Reincarnated as a Villain That was Killed Before the Game Starts

My Thoughts on Reincarnated as a Villain That was Killed Before the Game Starts

"Reincarnated as a Villain That was Killed Before the Game Starts" is quite the ride. It's a story that throws you headfirst into a world of otome games, villainesses, and... well, some pretty messed-up situations. I went in expecting a fluffy isekai adventure, and while there are definitely cute and fluffy moments, I also found myself grappling with some darker themes.

First Impressions

My initial reaction was definitely a mix of intrigue and "what did I just get myself into?" The premise is fascinating: a modern woman reincarnates as Hilda, a villainess with a penchant for young boys, and tries to avert her death. The early chapters are a bit confusing as you're bombarded with information and characters, but stick with it because the story does find its footing.

What Works Well

Once you get past the initial shock, the story becomes surprisingly engaging. I really enjoyed watching the protagonist try to right Hilda's past wrongs, educating and organizing the children under her care. The dynamic between her and Ichtys, in particular, is quite endearing. The author does a good job of slowly unraveling the mysteries surrounding the original Hilda, making you question whether she was truly as evil as she seemed. Also, I appreciate that the female lead isn't your typical frail, naive shoujo heroine. She grows throughout the story, and I found her attempts to navigate this bizarre new world quite compelling. The plot is well-paced, not too fast and not too slow.

Areas of Concern

I can't ignore the elephant in the room: the "shotacon" and "yandere" elements. While the story shifts away from these aspects as it progresses, they're still present and might be a turn-off for some readers. The initial chapters can be disturbing, and the sheer number of characters introduced early on can be overwhelming. The main character is weak in the first few chapters, but she grows into it later on, so be patient.

Final Verdict

Despite its questionable elements and confusing start, "Reincarnated as a Villain That was Killed Before the Game Starts" is an enjoyable read. It's a unique blend of comedy, fantasy, and romance with a surprisingly intriguing plot. If you're willing to look past the initial shock value and stick with it, you might just find yourself falling in love with this messed-up but ultimately cute story.