Neko Ramen manga Impression

Tokyopop may be no more but the fun of a ramen making cat can still be enjoyed

Gone bye-bye is Tokyopop but picking up a volume of their manga can still bring joy to the manga fan looking for something new, something a bit more stand alone not needing 5, 10 or 30+ volumes to complete. One such manga is from the creative mind of Kenji Sonishi and it reads more like traditional newspaper comic strips here in the states. Neko Ramen: Hey! Order up! and Neko Ramen: Curry is also delicious! are just the first two volumes of this funny manga and they work great by themselves. So what’s so tasty about this ramen infused treat? Let’s take a gander.

A cat that runs a ramen stand. Yes, Taisho is a cat that makes ramen in his own ramen stand. Repeat customers Tanaka is witness to Taisho’s search for the perfect ramen menu that leads to awkward moments expected when a cat tackles human tasks. Is he a cat? Yes, but he talks and cooks ramen. Is he odd? Yes, he a cat that cooks ramen and dabble sin curry. He has issues with his poster modeling father, dogs, failed business and bad menu choices as well as what to do with his rental space in-store. It’s odd, it’s downright silly, heck it’s a cat that makes ramen.

Not much of a story summary but the reason is simple; Neko Ramen is about a cat that makes ramen and the odd situations that occur. The format keeps it simple with a mostly 4 panel top to bottom strips that will feel very familiar to American newspaper comic reading. Taisho is simple a cat making some ramen and trying to be a success and it’s through Tanaka readers see the funny stuff unfold. Funny stuff is the key here folks as the day-to-day situations he encounters as a ramen making cat are funny. The 2-3 page story segments show a funny history, stuff that just does not make sense. There are cultural story points some readers won’t get due to their basis in and with Japanese food but don’t’ fret, the majority is fun and funny. The art style only adds to the simplicity with a simple style that seems perfect for an Adult Swim run.

Neko Ramen is yet another reason why Tokyopop will be missed. It’s a unique manga that is closer to US comic strips than much of the mainstream manga still being published. Oh well on this front but these books are worth the read if you can find them.

Tokyopop is dead, long live Tokyopop

With Tokyopop closing its doors, what happens to all our favorite running manga?

With Tokyopop shutting down publishing operations in the US manga fans will now be left wondering what’s next? What now for those titles that hooked us, made us fans? I have a few, listed below, that I love to follow and now I’ll be wondering if a publisher like Viz or Bandai can pick up the slack? Recently the industry has seen Borders file for bankruptcy which means no more reading (and sometimes purchasing) of manga by kids, teens and adults alike, nope, the content is harder to find. Manga is going mobile with tablets and when there are series such as Naruto spanning 40+ volumes it tough to purchase at $10-15 a pop so a lower price online makes sense, but this brings us back to Tokyopop.

Where Viz and even Bandai have stronger, more recognizable titles such as Naruto and Bleach (both Viz), Tokyopop had a largely Go-Bots lineup to Viz’s Transformers. Solid and fun but only a few titles that were rock solid wow titles. Many of the books from Tokyopop were not as mainstream but no less brilliant. Shorter, less know tales were rock solid, great reads and it’s this aspect which will be missed the most. They published more comic oriented titles as well as a gay lineup in Blu but that is all gone now. So as the sun has set on Tokyopop what does this mean for manga fans and those titles in limbo?

Meaning for Manga Fans – Simply put, less players in the game. Viz is the biggest name left and talk about a rock star. They put out tons of printed books but have shifted to iPad and other tablets with lower price points on established titles. The space it will save fans is great but more previews are needed. Manga fans will have a harder time finding new titles from a variety of publishers thanks to how licenses are tied up and this is the biggest question for Tokyopop (since they shutdown their website). What happens to all those great license? Years ago this happened to Dragon Ball Z where the rights got lost in limbo before finally being picked up years later by FUNimation. It’s sad and scary to say the truth as fans are left to suffer.

The other aspect of Tokyopop was its risk taking, its rising stars opportunities to unknown artist and creators, its ties to manga software, to more Western manga-ish titles and to the works of Korea and China. It’s a shame really but the dollar speaks.

Best case scenario is the manga rights of the bigger titles get transferred over for continued publishing and that those smaller titles get released to seek new publishing methods. The hope is out there also that Tokyopop somehow finds a way to move all its manga operations online, go 100% digital in its manga distribution at a lower price point but this does not seem to be in the plans.

Which titles are we most heartbroken to see sitting in purgatory, let’s take a quick look.

• Samurai Harem – Awesome art and a great tale with tons of pretty ladies and even with all the panty shots and big boobs the awkward tale of love was a joy to follow. 
• Happy Café – Not the best art, nor an all original story but it was charming and fun. This manga would make you happy. 
• Maid Sama – LOVE the art and story, the characters and settings and it plain sucks this tale is over too soon. 
• Princess Ai – Beautiful art and while the story is a bit odd the art and style it brought rocked. 
• WarCraft & StarCraft – Boooo as there was some excellent work done for both franchises and now it’s gone but we hope Blizzard forces these rights elsewhere.

Tokyopop, you will be missed as you made the industry all the more exciting and competitive. Hope to meet again even if it’s only in digital form.

Pavane for a Dead Girl vol. 1 Impression

Who would you sacrifice for a heart’s desire?

Pavane for a Dead Girl volume 1 from Tokyopop is unlike any manga I’ve had the chance to take in. It has a very innocent look in its design leading one to think it will skew younger but the core of the story is anything but. This tale of violin prodigy Takenomaru Sagami holds many secrets that justify the OT (older teen, 16+ rating) but no secret is of the perverted or sick for sick sake, not here. This is a solid story of tough decisions.

