In the light novel, the plot development is more about the gradual evolution of the world and the characters within it. There are more sub - plots that contribute to the overall world - building. In the anime, while it does show some of this world - evolution, it is more focused on the main plot involving the protagonist and his immediate challenges. So, the light novel offers a broader view of the plot development, while the anime hones in on the key elements to create an engaging visual story.
The anime often streamlines the plot for the sake of simplicity and time management. It may cut out some side plots or minor storylines that are present in the light novel. This can sometimes make the overall plot in the anime seem more straightforward compared to the more complex and multi - faceted plot in the light novel. However, the anime still manages to capture the essence of the main plot arcs from the novel.
The anime has to convey character development through visual and auditory means. While it does a decent job, the light novel has the advantage of being able to use long passages of text to really dig into a character's growth. For example, characters like Shalltear in the light novel have more detailed backstories that contribute to their development, and not all of this is fully presented in the anime. The light novel can also explore the relationships between characters in a more complex way which aids in their development, and the anime may simplify some of these relationships.
In the novel, character development is more in - depth. For instance, the main character Ainz has more internal monologues which show his growth and change in thinking over time. In the anime, this is sometimes not as fully explored due to time limitations.
In the light novel, characters' thoughts and emotions can be more thoroughly explored through detailed descriptions. In the anime, we rely more on voice acting and facial expressions. Some minor characters in the light novel might get less screen time in the anime, so their development seems less complete.
In the light novel, the plot can progress at a more leisurely pace, allowing for more build - up and anticipation. The anime, due to its episodic nature, might have to speed up the plot at times. This can sometimes lead to a feeling of rushed development in the anime, especially in some of the later arcs where there is a lot of story to cover in a limited number of episodes.
Overlord is quite similar to the light novels. The main plot and character development are mostly consistent.
In the game, the plot development is driven by the player's actions and choices. You can choose to focus on different aspects of the story, like building relationships or delving deeper into the Metaverse mysteries. In the anime, the plot follows a set path. So, in the game, there's more freedom in how the story unfolds.
In the light novel, character development is more in - depth. You get to see the internal monologues of the characters which really helps in understanding their motives. For example, Horikita's growth from a somewhat cold and self - centered person to someone who starts to care more about others is more detailed in the novel.
In the anime, the story development is more streamlined. It quickly moves from one major event to another. In contrast, the novel has a more meandering story development. It spends more time on the build - up before reaching the big events.
In the light novel, character development can be more in - depth. Since there is more space to write, the author can explore the characters' thoughts, motives, and growth over a longer period in greater detail. In the anime, character development might be a bit more rushed at times to fit the story within the allotted number of episodes.
I can't really say for sure as I haven't read volume 15. But in previous volumes, we've seen characters like Ainz grow in terms of his understanding of the new world and his leadership skills.