‘Solo Leveling’ Overtakes ‘One Piece’ as Crunchyroll’s Most Popular Anime
Staff Writer • 2025-03-16
How a Newcomer Surpassed a Legendary Franchise and Why Anime Matters to Web3 The anime industry has just witnessed a historic moment. Solo Leveling, the action-packed adaptation of the hit South Korean web novel, has officially surpassed One Piece to become the most popular anime on Crunchyroll. With 594,486 ratings, the series edges out One Piece, which sits at 594,485 ratings, marking a seismic shift in anime fandom. This achievement signals more than just a changing of the guard in streaming popularity. It highlights the rapid evolution of the anime industry, the growing influence of international storytelling, and anime’s increasing intersection with Web3 and digital economies. From Web Novel to Anime Phenomenon: The Rise of Solo Leveling Solo Leveling began as a South Korean web novel by Chugong, later adapted into a wildly successful webtoon that amassed millions of fans worldwide. Its anime adaptation has quickly captivated audiences, blending high-quality animation, compelling world-building, and a protagonist-driven narrative that resonates with modern anime fans. The series’ success is also a testament to anime’s expanding global reach beyond Japan. Unlike One Piece, which has reigned supreme for decades as a cornerstone of traditional shonen storytelling, Solo Leveling represents a new wave of anime fueled by digital distribution, web novels, and international demand. Why Anime’s Explosive Growth Matters to Web3 Anime has always been deeply connected to fandom-driven economies, but its digital transformation is now paving the way for Web3 adoption. The industry’s embrace of NFTs, blockchain-based fan engagement, and decentralized content creation is already changing how fans interact with their favorite series. As anime becomes increasingly digital-first, Web3 provides a new model for creators, artists, and studios to monetize content while fostering deeper fan participation. Collectibles, exclusive metaverse experiences, and on-chain governance structures could redefine anime’s global economy, allowing fans to own pieces of their favorite franchises in ways never seen before. A New Era for Anime and Web3 With Solo Leveling now standing atop Crunchyroll’s rankings, its rise is more than just a victory for the series—it’s a signal of how modern digital trends are shaping anime’s future. From Web3-native fan economies to blockchain-backed storytelling, the evolution of anime is deeply intertwined with the next generation of digital culture. As anime continues to break global records, the next frontier isn’t just on screens—it’s in the decentralized, blockchain-powered worlds that will shape the future of entertainment.
See More Posts
A look at how NFTS, Web 3, Gaming, Cryptocurrencies and Blockchain are reshaping businesses across the globe.
@NFT Today Magazine
