Incredible, this is my favorite manga of all time. The art, history, and characters are all brilliantly intertwined. One of the greatest mangas ever written.
No other manga has ever made me cry, laugh, and feel such affection for the characters like this one did. I believe this part perfectly showcases the evolution of Araki's drawing style, delivering some of the most stunning manga panels ever created.
The decision to switch to seinen was undoubtedly one of the best choices ever made. It's as if every element aligned perfectly to create this masterpiece.
If you haven't read it yet, I highly recommend experiencing it without any spoilers and taking your time. It's one of those unique experiences that you'll only get to live once in your life. I wholeheartedly recommend this manga.
I am learning English, this review may have errors. If you detect any, I would be grateful if you could point them out. Thank you! :D
Values of the sections:
Story - 3.5
Visual - 2.5
Characters - 4
STORY:
The plot of Steel Ball Run is spectacular. From the beginning, the main problem for our protagonist arises, and gradually more elements are integrated to build something much more complex.
The powers and the method of obtaining them are presented in a correct, understandable, and consistent manner. The stands in this part are mostly original and are used in very ingenious ways. Their designs are good and far from the humanoid stands, which gives a fresh touch to the aesthetics of the manga. I think the only criticism here is the lack of explanation regarding Gyro Zeppeli's technique, which might generate some confusion. However, the manga provides enough data and situations to help you understand how this ability works.
Araki had already attempted to blend a serious and humorous plot. In Steel Ball Run, this is achieved perfectly. It not only has moments of anxiety and drama but also funny situations that allow us to know more about the characters. Humor has been an iconic element of the franchise since Part 2 and is complemented well with the bizarre tone intended for the series. In Steel Ball Run, the perfect balance between comedy and seriousness is reached.
The climax of this story is beautiful; I would say it is one of the best climaxes I've seen in an action series. The scenario set up for the final confrontation is amazing, keeping the reader engaged in the development of the climax, which spans approximately 15 chapters.
There are two critical points regarding the story: the beginning and the chapters after the climax. As for the beginning, it is quite slow, taking time to introduce essential plots and characters. If you don't have a real interest in the work, you might struggle with episodes 6-20. After that, it becomes an endless stream of emotions. On the other hand, the chapters following the climax, while not bad at all, are overshadowed by the brilliance of the climax itself, making the subsequent events feel less impactful.
Score of the story: 9/10
VISUALS/ART:
The art is wonderful: the details in unexpected areas, the transition of scenes, the design of characters, the design of backgrounds, aesthetics, and the anatomy of the characters. Everything encompassing the art is executed to perfection. There is no doubt that Araki showcased his artistic style in the best possible way.
The art evolves as the manga progresses, and after a certain chapter (if I'm not mistaken, Chapter 23), the drawing quality reaches a very high standard.
Score of the visuals/Art: 10/10
CHARACTERS:
Although the main cast of Steel Ball Run is somewhat limited, it includes some of the best characters in the entire franchise and the shonen genre. The co-star, Gyro Zeppeli, is a daring, charismatic, and eccentric man with a tragic backstory and noble motivations emphasized throughout the plot.
The protagonist, Johnny Joestar, is a brave, selfish, and determined boy who can sometimes become very sinister, to the point of not caring about the lives of others to achieve his goals.
The chemistry between the two main characters in the story is strong. Initially, Gyro was only a mentor to Johnny, but as they face various challenges on their journey, they gradually build a friendship, risking their greatest interests for each other and exchanging lessons along the way.
One of the most important antagonists, Diego Brando, is much better written and characterized than his counterpart in the original universe of JoJo's Bizarre Adventure. Speaking of characters that reference the original universe, many only serve as simple references and nothing more, existing solely for franchise fans to recognize the reference and remember the original character in question. While it is somewhat disappointing that these references aren't utilized further, at least Araki demonstrates his fondness for his first attempt with the series.
Villains and antagonists have reasons for opposing the protagonists—some for tragic reasons, others for philosophical ones, and others out of loyalty to the main antagonist.
The only critical aspect regarding the characters is the lack of characterization of some secondary characters. These are well-managed, and the situations they are involved in are exceptional. During certain stages, they may feel like mere elements of the story rather than fully-fledged characters. Nonetheless, their motivations and convictions are well-achieved.
The main antagonist of the work is sublime. His stand is one of the best musical references found in the franchise, and its extravagant name perfectly aligns with the character's concept. It’s worth noting that his ability is one of the most powerful and original in the series. His motivations are quite simple, but his goals are immense. Like any well-written antagonist, he harbors a kind of annoyance with the protagonist. Both characters don't care about the means to achieve their goals, with the difference being that the protagonist does everything for personal benefit, while the antagonist does it for the welfare of many individuals. You even begin to question who is truly right.
Without a doubt, I can say that the antagonist of this plot is either the best or second-best in the entire franchise, depending on your perspective.
