Comics / Manga

Hero Tales volume 1

By Chris Zimmerman
May 11, 2010 - 11:28

It’s not unheard of for a successful manga author to undertake a second series based on the success of their first. In Fullmetal Alchemist, Hiromu Arakawa gave fans a deep story with political intrigue, explosive action, and character driven arcs based in a more retro setting. Hero Tales is Arakawa’s follow up and while it delivers the same action and adventure fans have come to expect, the development of characters leaves something to be desired.

Based on Chinese folk lore, Hero Tales follows the journey of Taitou, an incredibly strong warrior prophesized to be one of seven heroes destined to save the world.  During his coming of age ceremony he receives a magical sword meant to get him started on his journey only to have it stolen almost immediately. Accompanied by his younger sister Laila, as well as a new found mentor, Ryuukou, they set out to retrieve the sword fulfill his destiny.

Immediately, Arakawa delivers page after page of action which wouldn’t be a problem if more time were given to world building first. We are told that the Empire is corrupt but we rarely see any examples of this besides Taitou attacking soldiers.

Arakawa’s art continues to deliver graphic story telling at its finest. Her style is crisp and clean and the character designs imaginative.

While the first volume was compelling enough, the series is going to need a bit more development if it hopes to become anything more than a simple diversion.

Rating: 7.5 /10

Last Updated: August 31, 2023 - 08:12