I just completed reading Claymore, and it truly stands out as one of the finest manga I've ever encountered. My tastes are broad - I enjoy action-packed stories as much as I do shojo tales. There's a wide array of manga and anime that I adore, but Claymore has firmly cemented its place among my absolute favorites. The narrative deeply resonated with me; while it didn't elicit laughter, it stirred my emotions profoundly. The conclusion was nothing short of perfect. This is a series I'd recommend to anyone without hesitation. Admittedly, some illustrations may come off as somewhat graphic, yet they possess an undeniable beauty. It's gruesomely vivid, but that very quality makes it extraordinary. If you haven't experienced Claymore yet, you owe it to yourself to dive in. You won't look back, nor will you find another manga quite like it. But then again, this is merely my own, highly biased, viewpoint.
Story - Initially, it might seem challenging to find much value in the story during the first few chapters. At first glance, it appears like a typical tale of a tough protagonist battling monsters in a fantastical world. However, the characters and concepts are more intriguing than expected. Though it seems the story doesn't plan on doing anything extraordinary with its characters or plot, there's an odd charm that keeps you reading.
But the story quickly gains momentum. Despite the initial predictability, I found myself drawn in. Generally, I struggle with manga since I'm more accustomed to watching my entertainment rather than reading it. But after whimsically starting the first chapter, I couldn't stop. For all its initial simplicity, it remains a page-turner, especially once the protagonist’s past is explored. This marks the pivotal point where you realize this manga intends to have depth, and from then on, it delivers.
The story maintains some predictability for about half the series, but this doesn't detract much from the enjoyment. Readers develop an attachment to Clare, the main character, and her journey makes you root for her continuously. Bear in mind, most of the story revolves around battles. It's primarily action-packed, but the fights aren’t repetitive; they serve clear purposes beyond mere bloodshed.
My only gripe is that I enjoyed the simplicity. As the story progresses, it becomes more complex and confusing, losing some of the initial charm. Your experience may vary.
Art - The art style stands out just enough to catch your eye, though it isn't spectacular. Fight scenes are well-coordinated, making them easy to follow. While not gory, it doesn't shy away from violence either, striking a nice balance. Characters' facial features differ significantly, adding variety uncommon in other series. Some Claymores are downright unattractive yet still likable, which is refreshing.
Character - Clare is a fantastic protagonist. Her character is relatable and compelling without being overly tragic. Her backstory is sad, but her actions set her apart. She’s believable, and you can't help but root for her. While stoic at times, she’s far from emotionless—don't anger her.
Raki, another character, is annoying in the anime but sympathetic in the manga. His development feels genuine. Other characters are interesting too. Claymores tend to be cold and businesslike due to their ostracization by humans, which understandably leads to bitterness. The manga handles these dynamics well.
The vast number of characters can cause confusion, but each has distinctive traits. As the story unfolds, these characters become increasingly important and remain subtly intriguing without falling into clichés. Even villains are quirky and understandable.
Enjoyment - I love this series. I read 96 chapters in one sitting—an unprecedented feat for me. Usually, I lose interest after four or five chapters, but Claymore kept me hooked. The characters are compelling, the art is adequate, the setting fascinating, and the pacing excellent. Even action scenes, which I usually dread, were enjoyable.
Overall - Give it a try. Claymore isn't perfect, but it's refreshingly unique. It adds an interesting twist to the action/adventure genre.
In a world plagued by monstrous creatures called Yoma, whose insatiable hunger for human innards terrorizes villages, people live in constant fear and suspicion. The Yoma's ability to disguise themselves as the humans they consume, retaining their memories, amplifies this unease, breeding distrust even among family members.
Their sole hope lies with the Claymores, female warriors hired through a mysterious group known as 'the Organization.' Armed with giant swords, these warriors can detect and slay Yoma, earning their name from their formidable weapons.
Story
The narrative of Claymore is undoubtedly its strongest feature, improving steadily with each volume. Although the start isn't perfect, it rapidly evolves with the introduction of new characters and revelations about their pasts. The plot is rife with conspiracies, subverting initial appearances. The handling and development of the mystery elements are commendable, as are the revelations of secrets. While nearly flawless, I would have appreciated further exploration of one specific aspect, but this minor quibble doesn't detract from the story's greatness.