The characters of Steel Ball Run are well-characterized, each having congruent motivations for appearing in the story. The antagonists are not typical villains, the messages are consistently presented, and the situations and characters are memorable.
My scores for this manga might seem ridiculous, and I apologize for that. You'll just have to deal with it.
Jojo's Bizarre Adventure: Steel Ball Run is the seventh arc of JoJo's Bizarre Adventure, and in my opinion, it’s ‘The best manga of all time’ (coming from someone who wasn't initially a JoJo fan). Araki has clearly matured significantly from his previous works. The characters are more layered, the art style is unmistakably Araki's, making it instantly recognizable. The storyline has evolved beyond clichés, and the characters are more complex and wounded, creating a rather 'mature' narrative. This series also acts as a kind of reboot of the franchise, bringing back many characters from earlier parts. But enough talk—let's get into the criteria.
Starting with the characters, they're undoubtedly the best written in the JoJo series. Characters returning in Part 7 are much more nuanced and realistic. I now fully understand them and empathize with them more than I did in the previous parts. Their backstories can be quite brutal at times, tackling intense themes which I won’t spoil. The villains are exceptionally well-crafted; Araki seems to have moved away from the 'bad guys are bad' cliche, instead portraying them as humans with opposing motives to the protagonists—a stunning approach to writing.
The story itself is incredibly engaging. From the start, it had a serious tone that completely drew me in, despite being about a horse race, which isn't usually my thing. Of course, the series doesn't call itself 'Jojo's BIZZARE Adventure' for nothing. There are some truly bizarre moments that had me laughing out loud. These odd moments are taken seriously by the series, giving it a comedic undertone at times. However, these bizarre elements don't detract from the storyline—they actually drive it forward. I won't say more about the story; you should experience it yourself.
The art is dazzling too. While the main cast looks like models from a magazine, their designs are unique. I sometimes struggled to distinguish between characters' faces, which is why I gave it a 9. Otherwise, the art is impeccable and helps me fully grasp what's happening. It perfectly captures the 'bizarre' feel, enhancing the strange moments in this arc. The backgrounds look photorealistic while maintaining an 'Araki' vibe. Araki demonstrates his understanding of the human figure, always portraying characters in dynamic, fabulous poses without any stiffness!
My enjoyment is definitely a 10. I had no regrets reading this manga, and it was the first one I binged through until halfway (school prevented me from finishing immediately). There were no dull moments, though there were certainly surprising ones. Seriously, give this JoJo arc a try. It's a fresh reboot of the JoJo series, making it even more intriguing than before.
Overall, I gave this arc a 10 out of 10, calling it a masterpiece. Araki should be proud of what he's created; bravo!
EDIT:
The review was written before I reached the midpoint of the series. I thoroughly enjoyed Gyro and Johnny's adventures to retrieve the Corpse Parts, but I do think the finale had flaws. Firstly, the fight between Lucky Valentine and Johnny is ridiculously long. Araki drags it out too much, and when it finally ends, he suddenly introduces a DIO from another dimension, very similar to the DIO from part 3. This broke the serious atmosphere and made it hard for me to take it seriously anymore.
I changed my enjoyment score to a 9 because I lost some admiration for the series during the final fight against DIO. I also adjusted the story score to an 8 due to certain parts dragging on too long.
I still believe Steel Ball Run is one of the best JoJo arcs, but it's definitely not the best manga I've ever read.
Araki, what on earth were you consuming when you created this? Because I need some!
This is where JoJo's reached its peak for me. Every questionable aspect from previous parts was eliminated, and all the great elements from before are not only present but enhanced.
Steel Ball Run features my favorite plot in anime and manga. It has one of my favorite protagonists, my absolute favorite deuteragonist, and one of the greatest antagonists I've encountered in any story. I can't think of a single negative thing about it right now.
This JoJo part is, in my opinion, the best one. I believe this part contains some of Araki's forgotten elements and a few errors, similar to the other parts. However, I think the characters are well-crafted because they appear very human. None of them are "pure" like Jonathan, nor do they lack personality like Jotaro (yare yare ora ora) or Josuke (don't insult my hair). This is essentially a remake of Part 1, but without an antagonist like Dio, which is problematic because Araki needs a villain. My English isn't perfect, but I've done my best to express this clearly.
In conclusion, this
is not a perfect 10/10 manga overall, but within the Jojo series, it deserves a 10/10.
Steel Ball Run is an exceptional work, representing the pinnacle of JoJo and Araki's achievements to date.
This manga is flawlessly executed, and I find it challenging to imagine anything surpassing its brilliance.
The story
10/10
The narrative and setting of Steel Ball Run are undeniably remarkable.
I prefer not to delve too deeply into the plot beyond its core elements.
This part unfolds in an alternate universe, heavily inspired by parts 1-3.
