Overlord Volume 1 Light Novel Review *No Spoilers
A Mature Fairy Tale for Gamers
Overlord is a light novel series by Kugane Maruyama and was translated by Yen Press in 2016. This is the first volume in the Overlord series. It is available now at Barnes & Noble and other book providers.
Volume 1 of the Overlord light novel series.
Beautifully Written Novel
This light novel is beautifully written. Anyone who appreciates beautiful language in their books should buy this volume at once.
This passage can be found on page 4.
Genre Discussion: Science Fiction
I would say the genre is science fiction. What is so brilliant about Overlord Volume 1 though is that it is simultaneously high-tech and yet imbued with magic. Science fiction books usually fall somewhere between technology and magic. Many books need to choose between one or the other, or get very creative to genuinely capture both sides of the spectrum.
Overlord Volume 1 is one of those abnormal but beautiful books that manage to fully indulge sci-fi readers to the fullest. Magic is clearly used throughout the world Momonga finds himself in, but he is in a game world. Therefore, he is only in that magic world due to incredible gaming technology that has yet to be created (in our time at least). Momonga will use spells, then pivot and use gaming/technology words like “NPC” (non-player character) as though it is nothing.
This implementation feels very natural and unforced. In addition, for any gamers, all of the terms and tactics make sense. And for those who are not familiar with gamer lingo, that is fine. Overlord Volume 1 is very kind to newcomers. It will state directly what NPC means without having to open a web browser. In addition, due to the context of a situation it is easy to understand what is going on.
Aesthetic Quality of the Physical Novel
Overlord Volume 1 is a fantastic book from a publishing standpoint. The print version is a hardcover, so it will also have better endurance over the years then paperbacks.
The beautiful artwork contained at the beginning of each of chapter is reminiscent of a fairy tale book. Though don’t be mistaken, Overlord Volume 1 has mature themes and is intended for readers 16 years old and up.
This is beautiful in person, and almost has a whimsical watercolor feel.
In addition, there is a very helpful expandable overview and visual of the main characters at the beginning of the novel. I didn’t rip mine out, but for those who want an interesting poster as well as a great overview of the Great Tomb of Nazarick, look no further. In some ways purchasing the physical copy of the book is worth it just to get this insert.
The reverse of this insert has an overview of the Great Tomb of Nazarick.
Anime vs. Light Novel
Overlord is also an anime series available on Crunchyroll and other streamers.
I really enjoyed Overlord as an anime, but I would say the light novel is even better. Due to the format more vital information is conveyed in the light novel. Specifically there is much more back-story to the other game guild members of Ainz Ooal Gown, and more detail given to the game world Momonga finds himself in.
This book lists all of the "stats" of the characters in true gamer style at the end of the book. The anime is just not capable of showing this information without being boring or obtrusive to the plot.
In addition, there is more room for Momonga’s inner monologue. Readers get to learn more about Momonga including his real name, how he feels about being “undead,” and how he is actually “feeling.” Seeing as how he is suddenly in a different body in a video game (more or less) his opinions and his notes about how his body and psychology respond to the new situation are very interesting. The anime certainly makes notes of this, but compared to the light novel, I would say the anime pales in comparison on this point.
Final Thoughts
Overlord Volume 1 is a fantastic book for anyone deeply involved in science-fiction or who is a gamer. In addition, it has absolutely beautiful language. If sci-if and gaming aren’t traditional genres you (or a loved one) are involved in this book still might be worth looking at. It is certainly one way to broaden your horizons and learn some gaming terms in the meantime.
It is a beautiful book on the shelf as well. I fully intend on continuing to read this series. Let me know if there is anything anyone wants to know about this great book, and thanks for reading!
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