Art
The artwork in this series is superb, though I do have some minor criticisms. Norihiro Yagi excelled in designing the monsters, many of which look spectacular. His depiction of speed and motion, particularly during high-speed action scenes, is brilliant. Despite the similarity in appearance among most warriors—intentional for thematic reasons—their distinct hairstyles make them easily identifiable. However, some male characters share facial features, and occasionally backgrounds are absent in certain panels.
Characters
The character development is the weakest aspect of the series. With an overwhelming number of characters, some are forgettable or unengaging, though a few stand out. Claire, the protagonist, is a standout, introduced compellingly and developed effectively. Initially appearing emotionless, her journey reveals her tragic backstory and life purpose, making her a compelling figure.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed reading Claymore and highly recommend it to those who haven't yet experienced it.
Yet another manga with a decent setup that ends up being plagued by increasingly questionable direction as the story unfolds. It seems like the author lost sight of their vision halfway through, deciding to milk the final conflict for over 50 chapters. If you're looking for cool spectacle fights and badass characters, this is a pretty good choice. For those seeking a fulfilling story with developed characters, it's best to stay away.
Story (3):
This manga began with a mildly interesting premise that took time to build momentum but hit severe story and balance issues during the final "arc." The initial idea of badass female warriors fighting demons carried the early chapters well. The first few arcs maintained a good pace without overstaying their welcome, effectively fleshing out backstory while delivering on promises of intense battles. This pacing continued into the midsection, keeping me excited with each revelation from the main cast. The fight scenes escalated in intensity at a good pace, with moments where I genuinely couldn't predict the outcome.
Everything changed after the Pieta arc. The main cast’s plot armor grew exponentially, making the fights increasingly ridiculous. While spectacle fights can be enjoyable given the right context, the tension evaporated when fights devolved into deus ex machina moments and arbitrary power limits. Characters would suddenly hit their power limit or pull out unseen special moves just to switch up who was winning. Over-explanation became an issue, with convenient bystanders detailing abilities and events in mind-numbing detail. By the end, immersion in the fights became increasingly difficult.
The final conflict started around chapter 100, but instead of climaxing, it dragged on unnecessarily, adding more characters and battles. The actual final battle felt like a joke, undermining previous efforts. The last two pages of the last chapter were anticlimactic.
Art (7):
The art quality varied, especially in the beginning, with character designs losing details and looking odd from certain angles. This improved as the series progressed. The standout feature was the design of the Awoken, which carried the series towards the end. The HR Giger influence worked well with the tone. Generic backdrops added to the desolate vibe. Warrior designs were similar but made sense given the plot. Fight scenes were good but sometimes hard to follow. The 2-page spread of Clare in chapter 39 was a highlight. Overall, the Awoken designs were exceptional.
Character (7):
Characters started strong but faltered as the story progressed. The same-y warrior designs forced the author to give them distinct personalities and backstories, effectively until the halfway point. Interactions between Claymores and humans were interesting, and Clare slowly developed. After the midpoint, new characters became generic "female with XXXX ability." The main seven were fleshed out enough to suffice. They shined most when interacting with each other. Everyone besides Clare and Raki didn’t develop much, but they started distinct enough to work. Clare's development was fine, and Raki changed the most but remained shallow. The romance felt forced. The villains were unimpressive, with the most interesting one killed off early. The lack of sexualization was appreciated.
Enjoyment (4):
I enjoyed it more like a 7 initially, peaking at an 8, but enjoyment nosedived after the midsection. As stated, it became harder to get into the fight scenes, heavily impacting overall enjoyment. Random fights injected in the last half slowed the story, making me dread inevitable plot twists. If you don't mind a weak story and appreciate cool fights, you'll enjoy this more than I did.
Overall (5):
Claymore was disappointing, not awful, just disappointing. I wanted to like it, with Clare and the Awoken being so cool, but it dragged on too long. Much like this review (lol).
If you read this far, thank you :) I’m not sure what compelled me to write this, but what’s done is done. Feel free to add me as a friend or message me if you want to talk about this. Criticism and disagreement are welcome.
In this review, I will attempt to include as few spoilers as possible.
Claymore is a dark fantasy shonen series, penned and illustrated by Norihiro Yagi. It unfolds in a universe teeming with man-eating creatures known as Yoma, where the sole defense against these monsters is a cadre of female warriors called Claymores, named after their iconic swords. The narrative centers on one such warrior, Clare, and her quest for vengeance.
