My Thoughts of FUNA's Anime Adaptations

The Evolution of Funa’s Isekai: A Retrospective on Three Anime Adaptations

The Isekai genre is a staple of modern anime, but few authors have had their works adapted with as much consistency—and chronological confusion—as the author known as Funa. With three distinct anime adaptations under their belt, Funa’s catalog offers a fascinating look at how light novel concepts translate to the screen. From the overpowered protagonist of Didn't I Say to Make My Abilities Average in the Next Life?! to the potion-crafting antics of I Shall Survive Using Potions!, these shows reveal a clear progression in writing style, character tropes, and production philosophy.

A Chronological Paradox: Adapting the Catalogue in Reverse

One of the most intriguing aspects of Funa’s anime adaptations is the order in which they were produced. While I Shall Survive Using Potions! was the author’s first published work, it was the last of the three to receive an anime adaptation. Conversely, Didn't I Say to Make My Abilities Average in the Next Life?! was the third work published but the first to hit the screen. 

This "reverse-order" approach suggests that production committees were likely testing the waters with the most promising title first. Once Average Abilities proved successful, studios began working their way back through the author’s bibliography. Because these projects were handled by different studios, each series carries a distinct visual identity and art style, reflecting the unique creative vision of the teams behind them rather than a unified aesthetic.

The Gold Standard: Average Abilities and Creative Liberties

Of the three adaptations, Didn't I Say to Make My Abilities Average in the Next Life?! remains the standout. It is a prime example of how an adaptation can take creative risks, even if those risks are controversial. A notable example is the redesign of the "nanobots." In the original light novel, these were depicted as simple, functional machines. However, the anime team opted for a more stylized, character-like design—reportedly inspired by the popularity of Puck from Re:Zero at the time. 

While some purists might argue that the source material should stand on its own, this change highlights the industry’s tendency to chase current trends to ensure broader appeal. Despite ending on a dramatic cliffhanger involving dragons and nuclear-level stakes, the series remains the most polished and engaging of the trio.

The "Lazy" Writing Trap in I Shall Survive Using Potions!

The most recent adaptation, I Shall Survive Using Potions!, provides a stark contrast to the earlier works. While it is a charming show, it suffers from what can be described as "lazy" narrative mechanics. In many Isekai stories, the protagonist’s power is a tool that requires creative application to overcome obstacles. In Potions!, however, the protagonist’s ability to create any liquid with any effect acts as a "get out of jail free" card. 

Whether she needs a gold-detecting device or a complex solution to a political problem, she simply manifests a potion in the shape of the required tool. This lack of limitation removes the tension from many scenarios, making the writing feel generic compared to the more tactical, albeit overpowered, approach seen in Average Abilities. It is a clear indicator that this was Funa’s earliest work; the writing lacks the refinement and structural constraints that make for a truly compelling power fantasy.

Recurring Tropes: The "Young" Protagonist Archetype

Across all three of Funa’s works, a specific character archetype emerges: the female protagonist who is reincarnated into a world where she is perceived as significantly younger than she actually is. This trope serves as a recurring hurdle for the characters, as they are constantly underestimated by those around them. 

Whether it is a conscious choice by the author to iterate on what works or simply a recurring preference, this dynamic creates a consistent theme of "hidden competence." The protagonist is always the smartest person in the room, yet they must constantly navigate the social stigma of being viewed as a child. This creates a shared DNA between 80,000 Gold for My Retirement, Average Abilities, and I Shall Survive Using Potions!, tying them together despite their different settings and power systems.

Aesthetic Highlights: The Power of Presentation

While the writing quality varies, the production value of I Shall Survive Using Potions! deserves credit, particularly regarding its opening and closing sequences. The ending theme, in particular, is a masterclass in self-referential charm. It utilizes the show’s unique art style to highlight various characters and events in a playful, entertaining way. These small touches—the font design, the animation fluidity, and the thematic consistency—show that even when the narrative feels generic, the production team’s commitment to the show’s "vibe" can elevate the overall viewing experience.

Key Takeaways

Funa’s anime adaptations offer a unique case study in how an author’s early works can be retroactively polished and presented to modern audiences. While the chronological release order was unconventional, it allowed studios to experiment with different visual styles and narrative tones. Ultimately, the progression from the tactical, high-stakes world of Average Abilities to the more convenient, potion-based solutions of I Shall Survive Using Potions! highlights the evolution of the author’s writing, proving that while tropes like the "underestimated young protagonist" remain consistent, the execution of power systems is what truly defines the quality of an Isekai series.

Note: This article was created with the assistance of AI.