The art
10/10
Araki excels in crafting this manga. The character designs, backgrounds, and intricate details harmonize beautifully, achieving perfection.
The characters
10/10
Ah, the characters—Araki truly outdid himself here. Every single one shines brilliantly.
Johnny stands as the finest JoJo yet, with Valentine matching that excellence among the antagonists. However, the true masterpiece of this manga is Diego Brando. He ranks as the best character across all of JoJo. Even if this part were subpar, I would still recommend it solely for him.
I won't indulge in detailed character analysis; you'll need to explore that on your own.
Enjoyment
10/10
Each page flows naturally, as though it must exist exactly where it is. Every dialogue, every battle, serves a purpose leading to the conclusion. If you're a fan of JoJo, it's impossible not to enjoy this.
Overall
10/10
This manga offers an experience that cannot be overlooked. Everything about this part is impeccable. It's difficult to articulate, but it truly is perfect. Once you begin reading, you'll understand. Just be prepared—once you start, you won't be able to stop.
The entire experience is high-octane and rarely lets up on tension. The fights are well-crafted, and the narratives engaging, though it can get confusing if you rush through it. Every character stands out as unique and likable, while the art style remains distinctive and consistent. Going into it with an open mind will undoubtedly lead to an enjoyable experience. While there are some flaws, often tied to stand power continuity, none of them detract from the overall quality.
You don’t need prior knowledge of JJBA to read this, but your enjoyment might be slightly enhanced with it. Part of its appeal lies in Araki taking the best concepts from earlier JJBA parts and blending them into Steel Ball Run. Witnessing the evolution in his writing and art elevates the experience even further, which is why I consider it one of the greatest manga of all time. <p>
<p>Well, I started watching and reading JoJo's Bizarre Adventure 12 years ago. At first glance, I thought it was silly and didn't give it much thought. However, one year ago, I decided to give it a try, and in the end, I absolutely loved it. This led me to dive into the manga as well :P. I consider all eight parts incredible, but Steel Ball Run stood out to me as absolute perfection. One thing I truly appreciated about Part 7 was that for the first time, the protagonist role wasn't solely given to someone from the Joestar bloodline—Johnny—but also to Gyro, who has become my favorite character across all of Jojo's series. The plot and narrative structure were exceptional. The art style maintained its intricate detail (as seen in all other parts), yet there was something distinct that made it special to me. Another aspect that endeared me to SBR was the characters, who had significant development and compelling backstories. Additionally, the introduction of the new ability called "rotation" was both fascinating and breathtaking, enhancing my enjoyment of all the battles. Stands were also presented differently, which I greatly enjoyed. To sum it up, I believe Steel Ball Run is extraordinary, and after finishing it, it became evident that it is one of my favorite works of art. 10/10</p>
JoJo's Bizarre Adventure Part 7: Steel Ball Run is the seventh installment in the Jojo series. Set in the United States during the 1890s, it follows Johnny Joestar, a 19-year-old former horse-racing prodigy turned paraplegic. Johnny seeks to understand the mysterious power of "spin," which once made his legs move enough for him to stand briefly. To gain the trust of Gyro Zeppeli, the man who used this power, Johnny enters the Steel Ball Run Race, a chaotic cross-country race with a grand prize of 50 million dollars.
As the story unfolds, the duo discovers that more than money is at stake. They uncover a massive conspiracy involving bizarre elements, such as the scattered body parts of Jesus Christ. When these parts come into contact with humans, they grant them strange abilities—manifestations of one's soul and will to fight.
Johnny and Gyro must now aim to win the race while stopping the person trying to reunite all the body parts—the President of the United States, Funny Valentine.
This manga is undoubtedly one of the best things I've ever read. I adore the characters and their dialogues. The art, as expected from Hirohiko Araki, is stunning. The narrative is so captivating that you can't look away, or you might miss something crucial.
The character powers and their creative applications in fights and other situations are exceptional. Overall, my enjoyment of this manga was immense, and I highly recommend it to everyone.
Wow, it truly is as exceptional as everyone claims.
I might dislike being a conformist, but there's no denying it—this is simply incredible.
A masterpiece destined to stand the test of time. Even if JoJo parts 1-6 were terrible (which they're not—they're actually fantastic too), it would still be worth reading all of them just to experience this one.
You may find yourself questioning why part 7 of a series is ranked #2 on MAL when looking at the top-rated manga of all time, but rest assured, its position is well-deserved.
This is undoubtedly the most captivating story in JoJo, boasting an extraordinary setting and stunning artwork. The action sequences are masterfully illustrated, showcasing the author's finest panel composition yet. Every unfolding scenario radiates with intrigue and motivations, making each conflict feel like its own standalone manga. And you can enjoy all of this in just 96 generously lengthy chapters.
