this manga is good folks.

initially it may seem like it relies too heavily on cliches, but actually this is something it uses beneficially imo. despite the fact that it starts in a standard fantasy setting with standard fantasy rpg characters, this is just a base from which dungeon meshi builds a solid, interesting, engaging, and unique story. you have to be a good writer to pull this off, but good writing is something this manga consistently provides. it's able to keep you entertained with fun realistic monster-based cooking and absolutely hilarious situations and character interactions. meanwhile as it progresses, a fascinating and dark plotline is unveiled while the characters develop and start defying your first impressions of them.

i was really happy with how cool the worldbuilding ends up being. there's a lot of really fun stuff, from the magic of "dungeon creation" to realistic, believable monster biology. concepts are introduced and then explored in surprising ways, and have consequences. as in, monsters and magic and etc don't simply exist in a void, they have effects on all aspects of life, like a real ecosystem. it's obvious that despite drawing from existing myths and standard expectations of rpgs, there's a lot of thought put into this. the dungeon is almost its own character, really. it was refreshing to see an author be able to put a new, unique spin on familiar ideas.

the characters are really the best part of it all, though. every major character is likable and interesting, and they all have unexpected developments that are really fun. for example: the character who's standard rpg role is "reliable leader with a noble heart" ends up being really weird, and having virtually no leadership skills. these developments and reveals are by turns comedic and tragic, and leave you wanting to spend more time with pretty much everyone.

basically despite appearances, this manga brings forth more unique and exciting concepts than a lot of "more original" series do. and tbh, even if it didn't, it's funny and charming enough to be worth reading anyway. give it a shot!