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Hell Mode Light Novel #3
Hell Mode: Volume 3
How is “No-life Gamers” as a party name?!
The Academy City arc starts off with a bang! After leaving the service of House Granvelle, Allen enrolls in the Academy together with Cecil, as well as Krena and Dogora who have come all the way from Krena Village. As part of their new life together, they form a party to take on the many dungeons scattered throughout Academy City, keeping in mind their ultimate goal of defeating the Demon Lord. When Allen goes in search of a healer for their party, he encounters Keel, a boy his age with the Cleric Talent. However, Keel comes across as guarded and reticent. Just what secret is he hiding, and how is it related to House Granvelle? At the same time, why is Helmios, the Hero of Giamut, at the Academy, and what does he want from Allen? And what’s this about a martial arts tournament?!
The Academy City arc starts off with a bang! After leaving the service of House Granvelle, Allen enrolls in the Academy together with Cecil, as well as Krena and Dogora who have come all the way from Krena Village. As part of their new life together, they form a party to take on the many dungeons scattered throughout Academy City, keeping in mind their ultimate goal of defeating the Demon Lord. When Allen goes in search of a healer for their party, he encounters Keel, a boy his age with the Cleric Talent. However, Keel comes across as guarded and reticent. Just what secret is he hiding, and how is it related to House Granvelle? At the same time, why is Helmios, the Hero of Giamut, at the Academy, and what does he want from Allen? And what’s this about a martial arts tournament?!
382 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 15, 2021
71 people are currently reading
64 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
April 14, 2022
Volume 3 is the academy and dungeon crawling arc. It is much like earlier volumes a mix of ability analysis, a bit of world building which raises a few more questions than it answers and very little on character development. The MC is a gamer through and through, and treats the world as a game. His behaviour towards others makes sense in a way, but for me the story does suffer because of it. Allen is rather callous and we see very little of the other characters of the story. Still, it is entertaining and interesting enough to keep me hooked.
May 22, 2024
Hell Mode: Volume 3 - An Unrelenting Descent into Chaos
![Joeschmo's Gears and Grounds: Ore dake Haireru Kakushi Dungeon - Episode 12 [END] - Olivia Hugs Noir](https://images.gr-assets.com/hostedimages/1716384127ra/35543970.gif)
Hell Mode: Volume 3 by Hamuo continues to push the boundaries of the post-apocalyptic genre, delivering a relentless and chaotic journey that keeps readers hooked from start to finish. This installment delves deeper into the protagonist's psyche while introducing new challenges that test his limits in unexpected ways.
Hell Mode: Volume 3 sees the protagonist grappling with the ever-escalating dangers of the game-like world, as he faces more formidable foes and intricate puzzles. The narrative is infused with Hamuo's signature dark humor and biting wit, making for a compelling read that balances intensity with moments of levity.
Critical Comparison to Contemporaries:
In the landscape of post-apocalyptic and isekai light novels, Hell Mode: Volume 3 stands out for its unyielding pace and darkly comedic tone. While series like Overlord by Kugane Maruyama focus on the strategic maneuvering and power dynamics of a game-like world, and Sword Art Online by Reki Kawahara blends action with romantic subplots, Hell Mode maintains an unrelenting focus on survival and the protagonist's ruthless drive to overcome his circumstances.
Whereas Overlord and Sword Art Online often delve into the intricacies of world-building and character relationships, Hell Mode is more concerned with the visceral and immediate challenges presented by its brutal environment. This focus on constant action and dark humor sets it apart, offering a unique reading experience that is both thrilling and refreshingly irreverent.
Spoiler Alert!
In conclusion, Hell Mode: Volume 3 is a gripping and unrelenting continuation of the series that will satisfy fans of fast-paced, darkly humorous post-apocalyptic fiction. Hamuo's ability to blend intense action with character development and sharp wit makes this volume a standout in the genre.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ (3/5 stars)
For readers seeking a unique and exhilarating take on the post-apocalyptic genre, Hell Mode: Volume 3 is a must-read. Its relentless pace, dark humor, and compelling protagonist make it a standout addition to the world of light novels.
