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Underdog #6
Showdown
After sealing the otherworldly portal, Eric becomes a Magister of the order of monster hunters. From now on, as head of the once mighty organization, he gains power over all its riches.
But Eric is aware that he won’t be able do it on his own. And reviving what is popularly referred to as "the dead order" won’t be enough. He also has to assert its right to exist because its ancient enemy is on the lookout!
Very soon the Steel King will realize that his plan to get back the Crown, a most powerful artifact and symbol of the royal dynasty’s authority, has failed. Need it be said who will suffer all his wrath?
Eric realizes a great battle is coming, one like those described in the ancient chronicles. He also realizes that in the upcoming showdown he will need loyal and powerful helpers at his side. And thus, after defying Darkness, Eric’s path takes him to the Undermountain Kingdom of the Gnomes. According to ancient legends and tales, that is where he will find Gramner the Fourarmed and convince the great blacksmith to perform the hatching ritual in the Forge of the True Flame.
But Eric is aware that he won’t be able do it on his own. And reviving what is popularly referred to as "the dead order" won’t be enough. He also has to assert its right to exist because its ancient enemy is on the lookout!
Very soon the Steel King will realize that his plan to get back the Crown, a most powerful artifact and symbol of the royal dynasty’s authority, has failed. Need it be said who will suffer all his wrath?
Eric realizes a great battle is coming, one like those described in the ancient chronicles. He also realizes that in the upcoming showdown he will need loyal and powerful helpers at his side. And thus, after defying Darkness, Eric’s path takes him to the Undermountain Kingdom of the Gnomes. According to ancient legends and tales, that is where he will find Gramner the Fourarmed and convince the great blacksmith to perform the hatching ritual in the Forge of the True Flame.
587 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 6, 2021
145 people are currently reading
69 people want to read
About the author
Alexey Osadchuk
32 books522 followersAlexey Osadchuk was born in 1979 in the Ukraine. In the late 1990s his family moved to the south of Spain where they still live today.
Alexey was an avid reader from an early age, devouring adventure novels by Edgar Rice Burroughs, Jack London and Arthur Conan Doyle. In 2010 he wrote his first fantasy novel which was immediately accepted for publication.
He also used to be a passionate online gamer which prompted him to write the story of a man who joins an MMORPG game hoping to raise money for his daughter’s heart surgery. The first book of Mirror World was published In 2013. The English translation of the series is now available on Amazon in its entirety, prompting a reviewer to call Alexey “one of the best LitRPG authors to date”.
Alexey was an avid reader from an early age, devouring adventure novels by Edgar Rice Burroughs, Jack London and Arthur Conan Doyle. In 2010 he wrote his first fantasy novel which was immediately accepted for publication.
He also used to be a passionate online gamer which prompted him to write the story of a man who joins an MMORPG game hoping to raise money for his daughter’s heart surgery. The first book of Mirror World was published In 2013. The English translation of the series is now available on Amazon in its entirety, prompting a reviewer to call Alexey “one of the best LitRPG authors to date”.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
February 16, 2025
Overview:
"Showdown", the sixth installment in Alexey Osadchuk’s Underdog series, continues the thrilling adventures of Eric, the protagonist, as he navigates an increasingly dangerous and complex virtual world. Building on the momentum from the previous book, Eric now faces his biggest challenge yet—an inevitable confrontation with powerful adversaries in a world where alliances, strategy, and survival depend on every move he makes. The stakes are higher than ever, and the tension reaches new levels as Eric's decisions hold not only personal consequences but also ramifications for the entire game-world around him.
Plot and Pacing:
The plot of *Showdown* is tightly woven around Eric’s final preparations for a massive clash, giving the story a more focused, high-stakes atmosphere than earlier books in the series. Osadchuk does a commendable job of escalating the tension with each chapter, building up to the titular "showdown" with palpable anticipation. The action comes in heavy waves, with no shortage of strategic battles, power-ups, and fierce enemies. However, this focus on combat leaves some narrative elements underdeveloped, especially when it comes to character relationships and side plots. The pacing is fast, but at times, it feels almost rushed, as if Osadchuk is more concerned with reaching the climax than exploring every element of the world and characters in depth.
