that either clicks or completely clashes depending on your taste. I went in expecting a dark and gritty tale, but found something much more… perplexing.

What Works Well

Some readers, myself included to an extent, appreciate the MC's attempts to navigate these difficult relationships with a degree of maturity. He's not portrayed as a complete simp or an edgelord seeking vengeance. Instead, he tries to do what he believes is right, primarily for his own peace of mind. The girls, despite their past actions, are presented as flawed and believable, which adds a layer of complexity to the dynamic. Also, the "regret" twist does add a nice element of depth to the story.

Areas of Concern

The humor is a major sticking point. It relies heavily on Japanese wordplay and inside jokes, which don't always translate well. This can lead to a frustrating reading experience, as the intended comedic effect is lost. The drama, at times, feels forced and pointless, driven by misunderstandings that stretch the bounds of believability. Some readers also felt the story absolved the girls of responsibility by shifting blame onto another character.

Final Verdict

Overall, Before, My Girlfriend Gacha Pulls Were Always Stuck on NTR. But Now It’s Upgraded to Dsr (Great Skill) in My College Life is a flawed but potentially entertaining read. If you're looking for a lighthearted story with a unique premise and are willing to overlook some translation issues and questionable plot choices, it might be worth a try. However, if you prefer well-executed comedy and consistent character development, you might want to steer clear. I'm giving it a 2.5/5. It has potential, but needs some serious refinement.