Gayatri S
The anime world is buzzing—and not because of a new season of One Piece or Demon Slayer. Instead, it’s a Chinese animated series, or donghua, that’s stealing the spotlight. Lord of Mysteries, adapted from the wildly popular web novel by Cuttlefish That Loves Diving, premiered on Crunchyroll on June 28, 2025, and fans are already calling it the next big thing. Some even believe it could surpass the reigning champion of modern anime, Solo Leveling.
Let’s explore why Lord of Mysteries is making waves, how it compares to Solo Leveling, and what makes this steampunk fantasy a potential game-changer in the anime landscape.
A Steampunk World of Secrets and Sorcery
Set in a fog-drenched, Victorian-inspired world where science and mysticism collide, Lord of Mysteries follows the story of Klein Moretti, a down-on-his-luck scholar who is mysteriously resurrected after a failed ritual. Now inhabiting a new identity, Klein is thrust into a shadowy realm of secret societies, ancient artifacts, and supernatural forces.
Unlike traditional shonen anime that rely on power-ups and battle arcs, Lord of Mysteries leans into cosmic horror, occult rituals, and psychological intrigue. It’s a slow-burn mystery wrapped in a richly detailed world, where characters gain powers not by leveling up, but by consuming magical potions and navigating complex hierarchies of power.
Animation That Rivals—and Surpasses—Industry Giants
One of the most talked-about aspects of Lord of Mysteries is its jaw-dropping animation quality. While Solo Leveling was praised for its high frame rate—averaging 600 frames per episode with peaks of 17,000—Lord of Mysteries reportedly averages a staggering 30,000 frames per episode. The result? Fluid motion, cinematic transitions, and immersive world-building that feels more like a feature film than a weekly series.
Fans have praised the show’s art direction, background design, and original soundtrack, calling it “peak anime” and “a visual masterpiece”. The use of subtle 3D elements and symbolic imagery adds depth to the storytelling, making each episode a feast for the senses.
A Worthy Rival to Solo Leveling?
Solo Leveling, based on the Korean web novel by Chugong, took the anime world by storm in 2024. With its high-octane action, slick visuals, and the rise of underdog hero Sung Jin-Woo, it quickly became the most-viewed anime on Crunchyroll and swept major awards3.
But Lord of Mysteries offers something different. Where Solo Leveling is a power fantasy rooted in modern-day Korea, Lord of Mysteries is a philosophical thriller set in a steampunk universe. It trades brute force for intellectual puzzles, secret codes, and moral ambiguity.
Fans on social media are already debating which show reigns supreme. One user wrote, “Don’t get me wrong, I love Solo Leveling, but Lord of Mysteries is on a whole different level”. Another added, “I feel sorry for the animes releasing in 2025—Lord of Mysteries is going to steal the spotlight”.
The Author’s Involvement: A Game-Changer
One of the reasons Lord of Mysteries has resonated so deeply with fans is the direct involvement of the original author in the anime adaptation. Cuttlefish That Loves Diving worked closely with the animation team to ensure the story’s tone, pacing, and lore were faithfully translated to screen.
This level of creative oversight is rare in anime adaptations and has helped preserve the novel’s intricate world-building and character arcs. It’s a move that fans of the source material have applauded—and one that may set a new standard for future adaptations.
Crunchyroll’s Global Push
The premiere of Lord of Mysteries on Crunchyroll marks a significant moment for Chinese animation. While Japanese anime has long dominated the global stage, Lord of Mysteries signals a shift toward international diversification in the anime industry.
Crunchyroll’s decision to feature the show prominently on its platform—and to release it with multiple subtitle options—has helped it reach a broader audience. It’s a strategic move that reflects the growing appetite for non-Japanese anime and the rise of donghua as a global force.
What’s Next for Lord of Mysteries?
With only a few episodes released, Lord of Mysteries is just getting started. But if early reactions are any indication, it’s on track to become one of the most talked-about anime of 2025. Fans are already clamoring for more episodes, merchandise, and even a potential second season.
The show’s blend of mystery, magic, and mind-bending lore offers a refreshing alternative to the typical action-heavy anime lineup. And with its cinematic quality and compelling narrative, it’s poised to attract both longtime anime fans and newcomers alike.
Final Thoughts: A New Era for Anime?
Lord of Mysteries isn’t just a great show—it’s a statement. It proves that Chinese animation can compete on the world stage, not just in terms of visuals, but in storytelling, world-building, and emotional depth.
Whether it ultimately dethrones Solo Leveling remains to be seen. But one thing is clear: the anime world is no longer a one-country game. With Lord of Mysteries, China has entered the arena—and it’s playing to win.
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