The series Demon Lord 2099 has gained attention, with Yen Press publishing both the original light novel and its manga adaptation, and the anime available on Crunchyroll. While it may not be as widely recognized as some other villain-centric manga and anime, its distinctive approach to storytelling and concept is truly remarkable. The recently released manga omnibus in English provides a comprehensive look at the narrative, effectively showcasing the ingenuity of Daigo Murasaki’s vision.
Mild Spoilers for the Demon Lord 2099 Manga Ahead
Demon Lord 2099 is a futuristic villain story set in Shinjuku, yet it seamlessly incorporates elements of high fantasy. The protagonist, Veltol Velvet Velsvalt, was an immortal demon lord in Alnaeth in 1599, where he was defeated by a hero named Gram. Being immortal, his return was inevitable. However, his awakening occurs after a 2023 world fusion event that merged Alnaeth with Earth. This resulted in a vibrant mix of magic and technology, a world where few immortals survived, especially with magic now being illegal within city limits. Fortunately, his loyal subordinate, Machina Soleige, endured and performed the Methenoel ritual to revive him.
As a demon lord, Veltol’s immediate goal is to resume his quest for leadership. Starting anew in a vastly different world presents a fascinating challenge, as Murasaki’s narrative explores his adjustment to modern life and the changes in those he once knew. Another demon lord from his era, Marcus, is already established in this new world, having strategically positioned himself as the CEO of Ishimaru Heavy Magical Industries—a contemporary form of overlordship.
Veltol’s power relies on having followers, necessitating a new approach to gaining notoriety. This is where Murasaki’s story truly shines. With the assistance of Machina and her hacker friend Takahashi, Veltol embraces technology and online influencing. The Demon Lord 2099 manga opens by introducing him as a streamer with over 320,000 subscribers, demonstrating how Machina and Takahashi help him harness public opinion and a form of
