DISCLAIMER: JoJo's Bizarre Adventure is an ongoing series with 7 complete parts and one currently in progress. It's crucial to note that this isn't a single continuous story divided into parts, but rather 8 distinct stories within the same universe, following the Joestar bloodline, sharing similar elements, plot points, and motivations.
Because of this, my review and others for JoJo will use a unique rating system tailored specifically for JoJo, designed to be beginner-friendly, illustrating whether it's worth investing time in the series and how it compares to other parts.
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Following a year-long break after the conclusion of Stone Ocean, Araki releases the newest JoJo part set in a world reset from Stone Ocean—Steel Ball Run. Often regarded as one of the best JoJo parts, I concur with that sentiment. It eliminates all the negatives and amplifies the positives, beginning with a coherent, full-fledged story that justifies stand battles beyond "hired henchmen with stands."
That justification is a race across the United States for a prize of US$50,000,000.
Of course, competitors would fight tooth and nail to secure that prize.
Johnny Joestar emerges as an incredibly complex protagonist. Initially resembling Jolyne as somewhat of a jerk, over the course of its 24 volumes (7 more than the typical JoJo part), he evolves into the most human character in the series.
Gyro Zeppeli, echoing the Joestar-Zeppeli dynamic seen in parts 1-2, is equally remarkable, albeit less intricate. He functions not only as a rival but also as a mentor and comic relief during the rare moments of rest during the race.
The art and style are exceptional, surpassing even Stone Ocean, suggesting Araki used his hiatus to refine his skills further. It also features some of the finest pin-up style covers.
This time, the "stand user of the week" formula is non-intrusive, as these are simply other racers striving for the $50 million. The battles are even more engaging due to several key factors:
1) There's a significant reduction in humanoid stands. Stands are now mostly abilities or objects with abilities, minimizing ghost punches.
2) Besides stands, there's Spin, the new universe's equivalent of the Ripple, yet far more intriguing and versatile, doing much more than causing fire through intense breathing.
3) Given their journey across an entire country, the variety of locations and scenarios leads to the most fascinating matchups in JoJo history.
Lastly, the main antagonist ranks among the favorites for many. His motivations are so compelling that I questioned the morality of his actions, as unlike prior villains, he had a genuine goal with a clear plan to achieve it.
The plot twists and final battle are my favorite across all JoJo parts. They encapsulate what makes these climactic fights great while elevating them further, maintaining interest throughout, moving through various settings, instilling a sense of urgency, culminating in a chase spanning nearly eight volumes without ever feeling drawn out. It's akin to defeating Liquid Snake in MGS only to hear IT'S NOT OVER YET moments later, leading to one last fight for survival.
This is one of the best JoJo parts, sharing top honors with Diamond is Unbreakable as my favorite. The art is unparalleled, characters are uniformly excellent, motivations are sensible and heartfelt, and it's brimming with emotional moments, something JoJo often lacks.
It's the most complete and gratifying part to read, leaving you with the rare feeling of truly concluding an adventure alongside Johnny by the end.
I am a huge Jojo fan, but I have an even greater fondness for Part 7.
It's a well-known fact that Araki initially intended Part 7 to belong to a separate series, and this is quite evident. There's a significant shift in tone and pacing compared to Part 6.
Story: 9/10
The story remains engaging throughout. The horse racing at the beginning of the part is decent on its own, but as the narrative unfolds, it becomes much better. "Who shot Johnny Joestar" remains one of the most perplexing elements I've encountered in a manga recently.
Art: 9/10
Jojo's art is fascinating because it isn't necessarily the most visually stunning I've seen, but Araki's ability to adapt his style to the tone of the manga is exceptional. The close-ups in Part 7 are likely the best in all of Jojo, and the Stand designs reach their peak here as well.
Character: 10/10
Part 7 boasts the most well-developed characters in the entire Jojo series, and this isn't exactly a controversial opinion. Funny Valentine is my personal favorite character in the series, with Johnny coming in as a close second. In shonen, characters are often clearly defined as either "good guys" or "bad guys," but since Part 7 is seinen, the morality of characters can be more fluid. This allows villains like Funny Valentine and Sandman to exist without being purely evil.
Enjoyment: 10/10
The comedy in Part 7 is divine. The interactions between Gyro and Johnny are hilarious, and even Pocoloco has some standout moments. The action is thrilling, and the story is captivating.
Overall: 10/10
I would wholeheartedly recommend reading Part 7, and also Parts 1-6 to give Part 7 more depth and significance. It's truly a masterpiece.
I approached Steel Ball Run with a fair amount of skepticism, as I do with all Jojo parts. Coming off Part 6, which was said to be terrible but I absolutely loved, Part 7 had to prove itself to me. With its different universe and characters (as per usual), how could it possibly measure up to the legacy of the first six parts?
