Recently, I had the chance to dive into the world of Hero Without a Class: Who Even Needs Skills?! Volume 1, the latest manga series from One Peace Books. The story follows Arel, a young man in a fantasy world where everyone receives a class and skills at the age of ten. Unfortunately for Arel, he is revealed to have neither a class nor any skills during his blessing ceremony, which causes distress among those around him. Despite this setback, Arel remains determined to prove that hard work can lead to success, especially after years of training with his mother, the Sword Princess Farah.
As the story progresses, Arel hones his sword skills and embarks on a journey to the capital in search of his mother’s old guild. Along the way, he encounters various challenges and makes new friends, all while showcasing his impressive abilities in battle. While the manga follows some familiar tropes from the isekai genre and features art and character designs that may not be groundbreaking, it still offers an entertaining fantasy adventure for fans of the genre.
One aspect of the manga that stands out is the dynamic between Arel and the other characters. While Arel himself may come across as a bit one-dimensional, the supporting cast, including his prodigy parents, little sister, and village chief’s child, add depth and humor to the story. Their reactions to Arel’s overpowered abilities provide comedic moments that keep the reader engaged.
In terms of the translation and presentation, One Peace Books has done a solid job with this release. The book features good lettering and includes bonus content such as a color page at the beginning and a short story by the original author. While there are a few minor editing issues, overall, the volume is well-executed and enjoyable to read.
Looking ahead, Volume 2 of Hero Without a Class is set to be released in October, with the manga still ongoing in Japan with 8 volumes already available. An anime adaptation has also been announced, adding to the excitement surrounding this series.
In conclusion, Hero Without a Class: Who Even Needs Skills?! Volume 1 offers a promising start to what could be an engaging fantasy series. While it may not break new ground in terms of story or art, the charming characters and humorous moments make it a worthwhile read for fans of the genre. As the series continues, it will be interesting to see how the relationships evolve and whether the manga can distinguish itself further in future volumes.