Since the classic second installment of the JoJo's Bizarre Adventure series, Battle Tendency, JoJo has always been a great manga. Each individual part features a plethora of great characters, compelling plot points, amusing comedic scenes, and heartbreaking tragedy. As the final panel of Part 6 comes into full view, no one can deny that JoJo's Bizarre Adventure is one of the greatest manga of all time.
Yet I'm not writing this review to tell you why JoJo's Bizarre Adventure is great; I'm here to tell you why it's a masterpiece and my second favorite series of all time. And to understand why JoJo's Bizarre Adventure is a masterpiece, one must first analyze the almost undisputed greatest story arc: Steel Ball Run. With this seventh story arc of the JJBA franchise, Araki joins the likes of Miura and Urasawa in the highest echelon of the manga industry.
Story: 10
Steel Ball Run is a narrative that follows the adventures of two protagonists, Johnny Joestar and Gyro Zepelli, as they both strive to obtain first place in the Steel Ball Run Race; a voyage across the United States of America on horseback for the chance to win $50,000,000.
Ever since Part 4, Araki has utilized the narrative concept of an epiphany masterfully. Within the first three parts, the goals of the respective JoJos ultimately remained stagnant and undynamic. Each protagonist, more or less, understands the gravity of their conflict from the opening acts until the very end. However, since the mystery surrounding Yoshikage Kira and the murder of young Morioh women in Diamond is Unbreakable, Araki has ensured that each individual interprets the world around them differently and comes to multiple realizations throughout the course of the plot. Not everything is as it seems.
Within Steel Ball Run, Johnny and Gyro's epiphany fuels the story forward, as they begin to ascertain that the significance of this race holds worldwide implications. Whereas originally the reader is of the notion that Steel Ball Run is all about its namesake race, we soon discern that this is not the case.
The narrative of JoJo's Bizarre Adventure Part 7: Steel Ball Run is beautifully woven. Each arc feels as if it belongs and holds merit. A sense of progression pervades each action taken by the characters. The story is full of complex thematics, psychological battles, and cleverly written dialogue. By far, Steel Ball Run is the most expertly written segment of JoJo's Bizarre Adventure.
JJBA is famous for its battles, so it wouldn't be just to refrain from mentioning them. Steel Ball Run has the greatest battles within JoJo's Bizarre Adventure. Each Stand is unique and interesting, and each action has a psychological element to it. The final two conflicts are extraordinary, both serving to wrap up the two significant plots of the story; attempting to become the victor of the Steel Ball Run race, and preventing the actualization of the purpose the race was constructed for.
Similar to the part before it, Steel Ball Run has potentially the greatest ending I've ever witnessed within fiction. It is seriously perfect, yet I wouldn't dare spoil its riches.
At its heart, much like A Tale of Two Cities, Steel Ball Run is a story of revival.
Art: 10
Steel Ball Run possesses the second best artwork Araki has ever drawn, only being beaten out by its successor JoJolion. Every single character is aesthetically pleasing, and their appearance reveals a multitude of information about their personality. Araki has definitely had some issues in the past attempting to draw feminine faces, yet he really nailed the character of Lucy Steel, who is one of the most beautifully designed female characters in all of manga.
Character: 10
Steel Ball Run possesses one of the best cast of characters I've ever seen.
There are five major characters within the narrative: Johnny Joestar, Gyro Zepelli, Diego Brando, Funny Valentine, and Lucy Steel. Every single one of them are contenders for the greatest fictional characters ever conceived. Every single one of them possesses their own heartbreaking backstory and distinct motives/ideologies. Because it would take a century to analyze them all, I'll take a closer look at the most compelling and complex character of the manga: Johnny Joestar.
Johnny Joestar is the primary protagonist of Steel Ball Run, as well as the seventh JoJo. Previously, he was a world renown jockey, enjoying opulent environments and luxurious living. However, this caused Johnny to spiral down a dark path. He was conceited and extremely brash, treating those around him like garbage, believing everyone to be a waste of space. Until one day, when cutting in front of the line to watch a play, Johnny was shot in the spinal cord by the enraged person that he wronged.
While in rehabilitation, the world forgot about Johnny Joestar. Although humbled, he became a shell of his former self, suffering constant abuse at the hands of his caretakers. He becomes a paraplegic, even finding himself unable to mount his horse again. After years of looking down upon those who couldn't achieve fame like he did, Johnny Joestar is diminished to a state where he's less than those he ridiculed. He joins the Steel Ball Run race to build himself back upwards to "zero," or the basic point of humanity devoid of any disability or privilege, detestation or praise, isolation or fame. In other words, Johnny Joestar wants to start again.
Each of the main characters is filled with as much depth as Johnny Joestar. That's how profoundly masterful this vibrant cast of characters is. As we follow Johnny throughout his adventures, we are tormented with philosophical questions, such as whether or not the hero of this narrative is actually the villain.
