The release of Solo Leveling Episode 9 was a record-breaking phenomenon, causing Crunchyroll’s servers to groan under the weight of a massive audience. While the anime was faithful to the storyline, the art which was initially a talking point among the audience became the best part of the latest episode. The directors of the show have gone all out probably burning the animators out.
It was also because the premiere episode included a touching tribute to a giant of the anime industry, Akira Toriyama, who had passed away just a week earlier on March 1st, 2024. This heartfelt homage resonated deeply with fans, both old and new, solidifying Solo Leveling as an anime that not only delivered high-octane action and a compelling narrative, but also respected its roots and the legendary creators who paved the way.
Solo Leveling Episode 9: Action with Emotion
Solo Leveling Episode 9 delivered breathtaking action sequences between the protagonist, Sung Jinwoo, and the menacing Kang Taeshik. The animators at A-1 Pictures outdid themselves, delivering stunning visuals and fluid movements that rival the best in the industry. However, the most impressive moment was the clear homage to the late Akira Toriyama, the creator of Dragon Ball.
Solo Leveling Animators paid homage to Goku in the latest episode out of respect for Akira Toriyama and his works ❤️😭
— LegionzGaming 🔜 PAXEAST (@LegionzGaming) March 10, 2024
In honor of Toriyama’s passing on March 1st, 2024, a thrilling sequence was added to the battle inspired from Goku’s iconic side jumps in Dragon Ball Super: Broly after the post-production of the episode. Hoping that it wasn’t just a marketing gimmick, this tribute demonstrated the deep respect the Solo Leveling team has for anime history and its pioneers. For those familiar with the original webtoon, this was a masterfully crafted addition to the anime adaptation which actually didn’t feel odd considering the situation Sung Jinwoo was in.
The Story That Captivated the World
So what is it about Solo Leveling that has captured fans worldwide? The premise is undeniably compelling. In a world where portals known as “gates” connect our reality to monster-filled dimensions, a group of individuals called “Hunters” have awakened special powers to combat these interdimensional threats.
Sung Jinwoo started as the weakest of these hunters, barely surviving low-level dungeons. However, a mysterious and unique ability gives him the potential to grow stronger with each challenge he overcomes. His journey from underdog to unrivaled powerhouse is exhilarating and empowering.
solo leveling continues to be delivering peak eps😭❤@RIGG8D #SoloLeveling pic.twitter.com/s9yxvjJDBm
— /🇺🇸 🇳🇬 /¹⁰ owarida (@puffyV27_) March 10, 2024
While the story is not too great in comparison to modern shōnen anime, it was a first of its kind since back in the day Korean Manhwa were not that popular as they are now. Solo Levelling which initially was just a light novel which was adapted into a Manhwa by Radice Studios, it became the first Korean Comic to receive international acclaim. The art style specially was the talk of the town, such aggressive colors, gore and violence, as well as the new style of depicting character power ups which went on to become the industry standard.
Although the power system of Solo Leveling was not something new in Korean Manhwa or even Japanese Manga, in fact famous light Novels like Tensura, Sword Art Online and Webtoons like Tower Of God had implemented them in some way or the other, but the audience got hooked to the Manhwa due to its action packed story with little romance or Fan service.
Beyond the Webtoon: Anime Enhancements
The anime adaptation of Solo Leveling doesn’t simply replicate the beloved webtoon panel-by-panel. It builds upon the existing narrative with enhanced action, jaw-dropping visuals, and even meaningful bonus scenes that expand upon the lives of side characters which were left unexplored and untouched in the Manhwa. While the Manhwa in an itself didn’t essentially need to expand upon these, the anime has more than enough space as well as need to work upon this since it makes the viewer more engaged with the characters and connect with them emotionally.
Although the creators have taken quite some creative liberties, there are a few that would have been better left untouched. Read about them here.
The Pivotal Clash
Without diving into spoilers, the fight between Kang Taeshik and Sung Jinwoo in Solo Leveling Episode 9 serves as a pivotal point in the story. Taeshik represents an obstacle that Jinwoo must confront in order to progress – not only in strength but also in his understanding of his own power and its potential consequences. This battle will have ripple effects for the rest of the series, adding a layer of complexity that draws viewers even deeper into Jinwoo’s world.
Man that was fucking awesome, what the fuck … amazing episode 10/10, and that animation my God holy shit 🔥🔥 Taeshik was really strong tho, I was a bit worried at some point and damn what a psycho … Sung Jinwoo 🫡 wow man just wow #SoloLeveling pic.twitter.com/0zr67mhbdr
— Broccoli Λ•D🥦🇳🇬 (@anxietyAD) March 9, 2024
The Anticipation Builds
With such a momentous premiere, anticipation for the next episode is sky-high. Fans are buzzing with speculation about what challenges Sung Jinwoo will face next and how his ever-increasing power will shape his destiny. Thankfully, the wait won’t be long.
Episode 10 of Solo Leveling is set for release on March 16th and is titled “The Path of Power.” Mark your calendars, because this is one adventure you don’t want to miss!
Hail Shadow Monarch!
