Declaration of Extra Strike Novel Review

My Thoughts on Declaration of Extra Strike

"Declaration of Extra Strike" is a wild ride of a web novel that throws you headfirst into a world of dungeon gates, potion masters, and government-controlled Espers. While I found myself hooked by the unique premise, it's a story with definite quirks that might not appeal to everyone.

First Impressions

The beginning is definitely... something. I was immediately thrown into the deep end with a protagonist who's just as clueless as I am about the world. The initial chapters are a bit jarring, with violence popping up unexpectedly, but it quickly fades into the background. The story sets up a compelling mystery: our MC, a potion crafting genius, finds himself in a new body, navigating a world where his past is shrouded in secrets and everyone seems to have an agenda.

What Works Well

The world-building is where this novel truly shines. I really enjoyed the blend of dungeon-crawling elements with the unique Esper/Guide system. The government's heavy-handed control over Espers and Guides creates a fascinating tension, turning the world into a cage the MC must break free from. I also appreciated how the story prioritizes plot and character development over romance. While there are romantic elements, they're a slow burn, and the focus remains on the MC's journey to reclaim his skills and unravel the mysteries surrounding him. The MC's drive to return to potion-making is refreshing amidst the usual romance-driven narratives.

Areas of Concern

I found the MC's character to be a mixed bag. While his confidence and talent are appealing, his emotional dullness and occasional naivete can be frustrating. At times, he seems to lack common sense, making questionable decisions that had me shaking my head. The translation quality also seems to be inconsistent. I found it difficult to follow the nuances of certain scenes, which detracted from my overall enjoyment.

Final Verdict

Despite its flaws, I found "Declaration of Extra Strike" to be an engaging read. The unique world-building, intriguing plot, and focus on character development kept me hooked, even when the MC's actions tested my patience. If you're looking for a web novel with a fresh take on the dungeon genre and aren't afraid of a slow-burn romance with potentially problematic elements, this might be worth checking out. I give it a solid 3.5 out of 5 stars.