The "isekai," or "another world" sub-genre has gotten a lot of harsh criticism recently. The problem is that one or two tropes inundate modern isekai -- video game worlds/mechanics and reincarnated with modern knowledge/technology. Seasonal anime lineups and manga releases are oversaturated with "reborn into a fantasy world with x technology" or "stuck in a game" titles that don't have much unique content to offer and rely on gimmicks. So, people are getting tired of them. I've even read that publishers and hosts of contests are growing weary of the genre.
So, what, do we boycott isekai? If you really think about it, stories where the protagonist is whisked off to another world are as old as the fantasy genre itself. Some famous examples outside of anime are The Chronicles of Narnia (one I haven't read personally) and The Never-ending Story. Anime and manga examples from before the craze caught on would include series like Fushigi Yuugi (another I haven't read/seen personally) and Digimon. These titles and their popularity show that there are a lot of ways to write an interesting and engaging "other world" story. You've gotta have more than popular tropes and gimmicks; you've gotta have a good story and cast.
Before you write off the whole sub-genre (or start raising your eyebrows at your friend who likes it) read up and find out which isekai series actually have solid writing to support them. You might find a hidden gem or two.
What are your thoughts on isekai? Share in the comments!
