Anime Fans Divided Over Solo Leveling’s ‘We Need a Hero’ Episode

SEOUL, South Korea — Solo Leveling Season 2, Episode 10, titled ‘We Need a Hero,’ aired March 8, 2025, aiming to regain audience favor after a mixed reception to the previous episode. Following protagonist Jinwoo‘s emotionally charged moment at the end of Episode 9, the latest installment focuses on action-packed sequences and supporting characters amidst the ongoing Jeju Island Raid.

The episode seeks to shift the narrative away from Jinwoo’s now-notorious emotional scene by presenting fans with exhilarating fight sequences. Critics contend that while the episode does not break new ground, it effectively sets the stage for future developments in the arc, potentially uniting an audience divided by the last episode.

In the past, Jinwoo’s emotional outburst regarding his mother’s recovery generated mixed responses from the audience, resulting in Episode 9 being deemed the most disliked episode on Crunchyroll to date. With the stakes rising in the ongoing Jeju Island Raid, the creators of Solo Leveling aim to rally the fanbase with additional action and character development.

Despite some criticism regarding the adaptation of the source material, the episode has been praised for its animation quality, particularly during fight scenes. The narrative shifts focus away from Jinwoo, allowing characters like Yoonho Baek and Cha Haein to shine. Haein’s combat sequences, in particular, highlight her strength and significance, contrasting with previous depictions that leaned heavily on her role as Jinwoo’s love interest.

The episode also features a sparring match that, though minor in the source material, is elaborated upon in the anime. Notably absent was a particular tense moment from the manhwa: Ryuji Goto’s violent intent towards Jinwoo was depicted as less aggressive in the anime, potentially affecting audience perception of the characters’ dynamics.

Subtle alterations to dialogue and interactions left some viewers questioning the writing choices. For instance, a humorous exchange between Japanese S-Rank Hunters highlights the tonal inconsistencies within the episode. However, the creators’ intent to present a more relatable iteration of Jinwoo has drawn mixed reactions, and some audience members are concerned about the diminishing edge from his character.

Despite criticisms, episode 10’s action sequences remain visually compelling, culminating in a cliffhanger featuring the ominous Ant King. As the series progresses toward its climax, expectations remain high for the following episodes, which promise to delve deeper into the looming threats on Jeju Island.

With other elements weaved into the story, including interactions among supporting characters, the creators continue to build a world where teamwork and unified strength are essential. The upcoming episodes are poised to explore the consequences of decisions made during the raid, potentially setting the stage for crucial developments within the narrative.