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Weird Mix of Sci-fi and Horror
I don't think I've ever read a novel like this one. It's sci-fi, mystery, horror (creepy-pasta style), adventure, gore, isekai(?).
The main characters Toriko Nishina and Sorawo Kamikoshi are two loners who find themselves teaming up to explore the dangerous "Otherside", a world of where monstrous creatures and dangerous trappings could easily kill them. Thank goodness they have guns!
A lot of western fans seem to really hype-up the yuri but I felt like the romance took a back seat in this novel. Yes, there’s chemistry between the characters, but it’s a slow burn as their relationship as friends develops first with the hint there might be more.
I liked 裏世界ピクニック because, unlike many light novels, they don't info-dump you. You're introduced to information via slow drip.
Full review here if you're interested! https://jtalkonline.com/sci-fi-horror-adventure-otherside-picnic-japanese-novel-for-japanese-learners/