Overview
- Unlike **Solo Leveling**, *The Beginning After The End* (TBATE) centers on the reincarnation of a former king in a fantastical medieval realm.
- While there are some similarities with **Mushoku Tensei**, claims that TBATE is a copycat may not be entirely justified.
- Critics have expressed dissatisfaction with the animation quality of TBATE, raising concerns regarding its outsourcing strategy.
Table of Contents
- Why Is TBATE Compared to Solo Leveling?
- Comparisons with Other Anime Series
- Concerns Regarding the Animation of TBATE
- Will the Animation Quality Improve?
The Beginning After The End (TBATE) is an exciting new addition to the anime scene, recently debuting its adaptation this season. Originally a hit novel, later transformed into a webcomic, TBATE has garnered a dedicated fan base with high expectations for its anime representation.
A significant buzz surrounds the claim that TBATE could be the next *Solo Leveling*, prompting discussions about their potential parallels. So, how valid are these comparisons between the two series?
Why Is TBATE Compared to Solo Leveling?
Since its announcement, TBATE has been frequently likened to *Solo Leveling*, primarily due to their common roots in Korean literature; both series originated from novels written by Korean-born authors. In TBATE’s case, the creator is a Korean-American who immigrated to the US at a young age. Both the novel and webcomic can be found on platforms like Tapas.
However, despite these surface-level similarities, the stories diverge significantly. *Solo Leveling* follows the journey of a low-tier Hunter who ascends to the top, while TBATE narrates the tale of a former king reincarnated in a new world as a means of redemption. These narratives are distinct, showcasing vastly different settings and character arcs, although fans of either series may enjoy both.
The marketing strategy of labeling TBATE as “the next *Solo Leveling*”may also contribute to these comparisons, as such phrases naturally attract interest. Additionally, there is genuine hope that TBATE may achieve similar acclaim and success as its predecessor, considering the story’s inherent potential.
TBATE Looks More Like This Other Anime Series
A more pertinent comparison may be drawn with *Mushoku Tensei: Jobless Incarnation*, a series that some fans argue TBATE closely resembles. The protagonist, Arthur Leywin, shares visual traits with Rudeus from *Mushoku Tensei*, although this is likely coincidental. Notably, both series employ a narrative style where the main character often reflects on their past life, acknowledging their flaws to the audience. Both are also framed against the backdrop of complex personal growth, albeit through different circumstances.
While some fans have gone so far as to claim TBATE is a derivative work of *Mushoku Tensei*, such assertions may overlook the unique path TBATE has already begun to carve for itself, particularly evident by the conclusion of its second episode, which departures into distinct thematic territory. It’s also important to note that medieval isekai series typically share certain tropes given the genre’s conventions.
Concerns Regarding the Animation of TBATE
Watch TBATE here
However, the series has attracted considerable scrutiny, particularly regarding its animation quality. Fans have expressed disappointment over what is being termed “poor animation quality,”especially on social media platforms where feedback frequently highlights the reliance on still frames during action sequences, undermining the dynamic nature typically expected in anime. Crucial moments have been criticized for failing to encapsulate the intended intensity.
Key Animation: The Still Frame After The End ๐คฆโโ๏ธ Anime: The Beginning After the End (ๆๅผทใฎ็ๆงใไบๅบฆ็ฎใฎไบบ็ใฏไฝใใใ?) – #01 pic.twitter.com/D2wfwKXKSz โ ๐ป๐๐๐๐ฆ๐๐๐ฃ โฉ๏ธ๐ฆ (@Pekuga_Pr) April 9, 2025
On platforms like Reddit, viewers have noted that the first two episodes were significantly outsourced to other studios, with one partner, Studio A-Cat, primarily focused on 3D animation. This outsourcing may negatively impact the quality of 2D animation, leading to disjointed segments, with one commenter noting:
“The only resemblance to animation was during the black-haired girl’s attack on the wolves before it descended into slideshow animation.” โ imtherealdazza on Reddit
The overwhelming sentiment from discussions regarding the latest episodes centers on animation rather than story, indicating a growing dissatisfaction among fans.
Will the Animation Quality Improve?
Typically, the first few episodes of any anime series display the highest animation quality; however, exceptions exist. Generally, series that exhibit strong animation early tend to maintain or even enhance quality as they progress. Unfortunately, a series commencing with poor animation rarely improves, often due to budget constraints.
Yet, there remains a sliver of hope. Should fans actively voice their concerns, the production committee might recognize the potential audience’s investment and revenue implications, potentially allocating additional resources for future improvements. While the likelihood of significant changes is slim, it is not impossible.
*The Beginning After The End* is available for streaming on Crunchyroll, with subtitles offered in multiple languages. Dubbed versions will likely follow in due time.