An apocalyptic event forces two strangers to navigate a world where the old order is shattered. Is it survival of the fittest or survival of the richest? Spoiled Nuowan can't stay alive in this new reality without the help of skilled hotel worker Yu Sen, whom he met only moments before the world ended. Yu's former military training comes in handy, but is kissing out of the blue a survival tactic? (Media Do)
Since the conception of the first ‘End of the World' plot, the consistent popularity of post-apocalyptic media has led many to ponder the same question: what would you do if you were one of the last people on earth? It's precisely the scenario that Nuowan Qian and Yu Sen find themselves in when they realize they're some of the last remaining survivors of an apocalyptic event. However, Gene's “Loving You When the World Ended” isn't just a survival manhua, as it turns expectations on its head by focusing on the love story between these two young men while they navigate the end of civilization as they know it.
It's always a treat to see an author approach a well-known genre from a different angle; that is especially true for “Loving You When the World Ended”. One of the best things this manhua has going for it right from the beginning is how it subverts your expectations. Despite the bleak setting and context, the tone is fun, comedic, and light-hearted. In fact, juxtaposing the severity of the situations the characters find themselves in versus the somewhat unrealistic or ridiculous ways they handle them makes for some of the funniest moments in the story. The idea of deadly cannibals is daunting, but with a solution as simple as treating their PTSD, it suddenly becomes a quirky joke to look back on.
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Considering this is a Boy's Love story, it is only reasonable for readers to expect a reasonable amount of romance. This series definitely delivers on the romance aspects, with a semi-slow burn relationship between Nuowan and You Sen. Fans of the BL genre will recognize the familiar tropes this manhua utilizes, as they deliver exactly what you expect. Considering how fun and different Gene's approach to the post-apocalyptic genre is, it would've been nice to see them approach the romance with some new ideas. The dynamic between the characters isn't anything unusual, with there being an obvious power and size distinction between them. Nuowan is weak to the point of being almost useless, while Yu Sen is the obvious, strong savior type. It works for them, especially in this setting, but it's not a groundbreaking or fresh dynamic. Even flipping their personalities might have added a different flare that really would've stood out.
The introduction of a third male for a jealousy side plot almost takes an unexpected turn but eventually plays out as a standard B-plot for the sake of progressing the main couple's confession. The romance is by no means bad, and the main couple does have an enjoyable chemistry that makes you want to root for them. It just isn't anything new or unexpected in the world of BL manga/manhua. Avid fans of the genre will surely find it more than acceptable, as the romance still delivers a satisfying story and conclusion.
While at times the romance plot can feel a tad predictable, another area Gene shines is in the artwork. Almost every setting is exceptionally detailed, which is commendable when most of the backgrounds consist of elaborate piles of rubble and forests. The character designs are also pleasant. Yu Sen stands out for his toned-down size and appearance compared to more stereotypical, overly macho partner designs in many Boy's Love manga/manhua.
With the popularity of both the post-apocalyptic and Boy's Love genres rising in recent decades, it makes sense to combine the two, and Gene does so in a way that's both comedic and entertaining. The detailed art, character chemistry, and unique premise will surely satisfy readers looking for something a little different in the world of Boy's Love entertainment.