Takenomaru Sagami is a violin prodigy, taken in by Professor Chogo Sagami who teaches at a prestigious all-female music academy. Takenomaru hones his skills but hides a secret in his past that controls his present and future. He made an agreement, at deaths door, to be blessed with not only the violin skill of a master but the looks to match. Being a half-blood jaded Takenomaru and this deal he struck with the Great Angel, for these two blessings, forces Takenomaru to seek the Tears of Maria. Newly arrived Nanao Kaga is a candidate for these tears as she seeks out Takenomaru whom she’s dubbed the “Prince of Harmony” after hearing him play at a younger age. Upon meeting him Nanao receives a brooch which oddly change color and she and Takenomaru begin to grow closers, a dream come true … or is it? Takenomaru’s agenda is only to harvest the Tears of Maria but why must he make a girl fall for him? What role does the color changing brooch play? How exactly are the tears harvested from the targets heart? It truly is a sad melody Takenomaru plays for his craft.

The art as mentioned carries a younger look with the large eyes, very younger Shoujo, and the plethora of young ladies in frilly outfits but this is no kiddy looking book. Contradicting myself, in a manner but when readers dive in they will find an art style that is sharp, well detailed and puts a focus on characters emotions that flies off the pages. Readers can feel Takenomaru’s hate and regret as well as each young ladies enamored with Takenomaru or their plain cockiness in their talents. This is not by any means a harem type manga, not by a long shot. The art shifts from the beauty readers can almost hear coming off the violin to the racist violence and hate for a boy born to parents of different backgrounds. Yeah, not kids stuff and the art is rock solid in delivering a full range of emotions even with frilly frocks and big eyes.

The story is quite serious in it’s basically a deal with the devil but one called an angel (wasn’t the devil an angel?). Anyway Takenomaru cuts a deal and becomes a harvester for these Tears of Maria which seem to be, well part of the story I’m not going to ruin, but it’s dangerous what he has to do and how he has to nurture these tears before their harvest. His life is by no means easier than it was as a poor down and out mixed breed. Volume 1 sets the stage for what Takenomaru is, what he must do but what I found very interesting is the time it invest in character development for those making short stays in the tale. Takenomaru is the focus and his quest for the Tears of Maria is the goal. What challenges will he face, opposition and potential enemies? More importantly what happens when he fails to collect the tears? This one question is more than enough reason for coming back for more in volume 2, will you be there to harvest along with Takenomaru?

Black Gate vol. 1-3 Impression

A story about those who help regulate death

The collected volumes, 1-3, of Black Gate from Tokyopop offers up a nice story at a very nice price less than the sum of its parts. This standalone series from Yukiko Sumiyoshi follows the exploits of a not-too-talented wanna-be Mitedamashi named Hijiri. The job of Mitedamashi, including Hijiri’s guardian Senju, is to close Black Gates that appear around the world. What is a Black Gate, how glad you asked …

The white light, when death is close, these are white gates, portals the departed see and follow upon their passing. While these gates serve a purpose their opposite does also. Black Gates appear randomly and bring death and destruction based on their size. The size of the gate determines the number of Mitedamashi needed to close the gate and save lives. Senju is one such agent and his annoying, short and cocky subordinate wishes to be one also. Hijiri just lacks talent until an encounter with a strong black gate forces hidden powers to be unlocked. This power begins a chain of events which sees changes in Hijiri and Senju’s relationship, in Hijiri working to become a full fledged Mitedamashi as well as a new partner, two protective guardians and some incredible, world changing revelations about Hijiri’s past and what he really is.

For three volumes this is not much of a description so I’ll start to explain a bit. The first volume introduces Hijiri and Senju but they are far from the only players in this tale. The reason I do not reveal the others is the simple fact it can and will ruin volume 2 and 3. The central figure is the ever young (for a very cool reason) Hijiri and his past is what drives the story. Past events and current collide into one … well I’m stopping again. Hijiri is a likeable enough character in the Naruto mold of never give up, full of energy but lacking in true talent. His journey is both sad yet happy and the pace is well carried out. The medium of death and black gates is not too out there nor is Hijiri’s background, it’s just a good manga. Motivations are all wrapped up quite well, it leaves a yummy taste in the reader mouth. Quite a feat in just three volumes to introduce characters the reader will care about and miss once the final page is read. What about the look …

The art style is solid and the cover art is poster worthy showing off the playfulness of Hijiri and seriousness of Senju. The style won’t spark any copy cats as its solid and very shonen manga in its feel. The action and detail in background art gets the job done, not groundbreaking but again solid. Overall from a visual standpoint what the reader sees on the cover is what continues in the book and it is more top shelf quality, very solid, very polished with a very familiar feel. Solid is the name of the game.

Overall, again, for the price and story flow this is a great purchase. Getting readers hooked into a story with good, solid art in just three volumes is really flipping spectacular the more I think about it. Really very solid, well done Yukiko.

The Witch of Artemis vol. 1 Impression

Can a planet where magic and witches be real? Kazuki is about to find out on Artemis.