The plot isn't especially profound or unique, but it excels at highlighting the characters' humanity and their struggle to control their powers, featuring some intriguing twists along the way. A major issue lies in the pacing during the latter stages, which can be somewhat confusing, culminating in the final 20 chapters feeling like an endless battle. However, there is a satisfying payoff, as the series concludes quite nicely and logically.
A standout feature of Claymore is its character development, particularly that of the protagonist. Clare is a compelling lead who undergoes significant growth throughout the story, making her journey and struggles highly engaging. She is so impactful that when she's absent for around ten consecutive chapters, not once but twice, the manga feels markedly different and less appealing. Since Claymore is more character-driven than plot-driven, this creates some pacing challenges, which might pose issues in a monthly release format but are negligible if read in one go.
The supporting cast expands considerably by the end, though many aren't particularly captivating. Nevertheless, those who matter are well-developed and enjoyable to follow.
The artwork starts off somewhat awkward due to excessive use of negative space, resulting in overly white images. Fortunately, this issue is resolved after the first three volumes. Additionally, Norihiro Yagi's talent in depicting movement during fight scenes makes for spectacular action sequences.
Regarding enjoyment, it's quite subjective, but the twists, characters, and thrilling action should keep readers hooked.
All in all, Claymore is a fantastic series worth binge-reading (I did it in four days), packed with intensity, bloodshed, and engaging characters. Highly recommended for fans of dark fantasy manga seeking a strong, badass female lead. If you enjoyed Berserk, Attack on Titan, or watched the anime adaptation, this is a must-read!
story-6 Unfortunately, despite having an amazing premise, the story frequently disappoints. The introductory arc is incredibly captivating, drawing you into a chaotic world filled with mysteries. However, I found the journey towards the answers to be somewhat tedious and overly prolonged. When the revelations finally came, they didn't feel satisfying enough for me. In my opinion, the story has the potential to be rewritten into a masterpiece, but what we have now is just a collection of interesting ideas that didn't quite deliver.
art-7 The artwork is beautiful when necessary. The artist possesses a remarkable talent for detail, but only employs it when the scene demands it. Otherwise, the art remains consistently good throughout.
character-6 Regrettably, the characters are mostly forgettable. By the end of the book, I could count on one hand the characters I felt any connection to.
enjoyment-7 Although the book has several drawbacks, there are some intriguing elements. My enjoyment did decrease as I progressed through the story, but occasionally something would excite me enough to binge-read until I grew bored again and took a break.
overall-7 Final thoughts I would definitely recommend the beginning. The premise will hook you for a while. Unfortunately, it starts to fall apart as time goes on.
This is my first review, but I've gone through a fair amount of manga and anime before.
My conclusion is that it's definitely worth your time. I started and completed the entire manga in just one day; it was incredibly hard to put down.
The story has an intriguing premise: monsters disguised as humans, and a hybrid race born from both to combat them. It shares thematic elements with other titles you might know, such as Attack on Titan, Tokyo Ghoul, or Parasyte. Set in a medieval world, the manga delves deeply into the characters' lives.
The first two-thirds of the manga outshine the final third, as the latter seems somewhat drawn out. The initial portion is tightly woven and intensely engaging.
The artwork is absolutely stunning, impressively detailed, and truly exceptional.
Claymore is a manga that is absolutely worth your time.
When I first started reading it, it seemed decent to me. It wasn't overly captivating at the beginning, but it was intriguing enough to keep me going. As you delve deeper into the series, you'll find that the battles escalate in scale and intensity, becoming incredibly epic.
In my opinion, there isn't much character development; most characters remain relatively static throughout the story. However, this doesn't significantly detract from the overall narrative. The plot becomes truly fascinating as you progress, surprising me with unexpected twists that I didn't see coming. Additionally, the artwork is stunningly beautiful.
This entire series has consistently amazed me and held my interest. It's one of the few manga series I've stayed committed to despite its length. Give Claymore a read! You won't regret diving into this incredible world.
TLDR
Story – 6/10 – 6 x 0.275 = 1.65
Art – 7.5/10 – 7.5 x 0.2 = 1.5
Characters – 7/10 – 7 x 0.225 = 1.575
Enjoyment – 7/10 – 7 x 0.3 = 2.1
Total – 6.825 -> 7
Story – 6/10
The storyline isn't Claymore's strongest aspect. It follows a straightforward path and often feels predictable. It embraces common shonen tropes, where enemies escalate in power as the series progresses. Some elements clearly inspired Attack on Titan, though that series executed them better. These similarities are more pronounced in the middle volumes but diminish over time. The final volumes reveal noticeable plot armor for certain characters, while the ending itself is predictable yet decently crafted.