Character Development:
Eric’s development as a character continues, though it seems more focused on his progression as a gamer rather than his personal growth. He becomes a more seasoned strategist, relying heavily on his wit and understanding of game mechanics. However, compared to other major LitRPG protagonists, such as Richter in *The Land* series, Eric lacks a strong emotional arc. His internal struggles and motivations seem to take a back seat to the action and the mechanics of the game. While his determination and cleverness shine, his character doesn’t evolve significantly in terms of emotional depth. Secondary characters remain largely underdeveloped, which is a recurring issue throughout the series.
Action and Combat:
Action scenes are undoubtedly the book’s strength. Osadchuk knows how to write compelling and intricate battle sequences, blending tactical RPG elements with fast-paced action. Each fight is not only a display of skill but also serves to push Eric further toward his ultimate goal. The *"Showdown"* itself is a satisfying payoff, filled with suspense, creativity, and high-octane moments. However, the series sometimes suffers from repetitive battle sequences where the outcome is predictable, given Eric’s ability to think his way out of almost any situation. Fans of LitRPG who enjoy detailed combat will appreciate the care Osadchuk takes in laying out the mechanics, though it might feel formulaic after several similar encounters.
Comparison to Contemporaries:
When placed alongside other major works in the LitRPG genre, *Showdown* holds its own but also exposes the strengths and limitations of Osadchuk’s approach to the genre.
Compared to *The Land* by Aleron Kong: Where *The Land* delves deep into world-building, political intrigue, and rich lore, *Showdown* keeps its scope narrower, focusing more on Eric’s personal journey through the labyrinth and the game. *The Land*’s sprawling cast and complex factional politics create a richer narrative, while *Showdown* remains more of a straightforward, dungeon-crawling adventure.
Compared to *Awaken Online* by Travis Bagwell: Bagwell’s series shines in its exploration of moral ambiguity and the psychological development of its protagonist. Eric’s journey in *Showdown* lacks this complexity, as he remains a more traditional hero. *Awaken Online* explores the consequences of power and darker motivations in a way that *Showdown* doesn’t, opting instead for a more black-and-white narrative.
Compared to *Dungeon Crawler Carl* by Matt Dinniman: Dinniman’s series stands out for its satirical humor, unique characters, and unpredictable plot twists. *Showdown*, while action-packed and engaging, sticks to familiar genre tropes, offering fewer surprises or innovations. If you're looking for a series with quirky, unpredictable elements, *Dungeon Crawler Carl* offers more variety in tone and story structure than *Showdown*.
Strengths:
The book delivers on its promise of an intense, high-stakes "showdown," giving readers the action they’ve been craving since the earlier books.
Osadchuk’s attention to game mechanics and tactical detail will appeal to LitRPG fans who enjoy the technical side of RPG systems.
The pacing is swift, with little downtime between major battles, making it a page-turner for action enthusiasts.
Weaknesses:
Character development remains limited, with Eric's emotional arc taking a backseat to combat and leveling mechanics.
Secondary characters are underutilized and lack depth, making many of them feel like props rather than fully realized individuals.
The plot feels somewhat formulaic, with predictable outcomes in many of the battle sequences.
Conclusion:
"Showdown" is a strong entry in the Underdog series, especially for readers who have been following Eric's journey and are looking for a payoff in terms of epic confrontations and tactical battles. While the novel delivers in terms of action and the satisfaction of leveling up, it doesn't offer much in terms of character growth or narrative depth beyond the game’s mechanics. Compared to its contemporaries, *Showdown* excels in its action sequences but falls short in terms of emotional complexity and innovation. For fans of the genre looking for a fast-paced, combat-heavy LitRPG, *Showdown* will not disappoint, but it may feel predictable for those seeking more nuanced storytelling.
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✰ (4/5)
March 26, 2024
Awesome series
One of the best series I've read that keeps you wanting more.. Find this series and you're going to love it.
One of the best series I've read that keeps you wanting more.. Find this series and you're going to love it.
April 23, 2022
3.5 I'm About To Poke It's Nose Stars
Showdown is the sixth book in the Underdog series by Alexey Osadchuk.
This book was a novel with the sole purpose of tying up loose ends. Eric Bergman accomplished many of his long-awaited goals. Avenging fallen comrades, rewarding kindness offered to him in his darkest times, saving those he saw his past self in, and granting forgiveness rarely but deservedly when shown. I wonder if that little girl has potential? What a strong intuition.
