The manga adaptation of Ibarakino and Yu Hitaki’s light novel series, Even Given the Worthless “Appraiser” Class, I’m Actually the Strongest, is coming to a close. Fans were informed via the 116th chapter that the manga will conclude in its next chapter. Barring any unforeseen delays, the final chapter is expected to be released on April 9, 2025.
A Journey From Zero to Hero
Even Given the Worthless “Appraiser” Class, I’m Actually the Strongest tells the story of Ein, a young man living in a fantasy world where individuals are born with god-given “jobs.” Unfortunately for Ein, his job as an “Appraiser” is considered one of the lowest and most useless, placing him far from any heroic status.
Abandoned and mistreated by his fellow adventurers, Ein reaches a point of despair. However, fate intervenes, offering him a new lease on life and revealing that his “worthless” job might be the key to unlocking his potential as a hero.
Manga and Light Novel Details
- manga adaptation: Morohoshi Fuji launched the manga adaptation in July 2020 on Kodansha’s Magazine Pocket app.
- Manga Volumes: Kodansha published the 15th compiled book volume of the manga on March 7, 2025.
- English Release: Kodansha USA Publishing released the 10th volume in English in April 2024.
- Light Novel Debut: Ibarakino started the novel series in December 2019 on the Shōsetsuka ni Narō website.
- Light Novel Publication: Kodansha began publishing the light novels with illustrations by Yu Hitaki in September 2020, with the fourth volume released on February 28, 2025.
Anime Adaptation
The light novel series also inspired a television anime adaptation that premiered on January 9, 2025, and was streamed by Crunchyroll as it aired in Japan. The anime series concluded its run on March 27, 2025.
- Animation Studio: Okuruto Noboru.
- Director: Kenta Ōnishi.
- Series Composition: Touko Machida.
- Character Design: Sayuri Sakimoto.
- Music: Satoshi Hōno and Kaori Nakano.
- Opening Theme Song: “Crescendo” by Asterism.
- Ending Theme Song: “Rock wa Shinanai” by 22/7.
A Closer Look at the Story
Synopsis
In a world where your destiny is determined at birth by the job you are assigned, Ein’s “Appraiser” class makes him an outcast. His ability to assess the value of objects and monsters is deemed useless, leading to his mistreatment and eventual abandonment. However, a chance encounter with Yuri, the spirit of the World Tree, and her guardian Ursula changes everything. They grant him special abilities, enhancing his Appraiser skill and paving the way for him to become a hero.
Themes and Reception
- Underdog Story: The series follows the familiar trope of an underdog rising to become a hero, defying expectations and proving their worth.
- Class-Based Society: The story explores the challenges faced by those at the bottom of a class-based society and how they can overcome adversity.
- Artistic Skill: The manga has been praised for its refreshing illustrations and artistic skill, with detailed character designs and captivating depictions of the fantasy world.
- Character Archetypes: While the characters may fall into familiar archetypes, the strong execution of storytelling and character relationships makes the series enjoyable.
- Questionable Premise: Some critics have questioned the premise of the Appraiser class being considered worthless, as the ability to identify valuable items and monster parts would be highly beneficial to adventurers and merchants alike.
- Mediocre Debut: Some reviews have noted that the initial volumes of the manga were mediocre and disappointing, with Ein’s abilities not being particularly special until he receives enhancements from Yuri and Ursula.
Where to Continue the Story
For fans who want to continue the story beyond the anime adaptation:
- Manga: Start at Volume 6, Chapter 43.
- Light Novel: Start at Novel 3.
Final Thoughts
As the manga adaptation of Even Given the Worthless “Appraiser” Class, I’m Actually the Strongest draws to a close, fans can look back on the journey of Ein, the underdog hero who defied expectations and proved that even the most “worthless” job can be the key to becoming something extraordinary. Whether you’ve followed the manga, light novel, or anime, the story of Ein’s rise to power is a testament to the strength within us all.
