Translator here, I'll try to give an unbiased review.

This story can be enjoyed without reading the prequel, "108 Maidens of Destiny, " but having said that, knowing what happens there enhances the significance of certain characters here. Reading 108MOD also serves to show how much this story pales in comparison, unfortunately.

Maiden Galaxy started off OK, with a cliche beginning of an abandoned young master gaining new power and putting other people in their place. Soon after, however, the quality and direction of the story starts to fluctuate wildly. While Maiden... more>> Galaxy was able to retain in its early chapters much of 108MOD's charm, Maiden Galaxy's weaknesses are much more prominent compared to its relative strengths. Furthermore, many of 108MOD's own weaknesses become even worse in Maiden Galaxy.

• Pros
  • More Star Maidens
  • More references to and twists on obscure Chinese history and literature
  • Retains many of 108MOD's strengths
• Cons
  • Inconsistent characterization of the main cast, particularly the main character
  • Frequently tells, doesn't show
  • Underutilized supporting characters
  • Unresolved plot points/threads
  • Lack of coherent plot direction and convoluted/contrived plot twists

The last bullet is particularly glaring. 108MOD had a very focused plot: use the wish to end the Star Duels. And the method to achieve that goal was to collect and master all kinds of techniques and mystical weapons. At first glance, Maiden Galaxy also seems to have a very focused plot: get home. Similarly, the method to achieve that was to master techniques and a special weapon such that our hero would be able to defeat anyone who stood in his way. The problem, however, is that he ends up getting sidetracked by a multitude of other quests that do not really further his goal. Consequently, the story stretches in different directions; it drags, pivots, then suddenly lurches forward again. A lack of planning on the author's part then becomes painfully apparent. They wanted to do so many things that they forgot the main goal of Chen Mo's journey.

Overall, Maiden Galaxy is decidedly mediocre. While not so terrible I wanted to drop it, it definitely does not match up to its predecessor. <<less