In the vast and ever-competitive landscape of isekai anime and light novels, few titles have carved out a path as boldly as I Got a Cheat Skill in Another World and Became Unrivaled in the Real World, Too. What began as a humble web novel by Miku has become a full-fledged multimedia success, with over four million copies in print as of May 2025—a milestone that speaks volumes about the story’s appeal and the devotion of its growing fanbase.
The plot centers on Yūya Tenjō, a teenager plagued by a harsh reality. Bullied and ostracized, Yūya’s life shifts radically when he stumbles upon a mysterious portal in his grandfather’s house—an entryway to another world where monsters roam and ancient magic thrives. Unlike most isekai tales, though, Yūya doesn’t just become powerful in the fantasy realm; his cheat-like skills carry over to the real world as well, transforming his social standing, physical appearance, and personal confidence. Suddenly, the once-rejected Yūya finds himself navigating two worlds as an unbeatable powerhouse, redefining what it means to be a “double-life” protagonist.
The secret sauce of the series’ success lies in this dual-world dynamic. It’s not just escapism—it’s empowerment. Fans have connected with the idea that personal transformation isn’t bound by one setting. Whether you’re slaying monsters or just surviving high school, change is possible. The story’s core themes—self-worth, perseverance, and finding strength within—resonate deeply with a wide range of readers, especially those who’ve ever felt like underdogs themselves.
The title’s rise through the publishing ranks is equally impressive. First launched as a web novel on Kakuyomu in 2017, it quickly gained popularity and was picked up for official publication by Fujimi Shobo in 2018 under the Fujimi Fantasia Bunko label. As of 2025, eighteen light novel volumes have been released. Rein Kuwashima’s elegant and dynamic illustrations breathe life into the story, enhancing the emotional gravity and the high-energy action that readers love.
Following the light novel’s success, a manga adaptation illustrated by Kazuomi Minatogawa launched in 2019. It faithfully adapts Yūya’s journey, capturing both the emotional turmoil and the epic triumphs. Six volumes are currently in circulation. But the true breakout moment came in 2023, when an anime adaptation by TMS Entertainment (animated by Millepensee) aired and took the series to new heights. Airing from April to June, it brought fresh eyes to the franchise and attracted both long-time readers and anime-first viewers alike. The anime does justice to the manga—it’s a faithful, vibrant, and beautifully animated adaptation that brings the characters and the story to life in a way that feels both familiar and fresh.
Fueled by its popularity, a new anime project was recently announced, along with spinoff light novels like Girls Side, which explores new characters and perspectives within the same rich world.
So, what makes this franchise click with so many people? It’s the emotional honesty. Yūya’s glow-up might be supernatural, but his insecurities, triumphs, and dreams feel grounded. Whether he’s battling beasts or facing a high school crush, his struggles feel authentic. His journey is a fantasy, yes—but one layered with very real lessons about growth, resilience, and acceptance.
As a personal note—this is one of my favorite series of all time. It’s got everything: heart, action, underdog triumphs, and a world you can’t help but dive into. It’s more than a power fantasy—it’s an emotional journey worth taking.
Now, with millions of copies in print, a successful anime series, multiple manga volumes, and a new anime project on the way, I Got a Cheat Skill in Another World and Became Unrivaled in the Real World, Too is poised to continue its rise—not just as an isekai juggernaut, but as a cross-dimensional story of human triumph. From portal to powerhouse, Yūya Tenjō’s story is a modern legend—one that fans across the globe are still eager to follow.
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