The Rise of Hunter Fantasy: A New Genre Takes Over
If you've been reading webtoons or manhwa in the past few years, you've probably noticed a specific type of story dominating the charts: hunters, dungeons, and power rankings. What started as a niche Korean web novel trend has become a global phenomenon, with Solo Leveling leading the charge into mainstream anime adaptation and international recognition.
But here's the thing—not all hunter stories are created equal. The worldbuilding differences between these series are what make each one unique, and understanding them can help you find your next favorite read.
The "Standard" Formula: Gates, Awakeners, and Rankings
Most hunter fantasy series share a common foundation:
- The Awakening — Ordinary humans suddenly gain supernatural powers
- Dungeons/Gates — Portals to monster-filled dimensions that threaten humanity
- Ranking Systems — E through S (or SSS) class hunters based on power levels
- Hunter Associations — Government or private organizations managing awakened individuals
Solo Leveling popularized this template so effectively that it's now considered the genre's default. But the magic is in how each series tweaks these elements.
5 Different Approaches to Hunter Worldbuilding
1. Solo Leveling — The Game System Pioneer
Sung Jin-Woo's journey introduced Western readers to the "system" concept—a game-like interface that only the protagonist can see. This RPG-inspired mechanic, where quests grant experience points and level-ups provide stat boosts, has become incredibly influential. Available on Webtoon and Crunchyroll (anime).
2. Omniscient Reader's Viewpoint — Meta-Narrative Mastery
What if the apocalypse followed the plot of a web novel you've been reading? ORV flips the script by making knowledge of the "story" itself the ultimate power. It's hunter fantasy meets literary meta-commentary—perfect for readers who love complex narratives. Check it out on Webtoon.
3. The Beginning After The End — Western Fantasy Fusion
Originally an English web novel, TBATE blends Korean hunter concepts with Western high fantasy elements like dragons and elven kingdoms. It offers a familiar entry point for readers coming from traditional fantasy backgrounds. Available on Tapas.
4. Return of the Frozen Player — Time Loop Tactics
Instead of starting weak, the protagonist was already a top-tier hunter who got frozen in time. This series explores what happens when old-school power meets a world that's evolved without you—a refreshing take on the "returning hero" trope.
5. SSS-Class Suicide Hunter — Death as a Mechanic
The protagonist's power? He copies abilities from whoever kills him—but he has to actually die first. This darkly creative premise leads to genuinely unique strategic scenarios that other hunter series can't replicate.
Why These Differences Matter
The hunter fantasy genre isn't just about cool fight scenes (though those help). The worldbuilding choices directly impact:
- Power scaling — How does the hero grow stronger, and what are the limits?
- Stakes — What happens if hunters fail? Global destruction or localized chaos?
- Social dynamics — Are hunters celebrities, soldiers, or outcasts?
- Economic systems — Monster materials as currency creates entirely different story possibilities
Where to Start Your Hunter Fantasy Journey
For newcomers, Solo Leveling remains the perfect entry point—it's polished, action-packed, and sets clear expectations for the genre. If you want something with more depth, Omniscient Reader's Viewpoint delivers layers upon layers of storytelling complexity.
Already a veteran? Try the lesser-known gems like Leveling With The Gods or The Player That Can't Level Up for fresh spins on familiar concepts.
The hunter fantasy genre continues to evolve, with new series constantly experimenting with the formula. That's what makes it exciting—there's always another dungeon to explore.