There were such great surprises and comforts in this book. Reuniting with two allies thought to be lost. I can honestly say that I was both hoping, and shocked, when they individually made their appearances in our Mc's path. Along with the rescue of one family member that has been a long time coming. If it hadn't resolved in this book, it would've been dragged out far too long. I appreciate that the author showed us this moment now.
It is easy to discern that happenings are about get extremely more complicated. I expect we will be hearing from the Steel King and orcs Shaman soon. But thankfully, there will many surprises in store for them.
I saw a spark of hope that we may return to Mink's home, to uphold his promise to her. I can't wait.
Showdown is the sixth book in the Underdog series by Alexey Osadchuk.
This book was a novel with the sole purpose of tying up loose ends. Eric Bergman accomplished many of his long-awaited goals. Avenging fallen comrades, rewarding kindness offered to him in his darkest times, saving those he saw his past self in, and granting forgiveness rarely but deservedly when shown. I wonder if that little girl has potential? What a strong intuition.
There were such great surprises and comforts in this book. Reuniting with two allies thought to be lost. I can honestly say that I was both hoping, and shocked, when they individually made their appearances in our Mc's path. Along with the rescue of one family member that has been a long time coming. If it hadn't resolved in this book, it would've been dragged out far too long. I appreciate that the author showed us this moment now.
It is easy to discern that happenings are about get extremely more complicated. I expect we will be hearing from the Steel King and orcs Shaman soon. But thankfully, there will many surprises in store for them.
I saw a spark of hope that we may return to Mink's home, to uphold his promise to her. I can't wait.
May 4, 2021
“This was a fun book. I am glad that I read it. You should try it too.”
By all accounts, this is a perfectly worded review. Unfortunately, some of our fellow readers are offended that I am not pouring my heart out and offering a detailed and intimate breakdown of my thoughts on the books. As such they have reported me to the authorities and I have been warned against continuing my bad behavior. I will not. So I may be banned. If so, it was a fun journey with you.
If I enjoy a book, my goal is to promote it and help the author by encouraging others to read it. I am not going to share my reasoning, thoughts on the book, or any opinions that would influence your decision to read it. I am simply saying that I liked it. I would like you to read it and make your own decision. After all, you are a much better judge of what you will like than anyone here.
As always, I am open to debates and arguments, but also vain enough to seek acknowledgement, so feel free to roast me or applaud my efforts. Either is acceptable, because if you are paying attention to me then you are at least considering the book. And THAT my friends is exactly why you see my comments here.
Cheers
By all accounts, this is a perfectly worded review. Unfortunately, some of our fellow readers are offended that I am not pouring my heart out and offering a detailed and intimate breakdown of my thoughts on the books. As such they have reported me to the authorities and I have been warned against continuing my bad behavior. I will not. So I may be banned. If so, it was a fun journey with you.
If I enjoy a book, my goal is to promote it and help the author by encouraging others to read it. I am not going to share my reasoning, thoughts on the book, or any opinions that would influence your decision to read it. I am simply saying that I liked it. I would like you to read it and make your own decision. After all, you are a much better judge of what you will like than anyone here.
As always, I am open to debates and arguments, but also vain enough to seek acknowledgement, so feel free to roast me or applaud my efforts. Either is acceptable, because if you are paying attention to me then you are at least considering the book. And THAT my friends is exactly why you see my comments here.
Cheers
December 31, 2021
The continuing adventures of Eric are amazing and (spoiler) I am so happy he was finally able to get Mee back!
All the little "reunions" if you will served well to the bring us back around to the start of the story, and I'm also glad he was finally able to return to his hometown, even if only for a short while.
I will admit to being lost or confused in some parts, but that was more because I has been so long since I'd read the previous books in the series. Of course, that just means I need to reread the series to refresh my memory; no great sacrifice there. Lol. I will be doing that before reading the next book.
I am definitely looking forward to seeing Eric continue rebuilding the Monster Order and take down the Steel King!
All the little "reunions" if you will served well to the bring us back around to the start of the story, and I'm also glad he was finally able to return to his hometown, even if only for a short while.
I will admit to being lost or confused in some parts, but that was more because I has been so long since I'd read the previous books in the series. Of course, that just means I need to reread the series to refresh my memory; no great sacrifice there. Lol. I will be doing that before reading the next book.
