After months of hesitation, I finally caved in and started reading Kaiju No. 8. And let me tell you, it was a decision I should have made ages ago!

A Gripping Opening Volume

Kaiju No. 8’s first volume sets the stage perfectly. It follows the familiar tropes of a Shonen Jump title – a protagonist with untapped potential, a trial scenario for young warriors to prove themselves, and a childhood friendship tested by circumstances. But what sets Kaiju No. 8 apart are its exciting twists and turns that hold immense promise.

A Protagonist Like No Other

One of the standout features is our protagonist Kafka Hibino’s age. At thirty-two, Kafka brings a refreshing change to the typical shonen stories. It’s a delight to follow a character in his 30s who is still striving to make a mark, especially in a genre that usually focuses on younger protagonists. The emotional impact is heightened as Kafka gets one final shot at redemption, adding depth and resonance to his journey.

A World of Creativity

Kaiju No. 8 showcases a unique premise. The Defense Force members wear tactical skin suits that grant superhuman abilities. However, each wearer’s skill level determines the extent of enhancement. This concept not only provides a foundation for the human characters to face giant monsters but also allows for character growth. The suits’ integration with technological weapons adds another layer of intrigue to the story, reminiscent of X-Com and X-Men.

A Laughter-Filled Adventure

What surprised me the most about Kaiju No. 8 is its humor. Kafka’s antics had me laughing out loud, especially when he discovers that his transformation grants him the ability to urinate through his nipples. The reactions from Kafka and his companion Leo left me in stitches. As a fan of Gintama, I couldn’t be happier to have a new action-comedy with a goofball lead in my life once again.

Technical Brilliance

Kaiju No. 8 doesn’t disappoint when it comes to technical aspects. The volume mainly focuses on setting up the story, but Naoya Matsumoto’s plotting and pacing make it seem effortless. The character writing is exceptional, and the artwork seamlessly transitions from detailed illustrations of monstrous creatures to comical facial expressions. The dialogues flow naturally, thanks to David Evelyn’s superb translation, and Brandon Bovia’s lettering is as stellar as ever.

In conclusion, Kaiju No. 8 holds a tremendous amount of promise, and I am eagerly looking forward to what lies ahead in the series. If you’re a manga enthusiast searching for a hidden gem, do yourself a favor and dive into the world of Kaiju No. 8.

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