Manga Review: Blame! volume 4

Manga Review: Blame! volume 4

Author: Sesho July 28, 2010 Duration: 0:00

Manga review of Blame! Volume 4 by Tsutomu Nihei. Translated by Stephen Paul. Originally published in Japan by Kodansha. Published in US by Tokyopop, $9.99, Rated OT, 16+.

The Safeguard, the rogue security system put in place by the Authority to combat unauthorized access to the Netsphere, continues its assault on Toha Heavy Industries.  With Cibo dead, Killy basically has to take on a Safeguard army and a Godzilla size Gigeresque monster that can shoot graviton beams out of its mouth by himself. But even though Cibo's body is dead, her consciousness still lives inside the Netsphere. Within it, she and the Authority hatch a plan to emplant her mind into Sana's body.

I have to say that volume 4 of Blame! was a lot more enjoyable and coherent than the last volume, which lost itself in arcane plot developments and dark indecipherable art. Even though some of the art in volume 4 was just as murky, there seemed to be less of those "what's going on?" moments during the action sequences. What made it even better was the fact that Nihei actually wrote some dialogue that answered some questions, especially about Killy,  that I've had about the series since the first book. Only time will tell if this title is showing a resurgance or this is just a blip of reason in an otherwise messy work.

My Grade: B


For over a decade, Sesho's Anime and Manga Reviews has been a consistent voice in the fandom, offering deep dives into the stories that captivate us. Host Sesho approaches each title with the dual perspective of a dedicated fan and a thoughtful critic, creating conversations that are as insightful as they are enthusiastic. This isn't just about what's new and trending; you'll find classic series discussed with the same reverence as the latest seasonal hit, exploring how they hold up and why they mattered. Each episode of the podcast feels like a detailed, personal analysis, breaking down narrative themes, artistic choices, and character development without relying on simple thumbs-up or thumbs-down verdicts. Whether it's a sprawling shonen epic, a poignant slice-of-life manga, or an avant-garde anime film, Sesho examines the work on its own terms. Listeners get a blend of informed critique and genuine passion, making it a perfect companion for anyone who wants to move beyond surface-level reactions. The show covers the vast spectrum of Japanese storytelling, from mainstream pillars to obscure gems, all through a critical and passionate eye. Tune in for a podcast that treats anime and manga with the serious discussion they deserve, while never losing sight of the fun and wonder that draw us to them in the first place.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

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