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On a small island in the vast ocean of Marmundo, an old man named Arrabarus and a young boy named Ashika live as the guardians of a lighthouse. This lighthouse houses a mystical light known as Niselle. One stormy day, Ashika rescues a young knight named Lady Ruliya, who was swept off course by the tempest. In gratitude, Ruliya promises to grant Ashika anything he desires, only to regret it when he asks to become her squire. Before Ashika can join her, his father challenges Ruliya to a duel. During their fight, the genius Alcantara steals Niselle and kidnaps Ashika. The ensuing battle results in the destruction of the lighthouse, which mysteriously causes Arrabarus's death. Tagmec, a knight from the Underworld, emerges from the sea to claim Arrabarus's soul, but not before Ruliya vows to rescue both Ashika and the mystical light. Tagmec informs her that she is embarking on a quest of destiny and bestows upon her the magical blade, Muertogara.
Aqua Knight was published in English by VIZ Media. It was first released in comic book format across 16 issues, divided into three parts, from May 2000 to August 2001. Later, it was published in tankoubon format from October 10, 2001, to February 10, 2002.
Aqua Knight doesn't deviate much from other fantasy and adventure stories, as it explores themes such as friendship, bravery, quests, and self-improvement. Nevertheless, after finishing the book in one sitting, you realize that it stands out uniquely. Personally, I found it to be a light-hearted and highly enjoyable read.
The character designs are somewhat stereotypical but only in the way caricatures highlight comic identities. Consequently, the art style isn't truly comparable to Japanese manga; instead, it embraces a Western approach. However, all the 'manga' elements remain recognizable and intact. Given its late 90s publication, the style is distinctive and nostalgic for older readers. Yet, if you favor more 'hardcore' contemporary manga artwork, this might not appeal to that specific audience... but others will surely appreciate it!
The storyline starts simply, with a heroine pursuing her ambitions and overcoming evil foes. As you progress, this distinction blurs, and you start empathizing with the 'evil no-gooders,' recognizing their own narratives.
Even if some find the ending 'inconclusive,' the moral of the story becomes evident by the final chapter... isn't that the essence of storytelling anyway? I personally have a bittersweet feeling about Aqua Knight solely because I wish it were longer! Clearly, an underappreciated title!
Coming into this with Battle Angel as my favorite manga, I was apprehensive that it might either be a mere rehash or a letdown, which often happens when someone dedicates so much of their vision to one creation. However, that was not the case here; it turned out to be quite different from Battle Angel, yet in no way disappointing.
This series is indeed very lighthearted but also quite uninhibited at times. For instance, one of the more important characters, the Lighthouse King Arrabarus, has very well-drawn, buggy eyes and frequently screams "YAHAHAHAHAHAA." It's styled more like a typical shounen adventure in terms of the pomp it seeks to convey. Although it can get a bit silly at times, it doesn't really detract from the overall work. It's childish, but everything doesn't always need to be incredibly grim.
I feel that the main issues lie with the story and character development. The plot rushes significantly towards the end and could have been fleshed out better with an extra volume or two. We get some great dialogue like "What are those BUMPS on her chest? Ouch!" from Ashika, with the response from Arrabarus: "Only her children and the man she will take as her mate may feast upon them." The knight Ruliya is thrust into the main role but isn't particularly compelling. Her motivations and conflicts are rather cliché, and she never really shows any real verve after the early parts.
A personal issue for me was the manga's obsession with (literally) feces later in the storyline. Feces have never amused me, but I guess they must be funny to others! I tried my best to ignore it and enjoy what was still a great manga, but I mention it here for the sake of this review.
Overall, this was a highly enjoyable and fun experience. If you appreciate typically "epic" adventure storylines, then you will absolutely love this.