The Overlord manga is an adaptation of the popular Japanese light novel series written by Kugane Maruyama and illustrated by Hugin Miyama. The story is set in the year 2138, in a world where virtual reality gaming has become immensely popular. The plot centers around a player known as “Momonga,” who is the guild master of Ainz Ooal Gown in the virtual game Yggdrasil. When the game is scheduled to shut down, Momonga decides to stay logged in until the very end, only to find that he cannot log out, and the non-player characters (NPCs) have gained consciousness.

Now trapped in the game, Momonga, who takes on the persona of his in-game avatar—a powerful undead overlord named Ainz Ooal Gown—sets out to explore this new reality. He seeks to understand the world he is in and, ultimately, to expand his power and influence. The manga closely follows the events of the light novel, with a strong emphasis on dark fantasy themes, complex world-building, and strategic battles.

The Overlord manga is known for its deep exploration of the protagonist’s descent into becoming an anti-hero or even a villain, as he embraces his role as the ruler of the Great Tomb of Nazarick. The series also delves into the perspectives of various other characters, adding layers to the overarching narrative.

The manga’s artwork is praised for its detailed depiction of the characters and the fantastical world they inhabit, enhancing the immersive experience of the story