Art - 7.5/10
The artwork is exceptional, particularly during action sequences which rank among the best in manga. The backgrounds are meticulously detailed, enhancing the overall atmosphere. However, it scores a 7.5 due to issues with character design. Characters can be hard to distinguish, identifiable mostly by their hair or unique features like an arm.
Characters - 7/10
Most characters aren't memorable and blend together within the manga. Yet, some stand out due to their roles and distinct personalities, such as Clare, Miria, and Teresa. Their individuality shines through, making them noteworthy. Technically, frequent name mentions help when the art fails to differentiate between characters.
Enjoyment - 7/10
Reading Claymore is enjoyable. Most panels feature combat scenes, allowing for quick reading and mental relaxation. The story flows smoothly, keeping your attention engaged. If you seek a manga for unwinding and relaxing, Claymore fits the bill. However, if epic narratives like Fullmetal Alchemist, Berserk, or Attack on Titan are your preference, this might not suit you. Overall, it's a well-executed manga deserving of a recommendation.
Absolutely one of the best manga you can read. The beginning was a bit slow and might be boring, but after chapter 55, the story starts getting better. There's a big plot twist around chapter 70—I don't remember exactly, but it reminded me of Attack on Titan's twists. I don't want to spoil it, but you'll know once you go through the story. I really do love this manga, but the author gave us a happy, typical shounen ending despite the dark story and killing off 70% of the characters. I was kind of waiting for something like Berserk, but it turned out differently. Don't get me wrong; the ending isn't bad though. Some bosses were incredibly strong, but the way they died was a bit underwhelming. Anyway, it's definitely worth your time.
Story: The initial idea is quite decent, and the battles are fairly engaging. However, the world-building feels sparse and rather bland overall. I struggled to immerse myself due to another issue mentioned below.
Art: The artwork itself is commendable, but it suffers from being overly repetitive. It heavily emphasizes characters while neglecting the backgrounds.
Character: Distinguishing between characters is a challenge; can you tell them apart? This is also why I rated the art so low. The lack of creativity is evident. Character development is almost nonexistent.
Enjoyment: It's tough to derive enjoyment when every chapter requires deciphering who’s who and what’s happening.
Overall: Repetitive, plain, devoid of humor, and straightforward. Unclear what makes this manga stand out. The anime version fares slightly better, perhaps because it doesn't appear as bland.
Story 5: The plot of Claymore initially follows a hero's journey structure, but it stumbles frequently by making the protagonist reactive rather than proactive. This lack of agency weakens her character development. Despite this, the series is bolstered by strong world-building and a compelling supporting cast, which keeps viewers invested until the final act. Unfortunately, the plot twists so dramatically that half the characters seem to lose their backbone. These twists feel out of place and almost ruin the series by nullifying previous world-building and stripping characters of any remaining agency.
Art 9: The artwork can be described as "polished Berserk." It's graphic, visceral, and filled with intricate details that are visually stunning. Characters are beautifully rendered, appearing elegant and smooth in motion. The artistry consistently delivers excellence, making it the standout element of the series. Every page feels like a feast for the eyes, offering a savory dish on the manga buffet.
Character 6: Initially, the characters seem well-written and dynamic, fitting naturally within the story. Even the protagonist’s stoicism and lack of expression make sense within the context provided. However, deeper issues arise as the series progresses. Characters lack substantial arcs, and when they do have one, it’s too brief. Their lack of agency makes it difficult to truly care about them, diminishing the overall impact.
Enjoyment 8: Regardless of its flaws, the series remains entertaining. Its visceral, fast-paced narrative includes philosophical undertones that encourage deeper reflection amidst the intense action. Even when the story falters, the creative designs and visual style continue to captivate. Watching the series is an experience that combines thoughtful moments with thrilling, gruesome scenes reminiscent of Berserk.
Overall 7: In terms of writing, Claymore is a poor man’s Berserk, yet it still has merit. It’s visually stunning, with flashes of great storytelling and amazing art. This series isn't for those who demand strong narrative direction; such viewers may quickly become frustrated. Instead, it’s for those who crave a richly detailed, creatively designed manga experience, complete with intense action and a dash of philosophy. If you’re hungry for a juicy flank steak of manga with a side of gore, Claymore delivers a satisfying, albeit flawed, feast.
