A handful of legendary series have always dominated the world of anime. “One Piece,” widely regarded as one of the greatest anime of all time, has consistently held its place at the top of streaming charts. However, a significant upset has occurred. “Solo Leveling,” the high-octane action series based on the popular manhwa, has shattered expectations by surpassing “One Piece” to claim the top spot on Crunchyroll.
With the release of “Solo Leveling” Season 2, particularly its electrifying eleventh episode, the anime has soared in popularity, leaving iconic shows like “Demon Slayer” and “Jujutsu Kaisen” in its wake. But what exactly fueled this meteoric rise? Let’s dive in.
Table of Contents
The Rise of Solo Leveling
From Web Novel to Global Sensation
“Solo Leveling” originated as a web novel before being adapted into a manhwa that captivated millions. The story follows Sung Jinwoo, a low-ranked hunter who gains an unprecedented opportunity to become the strongest being alive. The anime adaptation, which debuted in 2023, quickly gained traction, setting the stage for its unparalleled success.
Season 1’s Explosive Start
The first season of “Solo Leveling” was met with immense anticipation, delivering stunning animation and intense battles that had fans hooked from the start. Expectations were sky-high, with the second season premiering in January 2025—and the anime did not disappoint.
The Game-Changing Episode: Season 2, Episode 11
The Jeju Island Arc – A Turning Point
The most pivotal moment in “Solo Leveling” arrived with the adaptation of the Jeju Island arc. This saga, a fan-favorite in the original manhwa, is packed with high-stakes battles and character-defining moments.
Sung Jinwoo vs. The Ant King – A Masterclass in Action
Episode 11 featured one of the most highly anticipated fights in anime history—Sung Jinwoo versus the Ant King. The sheer intensity and fluid animation of this battle left fans in awe. Despite some criticisms about pacing, the episode was widely praised as a landmark in anime combat sequences.
How Solo Leveling Surpassed One Piece
Crunchyroll Rankings – A Historic Achievement
By February 2025, “Solo Leveling” had skyrocketed past major anime titles, claiming the No. 1 spot on Crunchyroll. It was a feat few could have predicted, especially considering “One Piece” boasts over 1,100 episodes and a loyal fanbase spanning decades.
The Power of a Modern Narrative
The success of “Solo Leveling” can be attributed to its breakneck pacing, compelling character growth, and visually stunning animation. Unlike “One Piece,” which takes time to build its narrative over thousands of episodes, “Solo Leveling” delivers high-impact moments rapidly, appealing to modern audiences who crave fast-paced storytelling.
The Future of Solo Leveling
What’s Next for the Anime?
With only 23 episodes aired, “Solo Leveling” still has a long way to go in adapting the story. Fans eagerly await how the anime will handle future arcs, including the rise of the Monarchs and Sung Jinwoo’s ultimate evolution.
Will It Maintain Its No. 1 Spot?
While surpassing “One Piece” is a considerable achievement, the real challenge is maintaining its top position. With upcoming anime heavyweights like “Attack on Titan: The Final Chapters” and “Chainsaw Man Season 2” on the horizon, “Solo Leveling” must continue delivering jaw-dropping content to keep its throne.
Conclusion
The ascent of “Solo Leveling” to the pinnacle of Crunchyroll rankings marks a turning point in anime history. Its electrifying battles, emotional depth, and modern storytelling have captivated audiences worldwide, dethroning long-standing titans like “One Piece.” As the series heads toward its grand finale, fans can only anticipate even more incredible spectacles ahead.
Will “Solo Leveling” remain at the top, or will another anime rise to challenge it? Only time will tell. What do you think of this meteoric rise? Let us know in the comments!