I soon realized that comparing it to the other parts wasn't fair; Part 4 was incredible, Part 5 was amazing, and Part 6 was fantastic... but Steel Ball Run turned out to be a legitimate masterpiece.
Story: 10
This genuinely caught me off guard. I never thought I'd enjoy a horse race so much, but the plot is far better crafted than in previous parts. It's truly a coming-of-age story, whereas other parts often prioritize great characters and fights over the narrative. There's such a strong focus on Johnny's growth, mystery, yearning, and regret. It's a deeply moving piece of literature filled with rich themes and emotions.
Art: 10
I know giving every category a 10 might make me seem like a fanboy, but this art is among the best. It may not be as picturesque as Vagabond or as intricately detailed as Berserk, but it's rare to find art of this caliber. Araki used his time wisely to create stunning double-page spreads. While complaints about "same face syndrome" began with this part, I believe it's a deliberate shift toward a more model-like art style by Araki, and I think it looks fantastic.
Characters: 9.5
I considered giving this category a 9 because, while I adore Johnny and Gyro, I felt the main cast could have benefited from a few more characters. They seemed to be the only two, whereas previous parts had 5-6 main characters. Still, this was clearly a choice made by Araki, and all the characters in this part are far more emotionally complex and determined. Upon reflection, this personal journey between Gyro, Johnny, and us, the viewers, might have been overshadowed by additional comrades.
Enjoyment: 10
As you can tell, I thoroughly enjoyed it. The hype built up to an incredibly satisfying finale. The fights were meticulously crafted, and I loved the stands. The "reveals" or perhaps "plot twists" were the best in this part by far, maybe surpassed only by Part 8 later on. Parts 1-6 didn't have enough depth for these reveals to feel significant and meaningful.
Overall: 10
The previous parts were great. This was a masterpiece.
Rewrite:
Typical JoJo, no different from the other parts; if you're a fan of JoJo, this will be an incredibly fun experience. I recommend reading the earlier parts beforehand, as much of the enjoyment in this part stems from references to previous installments. With that said, I'll proceed with this review assuming the reader is familiar with JoJo.
Story 9/10
It follows the same formula used in every JoJo part: a story setup interrupted by battles, one after another. This part features some rather dull stands but also some of the most fascinating and entertaining ones. The uniquely quirky humor remains as engaging as ever.
Characters 9/10
The characters are highly enjoyable, equipped with exceptionally imaginative stands.
Art 9/10
JoJo offers colored versions of the manga, which significantly enhance the reading experience. The artwork is consistently great, and when it delves into detail, it becomes breathtakingly beautiful.
Enjoyment 9/10
It's thoroughly enjoyable throughout. While the beginning can be a bit confusing at times, once the story gains momentum, it doesn't let up.
<p>SBR is undoubtedly Araki's masterpiece. By focusing solely on two characters, they become truly unforgettable. The stands resemble those from the third series but are far more intricate to comprehend. The artwork is stunning, and it's no surprise that it took seven years to publish this work. The character stories are well-crafted. The plot is filled with raw, authentic moments that perfectly encapsulate pure seinen, where the author finally has no need to hold back.</p>
The setting is nice and unique for a Jojo part, which I appreciated. I also enjoyed the quest for Jesus' Spine and the fact that Dio is a Dinosaur. Gyro is my favorite character in this part because he can be both serious and very funny—mama mia! The different dimensions are confusing but incredibly intriguing. Pizza Mozarella, Pizza Mozarella, rela rela rela... and yes, this is a hit in Europe—I can confirm that as a European myself. By the way, English isn't my first language, so this review is written somewhat simply. Sorry for any mistakes!
Let me begin by stating that if you haven’t experienced Parts 1 through 6 of JoJo, I strongly advise doing so before diving into Steel Ball Run. There are numerous references and thematic parallels that will significantly enhance your appreciation for this part. That said, if you simply can't wait and decide to jump straight into SBR, it stands alone as a compelling narrative with its own set of characters.
From an objective standpoint, Steel Ball Run arguably ranks as the finest installment in the JoJo series. Virtually every element from prior parts—characters, art, pacing, setting, and the gravity of conflicts—has been elevated here.
- Story -
SBR adopts a storytelling approach akin to Parts 5 and 6, progressively building its narrative while interspersing combat sequences between key moments, and it executes this beautifully. Some critics have mentioned a slow start, but I find it effectively establishes the atmosphere and introduces the characters with clear objectives.
As the story unfolds, the tension escalates, and each fight becomes increasingly engaging. The progression leads to a climactic finale filled with unexpected twists and revelations, culminating in a deeply satisfying conclusion. Araki’s decision to visit America to conceptualize the setting adds authenticity to the backdrop.
One minor flaw is the lack of logical consistency surrounding a pivotal plot device. However, this doesn’t detract from the enjoyment, especially since fans of JoJo aren’t typically seeking rigid logic in their adventures.
