The world of light novels, a pillar of Japanese otaku culture, is at a turning point, recently, in various Japanese forums has been reported a growing wave of criticism from readers, especially those belonging to past generations. These have shown their discontent with the Z generation, digital natives and avid consumers of content, this discontent is due to the latest publications of light novels, calling them repetitive, lacking in depth and, in some cases, even offensive.
Generation Z light novels receive multiple reviews
Light novels have been a pillar in the otaku culture, but in recent times they have faced a growing wave of criticism, this can be seen in different forums and social networks where they have shared their opinions about recent works that, in their opinion, have fallen into mediocrity. Many fans catalog them with a lack of creativity and repetitive to a common theme, among some of the light novels that have generated controversy and are current are:
VTuber no Mic ni Tenshin Shitara, Oshi ga Shakkin Mamire no Kuzu datta
Released on June 1, 2022, this light novel tells the story of a character who becomes the microphone for popular VTuber Erin Kagamiya. Although at first it seems to be an exciting opportunity to hear the voice of his favorite idol, he soon faces the harsh reality, as he discovers Erin’s debts and obsession with gambling. And furthermore he discovers, that he is going to pay off his debts with donations from his fans, which raises questions about the validity of the fantasy.
Net no “Oshi” to Real no “Oshi” ga Tonari ni Hikkoshite Kita
Released on March 25, 2023 and adapted into manga, this story follows Souma Tendou, a college student, who is a fan of the popular VTuber Henrietta, as well as the idol and Seiyuu, Hiyori Yasumi. One day, to his surprise, they move into his building! Shizuka Rinjou, who plays Henrietta, and Hiyori Yasumi, Souma begins to live together with Shizuku and Hiyori, although at first he thought it was a dream, as they spend time together, he is confronted with the truth behind their personalities.
[Hiho] Ojosama Kei Teihen Dan John Haishin Sha, Haishin Ni Kizukazu Dogyosha Wo Boko Tte Shimaukedo Aite Ga Wakate Saikyo No Meiwaku Kei Haishin Shadattarashiku Aho Hodo Buzz Tte Densetsu Ni Nattemasu Wa!?
This novel, was released on October 23, 2023, the synopsis of the story is as follows: today I also have 0 viewers and only 3 subscribers maybe I have no talent for it?, Karin Yamada (16), a streamer who wears a ball gown to explore dungeons, has been struggling to grow in the stream world for a year, but is still stuck at the bottom level, one day, Karin discovers a stranger in the depths of the dungeons who says, “So now I’m going to blow everything to pieces!”, while holding a dangerous substance banned by the nation in his hand.
What the hell do you think you’re doing, you idiot, give me that, Gahhh, after beating this troublesome streamer, Karin becomes the popular Miss Thug, and her fame starts to take off! The dungeon madness begins, too much fun to be real!
These are some of the light novels, which according to some users are very bad, however, in the face of this wave of criticism, there are those who defend that these novels are simply a reflection of the changing tastes of Generation Z and generations to come. Furthermore, they argue that adaptation to new formats and themes is essential to attract a younger and more diverse audience, and that older fans and readers will have to adapt to these new stories.
The debate about the quality of recent light novels is a reflection of the generational shift in literature; on the one hand, there are those who argue that these stories are aimed at a specific audience, Generation Z, and that they reflect the interests and tastes of this new generation of readers. On the other hand, there are those who argue that the quality of light novels has declined and that the narrative is being sacrificed, in this debate each fan and reader is free to express their opinion, without questioning or misinterpreting the opinions of others.
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