Escaping daily problems via a truck that transports you to a fantasy world full of magic and waifus has become commonplace in the industry, but not all authors like this trend. Acclaimed mangaka Inio Asano sparked a heated debate by openly attacking the overwhelming success of isekai stories, expressing his strong desire for this trend to end soon.

For the brilliant creator behind masterpieces like Oyasumi Punpun and Solanin, the massive fascination with rebirth in a fantasy universe is just an alarming symptom of a troubled society. Asano explained that the core premise of isekai reflects people who refuse to face harsh reality, preferring to offload life’s responsibility elsewhere. In his view, the fact that so many people consume fantasies where the protagonist gets everything without effort shows how unbearable and difficult the real world has become, which is why he hopes this narrative boom will soon fade.

Asano’s blunt words shouldn’t surprise anyone familiar with his manga original career. Unlike fantasy and overpowered stories, his work is known for depicting melancholy, isolation, and the painful transition to adulthood with raw honesty. Titles like Dead Dead Demon’s Dededede Destruction showcase his ability to explore the human psyche in uncomfortable everyday situations. While the market remains flooded with stories of invincible heroes, Asano’s reflections remind us that true art must also confront life’s bitter corners.

Given that isekai has become millions’ favorite escape from daily routine, do you think Inio Asano’s critique hits the mark on modern escapism, or should entertainment not always be a raw reflection of reality?