The Real Inspiration Behind Mushoku Tensei Has Fans Appreciating an Underrated Isekai Anime

Many would argue that Mushoku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation is the top isekai anime series, as it follows a degenerate protagonist’s journey towards understanding the true purpose of life and ultimately forming a family, resulting in personal growth and transformation from his past self.

The source of inspiration for these incredible stories is not unexpected, as a masterpiece is often created after being influenced by a specialized work of fiction. This was also the case for this isekai series, as was disclosed in a recent interview.

The creators of Mushoku Tensei and Re: Monster were recently interviewed by Comic Natalie. During the interview, the author of Mushoku Tensei shared that Re: Monster played a pivotal role in the development of their isekai series, which has now gained worldwide recognition. This unexpected revelation has surprised fans, who are now praising the lesser-known isekai series and eagerly anticipating its anime adaptation in the Spring 2024 Anime Season.

Mushoku Tensei author inspired by Re: Monster protagonist

Rudeus as seen in the anime (Image via Studio Bind)

An interview was held on June 5, 2024 with Kogitsune Karekiru, the author of Re: Monster, and Rifujin na Magonote, the author of Mushoku Tensei. This marked the first time that these two authors had met during an interview.

The interviewer began by inquiring about how they began their writing careers. Karekiru responded by mentioning that during the serialization of Re: Monster in 2012, the term ‘isekai’ was not yet widely known. As a result, taking a unique approach to the story was something that intrigued the author.

Similarly, Rifujin na Magonote’s story had a unique beginning. During the development stages of Re: Monster, the author stumbled upon the protagonist and the overall narrative, which served as a source of inspiration. This encouraged Rifujin na Magonote to embark on his own light novel series, which is now widely recognized as one of the top isekai series in the media.

During the interview, both authors humbly admitted their lack of confidence in their writing abilities, which the legends saw as a kind gesture. They also took the opportunity to praise each other’s works, including light novels and anime.

During an interview, Rifujin na Magonote disclosed that his series was originally intended to have a more relaxed tone rather than focusing on action. However, he had to alter his plans based on the feedback he received from fans. The conversation concluded with Karekiru sharing the main plot point of his upcoming project, which will revolve around a “modern dungeon concept.”

It came as a surprise to many fans when they discovered that Rifujin na Magonote had previously paid tribute to Re: Monster on X in 2020. The author was asked about the inspiration behind his acclaimed work on April 28, 2020, and he revealed that Re: Monster had greatly influenced his writing.

Refujin na Magonote's tweet (Image via X) — Rifujin na Magonote’s tweet (Image via X)

Fan Response to the Brilliance of Re: Monster

The revelation that Mushoku Tensei was inspired by the grandfather of the isekai genre surprised the majority of the fandom. Many fans were quick to add the series to their bucket list and expressed their appreciation for Rudues, the playful protagonist, who they wouldn’t have seen if it weren’t for Ogarou, the protagonist of Re: Monster.

“Re:Monster Great grandfather of Isekai,”a fan said.

“Now, it makes me want to watch re:monster!”another one said

“It’s crazy we wouldn’t have Rudy without Orgeou,”another fan said.

Ogarou as seen in the anime (Image via Studio Deen)

Despite receiving criticism for its protagonist being portrayed as a lustful beast, Re: Monster has been praised by some fans who have shared their positive experiences with the series. These fans argue that the series is underrated and have even credited it for inspiring one of the most iconic isekai series. However, others still claim that the series is nothing special and have deemed the protagonist as the worst in print.

“Yeah i remember reading re monster when i was about to get into highschool. The only thing i remember is that it has a lot of s*x scene.”a fan claimed.

“So Re:Monster is to blame for the worst MC in the history of printed media.”another one said.

“Crazy how mauhoku tensei is actually has an amazing story crazy world building and amazing characters and re monster is quite mid”another fan aid.

Final Thoughts

When a plotline incorporates explicit themes, it can be hit or miss. Often, fans do not appreciate when explicit scenes appear abruptly while the plotline is unfolding, leading to a miss in the eyes of the fandom.

In the second season of Mushoku Tensei, Rudues also fell victim to the ‘disease’ and Elinalise played a significant role in the plotline, fulfilling her desires in every episode. This could possibly explain why Re: Monster is not receiving the recognition it deserves as an anime series.