I am definitely looking forward to seeing Eric continue rebuilding the Monster Order and take down the Steel King!
June 2, 2022
This series is truly a mixed bag.
On the one hand i loved the story how the weakest of the weak struggles against impossible seeming odds, some twists and would give the series 4,5 stars. On the other a truly horrible translator with only rudimentary knowledge of English (permanently mixed times, half sentences, made up phrases that ruined my reading experience throughout the ENTIRE series) and a too trusting and often stupidly generous MC. Given the shortness of the books the price of the single books is WAY TOO EXPENSIVE!!
Therefore only 2 stars.
On the one hand i loved the story how the weakest of the weak struggles against impossible seeming odds, some twists and would give the series 4,5 stars. On the other a truly horrible translator with only rudimentary knowledge of English (permanently mixed times, half sentences, made up phrases that ruined my reading experience throughout the ENTIRE series) and a too trusting and often stupidly generous MC. Given the shortness of the books the price of the single books is WAY TOO EXPENSIVE!!
Therefore only 2 stars.
October 11, 2021
I received a review copy of this book.
This book seemed to wrap up most of the revenge threads throughout the previous books. It also introduced some impressive new familiars, sees our main character rescue an old friend, and personally start a war, on top of the one that was already looming. Quite the full featured story. I dare say the next book will provide some interesting storytelling as we see the results of all of these actions. I for one don't intend to miss it.
This book seemed to wrap up most of the revenge threads throughout the previous books. It also introduced some impressive new familiars, sees our main character rescue an old friend, and personally start a war, on top of the one that was already looming. Quite the full featured story. I dare say the next book will provide some interesting storytelling as we see the results of all of these actions. I for one don't intend to miss it.
June 28, 2022
I've just finished book 8 in the Underdog series, which means I've read the entire series now and I absolutely loved it. Some nights I could barely put the book down to go to sleep for work in the morning. I'd always say to myself just one more chapter. I enjoyed seeing our main man Eric go from a literal zero to something amazing and very interesting in constantly unexpected ways. Thank you Alexey Osadchuk! Thank you.
August 22, 2025
What happened to Jay?
I like this series but I feel like storylines keep starting then disappearing. What happened to Jay? Didn't she say she was going to stick with him? All of a sudden she is gone. He leaves Burdock, his wife and the little girl he saved with a new home but the last we hear of Jay is her saying "lets go get breakfast". Then its Eric slipping away in the night. Kind of left me feeling like something was missing or wrong the whole next book.
I like this series but I feel like storylines keep starting then disappearing. What happened to Jay? Didn't she say she was going to stick with him? All of a sudden she is gone. He leaves Burdock, his wife and the little girl he saved with a new home but the last we hear of Jay is her saying "lets go get breakfast". Then its Eric slipping away in the night. Kind of left me feeling like something was missing or wrong the whole next book.
May 13, 2021
Awesome book
Finally we get to see what happened to the gnome queen and go back to the crooked mountains from the first book. It’s time for some well deserved revenge and it’s nice to know the character isn’t a psycho. It’s also cathartic that all his bullies get to see who he’s become and how much he has grown.
Finally we get to see what happened to the gnome queen and go back to the crooked mountains from the first book. It’s time for some well deserved revenge and it’s nice to know the character isn’t a psycho. It’s also cathartic that all his bullies get to see who he’s become and how much he has grown.
May 14, 2021
MEEEE!
The underdeveloped hero starts taking the surface by storm, making new alliances and unexpected gains. I only hope that Master Eric doesn’t use his latest artifact, lest he lose his potential for a temporary boost...
Again, most excellent writing and prose. Only took a day to read through, and eagerly waiting for more.
-I’m once again thinking of Mee as baby yoda-
The underdeveloped hero starts taking the surface by storm, making new alliances and unexpected gains. I only hope that Master Eric doesn’t use his latest artifact, lest he lose his potential for a temporary boost...
Again, most excellent writing and prose. Only took a day to read through, and eagerly waiting for more.
-I’m once again thinking of Mee as baby yoda-
December 10, 2021
Him (the protagonist) running an organisation is going to take away from him surviving in the wild and slapping people's faces in.
The book went back to where it all started, and faces were slapped. However, this book does feel shorter than some of the older books.