Yui Hara draws one nice looking, cookie cutter manga with The Witch of Artemis volume 1 from Tokyopop. Flipping through the pages the learned manga fan will see character designs, settings and background on par with the shoujo genre’s finest upper-middle class. While this may sound not so appealing know this; Artemis is a thing of beauty to read it’s just not awe-inspiring but then again how many manga really are. Besides solid art what else is this book about, glad you asked …

Planeto is normal and average as is Kazuki. He and his brother live a fairly normal life minus the fact they are orphans. Their father passed but not before he told Kazuki many stories of the magical planet Artemis. A planet very similar to Planeto with the fact it contains witches and magic. Tall tales according to his brother but ones Kazuki dreams about all the time. These dreams turn to reality when Kazuki’s confronted by a witch, one from Artemis who’s searching for another which who finds Kazuki, curses him and puts him on Artemis with the only hope of being cured residing with the rude little witch who started the whole line of events (whew!) Seems this witch, Maria, is the Grand Witch of Artemis. Strings are being pulled form hidden participants and Kazuki is at the center as is Maria but for what? As the two get to know each other and help others on Artemis the mystery unfolds but to what end?

Mystery is the name of the game in Artemis. There is not super engaging about Kazuki or his world. The real interest lies with Maria, who she is and what her goals are. Her temper is fiery yet hidden. She feels more central to the story than Kazuki who just feels like a piece, which his is, to a larger puzzle. The solid if not original art mentioned earlier makes a character like Maria easy to like and engage with. Great show of emotion from anger to sorrow but for what? The mystery is what drives this tale of magical worlds and journeys across the stars familiar to fans of shoujo manga.

The Witch of Artemis is well drawn but it’s real redeeming quality is it’s story which is mystery driven. This book won’t be for all manga fans but those loving a good magical girl type misery should take a look. It’s not Harry Potter and it’s not Tenchi’s Sammy but it is a mixture of both that’s fun and enjoyable.

Happy Cafe vol. 1 Impression

This is one cafe that will leave readers themselves feeling happy

Every once in a while a manga comes along that does not sport the flashy cover or eye melting art but it manages to wrap up the reader all the same with a touching story; a mixture of humor and romance that’s predictable yet so engaging. Happy Cafe volume 1 from Tokyopop is just such a manga. The tale of smallish Uru is fun and engaging, a well told tale by Kou Matsuzuki. So who is Uru and what’s she got going on, let’s take a look.

She may look like an elementary school student but Uru is only guilty of being on the short and youngish side. She lives on her own, a way to gain independence and give her mother and step-father time alone. To earn a bit of cash she takes a job as a waitress at the Happy Café run by the ever serious Shindo and the ever passing out from hunger Ichiro. Her klutziness and odd super strength make her not the ideal waitress but she tries harder than anyone else and forms a bond with her co-workers. Shindo is good looking but very abrasive and one heck of a pastry chef while Ichiro can’t stay awake without constants snacks. The three run Happy Café to decent levels of success and make new friends along the way from models to overprotective parents. No work day is quite the same in Happy Café.

Overly original story; not really. Incredible art; not quite. Worth the purchase; without a doubt … but for the right audience. First the art in Happy Café is typical shojou, solid but not spectacular with an average looking girl and tall, slender boys that are pretty and fall into the what readers know as shojou boys in look and attitude. This is what I mean by the right audience and it seems for some reason I count myself in this audience. I love a good romantic, comedic story. Not a chic-flic type story but one that makes the reader smile when those feelings are realized, recognized and reciprocated. The butterflies that adolescent love creates and can be felt in the story. Ah, the story, the strongest point of Uru’s tale. As I’ve touched on it’s fairly predictable but follows a formula that works and is well told. Boy and girl as friends in working/class relationship with rivals and other interest thrown in learning about each other’s past and learning to move from friends to more … or maybe not. This is Happy Café in a nutshell and fans of the romance genre of shojou should take a look. Happy Café can draw comparison to Maid Sama in a more lite manner with somewhat similar settings and relationships minus the detailed art and backdrop. Solid, fun and just plain fun to read, it will make you happy.

Ratman vol. 2 Impression

Humor, action and great art continue in Ratman volume 2 from Tokyopop

Shuto has an ideal view of what superheroes are all about but these views take a punch in the gut in volume 2 of Ratman from Tokyopop. This very shonen action manga pokes fun at a few established franchise and concepts and manages to take the young boy as hero concept in a new and very funny direction. The story crafted by INUI Sekihiko is brought to life by plain beautiful manga art. So what’s volume 2 all about, let’s take a look …

Shuto is settling into his role as a bad guy in Jackal while still holding out hopes of becoming a real hero, a corporate sponsored hero fighting for all that’s right. Even as he tries to play at hero he still manages to get into enough trouble to be seen as a villain. Shuto is taught how the Ratman transformation works and trains against one very funny, five person, color coded team of Jackie’s that shows just how far he has to go in being better hero or even villain. Add to this that fact his mega-cute classmate Mizushima helps run Jackal, more from a motherly aspect, and Shuto has no choice but to keep on keeping on. Things seem to start to go right as another hero driven friend, Kizaki, invites Shuto to the hero awards until a trip to the bathroom reveals a darker site (not that, gross!) of heroes. The true corporate nature, status seeking agenda, of one particular ‘hero’ is revealed and Ratman is in for the biggest encounter of his short career. Is he a hero or villain and does it matter when the lines are blurred for those dubbed heroes?

The humor of the story is hands down the best and most refreshing aspect. Jackal is full of interesting characters, best of which are the Jackie’s. The Jacky Five needs its own spinoff series, no joke. Shuto goes along with the group, no real choice, and becomes closer with Mizushima while still holding onto his dream of being a hero. Thing is it’s her normal, non-Ratman knowing friend, Kizaki, who’s relationship begins to show Shuto what some heroes are all about … fame and glory no matter the expense. Some of the story is predictable but it’s still great fun to watch (thanks Jacky Five). Love the story so far, a nice quick read since it’s hard to put down.

The art is awesome. Environments are detailed when needed while the design of each character plain rocks. The expressions, detail, shadowing and proportions of heroes, villain, Jackie’s, everyone really just rocks. Sounds odd but this manga looks pulled from animation cells with so much delicious detail and originality. Gotta hand it to INUI, it’s rock solid and up there with titles like Maid Sama! and Deadman Wonderland in my favorite art, clean art, style in manga.

Overall this second volume keeps the story going with great pacing and story while never letting the reader have an excuse to put the book down. I want volume 3 and so should any self respecting shonen manga fan.

Summoner Girl vol. 1 Impression

Can this Ayakashi hunter become the next leader of Exorcists?

A cute story about an innocent girl with immense powers and a potentially impressive destiny. Hibiki is not the average fourth grader and in Summoner Girl volume 1 form Tokyopop readers will learn what it means to wield power at a young age. Hiroshi Kubota creates a tale that shows how powerful a little lady can be no matter the obstacles. What’s it all about, let’s take a look …

Hibiki may be in fourth grade but as the latest in a long line of exorcist she wields power to defeat dangerous Ayakashi. Using the powers of elemental Shikigami, who control her body, Hibiki takes on these troublesome spirits. Her grandmother has grander plans for her as she task Hibiki with finding the six magical jewels, Rikutou, that will make her the next leader of the Exorcist Underground. Hibiki is not the only one out for these jewels as a rival makes an appearance as does the bumbling somewhat spiritually talented Kenta Oda. From a troubled fox spirit to collection of spirits at a temple the troubles for Hibiki are just beginning but with such a cheery personality it’s hard to notice.

So the story is not revolutionary but it has that magic that makes readers want to follow, to see what’s next for Hibiki. She has great power but her challenges are just beginning. She’s very likeable as is those supporting characters around her, even her crazy grandmother. Each Shikigami has a unique and funny personality while Oda steals the show at times with his forgetfulness. What Hibiki shows is anything can be overcome with friends and not always with force. Sometimes observing and listening helps. I like the story for its mix of action and innocence. The art helps with it’s very magical girl look. It’s solid and well done, easy to look at and contains a great amount of detail which only enhances the solid story.

Overall Summoner Girl won’t set any new standards in manga story telling but what it delivers is a well drawn, solid story about a girl coming into her true role in life and the journey to get there. Solid and fun, a good read for the young and young at heart.

The Qwaser of Stigmata vol. 1 Impression

The Holy Wars Ignite in this stylish epic

Who knew breast could have this much religious meaning? The Qwaser of Stigmata volume 1 from Tokyopop offers up an intriguing story, by Kenetsu Sato. In its most simplistic form this is a fighting, battle manga where there is a prize and a number of ‘fighters’ each with unique powers and motivations. How this story unfolds, who the players are and where they get their stamina not to mention the base beliefs it challenges, this is what makes Qwaser unique especially when combined with Hiroyuki Yoshino art style. Let’s take a look at the core tale in volume 1.

From watching out for her cousin Tomo to fighting for her life, things get very interesting for school girl Mafuyu Oribe. A promise made when her uncle passed, Oribe takes it upon herself to protect Tomo but when she comes across and helps a wounded boy named Sasha, well things get very interesting. Sasha, from Russia, is a Qwaser and as one he can control an element, in his case metal. One of many Qwaser’s, Sasha’s purpose is to protect Tomo and a hidden religious relic sought by other Qwaser, the most mysterious of which is the golden Qwaser whom Sasha seems to have a deep past. The ultimate relic is call the Theotokos of Sary Su and it represents the secrets to Christ miracles including his resurrection. Sporting a Hexed Crucifix, Sasha is a member of an order who wishes to preserve Christ secrets while he must battle those with less noble intentions. St. Mikhailov Academy is the battleground and the source of power for Qwaser is the breast. As Jesus gained life from Mary so must Qwaser gain their energy leading to some awkward situations. The battle is just beginning and more Qwaser begin to appear. Let the fight for the Theotokos of Sary Su continue.

The story in Qwaser can draw many comparisons to Fate/stay Night in that there are many powered beings (Qwaser) paired with normal humans for power fighting over a religious relic. These fighters fall into school age ranges and come from a variety of social levels and geographic regions. Gaining power from suckling on breast is both symbolic and a little naughty (to read that is). The action in Qwaser is great and the use of elements and how they interact with other elements makes the battles great but it’s the religious information that really makes this a manga worth reading and researching. The hexed crucifix, the religious artifacts; are they real? Do they have real meaning or all just part of the manga? (I’m looking to be sure.) The characters are also interesting and have much depth to still be explored. This type of story could get very complicated but does not in volume 1 as readers are eased into just about everything. Wrap this fine level of narrative in an artistic package reminiscent of such manga as Fullmetal Alchemist in detail and beauty and reader really don’t have much to complain about if anything.

Overall The Qwaser of Stigmata is a well told, well drawn manga that intrigues the mind and delights the eye with potential for some religious objections. Nothing wrong with that so if you’re of age take a gander, rock solid.

Hanako and the Terror of Allegory vol. 2 Impression

When allegories become real it’s up to Hanako to step in

Detective Daisuke Aso is back in action in volume 2 of Hanako and the Terror of Allegory from Tokyopop. The porn mag collecting unique detective takes on some unique cases but what happens when the allegories take notice of him, go beyond their usual routines to attack the one who can stop them? That’s what this volume will tell as the fun continues thanks to the creative mind of Sakae Esuno.

As Detective Daisuke Aso takes on his most recent string of allegory jobs he Hanako and Kanae are quickly wrapped up in cases that are much more real, more targeted against the snooping trio. Hanako shows off her computer skills in helping resolve these new cases that see Kanae again possessed by a wish granting allegory while a half-body Teke-Teke is on the prowl. A twisted, possessed, group of school girls show that beauty is not everything and almost causes a few detectives their lives. Nothing compares to the danger presented by the Kitou-Kokkuri which targets Aso and pushes him to the edge revealing what he truly is.

I love these stories. See, with Hanako readers won’t get this mind blowing art, not really super solid art but a unique style that fits the allegory tales it tells. From an art standpoint it’s the urban legends that need to shine and they do. Esuno brings these tales and creatures to life and they look as disturbing as they should. No, it’s not the art but these stories, how they are translated to real life and how Aso, Kanae and Hanako interact with them, how they defeat them. There is also the larger mystery of what is Aso and how his interaction with allegories puts him in danger, it’s quite cool indeed.

Overall I said this with a look at volume 1, but with Hanako and the Terror of Allegory manga fans get a manga not high on the art food chain but plenty high on story. It may be my fascination with the paranormal, with myths and legends, but this is one manga I really, really enjoy for its unique creative angles.

Mikansei No. 1 Manga Impression

Two volumes, one enjoyable story. Mikansei No. 1, volumes 1 and 2 from Tokyopop combine time travel with pop idol-ism. A unique combination but one that works. Created by Majikoi, known for the art of Code Geass, this is a good looking manga but what about the story, let’s take a peek.

Living in the 23rd-century is a drag for Vivacious Neo. Short skirts and singing are just two items not accepted by society and being a short skirt sporting idol-wanna-be, well it just does not work for Neo. While escaping school disciplinarians for her latest performance, Neo stumbles upon a container with a mist in it, one which when opened transports her back to the 21st-century. Quickly Neo finds herself in the middle of a stand-in performance for the very popular P-Shock, a performance which catches a certain producer’s eye. Soon she’s teamed with Saya, a boy hoping for his own break. In order to get signed to a record deal the two must learn to perform together and produce a specific turnout at a park performance. Challenges from other groups, personality conflicts and request to return to the future are just a few of the hurdles Clap= must face. Will they succeed? Will Neo return to the future before the big performance? Will Saya and Neo build the chemistry needed to be a successful duo? So many questions and the clock is ticking down to performance time.

Ok fans, those familiar with Code Geass will see the similarities but this is a much more playful story which the art reflects. There is no lack of detail and personality in each character or setting. I love the art, love the cover art and the characters are fun. Both the art and story mesh to deliver a story that is as enjoyable to read as look at. The issue is it’s over too soon. Two volumes of this idol singing, time traveling story is not enough. There are mysteries (no spoilers) about Neo’s past, friends and possibly other time travelers that are never fully answered. That being said these teasers are the one drawback as just when readers are getting hooked … boom, it’s over. The relationship building between Saya and Neo is enjoyable, seeing their past, why Saya is so driven; it really does build a good story.

So here is what Mikansei No. 1 does. It delivers great art, uniquely designed characters in a story that unique in its concepts of time travel, idol singing but familiar in its relationship building. Two volumes is a decent investment but it’s over way too soon. A third volume would have been welcomed to flesh out some of the past detail but now I’m just nitpicking. A nice diversion from all the action, fighting, long, long, long manga series. Check it out for the art but keep it for the story, good times.

Mad Love Chase vol. 1 Impression

Don’t let the cover fool you. Mad Love Chase volume 1 from Tokyopop is not some dreamy boy, questionable nature manga. It’s a story of arranged marriage, demons and a prince wanting to make his own choices. What’s the chase all about, let’s take a look …

Kujou Yamato make look normal but under his teenage exterior lies the should of the demon realm prince Kaito. Being part of royalty has its perks and downfalls and it’s his arranged marriage that has forced Kaito to seek refuge and freedom in the human world. With Rebun, his cat, also transformed into human at his side, disguised as the school nurse, Kujou is just trying to blend in and enjoy himself but his father has other plans. Sending three servants, also disguised as students and school workers to retrieve his son life gets very interesting for Kujou especially since the markings on his back identify him as the missing prince. Trying to see his back, get his shirt off leads to many … interesting encounters and when a very domineering fiancé shows up, well this is not the normal life Kaito wished for. The chase is on and it is indeed a mad type of love being pursued.

My comment about the cover really focuses on Kujou having a loose short and the soft colors. The black demon wings are missed when first looking so it’s easy to mistake this manga for something other than the adventure it is. Story is the real driving force for Mad Love Chase as you’ve got Kujou and Rebun trying to blend in, stay hidden, three soldiers from the king trying to blend in while discovering the identity of the missing prince, even if he happens to be one of their best friends, and then you’ve got a crazy sexy fiancé from the arranged marriage showing up with her body guards. The encounters offer up plenty of funny and awkward situations and leads to a strong and fun story, nuff said. The art contains basic school settings, minimal background work and character models that are cookie cutter, not very memorable or details. Sound bad, not really as each character shows personality, humor and anger in a manner that comes off the page perfectly. Again, Mad Love Chase is about the story and it contains art that gets the job done, nothing more.

Overall Mad Love Chase may not look super compelling from its cover but inside it’s a humorous story of an other-worldly prince who just wants a chance to be normal. Like many similar stories before the clock is ticking on when the prince will be discovered but until then sit back and enjoy the humorous hiding while the chase continues.

This Ugly Yet Beautiful World manga vol. 1 Impression

The more common formula is a manga becoming an anime but it’s not the only formula, just the more common. There are times when a successful anime is then converted into manga and This Ugly Yet Beautiful World from Tokyopop is exactly this type of manga. There will be times that such manga tweak the story a bit but overall they stick to the formula. For manga fans how does This Ugly Yet Beautiful World stack up as a standalone manga, let’s take a look.

Takeru and Ryo, childhood friends who chance upon a mysterious light one night, a light which when investigated reveals a young girl, Hikari, lying unconscious and naked. She immediately latches onto Takeruo and ends up living with him. Upon taking her in the duo is attacked by a mysterious monster which reveals a hidden power in Takeru. Her affection to Takeru sets off his many female friends and interest and when Ryo shows up with his own younger mysterious girl the questions begin. Who are these two young ladies, why are they attacked by monsters, what is Takeru’s strange power and what is Hikari’s true self? Mysteries and danger wait as does the challenges of dealing with so many fine young ladies.

From a story standpoint TUYBW is shaping up to be a fine entry in the long running harem anime genre. Similar to Tenchi in its alien babe way and young guy with power, not a bad series to be compared too. There are two hooks in this series the first of which is the relationship aspect for Takeru and the second the mystery of Hikari and her sister’s origin. Who is after them, what are they and can there be more boob shots in one book? Yes, this is a mature title due to a lot of clothes flying off, something not really needed with a fun and engaging story and great art. It’s not over the top, but the tops be missing a lot.

The art style is set from the anime as seen on the gorgeous cover. That quality remains on every page and readers should take notice of Ashita Morimi, great art really (yes, Morimi does not do the cover art but see if you can tell a difference). Overall This Ugly Yet Beautiful World starts off a bit slow but ends very strong and will leave the reader wanting more.

.hack//Link manga vol. 1 Impression

With online gaming, built in wi-fi and the current generation of consoles going strong it’s time for a new .hack// that does not just mimic massive multiplayer online gaming but see’s it realized. While fans wait for this reality we’ll just have to continue to make do with Tokyopop’s line of manga and novels based on the .hack// universe, which is not a bad thing. The latest offering, .hack//Link volume 1 is unique in that it brings together every major story arc, the characters in a new and unique setting that adds a layer of freshness to the franchise while maintaining the mystery fans love with .hack//.

The Story – The popular MMO The World has been shut down for three years and is nearing it’s much anticipated re-launch. Avid gamer Tokio Kuryuu masters every game he touches and cannot wait to play The World as he was too young to play three years prior. The day is here and only one problem, Tokio did not enter the drawing to receive access to The World R:X.There is hope as new transfer student Saika Amagi approaches Tokio with the game disc he desires. No sooner has Tokio inserted the oddly colored disc then he’s waking in the The World to a battle between legendary Kite as he battles Fluegel, leader of Schiksal. As Kite falls he asks Tokio to take up a quest to retrieve the Akashic Records, to help restore the world. As Tokio finds and helps Tsukasa, meets Subaru and battles a member of Schiksal he reveals hidden powers and players hidden in the shadows. Just what kind of game has Tokio been thrust into by Saika?

A .hack// story that does not involve direct player characters but rather a more Digimon sucked-into-game experience that’s full of mystery and recognizable faces. The setting is the world in which The World exists and has a history involving all the major players from Haseo to Kite and Tsukasa. The World is alive and well but throwing a normal person, Tokio, into the game, one being hacked yet again by a mysterious group continues the mystery heritage of the franchise while spicing it up with a sweet new twist. As a fan and gamer the story really shines by taking such great content in a new direction.

The Design & Art – The Digimon comparisons really shows in Tokio’s design with big spiky hair and goggles. The character design is already set for the main characters while the new Schiksal baddies fit right in with a few hacked changes to their design. The world settings are also established and familiar so nothing new there. The use of odd sized and placed panels on action based pages highlights said action and allows the story to jump off the page. The art, by Megane Kikuya, is delicious, some of the best seen in any manga adaptation of .hack//.

Why Gamers Should Care – Fans of .hack// will love the new twist on The World and the teaser about a new game at the end. The core story separated from past .hack// titles is more like a Digimon title in the kids sucked into virtual world, which is cool. Bottom line is this is one gaming franchise that is still very relevant thanks to the manga line. Fans, no question why you should care, for other gamers check it out and hope, wish for your favorite game to get such good manga treatment.

Overall, it’s new .hack//, a new twist on a great franchise that brings together all the main characters in an art design that is serious, happy and fun all at the same time. Easy to read, follow and enjoy the past is explained in easy detail to noobs while bringing back fond memories to fans of the franchise. For the more hardcore fans check out the parody based .hack//4koma.

World of Warcraft: Shadow Wing vol. 1: The Dragons of Outland Impression

Love it or hate it Warcraft fans there is no denying the World of Warcraft manga series from Tokyopop has helped to expand the footprint of the franchise. Building out the world, characters and events beyond the games enhances the online experience but there is always risk. With stories and art that may stray from what the fan base loves, there is always the possibility to alienate fans. The latest offering, World of Warcraft: Shadow Wing volume1: The Dragons of Outland, brings together the excellent writing of Richard A. Knaak with the splendid art of Jae-Hwan Kim and delivers a story that picks up where the Sunwell Trilogy left off. What’s it all about and why should gamers care, let’s take a look …

The Story – Blue Dragon Tyrygosa and disgraced paladin Jorad Mace are reunited in the Outland on the other side of the dark portal. Having not seen each other since their encounter in the Ghostlands the two are quickly thrust into a mystery where black dragons are involved and nether dragons roam. Armies prepare to clash but at the moment survival is all that’s on Tyri and Jorad’s mind. Having an understanding of the Sunwell Trilogy will help greatly in understanding Jorad and Tyri’s relationship but it’s not mandatory as the stage is set with some well delivered thought updates, in other words Jorad going through the events of the past. He’s a fallen paladin and must do whatever is necessary to get back his powers, make amends for his past. But, there’s always one, he is put in a situation that again sees him team up with Tyri who is not quite herself. There is something making the blue a bit off and its mystery time again. Knaak delivers his same, excellent storytelling and it’s only enhanced by Kim’s art.

The Design & Art – Jae-Hwan Kim rocks, nuff said. The characters look great, are not very manga-ish and should not be given Kim’s roots. It’s more a mixture of American fantasy and Korean manwha that is very detailed, expressive and captures the emotions of each character. Just check out King of Hell to see more of this excellent style that’s unique and not to be missed.

Why Gamers Should Care – First if you cared about the Sunwell Trilogy then Shadow Wing is a must. It is a piece of the World of Warcraft franchise one that does not try to replace or rewrite the world gamers love but rather expands on that world. Just like Star Wars fans who love the games and novels so too will WoW fans love the manga.

Overall, Shadow Wing continues the open ended story that Sunwell began. It’s an excellent story with outstanding art that has three fan bases. First is Richard A. Knaak, second Jae-Hwan Kim and third and of course the main is World of Warcraft. As the game goes strong and continues to grow so goes the spine off pieces of the franchise from novels to manga to action figures and more.

Deadman Wonderland vol. 2 Impression

Action, story and excellent art; just three of the reasons readers should check out volume 2 of Deadman Wonderland from Tokyopop. Having covered the first volume I’ve been curious as to how the story continues to develop, if it gains steam of tuckers out. Even the greatest first volume of, well anything, can lose steam with a sad second entry but is this the fate of Deadman Wonderland, let’s see …

As Ganta recovers from his near fatal accident he becomes even more determined to confront the Red Man. Learning about a hidden section in the prison where another blood manipulator resides, Ganta takes it upon himself to infiltrate and take on who must surely be the Red Man he is hunting. As he makes his entry a new world, a world of Deadmen, is quickly thrown in front of Ganta. He learns the power he has is not unique and that he is but one of many Deadmen locked in this wonderland and pitted against each other in life or death fights where the loser dies or worse. As a Branch of Sin what does the future hold for Ganta? A life of combat or eventually vengeance against the one evil that changed his life.

The ride continues folks, no stream lost. Deadman Wonderland 2 ramps up the action, reveals more story and just plain rocks. The excellent art brings to life a world where innocents are framed and the sick and twisted minority revels in death matches of humans with special skills. It’s a sick and twisted story where no right, no good can be found. Know what, it’s sadistically delicious and a true guilty pleasure that I’ve developed as I cannot wait to see how the next battle continues, how Ganta grows and when will we see more of Red Man.

A mature story, great action and mystery mixed with excellent, I mean great art makes for a manga this fan cannot pass on and will only wish for an animated version of.

World of Warcraft: Mage Manga Impression

Seems expansion packs and new quest are not the only way to extend the World of Warcraft. Tokyopop has proven this time and again with their line of comic meets manga books in the World of Warcraft. The latest stand alone class book is World of Warcraft: Mage, written by Richard A. Knaak with art by Ryo Kawakami. What new does this book offer, why should fans care, let’s take a look …

The Story – Aodhan was born to a lineage of prestige, one which excelled in the art of physical war as warriors. Unfortunate Aodhan has neither the physical gifts nor desire to become warriors. He’d rather be a mage, similar to his ignored uncle Crevan. In order to accomplish his goals Aodhan must abandon his family, be cast out by his father and move to the floating magical city of Dalaran and begin his training. As Aodhan chooses his path he is presented with challenges in training which cause him to make some unwise choices and at the most inopportune time. The city is under attack from blue dragons and Aodhan’s actions will help decide if the city stands or falls.

For a one-shot story Mage does an excellent job of setting the stage, developing characters and getting right into the action. This is done because of the excellent writing Richard A. Knaak brings to the table writing in the fantasy realm. For Knaak fans it’s yet another example of how he can craft a story and characters with limited pages and what Knaak also accomplishes is adding to the mythos that is World of Warcraft without detracting from the source material.

The Design & Art – Kawakami brings a style closer to mawha (Korean manga) than traditional manga. There character design, body style seems more western and has an old school comic feel to it. Color the pages and split this one volume into a larger format, three issue comic series and the art will feel right at home. It’s a true marriage of traditional manga and western concepts.

Why Gamers Should Care – The first class volume manga, Death Knight, offered up a nice story with great art that looks into the life of one level, one specific character in WoW. Mage does the same and gives a different visual style to what is WoW. Fans should enjoy the distraction from gaming and as a one-shot the price point works well. True fans will embrace multiple forms of media and this story, backed with great art and the writing of Knaak should not be missed.

Overall, this one-shot story can be enjoyed by WoW fans or just fantasy manga fans. Great writing and art create a solid package that will leave the reader wanting more class based books.

.hack//Alcor Manga Impression

The .hack// franchise on the PlayStation 2 was an MMO that was not an MMO. The series mimicked the popular massive multiplayer online setting in a single player experience with decent graphics and a deep story built around The World, the online game setting. Hours of gameplay and tons of unique characters stretched the original four game releases and subsequent three games follow-up. Each game came with a related anime DVD while Bandai also released numerous related DVD’s of their own. A trading card game, soundtracks and manga kept the series going and created a unique fan base.

With the games long since gone, the trading card game a thing of the past and the anime complete all that’s left to carry on the legacy is Tokyopop’s line of .hack// manga and novels. For fans, each of these writings offers a unique look into The World and .hack//Alcor is no exception. With a story not tied to the Key of Twilight this is a look at normal players in The World and the challenges they face on and offline. Do you need to be a fan to enjoy, let’s take a look.

The Story – Nanase is just another gamer escaping reality in The World. She falls in love with her guild master, Silabus, and while she tries to reveal her feelings she is too shy, timid and weak to do so. Her only hope is to become stronger, but in seeking strength she puts herself at odds with Silabus. Can a strong friend in Alkaid help Nanase overcome or will she stand on the sideline and watch Silabus fall?

This is not even a side story as it takes place in The World but has nothing to do with any of the key gaming/anime characters. It’s a visit to a place that seems to be fading with fewer and fewer stories but it’s a welcome story. Simple and fun it is .hack// but only in setting and character class. Story alone will not be reason enough to go with Alcor.

The Art & Design – Young and innocent. The style is simple yet detailed and relays the softer story that lies inside. The design is straight .hack// as are the character classes and settings. The arena may be new to some gamers but again it all fits. Many stories like this tied to a larger franchise skimp on the art but not Alcor. It’s solid, detailed and easy on the eye while keeping all that fans love.

Why Gamers Should Care – Fans of the franchise should care for one main reason. How much more .hack//, new content, will be coming out? A new game would reboot the franchise but for now it’s all about the manga and even a story set in The World is worth the read. At this point only fans should apply as any noob will be lost in the overall setting of the .hack//

Overall, .hack//Alcor is a solid story, not spectacular, but solid. The art and animation continues the polish this franchise has put out from day 1. Fans should take a peek, all others would be better served picking up earlier .hack// manga.

Portrait of M&N vol. 1 Impression

Fetish can be a very odd, a very personal luxury few can afford to indulge in no matter how sane the user makes the practice in their head. Many of these acts are socially unacceptable or just plain embarrassing and with Tokyopop’s Portrait of M&N volume 1 readers get a taste of both worlds.

Both are beautiful, both have much to hide. Mitsuru and Natsuhiko have secrets to hide; ones which eat them up inside and force them to hide from society. All they want is to fade into the shadows but it’s this very fading which draws attention to them at school and a chance encounter, a few encounters reveal to each the secrets they hide. Mitsuru is from a high society family which frowns upon her extreme masochist ways. An accident reveals this secret at school where Natsuhiko steps in to ‘save’ her but he also has an issue. He is an extreme narcissist who delights in his looks and only his looks. Through a series of interesting events the two grow closer and must overcome the potential issues their secrets carry.

A unique manga; oh yes. Creator Tachibana Higuchi has created a very interesting story where the focus on two such fetishes is brought to light in both a serious and humorous manner. These are two characters that, from external appearances, have everything going for them but are tormented by their own inner demons. Their coming together is not smooth and creates a butterfly-in-stomach series of encounters that will delight readers and is done so subtly. For a story built on the M&N the focus moves to a relationship manga quite nicely. The art, well it reminds of a rougher Wall Flowers with tall, thin, shojo’ish characters that don’t scream original but suit the mood.

Overall the art and story is very shojo and at its heart this is a unique take on the romance genre of manga. The inclusion of two such unique fetishes is what will determine how Portrait of M&N fairs as this is the one point, the one and only story point that separates this from so many similar manga.

Ratman vol. 1 Impression

Super heroes have vastly been confined to US comics from Marvel to DC but now a new kids on the block. Say hello to Ratman. Ratman volume 1 from Tokyopop created and illustrated by Inui Sekihiko is not your average hero; actually he’s not a true hero at all. How does this manga man measure up, let’s take a look …

The world has embraced heroes. Advancement in technology has allowed for the average man to become a hero, with corporate sponsorship of course. These hero’s hold different levels of fame, power and are marketed by corporations for image. Like any idol these men and women are also idolized by the public. Shuto Katsuragi is one such adorer, a boy with dreams of becoming a hero … except he’s really short for his age. Only the strongest, faster, best can apply to become heroes and Shuto just does not seem to measure up. One person believes in him, pretty classmate Mirea Mizushima and soon, after being kidnapped by Jackies, Shuto is recruited by the evil organization Jackal, equipped with a very unique piece of hardware and becomes Ratman. Once fake rescue later of a very familiar face and Shuto learns he is not the true hero he wants to be, and after his first assignment he learns that the hero’s he worships are not all they are cracked up to be. Does being a hero require corporate backing or does it come from inside? These are lessons Shuto will learn as he works for the nefarious Jackal.

So is Ratman, not really getting the name in this first volume, a worthy hero manga and does differentiate enough to warrant a purchase? Yes, yes … oh lordy yes. See I really liked this manga for the excellent art, funny story points (Jackies rock!) and the twist on what could have been a very average story. So first the art is superb. There is a more anime feel to the art than manga, it’s crisp, sharp and just pretty to look at. The look is more traditional anime but each character is unique and the members of Jackal, the Jackies are a flipping trip. I could read stories of these guys for hours. This could not have been an easy manga to draw on deadline, such a great quality, high praise.

So the art is good but what about the characters and story? So freaking good. This is not a short boy gets power, becomes hero, learns lessons tale. This is a short boy gets kidnapped, given powers because of his stature and made part of an evil organization because of a contract. It’s so absurd that is works oh so well. The deeper piece of the story that caught me is the fact Shuto is more a hero than those doing it for money, his ideals are hinted at and already seem deeper than those of the hero society. It’s also a story that has so much more to explore … like how does the watch work, how will the fights pan out, who are the real heroes. Yup, a potentially deep hero manga, good stuff, highly recommended.