07 - Log Horizon

A Familiar Fantasy World

In this episode of Lyfeblerd we raise a party, go questing and navigate the new reality that is Elder Tales. That’s right, I’m talking about Log Horizon, light novel series written by Mamare Toumo and illustrated by Hara Kazuhiro. It’s an isekai science fiction fantasy about gamers that get stuck in a virtual world.

Sword Art Online may come to mind for those that are familiar with the fantasy subgenre, while long-time fans will be thinking .hack instead. However, Log Horizon manages to stand on its own two feet in a space that’s very predictable. Where SAO is mostly about action and romance, Log Horizon remains focused on survival in a strange world and the political intrigues that arise, giving it a unique take.

SAO also involves survival, especially the first arc and season of the anime, but in the case of Log Horizon the characters continue to learn about their new existence. It also delves into deeper themes like cultural appropriation, free will and alienation.

It was first published as a web novel in 2010 but became a light novel in 2011 after Enterbrain acquired the platform it was on. Since then the series has sold 11 volumes with four manga spinoffs and an anime adaptation with three seasons.

Reading List

For fans of Log Horizon, new and old, I suggest you pick up the spinoff manga. They're all written by Mamare Toumo.

• Log Horizon, Illustrated by Hara Kazuhiro - https://amzn.to/3URJAdu
• Log Horizon: West Wind Brigade, illustrated by Koyuki (about West Wind Brigade) - https://amzn.to/3tDLkuM
• Log Horizon: Nyanta's Fortune Recipes, illustrated by Souchuu (slice-of-life) -
• Honey Moon Logs, illustrated by Motoya Matsu (about Crescent Moon Alliance)

Non-fans interested in a darker maturer isekai with an MMORPG theme can try this one instead.

• Overlord, written by Kugane Maruyama and illustrated by so-bin - https://amzn.to/3EaElOK

Disclaimer: Some of the links provided above are affiliate links, meaning I will earn a small commission when you purchase through them at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Logged Out

Thanks for joining me on yet another adventure into my favourite light novels. It's always a blast and I hope you look forward to the next episode. Don't forget to leave a review on iTunes or Podchaser.

See you in the next one.

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