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Reviewed by Dan Polley The seasons come together for a full-on battle in To-ru Zekuu and Yuna Takanagi’s first volume of “Shiki Tsukai.” A shiki tsukai is a “warrior with the magical power to control the seasons.” It’s an interesting set-up for what appears to be a very good manga. As with other similar stories in this vein, though, one thing that is not new is the barebones of the plot. A young boy discovers he has powers he never would have dreamed of. And it’s up to a cadre of caretakers to help ensure his safety against other forces while he learns more about himself. But the main character, Akira, doesn’t yet have his powers. So Kizuki, a woman who confides the truth in Akira, must protect him. The fact that he doesn’t yet have his powers and must be protected until he can learn and understand them is unexpected, and entertaining. Kizuki also adds a love interest sub-plot point to the volume. But through the course of learning more and more about the shiki tsukai and about the powers he is to wield, Akira is left with an extremely difficult decision — one that would steer the course of the series. The art is fantastic and does well to adhere to the action and battle sequences. It’s swirls wonderfully, helping to bring about a weather feel for this weather-based manga. In addition, there are other extras that help to add to the volume. At the beginning, there is a calendar and explanation of some of the powers a shiki tsukai wields. “Shiki Tsukai” is, literally, a coming-of-age epic that stands set to provide a consistent alternative for lovers of fantasy manga. It’s different in its scope and performs well in matching the tone of the art and the tone of the plot — something that can be difficult in a manga such as this. It is a must-read. Comment on this review of Shiki Tsukai v1 on the Manga Life Forums. |
19 November 2008
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