From Hidden Gem to Global Hit: The Success of The Beginning After The End
Few manhwa have made waves like The Beginning After The End (TBATE). Originally a web novel written by TurtleMe and adapted into a webtoon by Tapas, TBATE quickly climbed the charts to become one of the most-read fantasy manhwa globally. But what exactly made it such a success—and how do fans really feel about it?
Let’s explore both the heights and hurdles of this beloved isekai tale.
The Rise: Why TBATE Became a Hit
1. A Fresh Take on Isekai
TBATE subverts typical isekai tropes by giving us Arthur Leywin—a reincarnated king with full memory of his past life. Unlike many protagonists who start weak and naive, Arthur is competent from the start, offering a more grounded power progression that fans appreciate.
2. High-Quality Art and Consistent Updates
The manhwa’s polished, anime-like visuals helped it stand out in a crowded genre. Studio Tapas maintained a consistent release schedule that kept readers engaged without long hiatuses.
3. A Deep, Expanding World
TBATE’s world-building is rich with magical lore, kingdoms, ancient relics, and power systems. As the story evolved from school arc tropes to war and politics, it drew in a broader audience looking for complexity.
4. Accessibility and International Appeal
Being available on Tapas and Webtoon, TBATE tapped into English-speaking markets early. Its Western-fantasy tone and anime-like presentation made it easier for new readers to dive in.
Criticism and Mixed Fan Reception
Despite its success, TBATE hasn’t escaped criticism—and some of it is worth examining.
1. Pacing Issues
One common critique is the story’s pacing. Some fans argue that certain arcs (particularly the school arc and early political chapters) drag out too long without meaningful character or plot development.
2. Overpowered Main Character
While Arthur’s strength is initially a draw, others feel his overpowered nature undercuts tension in fights. Some readers crave higher stakes and vulnerability, which aren’t always present.
3. Emotional Depth
Though the story includes loss, betrayal, and trauma, not all fans feel those moments hit emotionally. Some compare it unfavorably to more character-driven narratives like Solo Leveling or Omniscient Reader.
4. Art Quality Over Time
As TBATE progressed, some readers noticed inconsistencies in the art—particularly during high-action scenes. While still visually appealing, it occasionally lacked the polish seen in its earlier chapters.
Verdict: A Game-Changer, but Not Without Flaws
The Beginning After The End is undeniably a commercial and cultural success. It broke boundaries for English-written web novels turned manhwa and opened the door for more Western creators in the medium. Its blend of fantasy, martial arts, and political intrigue has amassed millions of loyal readers.
Yet, no story is perfect. TBATE is both beloved and debated, which speaks to the passion it inspires. Whether you’re here for Arthur’s journey or the epic world-building, it’s a series worth reading—but with tempered expectations.
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