March 20, 2022
Allen is off to the Academy, where he's planning to enroll and train until the time comes where he'll fight the Demon Lord's army. Together with Cecil, Krena, Dogora, and several new friends, he attacks the local dungeons. But Allen is still reluctant to reveal his skills to people in general, and the Academy is determined to force him to show off . . .
One of the things I really like about this series is that so far, each book has had a relatively contained plotline about something vastly different from the books before it. This book is the obligatory "school arc," but Allen being Allen, it's more about finding new and exciting ways to gain EXP, magic stones, and better equipment.
It still cracks me up that his "no PVP" stance breaks instantly as soon as the correct reward is on offer.
I also like that we're not just building a party of the strongest classes. Dogora would be left out in most other books---he's got a relatively average class, and nothing much personally to offer above anyone else. But he wants to work with Allen, and Allen makes a place for him.
It's almost the same story with Keel, who comes with some rather interesting history. Allen needs Keel's skills, yes, but beyond that, he's trying to help Keel reach his own goals.
Overall this book is a great next step for the plot. It does have a bit of a cliffhanger at the end, although one that's likely to take most or all of the next book to resolve. I rate this book Recommended.
One of the things I really like about this series is that so far, each book has had a relatively contained plotline about something vastly different from the books before it. This book is the obligatory "school arc," but Allen being Allen, it's more about finding new and exciting ways to gain EXP, magic stones, and better equipment.
It still cracks me up that his "no PVP" stance breaks instantly as soon as the correct reward is on offer.
I also like that we're not just building a party of the strongest classes. Dogora would be left out in most other books---he's got a relatively average class, and nothing much personally to offer above anyone else. But he wants to work with Allen, and Allen makes a place for him.
It's almost the same story with Keel, who comes with some rather interesting history. Allen needs Keel's skills, yes, but beyond that, he's trying to help Keel reach his own goals.
Overall this book is a great next step for the plot. It does have a bit of a cliffhanger at the end, although one that's likely to take most or all of the next book to resolve. I rate this book Recommended.
April 24, 2023
In the afterward, the author writes that it was his editor’s idea to collect each arc of the web novel into 1 volume of the book for ease of reading. I find this a terrible idea.
The biggest frustration while reading this volume were the characters. Everyone felt like they were on autopilot purely to serve the plot. Allen rarely struggles now, and character interactions have gotten dull. It started off with a really interesting twist with one of his new friends, but the bad blood between them was quickly solved. These are characters I want to love, I want to see them have fun and grow and goof off, but that’s not happening. So much plot happens that there is no time to live with the characters, or explore the city, or understand the academy. It’s all in service to advance the plot.
I’m still giving this 3 stars because so much was in here and it was a breezy read. It just affected how enthusiastic I am to continue reading. Which isn’t much.
The biggest frustration while reading this volume were the characters. Everyone felt like they were on autopilot purely to serve the plot. Allen rarely struggles now, and character interactions have gotten dull. It started off with a really interesting twist with one of his new friends, but the bad blood between them was quickly solved. These are characters I want to love, I want to see them have fun and grow and goof off, but that’s not happening. So much plot happens that there is no time to live with the characters, or explore the city, or understand the academy. It’s all in service to advance the plot.
I’m still giving this 3 stars because so much was in here and it was a breezy read. It just affected how enthusiastic I am to continue reading. Which isn’t much.
May 27, 2024
They have instantaneous communication via magic tech.... Yet by the time they send a message, 75% of the country is already lost to the enemy. It makes no sense at all. A host of 3 million enemies would be seen by scouts days if not weeks before an attack even comes.
This kind of stupidity hurts my brain.
Also all the numbers make no sense. 3 million class S, A, and B enemies? All the countries would be dead already. The countries can't even manage to kill one class A dragon on a mountain. Again, totally nonsensical.
Chocobo-like birds with a rider on the back go 186 miles per hour (300kph). Cmon... like, do you not know what numbers even mean?
