Sep 10, 2023
Bleach if it was Sci-Fi. Only better.
Do you like mecha? Do you like an extremely likeable cast of badass characters? Do you like fanservice? Do you like monster vs robots battles? Do you like time travel?
It doesn't matter what you like! Because this series does it so good (least so far) that it'll still please.
Take it from me - a guy that absolutely hates mecha genre, yet is super stoked about the mechs ("absolute weapons") shown in this series.
As mentioned in first paragraph, this manga gives very strong Bleach vibes. Not however in terms of story, art direction, plot devices or anything like that.
...
But in terms of it's very core and essence.
That is: "Create a bunch of awesome, badass characters with a mammoth sized helping of love, and then go from there."
Meet Cosmic Censors - Matrix inspired unit of futuristic warriors here to protect earth from alien invasion...that they already fought before. But going further in would be spoilers. Suffice to say so far we get to see each one of them has their own quirks, character traits and awesome design, promising a very fun and likeable cast of characters to follow.
Meet Absolute Weapons - about the best use case of mechs I've seen in a manga.
Forget humanoid/angel looking mechs with soul/A.I. saving the universe with a chosen one - none of this crap.
Instead have a varied bag of human mind operated futuristic tools of war, each with very unique and varied abilities as well as form, which are frequently summoned only in small portion to suit the situation at hand and not to overburden the user.
This leads to some amazing story telling opportunities for the author. Instead of straight up revealing an Absolute Weapon in it's full glory and from there it's the same thing over and over, we're being fed tidbits of it's abilties and physical manifestations all until the big reveal, keeping readers on their toes. While some are straightforward (like MC humanoid "Centurion"), others keep you on the edge of your seat keeping you guessing and wondering "What the hell did I just see and what is that thing really?" - Ceasar being number one candidate for being an exampe with his "Gargantua" that so far has shown us him walking/STOMPING on air, summon a rift where evil gives enemies the look and then they're crushed/minced between two chainsaws/tank threads or just casually kick vans and buildings into submission with no visible assistance from his mech.
It's these kinda tidbits (and carefully crafted designs and ability sets) of absolute weapons that keep you invested and interested.
As mentioned before - this series isn't powered by something revolutionary or out of this world story telling. Least not so far. It's powered by clear and deep love for all the standard aspects that otherwise would make for a forgettable sci-fi/mech entry.
But this isn't an "otherwise" case. Despite it just picking up speed the quality is seen in every nook and cranny. Fan service that isn't obnoxious and does not detract from the storyline, well crafted characters, fun and silly moments and slowly building plot that promises more action and real plot twists at it unveils.
Give this one a go, it deserves more exposure and the love, as it's clearly a product of it.
Reviewer’s Rating: 8
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