Will I End Up As a Hero or a Demon King

My Thoughts on Will I End Up As a Hero or a Demon King

"Will I End Up As a Hero or a Demon King" is an isekai novel with a title that promises a morally ambiguous protagonist. After diving in and reading up on various reader experiences, I've got a clearer picture of what this story offers. It's a bit of a mixed bag, but I think there's enough here to intrigue fans of the genre, provided you know what you're getting into.

First Impressions

Initially, I was drawn in by the promise of a mature protagonist and a world that wasn't just another rehash of familiar fantasy tropes. The premise of a 32-year-old businessman getting a second chance seemed interesting, but some readers have expressed concerns about the execution of this aspect.

What Works Well

Many readers praised the protagonist's growth and the world-building. The MC starts from scratch, struggles, and gradually becomes stronger through his unique skill: absorbing skills and experience points from his kills. I find it refreshing to see that the world isn't lenient and the MC faces challenges that push him beyond his limits, even when he reaches high levels of power. The slow-burn progression and focus on hunting and adventuring also appeal to me. The interaction between the MC and the Goddesses is another highlight, with some considering them "waifu material" and praising their unique characters. The world-building seems well-thought-out, with attention to geology and a departure from the typical "Japanese culture + magic" setting.

Areas of Concern

One major point of contention is the MC's personality, particularly in the early chapters. Some readers found him overly apologetic and behaving immaturely for a 32-year-old. This could be a significant turn-off for those looking for a more confident and mature lead. Another concern is the slow pacing of the story, with the plot taking a while to get going. Also the MC's methods, while effective, can sometimes veer into morally questionable territory, potentially alienating readers who prefer a clear-cut hero.

Final Verdict

"Will I End Up As a Hero or a Demon King" has the potential to be an engaging isekai novel, particularly for those who enjoy a focus on character progression, world-building, and a protagonist who isn't afraid to get his hands dirty. However, the slow pacing, the MC's initially irritating personality, and his morally ambiguous actions might be deal-breakers for some. If you're willing to overlook these flaws and enjoy a story with a unique skill system and a growing harem of goddesses, this might be worth a read. I'd recommend checking out a few chapters to see if it clicks with your tastes.