Solo Leveling Set a New Standard for Global Anime
When Solo Leveling made its anime debut, it didn’t just meet expectations—it shattered them. The series, with its slick fight choreography, top-tier animation, and charismatic lead character, quickly grew into a worldwide phenomenon. It topped charts, drew massive international audiences, and even earned Crunchyroll’s 2025 Anime of the Year award. For many fans and critics, Solo Leveling set the new benchmark for what a modern action anime can achieve.
But with every new cultural milestone comes the same question: what’s next? Which series could possibly follow in its footsteps and capture audiences on a similar scale?
The answer might not come from Japan, but from China.
To Be Hero X Emerges as a Serious Contender
Earlier this year, a new Chinese anime—known as donghua—premiered and started building buzz episode by episode. That show is To Be Hero X, and while it hasn’t yet reached the same level of international recognition as Solo Leveling, its steady rise suggests something bigger could be on the horizon.
Since its debut in April 2025, the series has gained critical attention for its unconventional storytelling and strong ratings. Viewers praise its mix of eccentric humor, high-stakes drama, and striking animation that blends 2D and 3D styles seamlessly. More importantly, it’s introducing a fresh narrative approach that could reshape how anime is made—and watched.
Breaking the Mold: A Different Kind of Hero Story
A Non-Linear Narrative with Multiple Protagonists
Unlike Solo Leveling, which builds around a single central hero, To Be Hero X spreads its story across multiple protagonists. Each character brings a different perspective, motivation, and moral struggle, creating a tapestry of interlocking storylines.
The series unfolds through a non-linear structure, encouraging audiences to piece together events as they move back and forth in time. This layered approach allows for rivalries, shifting alliances, and dramatic betrayals that feel earned rather than forced. It’s a style that demands more from its audience but also rewards those who pay close attention.
Animation That Matches the Ambition
Beyond its story, To Be Hero X stands out for its animation. Its fluid transitions between 3D visuals and hand-drawn 2D sequences give it a bold, dynamic aesthetic. Each episode feels like a visual experiment, delivering both spectacle and depth—a style that naturally appeals to fans who were drawn to the high-intensity battles of Solo Leveling.
An Interactive Twist: Fans Can Shape the Story
Perhaps the most innovative aspect of To Be Hero X is how it breaks the fourth wall—not narratively, but structurally. Future seasons will allow viewers to vote for their favorite characters, influencing how much screen time they get and even the direction of their arcs.
This participatory format, centered around a unique “trust value” system, gives fans the power to impact the story in ways traditional anime cannot. In contrast, Solo Leveling follows a set path based on its original web novel, offering little room for deviation.
By inviting fans to help decide the fates of its heroes, To Be Hero X creates a sense of ownership and community that could keep audiences invested long after the final credits roll.
Can To Be Hero X Truly Rival Solo Leveling?
For now, Solo Leveling remains the undisputed global powerhouse, with its cultural impact cemented. But To Be Hero X is carving its own lane—one that feels experimental, collaborative, and forward-looking.
If its popularity continues to grow, the donghua could emerge not just as a competitor, but as a pioneer in how anime is told and experienced. And while it may not dethrone Solo Leveling overnight, it’s clear that To Be Hero X represents a bold new chapter in the global anime industry.
