I have read the first 11 volumes, and this review will be based on that. Overlord begins with a player of an MMO in the future. The servers were about to shut down for good as it was an old game. As Ainz, the protagonist, is reminiscing about his time spent there in the marvelous fortress he and his guild members built during that time, it turns out that the servers were not shut down. Instead, Ainz finds that all of the NPC's (non playable characters, a term for video games) have been given life and can speak, and that they are now in an unfamiliar, fantasy world filled with goblins, dragons, giants, magicians, soldiers, adventurers, demons, etc. Sounds like something you've seen before, doesn't it? Well, fret not. This isn't exactly something you've seen repeatedly.

First, Ainz and his main party, the NPC's, are essentially the equivalent of gods in this new world. They are extremely powerful in their abilities and spells, due to Ainz' stats and abilities being maxed from his time playing the game. Second, the main cast of characters are often cold, and in some cases, would even be considered cruel, but ultimately, they are only trying to further their own goals. Ainz' goal, or purpose, could even be considered noble- he hopes to find his lost guild members, whom were also his friends, in this strange world, and eventually, his goal even culminates into trying to change the world into a utopia for everyone. In addition, Ainz is a lich- an undead monster, and his companions are nothing but a group of demon's and undead.

Thus, through most of the series as of 11 volumes, it features Ainz and his group of NPC's trying to discover the world and increase their power and influence over it. That is because despite being exceptionally powerful, not many would favor being ruled under monsters, and neither do they trust them. In additon, despite being gods it is apparent by the end of the third volume there are other individuals in the world whom may rival Ainz's power.

It makes for an interesting concept. Many basic ideas from other stories and settings are used, but the fresh ideas give this tale a unique flavor, and it blends together almost perfectly.

The characters in particular deserve special mention. Ainz is already unique as a protagonist. He is a monster, insanely powerful, and can be both a cruel and a hero, depending on what best suits his needs. He is not a genius, in fact one of his NPC's is even more intelligent than him, but neither is he a hot-headed idiot either, often making calculated decisions. Much enjoyment comes from seeing regular humans and other, far lesser in power individuals trying to overcome Ainz.

The NPCs are a small group of dark elves, monsters, demons, etc which serve Ainz. The primary ones are almost as strong as he is, and most of them were created by his friends. As a result, he has quite an attachment to them as the last remnants of his friends. They as well, are all incredibly loyal to him. They all share a strong bond, and there are tender moments shared between them on occasion.

Of course, there are a few, albeit minimal, number of characters which are dull (all humans, mind you). They take up sections and I find myself skimming over some of the parts that feel dragged out, even if it's necessary for some world building and character motivation.

Art-wise it's pretty good, although neither would I say it especially stands out as fantastic either. I would have liked more pictures as well personally, but I'm not sure what the norm amount is these days for a light novel, either.

Not only is this a fantastic light novel, but as a story in general it works exceptionally well. The characters and direction feels fresh and inviting, despite the fact many of it's basic premises are not. I would highly recommend this series to anyone, especially if they enjoy a fantasy setting.

Pros:
+Fantastic overall cast of characters with unique, tender relationships.
+Fresh ideas added to typical setting give the series some amazing zest.
+Writing is usually fluid.

Cons:
-While most of the cast is fantastic, a few recurring characters are dull
-pacing can move too fast at times and too slow at others