Hard Mode Extra Has Turned Dark

My Thoughts on Hard Mode Extra Has Turned Dark

"Hard Mode Extra Has Turned Dark" definitely took me on a rollercoaster. The premise, a protagonist reliving timelines where he's wronged, armed with a "plot armor" skill, is undeniably intriguing. I was curious to see how he'd navigate this second chance, especially given the heavy themes of betrayal and despair.

First Impressions

I have to admit, the beginning was a bit rough. I can see why some readers found the MC's initial motivations and actions somewhat...questionable. His single-minded pursuit of winning back the affections of those who wronged him, only to seemingly reject them, felt a little convoluted. The explanation of the system's "despair wipe" also felt a bit hand-wavy and didn't quite land for me. It felt like a plot device to justify some questionable character choices.

What Works Well

Despite the shaky start, the story does find its footing. I appreciated the shift in the MC's character as the story progressed. He becomes more convincing in his "good guy" act, and the internal monologues, which were initially cringeworthy, become more bearable. I found myself oddly invested in the villainesses' perspectives, particularly their nervousness and excitement leading up to their confessions, only to face rejection. The author captures this over-the-top drama in a way that's surprisingly entertaining. The plot is simple but well-written. The characters are well done and the story is executed nicely. The author is able to tap into the sweet spot of the genre.

Areas of Concern

One thing that bothered me was the MC's seeming inflexibility. Even with his newfound power, he continues to pursue the same women who caused him pain in previous timelines, seemingly ignoring opportunities for a fresh start. This felt illogical and almost self-destructive.

Final Verdict

"Hard Mode Extra Has Turned Dark" is a mixed bag. It starts off with some questionable character motivations and a somewhat clunky premise. However, it finds its stride in the over-the-top drama and the surprisingly compelling portrayal of the villainesses' emotional turmoil. If you can push through the initial cringe, you might find yourself enjoying this trashy, yet oddly captivating, revenge fantasy. I would give it a tentative 3/5.