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10 Must-Read Fantasy Webtoons

A selection of popular titles from the genre, featuring ‘Lore Olympus,’ ‘Tower of God,’ ‘The Remarried Empress,’ and more

Jun 10, 2024
Rolling Stone India - Google News

'Lore Olympus.' Photo courtesy of Webtoon

Fantasy webtoons are undeniably brilliant snackable reads thanks to their imaginative themes spanning genres, fully immersive storytelling, fascinating artwork, and in-depth visual expressions. Surrealist or comparable elements and a well-crafted narrative lend authenticity to the setting. But expecting what may never happen brings the deepest rush of all.

Fantasy webtoons excel at worldbuilding. Their portrayal of fictive spaces, periods, and theories is unique and far removed from what is normal. At their most basic, fantasy webtoons are an escape into wonderful worlds of exciting adventures. And I’m a fan, of these stories. So, here I’ve listed the top 10 fantasy webtoons that, in my opinion, are essential reads for anyone interested in the genre.

Lore Olympus

In her Lore Olympus series of the Gods, Rachel Smythe provides a modern spin on The Abduction of Persephone, a classical Greek story. The first season chronicles a plot by Minthe, Thanatos, and Thetis to disgrace Persephone and her struggles with Apollo’s inappropriate advances while also pursuing a college scholarship that requires her to remain chaste. The second season follows Persephone’s abduction and her growing romance with Hades, while the third has their reunion and the beginning of their official relationship.

Tower of God

A massive wish fulfillment tower that bestows all blessings on those living inside is at the core of creator SIU’s Tower of God. When a young Bam ventures inside the tower in search of his love, Rachel, he discovers its inner workings and the diverse individuals within its ordered society, where challenges differ from floor to floor.

The Remarried Empress

Alphatart’s engaging webtoon, with gorgeous artwork by Sumpul, blends romance, fantasy, political drama, power struggles, and unexpected plot twists. The essence of what transpires is the nuanced relationship between Navier, Heinrey, Rashta, and Sovieshu.

Navier Ellie Trovi, a highly accomplished woman, is Emperor Sovieshu’s loyal wife and model empress; yet, when he abruptly brings Lady Rashta home as his mistress, things radically change with Navier receiving a divorce request. Interestingly, she agrees, and, while still retaining her empress title, she marries King Heinry.

Omniscient Reader

Of post-apocalyptic horror, suspense, mystery, and action developed by Sing Shong (singNsong), Omniscient Reader, aka Omniscient Reader’s Viewpoint, is an air of imminent catastrophe transcending fact and fiction.

We encounter Kim Dok-ja, an office employee who becomes engrossed in reading Three Ways to Survive in a Ruined World. He’s the only one aware of the web novel’s ending, and as its fictional world suddenly becomes real, Dok-ja strives to change its fate.

Currently in production under the direction of Kim Byung-woo, Omniscient Reader’s Viewpoint is a highly-anticipated film adaptation of the popular webtoon, featuring A-list stars including Lee Min-ho, BLACKPINK’s Jisoo, and Ahn Hyo-seop in leading roles.

Eleceed

Thanks to Jeho Son, Zhena, Eleceed is a fantastic read via stunning illustrations. It’s lit with excitement, tender moments, humor, and everything you want from a solid fantasy story.

Eleceed stars Kayden—the most formidable of a covert gang of superpowered individuals—who transforms into a cuddly cat for a cause, only to get caught in that state. Kayden finds a home with Jiwoo, a cat-lover, and discovers that he understands him. It means Jiwoo’s also gifted but untrained and unaware of the secret society those of his kind belong to. Consequently, Kayden mentors him, and they embark on a mission to wipe out the vile powers threatening humanity. 

SubZero

Junepurrr’s fantasy romance, SubZero‘s timeless conflict between two formidable dragon clans that is on the brink of resolution through the impending union of Princess Clove and Prince Kyro. As scandalous politics, deceit, and duty intertwine with the backdrop of ferocious dragons, the protagonists find themselves entangled in a gripping tale of intense hate-to-love drama.

Castle Swimmer

In an enthralling marine world of Castle Swimmer by Wendy Lian Martin, Kappa and Siren, are bound by ancient prophecies that require them to undertake significant responsibilities. Kappa, the beacon, is a hope for his people, while Siren, the shark prince, can liberate his subjects from a malevolent curse.

Kappa is taken into custody once he gets lured into the enigmatic Shark Kingdom. The sharks’ prophecy has it that the way to break the curse afflicting them is for Siren to kill Kappa, something Siren chooses not to do. He shatters expectations instead helping Kappa escape, setting the stage for an exhilarating journey.

Your Throne

The Vasilios Empire breathes tension into SAM’s fantasy tale when Lady Medea Solon, an adept and cunning figure who, despite losing her spot to Crown Prince Eros, remains unyielding and resolute to fight back. A tough cookie that she is, in her pursuit to regain her claim to the throne, she is unwavering and super determined to go to any lengths.

Like Wind on a Dry Branch

Two bereaved souls find redemption as they get close in Dalsaeowl and Hwaeum’s heartwarming and poignant masterwork.

Amidst the chaos and plague that beset the empire, Rieta Tristi, an alluring widow, finds herself vulnerable to the nasty intentions of Lord Casarius. After her husband fell victim to the plague, her child was stolen by slave traders, and now her safety is on the line, she is saved by the outcast prince of the empire, Archduke Killian Axias of the North, who brings optimism to her otherwise hopeless life.

Photo: Courtesy of Webtoon

Men of the Harem

Latil’s father is murdered, and she is forced into marriage to secure her rule over Tarium. But despised by her lover, she picks five men to be in her harem.

Latil finds herself torn between them as they vie for her affections, and she is appalled by the paranormal aspects that start to appear nearby. Things get more eerie and bizarre for her when she starts uncovering her unusual powers. Another great work by Alphatart, HereLee, and Yeongbin, Men of the Harem delves into a sinister world of monsters, mystery, and more where Latil must use every resource at her disposal to save her empire.

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