Enjoyment: 10
I love consuming fictional stories. From any sort of medium. Yet there's only a certain sort of story that can light a spark inside my very soul. A story that attributes me with a certain fluttering feeling within the stomach, as I carnivorously crave for more content. The first time I experienced this feeling was after watching the first four seasons of Game of Thrones. The second time I experienced this feeling was when reading the Golden Age arc of Berserk. The third, and final, time I experienced this feeling was when reading the masterpiece that is Steel Ball Run.
What more can I say? I absolutely love it. In fact, it is the only story I've ever read that I wouldn't change a thing about.
Overall: 10
Steel Ball Run is a masterpiece, and the greatest story ever told from beginning to end. It is hard to put into words how this manga makes me feel. I recommend it with all my heart, and could give no series higher praise than JoJo's Bizarre Adventure.
"This story is the tale of me starting to walk. Not in the physical sense...but in an adolescence to adulthood sort of way."
Jojo's Bizarre Adventure: Part 7 is undoubtedly one of my all-time favorite mangas. I've been a fan of Jojo's for quite some time, ever since a friend introduced me to the series. I read the manga digitally and in full color.
JJBA (Jojo's Bizarre Adventure) delivered an incredible story in Part 7. I was thoroughly entertained throughout every moment of the narrative. This installment has everything you could hope for in a Jojo's manga: action, mystery, suspense, emotional depth, stunning storytelling, and, of course, moments of bizarre wonder.
The characters undergo significant development and almost feel like real people. Their growth and transformation over time are remarkable. The way they overcome challenges and reconcile conflicting beliefs is both inspiring and captivating.
This manga is nearly flawless, and I have absolutely no complaints about it.
Popular Reviews
No other manga has ever made me cry, laugh, and feel such affection for the characters like this one did. I believe this part perfectly showcases the evolution of Araki's drawing style, delivering some of the most stunning manga panels ever created.
The decision to switch to seinen was undoubtedly one of the best choices ever made. It's as if every element aligned perfectly to create this masterpiece.
If you haven't read it yet, I highly recommend experiencing it without any spoilers and taking your time. It's one of those unique experiences that you'll only get to live once in your life. I wholeheartedly recommend this manga.
Values of the sections:
Story - 3.5
Visual - 2.5
Characters - 4
STORY:
The plot of Steel Ball Run is spectacular. From the beginning, the main problem for our protagonist arises, and gradually more elements are integrated to build something much more complex.
The powers and the method of obtaining them are presented in a correct, understandable, and consistent manner. The stands in this part are mostly original and are used in very ingenious ways. Their designs are good and far from the humanoid stands, which gives a fresh touch to the aesthetics of the manga. I think the only criticism here is the lack of explanation regarding Gyro Zeppeli's technique, which might generate some confusion. However, the manga provides enough data and situations to help you understand how this ability works.
Araki had already attempted to blend a serious and humorous plot. In Steel Ball Run, this is achieved perfectly. It not only has moments of anxiety and drama but also funny situations that allow us to know more about the characters. Humor has been an iconic element of the franchise since Part 2 and is complemented well with the bizarre tone intended for the series. In Steel Ball Run, the perfect balance between comedy and seriousness is reached.
The climax of this story is beautiful; I would say it is one of the best climaxes I've seen in an action series. The scenario set up for the final confrontation is amazing, keeping the reader engaged in the development of the climax, which spans approximately 15 chapters.
There are two critical points regarding the story: the beginning and the chapters after the climax. As for the beginning, it is quite slow, taking time to introduce essential plots and characters. If you don't have a real interest in the work, you might struggle with episodes 6-20. After that, it becomes an endless stream of emotions. On the other hand, the chapters following the climax, while not bad at all, are overshadowed by the brilliance of the climax itself, making the subsequent events feel less impactful.
Score of the story: 9/10
VISUALS/ART:
The art is wonderful: the details in unexpected areas, the transition of scenes, the design of characters, the design of backgrounds, aesthetics, and the anatomy of the characters. Everything encompassing the art is executed to perfection. There is no doubt that Araki showcased his artistic style in the best possible way.
The art evolves as the manga progresses, and after a certain chapter (if I'm not mistaken, Chapter 23), the drawing quality reaches a very high standard.
Score of the visuals/Art: 10/10
CHARACTERS:
Although the main cast of Steel Ball Run is somewhat limited, it includes some of the best characters in the entire franchise and the shonen genre. The co-star, Gyro Zeppeli, is a daring, charismatic, and eccentric man with a tragic backstory and noble motivations emphasized throughout the plot.
The protagonist, Johnny Joestar, is a brave, selfish, and determined boy who can sometimes become very sinister, to the point of not caring about the lives of others to achieve his goals.
The chemistry between the two main characters in the story is strong. Initially, Gyro was only a mentor to Johnny, but as they face various challenges on their journey, they gradually build a friendship, risking their greatest interests for each other and exchanging lessons along the way.
One of the most important antagonists, Diego Brando, is much better written and characterized than his counterpart in the original universe of JoJo's Bizarre Adventure. Speaking of characters that reference the original universe, many only serve as simple references and nothing more, existing solely for franchise fans to recognize the reference and remember the original character in question. While it is somewhat disappointing that these references aren't utilized further, at least Araki demonstrates his fondness for his first attempt with the series.
Villains and antagonists have reasons for opposing the protagonists—some for tragic reasons, others for philosophical ones, and others out of loyalty to the main antagonist.
The only critical aspect regarding the characters is the lack of characterization of some secondary characters. These are well-managed, and the situations they are involved in are exceptional. During certain stages, they may feel like mere elements of the story rather than fully-fledged characters. Nonetheless, their motivations and convictions are well-achieved.
The main antagonist of the work is sublime. His stand is one of the best musical references found in the franchise, and its extravagant name perfectly aligns with the character's concept. It’s worth noting that his ability is one of the most powerful and original in the series. His motivations are quite simple, but his goals are immense. Like any well-written antagonist, he harbors a kind of annoyance with the protagonist. Both characters don't care about the means to achieve their goals, with the difference being that the protagonist does everything for personal benefit, while the antagonist does it for the welfare of many individuals. You even begin to question who is truly right.
Without a doubt, I can say that the antagonist of this plot is either the best or second-best in the entire franchise, depending on your perspective.
The characters of Steel Ball Run are well-characterized, each having congruent motivations for appearing in the story. The antagonists are not typical villains, the messages are consistently presented, and the situations and characters are memorable.
Score of the characters: 9/10
FINAL SCORE:
9.25 or 9 - EXCELLENT
Jojo's Bizarre Adventure: Steel Ball Run is the seventh arc of JoJo's Bizarre Adventure, and in my opinion, it’s ‘The best manga of all time’ (coming from someone who wasn't initially a JoJo fan). Araki has clearly matured significantly from his previous works. The characters are more layered, the art style is unmistakably Araki's, making it instantly recognizable. The storyline has evolved beyond clichés, and the characters are more complex and wounded, creating a rather 'mature' narrative. This series also acts as a kind of reboot of the franchise, bringing back many characters from earlier parts. But enough talk—let's get into the criteria.
Starting with the characters, they're undoubtedly the best written in the JoJo series. Characters returning in Part 7 are much more nuanced and realistic. I now fully understand them and empathize with them more than I did in the previous parts. Their backstories can be quite brutal at times, tackling intense themes which I won’t spoil. The villains are exceptionally well-crafted; Araki seems to have moved away from the 'bad guys are bad' cliche, instead portraying them as humans with opposing motives to the protagonists—a stunning approach to writing.
The story itself is incredibly engaging. From the start, it had a serious tone that completely drew me in, despite being about a horse race, which isn't usually my thing. Of course, the series doesn't call itself 'Jojo's BIZZARE Adventure' for nothing. There are some truly bizarre moments that had me laughing out loud. These odd moments are taken seriously by the series, giving it a comedic undertone at times. However, these bizarre elements don't detract from the storyline—they actually drive it forward. I won't say more about the story; you should experience it yourself.
The art is dazzling too. While the main cast looks like models from a magazine, their designs are unique. I sometimes struggled to distinguish between characters' faces, which is why I gave it a 9. Otherwise, the art is impeccable and helps me fully grasp what's happening. It perfectly captures the 'bizarre' feel, enhancing the strange moments in this arc. The backgrounds look photorealistic while maintaining an 'Araki' vibe. Araki demonstrates his understanding of the human figure, always portraying characters in dynamic, fabulous poses without any stiffness!
My enjoyment is definitely a 10. I had no regrets reading this manga, and it was the first one I binged through until halfway (school prevented me from finishing immediately). There were no dull moments, though there were certainly surprising ones. Seriously, give this JoJo arc a try. It's a fresh reboot of the JoJo series, making it even more intriguing than before.
Overall, I gave this arc a 10 out of 10, calling it a masterpiece. Araki should be proud of what he's created; bravo!
EDIT:
The review was written before I reached the midpoint of the series. I thoroughly enjoyed Gyro and Johnny's adventures to retrieve the Corpse Parts, but I do think the finale had flaws. Firstly, the fight between Lucky Valentine and Johnny is ridiculously long. Araki drags it out too much, and when it finally ends, he suddenly introduces a DIO from another dimension, very similar to the DIO from part 3. This broke the serious atmosphere and made it hard for me to take it seriously anymore.
I changed my enjoyment score to a 9 because I lost some admiration for the series during the final fight against DIO. I also adjusted the story score to an 8 due to certain parts dragging on too long.