This kind of stupidity hurts my brain.
Also all the numbers make no sense. 3 million class S, A, and B enemies? All the countries would be dead already. The countries can't even manage to kill one class A dragon on a mountain. Again, totally nonsensical.
Chocobo-like birds with a rider on the back go 186 miles per hour (300kph). Cmon... like, do you not know what numbers even mean?
December 31, 2025
They have instantaneous communication via magic tech.... Yet by the time they send a message, 75% of the country is already lost to the enemy. It makes no sense at all. A host of 3 million enemies would be seen by scouts days if not weeks before an attack even comes.
This kind of stupidity hurts my brain.
Also all the numbers make no sense. 3 million class S, A, and B enemies? All the countries would be dead already. The countries can't even manage to kill one class A dragon on a mountain. Again, totally nonsensical.
Chocobo-like birds with a rider on the back go 186 miles per hour (300kph). Cmon... like, do you not know what numbers even mean?
This kind of stupidity hurts my brain.
Also all the numbers make no sense. 3 million class S, A, and B enemies? All the countries would be dead already. The countries can't even manage to kill one class A dragon on a mountain. Again, totally nonsensical.
Chocobo-like birds with a rider on the back go 186 miles per hour (300kph). Cmon... like, do you not know what numbers even mean?
June 4, 2022
Good story, almost no action.
The story is good, the author expands the world he was creating and includes a lot of political struggles. The main plot, a war against the demon army and how is keeping hidden from the population doesn’t make any sense. Having so much casualties and so much territory taken, not accounting with the amount of refugees, while keeping all this a secret from almost everybody, doesn’t make any sense. The second problem is the author keeps filling pages and pages with updated status, not only from the main character but with everybody in his party. The action is almost non existent, apart from a couple of duels, most of the dungeon explorations and boss fight are solved easily. A nice and easy to read book, but not impressive at all.
The story is good, the author expands the world he was creating and includes a lot of political struggles. The main plot, a war against the demon army and how is keeping hidden from the population doesn’t make any sense. Having so much casualties and so much territory taken, not accounting with the amount of refugees, while keeping all this a secret from almost everybody, doesn’t make any sense. The second problem is the author keeps filling pages and pages with updated status, not only from the main character but with everybody in his party. The action is almost non existent, apart from a couple of duels, most of the dungeon explorations and boss fight are solved easily. A nice and easy to read book, but not impressive at all.
April 16, 2022
Another hit
I have absolutely fallen for this series and cannot get enough. The story pacing suits me with the time skips making perfect sense. The MC continues to develop but we don’t have to hold his hand through every skill up.
The stories pacing is fairly quick and filler is fairly nonexistent. There are time skips but they are months or weeks and honestly help the story so much.
I have absolutely fallen for this series and cannot get enough. The story pacing suits me with the time skips making perfect sense. The MC continues to develop but we don’t have to hold his hand through every skill up.
The stories pacing is fairly quick and filler is fairly nonexistent. There are time skips but they are months or weeks and honestly help the story so much.
April 19, 2022
Excellent Series!
I've had mixed luck with light novels... the authors usually seem to focus on 'cute' or nonsensical romance ignoring the main story line.
Hell Mode has impressed me by the maturity of the story telling. There is depth to the characters that have clear goals and motivations while working in a much larger world with challenges and clear objective.
I would definitely recommend this series! Looking forward to the next book!
I've had mixed luck with light novels... the authors usually seem to focus on 'cute' or nonsensical romance ignoring the main story line.
Hell Mode has impressed me by the maturity of the story telling. There is depth to the characters that have clear goals and motivations while working in a much larger world with challenges and clear objective.
I would definitely recommend this series! Looking forward to the next book!
April 20, 2022
How does a book about rpg grinding end up as such an easy delightful read? I honestly feel like I should dislike this series and find it boring--not just because of the subject matter, but even the protagonist's outlook and attitude are so singularly focused on boring grinding. It's a very good read despite all of this. Kudos to the author's writing and especially his sense of pacing; I still don't understand why I like this book and series so much.
September 3, 2025
Series is getting better with each installment
I love where this plot line is going. The main character for me is very believable although overpowered which was made clear that was going to be the case from the very first book. I am enjoying the ride I love when the MCs have so much plot armor. I would love to see how the other characters are going to be developed alongside him in future installments
I love where this plot line is going. The main character for me is very believable although overpowered which was made clear that was going to be the case from the very first book. I am enjoying the ride I love when the MCs have so much plot armor. I would love to see how the other characters are going to be developed alongside him in future installments
June 16, 2023
Keeps getting better!
Every time I read/re read this story, I am simply amazed at the sheer level of detail and characterization that has gone into it. It’s one of, if not, my favorite series to date; and I watch and read a lot of media. I honestly can’t wait until this is animated. I truly wish it gets picked up. Phenomenal story.
Every time I read/re read this story, I am simply amazed at the sheer level of detail and characterization that has gone into it. It’s one of, if not, my favorite series to date; and I watch and read a lot of media. I honestly can’t wait until this is animated. I truly wish it gets picked up. Phenomenal story.
April 14, 2022
Amazing!!!!!
This is what I have been waiting for!!! So excited to finally get the next set in the series. I will be impatiently waiting for the next book. Not gonna give anything away but awesome!!! Just...awesome.
This is what I have been waiting for!!! So excited to finally get the next set in the series. I will be impatiently waiting for the next book. Not gonna give anything away but awesome!!! Just...awesome.
April 14, 2022
Much better
This book, best the parents of the first 2. Who would have thought such events were coming. The even come out of nowhere and really change the tempo at the end. Sets up really well for the next book to.
This book, best the parents of the first 2. Who would have thought such events were coming. The even come out of nowhere and really change the tempo at the end. Sets up really well for the next book to.
November 13, 2024
Heard on audible, and I have to say that this series is really picking up. It got really interesting towards the end of this book, and I am eagerly awaiting the next book to see what happens. Awesome job.
March 21, 2025
This book is great! It kinda just feels on rails with the need to level up, and not too many challenges that had me at the edge of my seat. But I like the new characters and I’m definitely wanting more
April 19, 2022
yes!
Tons of fun, just wish it was a little longer. I do like the direction it is taken. I also wish they found more diverse and interesting loot!
Tons of fun, just wish it was a little longer. I do like the direction it is taken. I also wish they found more diverse and interesting loot!
May 4, 2022
Best storyline in the series. It's so awesome that Hell Mode is finally having a large role in defeating the Demon Lord's army.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 30, 2022
สนุกฉิฟหายยยยย
January 3, 2023
I Need Volume 4!!!
Just got volume 3 yesterday and cannot wait for volume 4! The pace has picked up and the No-Life Gamers are making waves. Yahoo!
Just got volume 3 yesterday and cannot wait for volume 4! The pace has picked up and the No-Life Gamers are making waves. Yahoo!
January 17, 2023
This novel doesn't give a lot of fluff nonsense. I enjoy that about this series. It's just a gamer trying to survive using his summons in hell mode.
August 6, 2023
Love it
The story is so funny, although a bit technical at times it still keeps you entertained. I really enjoyed this story!
The story is so funny, although a bit technical at times it still keeps you entertained. I really enjoyed this story!
August 26, 2024
The reactions to the fight against Allen and the hero are just the best. And then Allen gets to make very clear who he thinks is on his side, and who he is willing to protect.
Here, we have the obligatory school arc! Allen completes building his team, and we get a very unrealistic idea of how 12-year-olds, 13-year-olds, and 14-year-olds act when they're living alone without any adults.
Maybe they just make them more mature in other worlds?
Here, we have the obligatory school arc! Allen completes building his team, and we get a very unrealistic idea of how 12-year-olds, 13-year-olds, and 14-year-olds act when they're living alone without any adults.
Maybe they just make them more mature in other worlds?
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews