Clean Progression Fantasy vs. Harem

Hey everyone,

I’ve been looking into the traits of the most successful web novels lately. While it’s clear that harem tropes and instant god-modes capture a massive chunk of the mainstream audience, I’ve always preferred a different approach.

I’m currently writing a clean progression fantasy with an analytical, science-minded MC who treats magic like biology—calibrating output, observing physical strain, and relying on strict logical rules rather than "hidden cheat codes" or romance subplots.

For the writers and avid readers here: do you think a completely clean, strictly logical magic system still has the potential to compete with the top-ranking mainstream tropes? Or has the market shifted too heavily toward harem and wish-fulfillment?

I will leave the link to the story in the comments. Please check it out and let me know your honest feedback—maybe I went a bit overboard with this analytical style?

Would love to hear your thoughts on the market reality right now!