I still believe Steel Ball Run is one of the best JoJo arcs, but it's definitely not the best manga I've ever read.
<p>
This is where JoJo's reached its peak for me. Every questionable aspect from previous parts was eliminated, and all the great elements from before are not only present but enhanced.
Steel Ball Run features my favorite plot in anime and manga. It has one of my favorite protagonists, my absolute favorite deuteragonist, and one of the greatest antagonists I've encountered in any story. I can't think of a single negative thing about it right now.
Araki has truly captured lightning in a bottle.
In conclusion, this
is not a perfect 10/10 manga overall, but within the Jojo series, it deserves a 10/10.
This manga is flawlessly executed, and I find it challenging to imagine anything surpassing its brilliance.
The story
10/10
The narrative and setting of Steel Ball Run are undeniably remarkable.
I prefer not to delve too deeply into the plot beyond its core elements.
This part unfolds in an alternate universe, heavily inspired by parts 1-3.
The art
10/10
Araki excels in crafting this manga. The character designs, backgrounds, and intricate details harmonize beautifully, achieving perfection.
The characters
10/10
Ah, the characters—Araki truly outdid himself here. Every single one shines brilliantly.
Johnny stands as the finest JoJo yet, with Valentine matching that excellence among the antagonists. However, the true masterpiece of this manga is Diego Brando. He ranks as the best character across all of JoJo. Even if this part were subpar, I would still recommend it solely for him.
I won't indulge in detailed character analysis; you'll need to explore that on your own.
Enjoyment
10/10
Each page flows naturally, as though it must exist exactly where it is. Every dialogue, every battle, serves a purpose leading to the conclusion. If you're a fan of JoJo, it's impossible not to enjoy this.
Overall
10/10
This manga offers an experience that cannot be overlooked. Everything about this part is impeccable. It's difficult to articulate, but it truly is perfect. Once you begin reading, you'll understand. Just be prepared—once you start, you won't be able to stop.
You don’t need prior knowledge of JJBA to read this, but your enjoyment might be slightly enhanced with it. Part of its appeal lies in Araki taking the best concepts from earlier JJBA parts and blending them into Steel Ball Run. Witnessing the evolution in his writing and art elevates the experience even further, which is why I consider it one of the greatest manga of all time. <p>
As the story unfolds, the duo discovers that more than money is at stake. They uncover a massive conspiracy involving bizarre elements, such as the scattered body parts of Jesus Christ. When these parts come into contact with humans, they grant them strange abilities—manifestations of one's soul and will to fight.
Johnny and Gyro must now aim to win the race while stopping the person trying to reunite all the body parts—the President of the United States, Funny Valentine.
This manga is undoubtedly one of the best things I've ever read. I adore the characters and their dialogues. The art, as expected from Hirohiko Araki, is stunning. The narrative is so captivating that you can't look away, or you might miss something crucial.
The character powers and their creative applications in fights and other situations are exceptional. Overall, my enjoyment of this manga was immense, and I highly recommend it to everyone.
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I might dislike being a conformist, but there's no denying it—this is simply incredible.
A masterpiece destined to stand the test of time. Even if JoJo parts 1-6 were terrible (which they're not—they're actually fantastic too), it would still be worth reading all of them just to experience this one.
You may find yourself questioning why part 7 of a series is ranked #2 on MAL when looking at the top-rated manga of all time, but rest assured, its position is well-deserved.
This is undoubtedly the most captivating story in JoJo, boasting an extraordinary setting and stunning artwork. The action sequences are masterfully illustrated, showcasing the author's finest panel composition yet. Every unfolding scenario radiates with intrigue and motivations, making each conflict feel like its own standalone manga. And you can enjoy all of this in just 96 generously lengthy chapters.
Yet I'm not writing this review to tell you why JoJo's Bizarre Adventure is great; I'm here to tell you why it's a masterpiece and my second favorite series of all time. And to understand why JoJo's Bizarre Adventure is a masterpiece, one must first analyze the almost undisputed greatest story arc: Steel Ball Run. With this seventh story arc of the JJBA franchise, Araki joins the likes of Miura and Urasawa in the highest echelon of the manga industry.
Story: 10
Steel Ball Run is a narrative that follows the adventures of two protagonists, Johnny Joestar and Gyro Zepelli, as they both strive to obtain first place in the Steel Ball Run Race; a voyage across the United States of America on horseback for the chance to win $50,000,000.
Ever since Part 4, Araki has utilized the narrative concept of an epiphany masterfully. Within the first three parts, the goals of the respective JoJos ultimately remained stagnant and undynamic. Each protagonist, more or less, understands the gravity of their conflict from the opening acts until the very end. However, since the mystery surrounding Yoshikage Kira and the murder of young Morioh women in Diamond is Unbreakable, Araki has ensured that each individual interprets the world around them differently and comes to multiple realizations throughout the course of the plot. Not everything is as it seems.
Within Steel Ball Run, Johnny and Gyro's epiphany fuels the story forward, as they begin to ascertain that the significance of this race holds worldwide implications. Whereas originally the reader is of the notion that Steel Ball Run is all about its namesake race, we soon discern that this is not the case.
The narrative of JoJo's Bizarre Adventure Part 7: Steel Ball Run is beautifully woven. Each arc feels as if it belongs and holds merit. A sense of progression pervades each action taken by the characters. The story is full of complex thematics, psychological battles, and cleverly written dialogue. By far, Steel Ball Run is the most expertly written segment of JoJo's Bizarre Adventure.
JJBA is famous for its battles, so it wouldn't be just to refrain from mentioning them. Steel Ball Run has the greatest battles within JoJo's Bizarre Adventure. Each Stand is unique and interesting, and each action has a psychological element to it. The final two conflicts are extraordinary, both serving to wrap up the two significant plots of the story; attempting to become the victor of the Steel Ball Run race, and preventing the actualization of the purpose the race was constructed for.
Similar to the part before it, Steel Ball Run has potentially the greatest ending I've ever witnessed within fiction. It is seriously perfect, yet I wouldn't dare spoil its riches.
At its heart, much like A Tale of Two Cities, Steel Ball Run is a story of revival.
Art: 10
Steel Ball Run possesses the second best artwork Araki has ever drawn, only being beaten out by its successor JoJolion. Every single character is aesthetically pleasing, and their appearance reveals a multitude of information about their personality. Araki has definitely had some issues in the past attempting to draw feminine faces, yet he really nailed the character of Lucy Steel, who is one of the most beautifully designed female characters in all of manga.
Character: 10
Steel Ball Run possesses one of the best cast of characters I've ever seen.
There are five major characters within the narrative: Johnny Joestar, Gyro Zepelli, Diego Brando, Funny Valentine, and Lucy Steel. Every single one of them are contenders for the greatest fictional characters ever conceived. Every single one of them possesses their own heartbreaking backstory and distinct motives/ideologies. Because it would take a century to analyze them all, I'll take a closer look at the most compelling and complex character of the manga: Johnny Joestar.
Johnny Joestar is the primary protagonist of Steel Ball Run, as well as the seventh JoJo. Previously, he was a world renown jockey, enjoying opulent environments and luxurious living. However, this caused Johnny to spiral down a dark path. He was conceited and extremely brash, treating those around him like garbage, believing everyone to be a waste of space. Until one day, when cutting in front of the line to watch a play, Johnny was shot in the spinal cord by the enraged person that he wronged.
While in rehabilitation, the world forgot about Johnny Joestar. Although humbled, he became a shell of his former self, suffering constant abuse at the hands of his caretakers. He becomes a paraplegic, even finding himself unable to mount his horse again. After years of looking down upon those who couldn't achieve fame like he did, Johnny Joestar is diminished to a state where he's less than those he ridiculed. He joins the Steel Ball Run race to build himself back upwards to "zero," or the basic point of humanity devoid of any disability or privilege, detestation or praise, isolation or fame. In other words, Johnny Joestar wants to start again.
Each of the main characters is filled with as much depth as Johnny Joestar. That's how profoundly masterful this vibrant cast of characters is. As we follow Johnny throughout his adventures, we are tormented with philosophical questions, such as whether or not the hero of this narrative is actually the villain.
Enjoyment: 10
I love consuming fictional stories. From any sort of medium. Yet there's only a certain sort of story that can light a spark inside my very soul. A story that attributes me with a certain fluttering feeling within the stomach, as I carnivorously crave for more content. The first time I experienced this feeling was after watching the first four seasons of Game of Thrones. The second time I experienced this feeling was when reading the Golden Age arc of Berserk. The third, and final, time I experienced this feeling was when reading the masterpiece that is Steel Ball Run.
What more can I say? I absolutely love it. In fact, it is the only story I've ever read that I wouldn't change a thing about.
Overall: 10
Steel Ball Run is a masterpiece, and the greatest story ever told from beginning to end. It is hard to put into words how this manga makes me feel. I recommend it with all my heart, and could give no series higher praise than JoJo's Bizarre Adventure.
"This story is the tale of me starting to walk. Not in the physical sense...but in an adolescence to adulthood sort of way."
JJBA (Jojo's Bizarre Adventure) delivered an incredible story in Part 7. I was thoroughly entertained throughout every moment of the narrative. This installment has everything you could hope for in a Jojo's manga: action, mystery, suspense, emotional depth, stunning storytelling, and, of course, moments of bizarre wonder.
The characters undergo significant development and almost feel like real people. Their growth and transformation over time are remarkable. The way they overcome challenges and reconcile conflicting beliefs is both inspiring and captivating.
This manga is nearly flawless, and I have absolutely no complaints about it.
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