A Returner's Magic Should Be Special

nathandouglasdavis Mar 27, 2019

7

I would split up the current storyline into three story arcs. The first arc (chs. 1-8) largely serves as an introduction to the world and some key characters. We are introduced to Desir's primary fighting style: using strategy alongside feir ability to quickly analyze and manipulate feir opponents' magic circles. We are also introduced to feir attitude towards other students. Fe cares more about mentoring them toward even greater strength than winning against them. The second arc (chs. 9-38) focuses on the discrimination set up in the Havrion Academy. Talented nobles are sent to the alpha class while commoners and untalented nobles are sent to the beta class, which is given much less attention and help. Desir forms a party which includes a few trusted people in beta class and trains them to be even stronger with the intention of showing that people in beta class can be just as strong as people in alpha class and that they shouldn't be pushed aside. The climax of this story is a tournament between parties. Once again, we see Desir's ability to strategize, but at this point we also see feir ability to bring the most out of feir teammates. The current arc at the time of this review (chs. 39-56+) has its focal point be the first excursion into the Shadow World, which is the phenomenon this manga has set up as the ultimate problem which humanity must somehow overcome. As this is just the first excursion, it doesn't yet have the weight of saving humanity, but it can still be seen as Desir and feir party finally fighting a more serious fight. Unfortunately, in the current arc there are times where the optimal strategy would include involving people other than Desir's party, but instead suboptimal scenarios are pushed probably because it allows the author to keep the story focused on the main characters, but at the expense of writing the best story. I very much appreciated Desir's initial reaction to being sent back in time thirteen years--despair. It isn't until fe overcomes the initial shock that fe is able to think more pragmatically and work towards making the future better than the previous timeline. And the fact that fe's lived a previous life involving countless life-threatening situations gives fem an understandable sense of confidence and calm. This is definitely a story revolving around fem. Fe is supporting and raising up feir allies to fit in with feir plan for this new future. As such, the other characters often feel like a supporting cast, though I wouldn't necessarily call them weak characters...Well, actually let me think about that. Would I be interested in a story about any of these characters that didn't involve Desir? Though fe's stoic to the point of being emotionless, I do like Adjest Kingscrown's humility and straightforwardness--feir willingness to follow feir own path without getting bogged down by such things as pride. And even though fe has over-the-top hatred and is narrowminded, I also think Donovan Hound is pretty interesting. But honestly, I don't think the other characters would be interesting on their own. They do an excellent job as supporting characters though. The art is often good, with character designs being appealing and easily distinguishable. But at times, it looks two-dimensional and half-heartedly drawn. [Reviewed at chapter 56]  

Klra Dec 27, 2020

8

This webtoon is about Desir Who travelled back to the past to save the people special to him. Very simple right? STORY: Desir goes back in time and trains his past companions so that they can survive in a catastrophe that will happen later. The thing I like about this is the use of Shadow Gates. They are like games but in real life since if you dead, you dead. ART: The art is certainly unique and I can see if people don't like it. CHARACTERS: I like most of them and you really can't hate someone (Except most of the Nobles). Overall a very solid webtoon with a unique storyline. Is it Good?- Yes Is it Bad?- The thing you may not like is the art Do I recommend it?- Yes [Reviewed at Chapter 128]  

tempesthorne99 Apr 30, 2021

10

Review:Wow! 10/10 on the story telling and the plot! The pacing of the story is kind of slow but it was worth it around 80+ and the back to back action is amazing. Mc isn't rly OP but someone who used his mind to circumvent his weakness and made it his most powerful weapon. Mc also uses the power of friendship significantly and is a great commander. This has some major plot twists, which kept me in tenterhooks. Synopsis: Desir Arman, and 6 other surviving humans, fought to death, to clear the final stage of the Shadow Labyrinth - a catastrophic event that befell on humans. When he was on the verge of death, he was transported back 13 yrs before at the Havrion Academy where he once graduated. Now, he will enter it again but this time, he will prepare and ready his comrades for the upcoming calamity.