Tekkonkinkreet: Black & White 30th Anniversary Edition Manga Review

Discover the strengths and weaknesses of Tekkonkinkreet: Black & White 30th Anniversary Edition manga. Explore the compelling story and themes, captivating character development, and unique art style. A must-read for fans of urban fantasy and coming-of-age stories.

Tekkonkinkreet: Black & White 30th Anniversary Edition Manga Review

Tekkonkinkreet: Black & White 30th Anniversary Edition is a manga by Taiyō Matsumoto that tells the story of two orphans, Black and White, as they fight to survive and protect their city from the yakuza. This review will explore the strengths and weaknesses of this Eisner-award-winning manga.

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The plot of Tekkonkinkreet may seem simple at first, but it is told in a scattered and indirect manner, which adds depth to the storytelling. The manga gradually builds tension by bringing together various elements, creating a sense of realism and humanity. The story revolves around the themes of family, companionship, and the importance of having someone who completes us. Black and White’s bond is the core of the narrative, as they rely on each other for survival and emotional support.

Matsumoto excels at establishing the characters and their environment. Black is portrayed as the older, tougher, and streetwise orphan, while White is depicted as the innocent and childlike one. The first few chapters focus on developing their dynamic and showcasing their survival skills in Treasure Town. As the story progresses, they become targets of the yakuza and must separate for their own safety. This separation takes a toll on Black, leading to a dark transformation. The character development in Tekkonkinkreet is compelling and drives the emotional core of the manga.

Matsumoto’s unique art style may take some time to appreciate fully. The chaotic and gritty depiction of Treasure Town perfectly complements the story’s atmosphere. The character designs reflect their personalities and mental states, with Black and White resembling small, animalistic creatures. However, the panel arrangement and sequential storytelling could be more refined. The rapid jumps in time and perspective during action sequences can be confusing, requiring readers to piece together the events.

Tekkonkinkreet: Black & White 30th Anniversary Edition is a powerful manga that stands out for its off-beat presentation and touching characters. The story’s exploration of friendship and survival in a harsh world is heartwarming. While the pacing can be uneven at times, and the sequential storytelling may cause confusion, these flaws do not overshadow the manga’s overall quality. Fans of urban fantasy and coming-of-age stories will find Tekkonkinkreet to be a captivating and visually unique read.

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