Detective Is Already Dead: Which Is Better? Light Novel or Anime?

The Detective Is Already Dead is a Japanese light novel illustrated by Umibozu and written by Nigoju. Media Factory acquired license over the light novel and released five volumes under MF Bunko J imprint. Eventually, the series was adapted into a manga with the art by Mugiko.

The success of The Detective Is Already Dead did not stop there as ENGI decided to adapt it into an anime. It was released on July 2021 with 12 episodes available on Funimation. Both the light novel and anime were a success but there are still those who can’t decide which medium is better, the light novel or the anime?

The Detective Is Already Dead: Which Is Better? Light Novel or Anime?

For the first season of The Detective Is Already Dead, only two volumes of the light novel were used. Those who read the light novel and watched the anime also noticed some differences between the two. The first and major difference is how the story was told. Volume one of the light novel focuses on how Kimihiko Kimizuka met Nagisa Natsunagi and Yui Saikawa. Kimihiko also reunited with Charlotte Arisaka Anderson.

Volume one introduced Siesta as well but was not emphasized just like how it happened in the anime. The Toilet no Hanako-san case premiered in volume two of the light novel. But in the anime, along with the London story arc, the cases were part of the flashback mini-arc in the series. Also, the Medusa case was removed in the anime but it was featured in volume one of the light novel.

Another difference is how the one-night stand scene was shown. The anime revealed it as part of the flashback with no context. But the light novel thoroughly explained what happened during this certain scene and was contextualized better.

There were also mistranslations between the two. The English subtitles tried to match the English dubbed script but the translations from Japanese might be a little different which changed the context of some scenes. This also affected the catchphrases of the main characters.

While both mediums were successful, whichever platform preferred by fans is still subjective. Those who wish to know the original story can depend on the light novel as it is more accurate. The anime, on the other hand, is still a good medium to know the story especially for those who prefer to see their favorite characters in motion.

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