In a World Filled with Deserts, an Old Man with Electronic Money

My Thoughts on In a World Filled with Deserts, an Old Man with Electronic Money

This web novel definitely has a unique premise. The title alone, "In a World Filled with Deserts, an Old Man with Electronic Money," grabbed my attention. While it doesn't completely reinvent the wheel, it offers a blend of familiar tropes with some interesting twists.

First Impressions

Initially, I was intrigued by the "fish out of water" scenario. Our protagonist, a middle-aged office worker still grieving his deceased fiancée, gets summoned to a desert world by a nation desperate for help. I appreciated the initial setup with the king's complex motivations and the MC's almost accidental "noble" status. The early chapters do a decent job of establishing the world and the political landscape, setting the stage for the MC's eventual exile.

What Works Well

The cheat ability, online shopping, is a fun mechanic. It's introduced gradually, and the limitations (like delivery costs) add a layer of realism. I enjoyed seeing how the MC uses his modern knowledge to improve his and his companions' lives in a resource-scarce environment. The female leads are also a plus; they are former aristocrats ostracized for not meeting beauty standards. I found this an interesting take on the usual power fantasy, as it gave depth to the characters and their motivations. I appreciated the justification for why they might fall for the MC, given their circumstances and his genuine kindness.

Areas of Concern

One thing that gave me pause was the pacing. The initial training arc felt a bit rushed, and the level progression seemed inconsistent. I also had some reservations about the age gap between the MC and the female leads. While the story attempts to address this, I found the explanation a little unconvincing. It felt a bit like the author was trying to justify the harem aspect, which detracted from the story's overall appeal for me.

Final Verdict

Overall, "In a World Filled with Deserts, an Old Man with Electronic Money" is a mixed bag. The premise is intriguing, and the online shopping cheat is a fun twist. However, the pacing and the handling of the age gap raise some concerns. If you're looking for a lighthearted adventure with a mature protagonist and don't mind some harem elements, this might be worth a read. But be prepared for some inconsistencies and potentially problematic tropes. I'd give it a tentative recommendation, with the caveat that it's not for everyone.