Earth Star Entertainment has announced that the popular light novel series Hell Mode – The Hardcore Gamer Dominates in Another World with Garbage Balancing by Hamuo, with illustrations by Mo, will be adapted into a TV anime.
This series, loved for its unique concept and gripping storytelling, has already gained a solid fanbase. Now, it’s set to reach an even bigger audience through its anime adaptation.
What is Hell Mode About?
The story follows Yamada Kenichi, a devoted gamer who loves challenging games. When the online game he’s been playing shuts down, Kenichi feels lost. He tries out different games but finds them too easy. Just when he’s about to give up, he stumbles upon an untitled game with the promise of an endless challenge.
Curious and excited, he chooses the game’s most difficult setting—Hell Mode. But there’s a twist! Instead of just playing the game, Kenichi is transported to another world and reincarnated as Allen, a lowly serf.
In this new world, Allen must figure out how to survive and thrive as a Summoner. With no guides, walkthroughs, or online tips, he relies on his gaming instincts to uncover secrets and rise to the top.
A Journey From Web Novel to Anime
Hamuo first shared Hell Mode on the popular website Shōsetsuka ni Narō in 2019. Its intriguing plot quickly caught readers’ attention. By 2020, Earth Star Entertainment began publishing it as a printed light novel series. As of now, ten volumes of the light novels are available, with the series still ongoing.
The story’s manga adaptation, illustrated by Enji Tetta, began in October 2020. It is also ongoing, with its 10th volume set to release on December 12.
English Fans Are Covered Too
For those who prefer reading in English, J-Novel Club releases both the light novels and the manga adaptation. This makes the series more accessible to fans outside Japan.
What Makes Hell Mode Stand Out?
One of the biggest draws of Hell Mode is its focus on difficulty and strategy. Unlike many stories where characters quickly become overpowered, Allen’s journey requires effort, planning, and determination. It’s a story about pushing through challenges and discovering one’s true potential, something many gamers and fantasy fans can relate to.
