VRMMO: Passing of the Sword

My Thoughts on VRMMO: Passing of the Sword

Alright, let's dive into "VRMMO: Passing of the Sword." I went in with moderate expectations, and what I found was a mixed bag, to say the least. It's a VRMMO story with a cold, seemingly indifferent protagonist, a futuristic setting, and all the usual trappings of the genre – level systems, game rankings, and a dash of martial arts. But does it stand out? That's the million-dollar question.

First Impressions

Initially, the world-building and the mystery surrounding the MC's past intrigued me. The premise of a guy diving into a game to find something, anything, to alleviate his boredom, had potential. However, it didn't take long for some familiar issues to surface.

What Works Well

The backstory hints at something darker and more compelling than your average power fantasy. There's a sense that our protagonist is running from something, or perhaps searching for something he lost. Moments where his indifference cracks, revealing flashes of sadness or even cold calculation, were genuinely interesting. The author clearly has a vision for a complex character. I also appreciated the emphasis on the game's underlying story and the reasons for its existence, suggesting a deeper plot beyond just leveling up.

Areas of Concern

Unfortunately, the execution falters in some key areas. The "cold and indifferent" protagonist borders on being an "edgy loner" stereotype, complete with the angst and brooding. This is made even worse with the introduction of a "tsundere" character that is almost universally disliked. Her presence seems to actively detract from the story, and the protagonist's interest in her feels forced.

The repeated damsel-in-distress trope also becomes tiresome. While a loner MC can be appealing, this one seems to constantly find himself rescuing women, which clashes with his supposed indifference. It starts to feel less like character development and more like a dating sim disguised as a VRMMO.

Final Verdict

"VRMMO: Passing of the Sword" has the potential to be a compelling story, but it's currently held back by reliance on tired tropes and questionable character choices. If you're willing to wade through some frustrating character interactions and an abundance of "edgy" moments, you might find some enjoyment in the underlying mysteries and hints of a more complex plot. However, be warned: it's a bumpy ride. For now, I'd give it a cautious 2.5 out of 5 stars.