Popular Reviews
I just completed reading Claymore, and it truly stands out as one of the finest manga I've ever encountered. My tastes are broad - I enjoy action-packed stories as much as I do shojo tales. There's a wide array of manga and anime that I adore, but Claymore has firmly cemented its place among my absolute favorites. The narrative deeply resonated with me; while it didn't elicit laughter, it stirred my emotions profoundly. The conclusion was nothing short of perfect. This is a series I'd recommend to anyone without hesitation. Admittedly, some illustrations may come off as somewhat graphic, yet they possess an undeniable beauty. It's gruesomely vivid, but that very quality makes it extraordinary. If you haven't experienced Claymore yet, you owe it to yourself to dive in. You won't look back, nor will you find another manga quite like it. But then again, this is merely my own, highly biased, viewpoint.
Story - Initially, it might seem challenging to find much value in the story during the first few chapters. At first glance, it appears like a typical tale of a tough protagonist battling monsters in a fantastical world. However, the characters and concepts are more intriguing than expected. Though it seems the story doesn't plan on doing anything extraordinary with its characters or plot, there's an odd charm that keeps you reading.
But the story quickly gains momentum. Despite the initial predictability, I found myself drawn in. Generally, I struggle with manga since I'm more accustomed to watching my entertainment rather than reading it. But after whimsically starting the first chapter, I couldn't stop. For all its initial simplicity, it remains a page-turner, especially once the protagonist’s past is explored. This marks the pivotal point where you realize this manga intends to have depth, and from then on, it delivers.
The story maintains some predictability for about half the series, but this doesn't detract much from the enjoyment. Readers develop an attachment to Clare, the main character, and her journey makes you root for her continuously. Bear in mind, most of the story revolves around battles. It's primarily action-packed, but the fights aren’t repetitive; they serve clear purposes beyond mere bloodshed.
My only gripe is that I enjoyed the simplicity. As the story progresses, it becomes more complex and confusing, losing some of the initial charm. Your experience may vary.
Art - The art style stands out just enough to catch your eye, though it isn't spectacular. Fight scenes are well-coordinated, making them easy to follow. While not gory, it doesn't shy away from violence either, striking a nice balance. Characters' facial features differ significantly, adding variety uncommon in other series. Some Claymores are downright unattractive yet still likable, which is refreshing.
Character - Clare is a fantastic protagonist. Her character is relatable and compelling without being overly tragic. Her backstory is sad, but her actions set her apart. She’s believable, and you can't help but root for her. While stoic at times, she’s far from emotionless—don't anger her.
Raki, another character, is annoying in the anime but sympathetic in the manga. His development feels genuine. Other characters are interesting too. Claymores tend to be cold and businesslike due to their ostracization by humans, which understandably leads to bitterness. The manga handles these dynamics well.
The vast number of characters can cause confusion, but each has distinctive traits. As the story unfolds, these characters become increasingly important and remain subtly intriguing without falling into clichés. Even villains are quirky and understandable.
Enjoyment - I love this series. I read 96 chapters in one sitting—an unprecedented feat for me. Usually, I lose interest after four or five chapters, but Claymore kept me hooked. The characters are compelling, the art is adequate, the setting fascinating, and the pacing excellent. Even action scenes, which I usually dread, were enjoyable.
Overall - Give it a try. Claymore isn't perfect, but it's refreshingly unique. It adds an interesting twist to the action/adventure genre.
Overview
In a world plagued by monstrous creatures called Yoma, whose insatiable hunger for human innards terrorizes villages, people live in constant fear and suspicion. The Yoma's ability to disguise themselves as the humans they consume, retaining their memories, amplifies this unease, breeding distrust even among family members.
Their sole hope lies with the Claymores, female warriors hired through a mysterious group known as 'the Organization.' Armed with giant swords, these warriors can detect and slay Yoma, earning their name from their formidable weapons.
Story
The narrative of Claymore is undoubtedly its strongest feature, improving steadily with each volume. Although the start isn't perfect, it rapidly evolves with the introduction of new characters and revelations about their pasts. The plot is rife with conspiracies, subverting initial appearances. The handling and development of the mystery elements are commendable, as are the revelations of secrets. While nearly flawless, I would have appreciated further exploration of one specific aspect, but this minor quibble doesn't detract from the story's greatness.
Art
The artwork in this series is superb, though I do have some minor criticisms. Norihiro Yagi excelled in designing the monsters, many of which look spectacular. His depiction of speed and motion, particularly during high-speed action scenes, is brilliant. Despite the similarity in appearance among most warriors—intentional for thematic reasons—their distinct hairstyles make them easily identifiable. However, some male characters share facial features, and occasionally backgrounds are absent in certain panels.
Characters
The character development is the weakest aspect of the series. With an overwhelming number of characters, some are forgettable or unengaging, though a few stand out. Claire, the protagonist, is a standout, introduced compellingly and developed effectively. Initially appearing emotionless, her journey reveals her tragic backstory and life purpose, making her a compelling figure.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed reading Claymore and highly recommend it to those who haven't yet experienced it.
Yet another manga with a decent setup that ends up being plagued by increasingly questionable direction as the story unfolds. It seems like the author lost sight of their vision halfway through, deciding to milk the final conflict for over 50 chapters. If you're looking for cool spectacle fights and badass characters, this is a pretty good choice. For those seeking a fulfilling story with developed characters, it's best to stay away.
Story (3):
This manga began with a mildly interesting premise that took time to build momentum but hit severe story and balance issues during the final "arc." The initial idea of badass female warriors fighting demons carried the early chapters well. The first few arcs maintained a good pace without overstaying their welcome, effectively fleshing out backstory while delivering on promises of intense battles. This pacing continued into the midsection, keeping me excited with each revelation from the main cast. The fight scenes escalated in intensity at a good pace, with moments where I genuinely couldn't predict the outcome.
Everything changed after the Pieta arc. The main cast’s plot armor grew exponentially, making the fights increasingly ridiculous. While spectacle fights can be enjoyable given the right context, the tension evaporated when fights devolved into deus ex machina moments and arbitrary power limits. Characters would suddenly hit their power limit or pull out unseen special moves just to switch up who was winning. Over-explanation became an issue, with convenient bystanders detailing abilities and events in mind-numbing detail. By the end, immersion in the fights became increasingly difficult.
The final conflict started around chapter 100, but instead of climaxing, it dragged on unnecessarily, adding more characters and battles. The actual final battle felt like a joke, undermining previous efforts. The last two pages of the last chapter were anticlimactic.
Art (7):
The art quality varied, especially in the beginning, with character designs losing details and looking odd from certain angles. This improved as the series progressed. The standout feature was the design of the Awoken, which carried the series towards the end. The HR Giger influence worked well with the tone. Generic backdrops added to the desolate vibe. Warrior designs were similar but made sense given the plot. Fight scenes were good but sometimes hard to follow. The 2-page spread of Clare in chapter 39 was a highlight. Overall, the Awoken designs were exceptional.
Character (7):
Characters started strong but faltered as the story progressed. The same-y warrior designs forced the author to give them distinct personalities and backstories, effectively until the halfway point. Interactions between Claymores and humans were interesting, and Clare slowly developed. After the midpoint, new characters became generic "female with XXXX ability." The main seven were fleshed out enough to suffice. They shined most when interacting with each other. Everyone besides Clare and Raki didn’t develop much, but they started distinct enough to work. Clare's development was fine, and Raki changed the most but remained shallow. The romance felt forced. The villains were unimpressive, with the most interesting one killed off early. The lack of sexualization was appreciated.
Enjoyment (4):
I enjoyed it more like a 7 initially, peaking at an 8, but enjoyment nosedived after the midsection. As stated, it became harder to get into the fight scenes, heavily impacting overall enjoyment. Random fights injected in the last half slowed the story, making me dread inevitable plot twists. If you don't mind a weak story and appreciate cool fights, you'll enjoy this more than I did.
Overall (5):
Claymore was disappointing, not awful, just disappointing. I wanted to like it, with Clare and the Awoken being so cool, but it dragged on too long. Much like this review (lol).
If you read this far, thank you :) I’m not sure what compelled me to write this, but what’s done is done. Feel free to add me as a friend or message me if you want to talk about this. Criticism and disagreement are welcome.
In this review, I will attempt to include as few spoilers as possible.
Claymore is a dark fantasy shonen series, penned and illustrated by Norihiro Yagi. It unfolds in a universe teeming with man-eating creatures known as Yoma, where the sole defense against these monsters is a cadre of female warriors called Claymores, named after their iconic swords. The narrative centers on one such warrior, Clare, and her quest for vengeance.
The plot isn't especially profound or unique, but it excels at highlighting the characters' humanity and their struggle to control their powers, featuring some intriguing twists along the way. A major issue lies in the pacing during the latter stages, which can be somewhat confusing, culminating in the final 20 chapters feeling like an endless battle. However, there is a satisfying payoff, as the series concludes quite nicely and logically.
A standout feature of Claymore is its character development, particularly that of the protagonist. Clare is a compelling lead who undergoes significant growth throughout the story, making her journey and struggles highly engaging. She is so impactful that when she's absent for around ten consecutive chapters, not once but twice, the manga feels markedly different and less appealing. Since Claymore is more character-driven than plot-driven, this creates some pacing challenges, which might pose issues in a monthly release format but are negligible if read in one go.
The supporting cast expands considerably by the end, though many aren't particularly captivating. Nevertheless, those who matter are well-developed and enjoyable to follow.
The artwork starts off somewhat awkward due to excessive use of negative space, resulting in overly white images. Fortunately, this issue is resolved after the first three volumes. Additionally, Norihiro Yagi's talent in depicting movement during fight scenes makes for spectacular action sequences.
Regarding enjoyment, it's quite subjective, but the twists, characters, and thrilling action should keep readers hooked.
All in all, Claymore is a fantastic series worth binge-reading (I did it in four days), packed with intensity, bloodshed, and engaging characters. Highly recommended for fans of dark fantasy manga seeking a strong, badass female lead. If you enjoyed Berserk, Attack on Titan, or watched the anime adaptation, this is a must-read!
story-6
Unfortunately, despite having an amazing premise, the story frequently disappoints. The introductory arc is incredibly captivating, drawing you into a chaotic world filled with mysteries. However, I found the journey towards the answers to be somewhat tedious and overly prolonged. When the revelations finally came, they didn't feel satisfying enough for me. In my opinion, the story has the potential to be rewritten into a masterpiece, but what we have now is just a collection of interesting ideas that didn't quite deliver.
art-7
The artwork is beautiful when necessary. The artist possesses a remarkable talent for detail, but only employs it when the scene demands it. Otherwise, the art remains consistently good throughout.
character-6
Regrettably, the characters are mostly forgettable. By the end of the book, I could count on one hand the characters I felt any connection to.
enjoyment-7
Although the book has several drawbacks, there are some intriguing elements. My enjoyment did decrease as I progressed through the story, but occasionally something would excite me enough to binge-read until I grew bored again and took a break.
overall-7
Final thoughts
I would definitely recommend the beginning. The premise will hook you for a while. Unfortunately, it starts to fall apart as time goes on.
This is my first review, but I've gone through a fair amount of manga and anime before.
My conclusion is that it's definitely worth your time. I started and completed the entire manga in just one day; it was incredibly hard to put down.
The story has an intriguing premise: monsters disguised as humans, and a hybrid race born from both to combat them. It shares thematic elements with other titles you might know, such as Attack on Titan, Tokyo Ghoul, or Parasyte. Set in a medieval world, the manga delves deeply into the characters' lives.
The first two-thirds of the manga outshine the final third, as the latter seems somewhat drawn out. The initial portion is tightly woven and intensely engaging.
The artwork is absolutely stunning, impressively detailed, and truly exceptional.
Claymore is a manga that is absolutely worth your time.
When I first started reading it, it seemed decent to me. It wasn't overly captivating at the beginning, but it was intriguing enough to keep me going. As you delve deeper into the series, you'll find that the battles escalate in scale and intensity, becoming incredibly epic.
In my opinion, there isn't much character development; most characters remain relatively static throughout the story. However, this doesn't significantly detract from the overall narrative. The plot becomes truly fascinating as you progress, surprising me with unexpected twists that I didn't see coming. Additionally, the artwork is stunningly beautiful.
This entire series has consistently amazed me and held my interest. It's one of the few manga series I've stayed committed to despite its length. Give Claymore a read! You won't regret diving into this incredible world.
Claymore – Spoiler-Free – Recommended
TLDR
Story – 6/10 – 6 x 0.275 = 1.65
Art – 7.5/10 – 7.5 x 0.2 = 1.5
Characters – 7/10 – 7 x 0.225 = 1.575
Enjoyment – 7/10 – 7 x 0.3 = 2.1
Total – 6.825 -> 7
Story – 6/10
The storyline isn't Claymore's strongest aspect. It follows a straightforward path and often feels predictable. It embraces common shonen tropes, where enemies escalate in power as the series progresses. Some elements clearly inspired Attack on Titan, though that series executed them better. These similarities are more pronounced in the middle volumes but diminish over time. The final volumes reveal noticeable plot armor for certain characters, while the ending itself is predictable yet decently crafted.
