The web novel Bofuri, a story about Kaede Honjou (Maple) maximizing her defense in a VRMMO to avoid pain, ended after a 9-year run. This conclusion marks the end of the original source material that spawned multiple adaptations.
Publication Details
It began in June 2016 on Shōsetsuka ni Narō and amassed over 60 million views. The final chapter, the 573rd (Volume 19), was published on February 21, 2025, surprising many fans with its timing, as it aligns with the 9-year milestone.
Impact and Adaptations
The series popularity led to a light novel series (18 volumes as of August 2024), a manga, and an anime with seasons in 2020 and 2023. The web novel’s end may influence future adaptations, though the light novel continues.
The series popularity led to a light novel series (18 volumes as of August 2024), a manga, and an anime with seasons in 2020 and 2023. The web novel’s end may influence future adaptations, though the light novel continues.
Analysis of “BOFURI” Web Novel Ending
The conclusion of the web novel “BOFURI: I Don’t Want to Get Hurt, So I’ll Max Out My Defense” after 9 years of publication is a significant event for fans and the broader anime and light novel community.
Background and Story Synopsis
“BOFURI: I Don’t Want to Get Hurt, So I’ll Max Out My Defense” is a Japanese web novel series written by Yuumikan and illustrated by Koin.
The narrative centers on Kaede Honjou, a high school student who begins playing the virtual reality MMORPG NewWorld Online. To avoid experiencing pain in the game, she allocates all her skill points into defense, creating her character, Maple, who becomes unexpectedly powerful due to this strategy.
This unique approach blends comedy, adventure, and friendship, setting it apart in the isekai and VRMMO genres.
The web novel’s serialization began on the user-generated novel publishing platform Shōsetsuka ni Narō in June 2016, as confirmed by the Web Novel Wiki. It quickly gained traction, amassing over 60 million views, highlighting its widespread appeal.
Publication History and Conclusion
The web novel ran for 9 years, from June 2016 to February 21, 2025, when Yuumikan published the 573rd and final chapter.
This conclusion was announced by author on X (Formally Twitter), noting the author’s gratitude to fans for enabling a satisfying ending. Yuumikan Wrote on X (Formally Twitter),
“Defense is complete!
Thank you so much for all your support!
I believe it was only thanks to everyone’s help that we were able to reach a satisfactory conclusion.
I hope this happy and joyful journey, built on miracles, has been the same for all of you”
Initially, there was a discrepancy in the duration, with some sources suggesting an 8-year run, but given the start date of June 2016 and end in FebruaAdaptations and Popularity
The web novel’s success led to its adaptation into other formats. Fujimi Shobo acquired the rights and published the first light novel volume in September 2017 under their Kadokawa Books imprint.
A manga adaptation, illustrated by Jirō Oimoto, began serialization in May 2018 in Kadokawa Shoten’s Comp Ace magazine, with eight tankōbon volumes collected, licensed in North America by Yen Press.
The anime, produced by Silver Link, aired its first season from January 8 to March 25, 2020, comprising 12 episodes, followed by a second season in 2023. Both seasons were well-received, with streaming on platforms like Crunchyroll and Funimation, enhancing the series’ global reach.
Impact of the Web Novel’s Ending
The web novel’s end is a pivotal moment, serving as the original source material’s conclusion. With over 60 million views on Shōsetsuka ni Narō, as noted in Wikipedia, it underscores its popularity and influence.
The author’s X post, expressing thanks for completing the story with a satisfying ending, resonates with fans, long journey of 9 years is so over,
“”Posted: The long, long journey is almost over.”
A Fan replied after reading author X (Formally Twitter),
Thank you for your hard work. I don’t want it to end… I don’t want my heart to hurt…
Another X (Formally Twitter) user commented,
“It was really good. It was a very convincing story of how Kaede beat Risa.”
The franchise could see further expansion through spin-offs, movies, or additional manga volumes, especially considering the introduction of new characters in season 2’s finale.
The web novel’s conclusion provides a definitive end-point, potentially guiding these adaptations toward a cohesive narrative closure.
“BOFURI” web novel after 9 years is a testament to its enduring popularity and the dedication of its author and fans. With 573 chapters, it leaves a lasting legacy as the foundation for light novels, manga, and anime adaptations.