I'm enjoying the series so far, and I hope it continues without falling behind.
3/5 Stars
The book went back to where it all started, and faces were slapped. However, this book does feel shorter than some of the older books.
I'm enjoying the series so far, and I hope it continues without falling behind.
3/5 Stars
November 27, 2025
I wonder where is gone the spark of the series... Some chapters are very boring.
We encounter the same pitfall as in all LitRPG series: the more power the hero gains, the more they have to "organize" their camp and manage their allies. The adventure transforms into mere accounting and bad politics, with a lot of meetings, each more boring than the last.
And as the hero becomes overpowered, the main stake of the series (the hero's survival) gradually disappears.
An other recurrent glitch : I can't explain why LitRPG authors progressively abandon their hero's stat sheets as their series progress. It remains a mystery to me.
We encounter the same pitfall as in all LitRPG series: the more power the hero gains, the more they have to "organize" their camp and manage their allies. The adventure transforms into mere accounting and bad politics, with a lot of meetings, each more boring than the last.
And as the hero becomes overpowered, the main stake of the series (the hero's survival) gradually disappears.
An other recurrent glitch : I can't explain why LitRPG authors progressively abandon their hero's stat sheets as their series progress. It remains a mystery to me.
May 14, 2021
Another great adventure
I fell in love with this book I cannot stop putting it down. It made me weep with tears of joy and celebrate all that is good. I love this serious and cannot wait for the next book
I fell in love with this book I cannot stop putting it down. It made me weep with tears of joy and celebrate all that is good. I love this serious and cannot wait for the next book
December 24, 2022
Good read
Earlier loose ends tied up nicely. Family is being built all over and worlds are being united. Return of some ghosts bring changes. Still could some editing. The translation and continuity it just off in places.
Earlier loose ends tied up nicely. Family is being built all over and worlds are being united. Return of some ghosts bring changes. Still could some editing. The translation and continuity it just off in places.
January 10, 2024
I dont get it. His classmates know he is a zero. And they know he is so weak. How come they didnt think it was weird he got taller and is stronger? He did bumb into the strongest guy in the class. And that guy almost fell.
May 12, 2021
Fun Read!
Very enjoyable and I finished the same day of release. I just could not put it down - who needs sleep?
Very enjoyable and I finished the same day of release. I just could not put it down - who needs sleep?
May 12, 2021
Good book
Great book good story I really enjoyed catching up with all the characters. I can't wait until book 7 comes out.
Great book good story I really enjoyed catching up with all the characters. I can't wait until book 7 comes out.
May 13, 2021
The best darn zero around
Another great read. It as always leaves me wanting more. If you haven’t read this series yet you really should give it a shot
Another great read. It as always leaves me wanting more. If you haven’t read this series yet you really should give it a shot
May 16, 2021
Excellent awaiting the next one impatiently
May 30, 2021
What a great story.
Bravo! I love it. This is one of those series where each book is better than the one before it. I literally read it in one sitting.
Bravo! I love it. This is one of those series where each book is better than the one before it. I literally read it in one sitting.
July 23, 2021
What a powerful story plot we got here. I like it because main character get his brother back. I hope time pass by as a fly so I will be able to read onward. I hardly can wait for the new book.
July 30, 2021
Osadchuk really isn't great at telling political stories. Overall, the series is still good but it's let down by the politicking and long sections of exposition.
September 21, 2021
Good
A good entry into the book series, I am looking forward to seeing what happens in the next book released.
A good entry into the book series, I am looking forward to seeing what happens in the next book released.
January 10, 2022
Good book
I am still looking forward to the next book in this series. I wonder what the MC will be doing with his latest items and if he will use them or give them away.
I am still looking forward to the next book in this series. I wonder what the MC will be doing with his latest items and if he will use them or give them away.
April 17, 2023
Richtig gut die ganze reihe
February 23, 2024
It was good but I'm not sure if I'm going to keep reading the series because I've lost interest for now.
November 5, 2025
Genuinely started to get good here, he starts caring about others
July 27, 2021
This book was Epic!
Eric got his revenge and taken is familiar back. That ending..., simply perfection. I thought OMG what a fantastic ending!
Eric got his revenge and taken is familiar back. That ending..., simply perfection. I thought OMG what a fantastic ending!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews