STORY (9/10)

The story revolves around a boy named Hazama Shou who has somehow gained the abilities of a superhuman. He calls himself Akumetsu and wears a black mask to identify himself. He swiftly acts against Japan's corrupt politicians to clean up the evil within Japan's political structure. The manga makes you question what is truly good and what is truly evil. If you had the power of change, how would you go on in using it? The basis of this manga is Japan's political system. While they do explain most of the system and their respective powers, Non-Japanese readers may be overwhelmed or simply interested in the workings of the Japanese government. Knowledge of Japan's political system isn't needed to continue reading but it does provide insight to Akumetsu's actions.


MAIN CHARACTER (10/10)

Hazama Shou is a very likable MC. He strives to put a smile upon everyone's faces and fill his life with laughter. However, not all is well in Shou's life. His love interest is forced to sell herself into prostitution and his best friend is hospitalized. Throughout the series we learn more about Shou and why he must take such drastic measures to to reform Japan. His development is greatly portrayed in this manga as he makes his moves to "save" Japan.
MINOR CHARACTERS (6/10)
Probably the only thing wrong with this manga are the minor roles. Not much info is given about them and they have little impact on Shou's development and thinking in the first half of the manga. An antagonist(s) will take the limelight of a few chapters but the focus will switch to a brand new enemy. Akumetsu deals with a multitude of enemies so it's not fair to say that his enemies aren't significant but rather how their role plays into Akumetsu's plans.


ART (10/10)

Amazing! This is the same artist who did Wolf Guy: Ookami no Monshou (which is another amazing manga by the same author). There is no skimping on action scenes. You will see every detailed carefully drawn. While the environment of is often set in a city scene, it may get a bit bland. However Akumetsu path of destruction leaves these scene in ruins and beautifully drawn carnage. However, the best exaples of art for this manga can be seen in the different characters that are drawn. Facial expressions are spot on and every character has an amazingly distinct look. Even when there pages with crowds, you can still see the same level of detail.


All in all, this manga was a great read. The beginning drew me in since I wanted to know why Shou was committing such outrageous actions and the ending of Akumetsu left me quickly turning each page to discover what happens next. You may find the mid section to be a bit repetitive in it's formula but it's purpose is to build towards Akumetsu's grand plan. I find this a must read for those looking to read a manga out of the ordinary.