Kurokami

Given that there's no review of the completed manga and other reviews are quite outdated, here's my (spoiler-free) take on this underappreciated manga.

I'd classify this manga as:

- Action: filled with battle scenes;
- Drama: serious tone with minimal comedy;
- Mystery: much of the narrative revolves around characters investigating and seeking information to unravel the enigmas surrounding mototsumitama;
- Supernatural: the story centers on supernatural beings and the mysteries surrounding them and their powers.

It's worth noting that this manga leans more towards dark themes than light-hearted ones. While it isn't a horror manga that kills off characters indiscriminately, it lacks convenient revival mechanics for deceased characters, sudden nakama power-ups, or random boosts in abilities.

Story: 10/10
The story initially gives off vibes of a battle manga but evolves into something much deeper. Characters soon begin searching for information to execute their initial plans. As they embark on their journey, they meet more characters and gradually uncover the mysteries tied to these supernatural entities.
While it seems like the series intended to span 20-25 volumes (the pace quickens significantly at the end, revealing many things in a short time), it feels slightly rushed. However, the execution is so well-done that I can't bring myself to deduct points. There are no convenient plot devices, and everything fits seamlessly, appearing meticulously planned from the start. Particularly noteworthy is how many details explained later have little impact on the main story but enrich the world-building and make it feel more authentic.

Art: 9/10
The art is excellent, with distinct character designs (except for some twins, naturally). The style is unique, perhaps due to its Korean origins. Some battle scenes can be challenging to follow, especially if you're trying to visualize every movement precisely.

Characters: 9/10
All characters are believable. They are in their early to mid-20s (post-college and working), so their development is gradual but present. Over time, you get to know the characters better and change your perceptions of them. The villains' motives are genuine, particularly near the end, sometimes making you question if they might be justified. The final antagonists remain true to their character and were fascinating to me.

Enjoyment: 9/10
This series is highly enjoyable overall, with a satisfying conclusion, especially compared to many mangas that tend to decline after several volumes. The story reaches intense climaxes in volumes 7-10 and 16-19, while maintaining a quieter pace elsewhere. The flashback volume(s) towards the end explaining previously unaddressed aspects were also greatly appreciated.

THIS ONE HAS SPOILERS, MY FRIEND.

The manga progresses smoothly until the final chapters. I believe Kuroko should have stayed with Keita, considering everything they experienced together; it felt justifiable. Although Akane was a childhood friend, it's somewhat cliché for the protagonist to end up with their childhood companion.

Regarding the characters, everyone develops well and plays a significant role in the story's continuation. However, we miss some characters like Nam, who is very strong and could have contributed more. This isn't necessarily a flaw, given that there are extra chapters at the end of each volume that provide depth to the characters.

The art is stunning. I truly admire the South Korean style, which reminds me a lot of The Breaker, a series I greatly enjoyed reading.

The fights are excellent, but since the story follows a shounen essence, the course of the battles is quite predictable. This might be an issue for some readers, but I personally appreciate certain clichés. Some predictable elements are necessary for the development of the story, obviously.

The main characters' development is outstanding. Keita has a strong personality that can sometimes irritate the reader, but ultimately, we grow to appreciate him, especially when he overcomes his trauma related to his mother. It’s a significant advancement in the story. Kuroko has a painful past involving her family being killed by her beloved brother, who not only murders her mother but her entire clan. Kuroko's essence almost mirrors Keita's, revolving around revenge and mystery.

From a general perspective, the manga starts and ends well, disregarding the points mentioned earlier.

If you're looking for a good story filled with mystery, fights, action, martial arts, and a touch of romance, this manga is for you.

Wow, this is underrated (by MAL standards, not mine). I hope I can do justice to this with my review.

Black God, also known as Kurokami, blends a supernatural theme with shounen-like fight scenes. While it's not groundbreaking from this perspective, it stands out as the best in its class.

Art: The artwork excels and perfectly matches the style. It’s on par with Shin Angyo Onshi and Akumetsu. Deliberating on this is a waste when you can view the real thing just a few clicks away.

Story: This is crucial for me in manga, and Kurokami did not disappoint. Its supernatural theme stems from a philosophical dilemma about multiple identical bodies/souls existing simultaneously. Imagine replicating your body atom by atom, memory by memory, at a set time and instantly replacing your position with that of the replicate. Which body embodies your consciousness? Kurokami explores this through a world system where every person (root) has two doppelgangers (replicas), and when any of these three spiritual bodies meet, the inferior existence (non-root) dies. This relates to the main character, Keita, because his mom died after encountering her doppelganger. Despite being influenced by the theme, the story follows a traditional shounen progression, keeping readers engaged with numerous fight scenes. In conclusion, Kurokami masterfully combines its supernatural theme with action, providing substance for those seeking more depth.

Characters: Meh... The characters are okay but somewhat clichéd, with some exceptions. Keita is probably the most unique, being insecure (due to early childhood loss) but coming off as aggressive rather than wimpy or whiny like many similar characters.

Overall/Enjoyment: I think this series has a fascinating supernatural premise and smoothly integrates that element with action to create an artistically beautiful supernatural/shounen experience. If you get the chance to read it, I highly recommend doing so.

This is an absolutely fantastic storyline that grabbed my attention right from the start. Especially when Kuro manages to save Keita from the guy in the first volume, because it would have been a real letdown if he had died so early on.

The artwork deserves a special mention as it really drew me in, particularly with its unique fighting style. The plot is incredibly addictive too, making me wonder if there might be motosumitamas and doppeliners among us in real life.

Black God is a Seinen, Supernatural, Action manga that starts with the classic 'fateful encounter' scenario, featuring stunning art and action sequences. Although technically a Manhwa, its Japanese characters and setting make it feel like a regular Manga.

Keita Ibuki is an ordinary guy who experiences an unforeseen life-altering event when he gets caught in the crossfire between higher beings known as 'Mototsumitama'. He must stick with a girl named Kuro due to various circumstances. The story's beginning plunges readers into chaos, bombarding them with information about the intricate plot (doppel-liners, terra, mototsumitama, etc.) and intense action scenes. By the end of the first volume, most things are explained, but obvious plot holes remain (e.g., coexistence balance). Additionally, the lack of focus is problematic as the story oscillates between Keita’s daily life, fights among mototsumitama, and behind-the-scenes dealings. However, surprising developments eventually give the story direction.

This manhwa has numerous characters, with those significantly involved being somewhat cliché yet realistic. Keita is an average guy with an unappealing attitude but can be funny and dependable. Kuro is an odd girl with a cute and naive personality and a troubled past. It's fascinating how these two form a deep relationship as 'mototsumitama & partner,' and other characters appearing are intriguing in their own right.

The standout feature of this manhwa is its incredible artwork. The characters look top-notch with nicely rounded features, the backgrounds are highly detailed, and the action is impressive and intense. However, the action sequences were initially confusing, which slightly detracts from the perfection of the artwork.

Overall, Black God feels like a Role Playing Game where the protagonist is thrown into uncontrollable situations and does what he can to complete his quest with his companion. While Keita could be quite abrasive at times, his and other characters' actions were portrayed somewhat realistically. The premise involving doppel-liners is one of the most interesting I've encountered recently; however, it remains flawed and confusing thus far.

Note: May edit if necessary. ^_^