Oh. This is VERY cool.
Eldritch horror-esque gods running amok and humans with blessings that transform them into body horror nightmares? You’ve got my attention.
I said this is cool. But, really, I think this is SICK—in the best ways.
In this first volume, we are introduced to a world ravaged by “gods”. Everywhere these creatures have risen, they have left a wake of ruin. Japan is being slowly but surely invaded. Much of the region from Hokkaido to districts of Tokyo has been classified as an uninhabitable zone. Only unfortunate souls and researchers like Sachiyuki Tokinaga call these regions home. A researcher at the Anti-God Scientific Research Institute, Tokinaga is determined to find a way to stop these gods.
Enter Waka Kamikura.
A high schooler, Waka is in search of her dear friend. After she disappeared into the exclusion zone, Waka decided she would try to find her. But, it’s not safe for humans to enter into the vicinity of the gods.
Well, it’s not safe for most people.
Waka, as it turns out, isn’t like most people though. She’s got a secret—a dangerous one. And, it just might put an end to this godly scourge once and for all.
It’s such a cool and gripping concept. I’m always impressed by how creators outside the influence of western, Judeo-Christian beliefs reimagine the religious mythology into something unexpected and visceral. Like, yes—make the gods Eldritch monsters. Make the divine ugly and twisted. Show us the face of god and have us fall back in revulsion. Love it.
This story has some sharp teeth to it already—and I’m looking forward to reading more. It’s already more compelling plot wise than most of its contemporaries. This first volume introduces themes that revolve around morality, ethics, and sacrifice.
Who must we become to not only face our gods—but overcome them?
So good.
Pick up this story—it’s great! Especially if you already enjoy darker manga reads and/or if you have an appreciation for really gruesome body horror illustrations, this will not disappoint~