Twilight of the Dark Master
Digital Manga Publishing
Writer & Artist: Saki Okuse
Translation: Duane Johnson
This Manga tells the tale of mysterious Detective Tsunami and his adventures in tracking down treacherous Oni creatures that feed on female flesh. If that sounds like a pleasurable read, you may want to seek professional help.
Set in a 2019 Shinjuku, this tale begins to get more complex as Tsunami uncovers a vast conspiracy which could implicate a large corporation. You see, it just may be that the appearance of these demonic eaters of female flesh is not a coincidence. Could they perhaps be manufactured?
Okuse’s writing skill is neither exemplary nor is it mundane. It’s the average Manga action exposition that has come to be associated with the cookie cutter output of the industry. Don’t get me wrong, some action Mangas are complex, and impressive creations that combine smart writing with functional art. Twilight falls short of this designation. The dialogue seems natural enough, but the narrative is stilted and obtuse. I would have appreciated some real surprises during my reading of this book.
One of the highlights of Twilight occurs early on, when Tsunami, the detective, faces off against a wind devil. It’s a tension filled moment of drama that can trigger an awe-induced jaw drop in many a reader. If the book could replicate more of these moments, DMP could have a genuine hit on their hands.
As for the artwork, Okuse does a solid job. While many other Mangas boast stronger work, I found Okuse’s art to be clean and easy on the eyes. It serves the character of the book well. The artist shows a clear understanding of the creative uses of black and white (this book is in b/w), and the many characters that permeate the book have unique body and costume designs. Gritty cityscapes have never looked better.
If you are a Manga addict, Twilight of the Dark Master will provide a temporary fix. If you are seeking a more satisfying experience, I suggest looking elsewhere.
6.5/10
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