Art - 7.5/10
The artwork is exceptional, particularly during action sequences which rank among the best in manga. The backgrounds are meticulously detailed, enhancing the overall atmosphere. However, it scores a 7.5 due to issues with character design. Characters can be hard to distinguish, identifiable mostly by their hair or unique features like an arm.
Characters - 7/10
Most characters aren't memorable and blend together within the manga. Yet, some stand out due to their roles and distinct personalities, such as Clare, Miria, and Teresa. Their individuality shines through, making them noteworthy. Technically, frequent name mentions help when the art fails to differentiate between characters.
Enjoyment - 7/10
Reading Claymore is enjoyable. Most panels feature combat scenes, allowing for quick reading and mental relaxation. The story flows smoothly, keeping your attention engaged. If you seek a manga for unwinding and relaxing, Claymore fits the bill. However, if epic narratives like Fullmetal Alchemist, Berserk, or Attack on Titan are your preference, this might not suit you. Overall, it's a well-executed manga deserving of a recommendation.
Absolutely one of the best manga you can read. The beginning was a bit slow and might be boring, but after chapter 55, the story starts getting better. There's a big plot twist around chapter 70—I don't remember exactly, but it reminded me of Attack on Titan's twists. I don't want to spoil it, but you'll know once you go through the story. I really do love this manga, but the author gave us a happy, typical shounen ending despite the dark story and killing off 70% of the characters. I was kind of waiting for something like Berserk, but it turned out differently. Don't get me wrong; the ending isn't bad though. Some bosses were incredibly strong, but the way they died was a bit underwhelming. Anyway, it's definitely worth your time.
Story: The initial idea is quite decent, and the battles are fairly engaging. However, the world-building feels sparse and rather bland overall. I struggled to immerse myself due to another issue mentioned below.
Art: The artwork itself is commendable, but it suffers from being overly repetitive. It heavily emphasizes characters while neglecting the backgrounds.
Character: Distinguishing between characters is a challenge; can you tell them apart? This is also why I rated the art so low. The lack of creativity is evident. Character development is almost nonexistent.
Enjoyment: It's tough to derive enjoyment when every chapter requires deciphering who’s who and what’s happening.
Overall: Repetitive, plain, devoid of humor, and straightforward. Unclear what makes this manga stand out. The anime version fares slightly better, perhaps because it doesn't appear as bland.
Story 5: The plot of Claymore initially follows a hero's journey structure, but it stumbles frequently by making the protagonist reactive rather than proactive. This lack of agency weakens her character development. Despite this, the series is bolstered by strong world-building and a compelling supporting cast, which keeps viewers invested until the final act. Unfortunately, the plot twists so dramatically that half the characters seem to lose their backbone. These twists feel out of place and almost ruin the series by nullifying previous world-building and stripping characters of any remaining agency.
Art 9: The artwork can be described as "polished Berserk." It's graphic, visceral, and filled with intricate details that are visually stunning. Characters are beautifully rendered, appearing elegant and smooth in motion. The artistry consistently delivers excellence, making it the standout element of the series. Every page feels like a feast for the eyes, offering a savory dish on the manga buffet.
Character 6: Initially, the characters seem well-written and dynamic, fitting naturally within the story. Even the protagonist’s stoicism and lack of expression make sense within the context provided. However, deeper issues arise as the series progresses. Characters lack substantial arcs, and when they do have one, it’s too brief. Their lack of agency makes it difficult to truly care about them, diminishing the overall impact.
Enjoyment 8: Regardless of its flaws, the series remains entertaining. Its visceral, fast-paced narrative includes philosophical undertones that encourage deeper reflection amidst the intense action. Even when the story falters, the creative designs and visual style continue to captivate. Watching the series is an experience that combines thoughtful moments with thrilling, gruesome scenes reminiscent of Berserk.
Overall 7: In terms of writing, Claymore is a poor man’s Berserk, yet it still has merit. It’s visually stunning, with flashes of great storytelling and amazing art. This series isn't for those who demand strong narrative direction; such viewers may quickly become frustrated. Instead, it’s for those who crave a richly detailed, creatively designed manga experience, complete with intense action and a dash of philosophy. If you’re hungry for a juicy flank steak of manga with a side of gore, Claymore delivers a satisfying, albeit flawed, feast.
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