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Vagabond Definitive Edition, Vol. 4
- GenresMangaGraphic Novels
664 pages, Hardcover
Published October 21, 2025
About the author
Takehiko Inoue
334 books1,711 followersTakehiko Inoue (井上雄彦) is a Japanese manga artist, best known for Slam Dunk and Vagabond.
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
October 3, 2026
With every additional character, the world becomes fuller but can Musashi see the world or just the next person to beat.
A lot of self reflection in this volume and we see some progress of all three of our trio rather than solely focusing on Musashi which is nice.
With every volume the story just gets more interesting.
A lot of self reflection in this volume and we see some progress of all three of our trio rather than solely focusing on Musashi which is nice.
With every volume the story just gets more interesting.
February 7, 2026
"Invincible.. it's merely a word."
With this latest Deluxe Edition, Vagabond feels like it's finally taking shape, as Takezo begins his 'metamorphosis' into Musashi.
The art is breathtaking, the philosophy is profound, and the narrative is engaging. I particularly appreciated how this volume expanded on Takezo's childhood; seeing the experiences that forged his character adds an extra layer of depth to his journey. The story is especially elevated by, if not secondary to, Inoue’s masterful artistic skills; his artistic talent makes every quiet moment of reflection, and every explosive moment of violence, it all feels so... raw, so visceral, and so intimate
My only minor critique is the "will-they, won't-they" nature of certain encounters, particularly with Otsu. Also, at times, the story can feel a bit episodic. I’m still waiting for a more concrete overarching plot beyond the singular pursuit of being "invincible under the sun", (though I suspect this wandering pace is an intentional choice mirroring Musashi’s own internal search for meaning?). I can appreciate books where the meaning is in the journey, not the destination - but if I had to give any critique, that would be it.
Overall, I am thoroughly enjoying this journey, and I'm excited for the next Deluxe Edition!
With this latest Deluxe Edition, Vagabond feels like it's finally taking shape, as Takezo begins his 'metamorphosis' into Musashi.
The art is breathtaking, the philosophy is profound, and the narrative is engaging. I particularly appreciated how this volume expanded on Takezo's childhood; seeing the experiences that forged his character adds an extra layer of depth to his journey. The story is especially elevated by, if not secondary to, Inoue’s masterful artistic skills; his artistic talent makes every quiet moment of reflection, and every explosive moment of violence, it all feels so... raw, so visceral, and so intimate
My only minor critique is the "will-they, won't-they" nature of certain encounters, particularly with Otsu. Also, at times, the story can feel a bit episodic. I’m still waiting for a more concrete overarching plot beyond the singular pursuit of being "invincible under the sun", (though I suspect this wandering pace is an intentional choice mirroring Musashi’s own internal search for meaning?). I can appreciate books where the meaning is in the journey, not the destination - but if I had to give any critique, that would be it.
Overall, I am thoroughly enjoying this journey, and I'm excited for the next Deluxe Edition!
June 28, 2026
Takuan is back, Takezo is up to his usual pursuals and Otsu is back.
For all of volume 3, I awaited the Takezo and Otsu reunion. I was let down. If he loves her as much as he claims to, can he not put aside his aspirations for some time and rekindle what is dying to burst into flames?
The meeting with Sekishusai was a let down. I am not sure if there will be a time where their paths cross again, but I'd like to see a proper battle instead of one with Sekishusai sleeping and still managing to fend off "attacks".
With all this said, the art is beautiful and there are times I just pause in awe of the details.
For all of volume 3, I awaited the Takezo and Otsu reunion. I was let down. If he loves her as much as he claims to, can he not put aside his aspirations for some time and rekindle what is dying to burst into flames?
The meeting with Sekishusai was a let down. I am not sure if there will be a time where their paths cross again, but I'd like to see a proper battle instead of one with Sekishusai sleeping and still managing to fend off "attacks".
With all this said, the art is beautiful and there are times I just pause in awe of the details.
September 3, 2026
Inoue continues his masterpiece that is Vagabond with an overall much slower volume. Musashi is beginning to understand his journey towards enlightenment, but is still quite immature. While there are battles in this volume, the most interesting parts are the conversations. Inoue paces this story excellently, and understands when to add that emotionality.
The ending of this volume has me the most interested in where this story will go. Otsu is looking for Musashi, Kojiro being pathetic as usual, and Musashi’s discovery of this little girl being the master he’s looking for. Overall great stuff in this one. Also yeah, the art is still stunning and amazing.
The ending of this volume has me the most interested in where this story will go. Otsu is looking for Musashi, Kojiro being pathetic as usual, and Musashi’s discovery of this little girl being the master he’s looking for. Overall great stuff in this one. Also yeah, the art is still stunning and amazing.
July 21, 2026
This volume was fantastic- and with an ending like that- I want to read more. I want to know about this girl- who she is, how she got so proficient, why she became a master of her craft- because so far the woman representation hasn't been great. It's been accurate (especially for this time period), just disappointing in the way women live and are viewed.
December 20, 2025
Another perfect score.
Really enjoying the pace, and the slow burn to Musashi's realization that, to truly be the best, he must first comprehend that he is not; by accompanying him on his journey, we are also humbled in our expectations.
Really enjoying the pace, and the slow burn to Musashi's realization that, to truly be the best, he must first comprehend that he is not; by accompanying him on his journey, we are also humbled in our expectations.
June 8, 2026
Another great volume with superb art and storytelling. You really feel inside the pages right next to the characters.
Musashi’s climb of the mountains was a highlight, as is Otsu picking up his sidekick. I look forward to more!
Musashi’s climb of the mountains was a highlight, as is Otsu picking up his sidekick. I look forward to more!
September 25, 2026
Hyper decompressed storytelling at its finest. Inoue is more imaginative, gives more agency to the characters, and has more levity and maturity than the normal testosterone fueled story. As usual, this is an art showcase with a thin plot, but just go into it like a poetry book and not a tv show
November 29, 2025
Probably my favorite volume so far. The art and the writing for the entirety of the Yagyu arc was just so good.
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews