Ready Player One.

Go!!!!

I couldn't begin this review any other way could I?

Ready Player One is the debut of self professed super geek Ernest Cline (He owns a Delorean, proton packs and has a private number plate of 'ecto88'. I think that title is pretty safe). The story takes place in a dystopian future where humanity has sucked up many of its resources. They escape their awful reality through virtual reality.

The virtual space is called the Oasis and it is headed by an eccentric billionaire, James Halliday. The story kicks off with Halliday, through his will, giving away his fortune to the first person to complete his three puzzles. 

The story's hero is Wade Watts. He is an average high school kid who has an intense fixation with all things 80s and Halliday. He dreams of leaving his home (caravans stacked on top of each other, insane concept but equally as brilliant) and solving Halliday's puzzles.

Below are my thoughts and i've tried to avoid Spoiler Avenue. 

WHAT I LIKED:

Cline's simple style enabled for a quick read, which suited the novel. You're given the imagery through great similes and clear nouns. The dialogue between the characters flowed and although some characters played to type they accompanied the story. 

Plot twists are great elements in the story. You never feel as if the narrative is becoming predictable and the twists completely blindside you. They also feel authentic and not devices begging for your attention.

The concept of the virtual world is fun. It reminded me of the Japanese Anime 'Sword Art Online.' A stumbling block for virtual world stories is the stakes. Real death can't occur in virtual world so the 'bad guys' lose an element of their fear. Cline side steps this by linking the virtual threat to the real world. He creates genuine fear and genuine problems. 

The depth of 80s pop culture references was brilliant. Cline is a fan not just someone attempting to jump on the retro bandwagon. I learnt about music and games, from that era, that I didn't have a clue about. Did you know people complete the 255 levels of Pacman without losing a life? I didn't, but thanks to Mr. Cline I now do.

**** SPOILER*****

The epic Mech battle at the end. Great pace and suspense to the fighting and my jaw had to be scrapped off the floor when the scene finished.

WHAT I DISLIKED:

That there hasn't been the announcement of a number 2? The story doesn't end with the need for a number two, but i'd love to head back into Cline's world. Different characters in a different time? Just back in this world! Surely it will be called Ready Player 2.

WOULD I RECOMMENED?:

If you are into gaming, 80s pop culture, and 60s/70s Japanese anime/manga this is a must read. If you aren't it's still fun and has great pace and twists. It's definitely worth the read and is the most fun book i've read this year.