- Art -
Like many English-speaking readers, I encountered the colored edition of Part 7 via the Jojo's Colored Adventure team, and I highly recommend experiencing SBR this way—it looks stunning.
A distinctive feature of SBR is its transition from weekly Shonen serialization to monthly Seinen publication, granting Araki additional time to refine his artistic style. This effort pays off handsomely, as both character designs and Stand aesthetics are visually striking.
- Character -
The ensemble cast in Steel Ball Run is undoubtedly its standout feature. Each character is fascinating and, to varying degrees, plausible. They all possess distinct motivations driving their actions and ambitions, marking a significant improvement over Part 3’s one-dimensional antagonists.
Johnny Joestar, the protagonist, shines due to his physical, mental, and emotional development throughout the arc. Much of this growth stems from his interactions with Gyro Zeppeli, the other central figure in SBR. Their partnership is arguably the best dynamic in the entire JoJo series, characterized by their collaborative approach to battles, mutual learning, and comedic flair.
The primary antagonist of Part 7 deserves special mention as the second-best villain in the franchise, trailing only Kira. This assessment stems from two factors: first, his Stand ability is both bizarre and terrifyingly potent; second, his goals resonate on a realistic level, even appearing more idealistic than those of the hero. He is the sole main JoJo villain whose aspirations seem conceivable in reality.
- Fights -
Although I still lean slightly toward the battles in Part 5, SBR delivers its fair share of excitement. Many Stand abilities introduced here are inventive and fresh, though some fall flat. A notable distinction is the emphasis placed on the user rather than the Stand itself, adding depth to adversaries not seen in earlier installments. The highlight remains how most conflicts are resolved through strategy and adaptation rather than sheer force.
- Conclusion -
Steel Ball Run undoubtedly belongs among the top-tier entries in the JoJo saga. While it occasionally defies logic, it excels in delivering memorable characters, impressive artwork, captivating narratives, and thrilling confrontations—all set against the backdrop of horse racing. If these elements appeal to you, then JoJo's Bizarre Adventure: Steel Ball Run is a manga experience worth savoring.
First of all, I wasn't expecting too much, especially since I didn't enjoy Stone Ocean (except for the Pucci parts). I was very happy to start a new JoJo part but at the same time, I was scared to get too excited because that's what happened with Stone Ocean. Among all the parts, the second and fourth parts have been my favorites so far (I really enjoyed parts 3 and 5, but I was overly hyped about them, just like with Stone Ocean). For me, JoJo parts need to meet four criteria for me to truly like them:
1 - Jobros: There needs to be good side characters so I can enjoy the plot. In parts 1 and 6, I didn't find strong side characters, which is why they rank lower on my list. On the other hand, in parts 3 and 5, I liked the side characters more than the protagonists themselves. For example, in part 5, I came for Giorno but ended up loving all the side characters more.
2 - Villain: This is a crucial element. In this case, I don't hate any of the villains, but depending on your perspective, some stand out more. For instance, I love Dio, but not as much as Kira. The same goes for the Ayayayas and Pucci. For me, the best villain is either Kira or Dio.
3 - Protagonist: I need to connect with the protagonist to fully enjoy a series. For example, I didn't quite like Lelouch from Code Geass, so I didn't enjoy the anime. The same happened with Jolyne—there's something about her I just can't put my finger on. The same applies to Jotaro and Josuke.
4 - Plot: This is very important. Part 1's plot is rather weak, and it gets progressively better until Josuke and Giorno, where it dips slightly. Then comes Stone Ocean, which has a beautiful plot. For me, there are no filler episodes in JoJo, so I don't mind the length of Stardust Crusaders.
Now, why did I explain all this? So you can understand why I love Steel Ball Run and why it's currently my favorite JoJo part. Let’s apply the four points to Steel Ball Run:
1 - Jobros: Oh man, I love Zeppeli. I usually don't like the Zeppeli-related side characters, so when I found out he was one of them, I was skeptical. But he completely debunked my expectations and became my third favorite character in this part. I'm not sure if Diego counts as a side character, so I won't include him here.
2 - Villain: This guy—I genuinely hate him, and that makes him a great villain. With all the other main villains, I couldn't truly hate them because they had some redeeming qualities or standards. This guy, however, mercilessly murdered anyone who stood in his way or ruined his plans. Now, let me categorize him here: Diego Brando is the opposite of this man. I love Diego; he's like an anti-hero but a cool one. He's a well-written character with "good" motivations, and there's not much else I can say about him except ZA WARUDO!
3 - Protagonist: I easily connected with Johnny. He's a great character who started off as a jerk but changed due to circumstances and became a better person. In contrast, Jotaro never changed his personality, even after Kakyoin, Avdol, and Iggy died—it’s frustrating how he remained such a stoic poker face through it all.
4 - Plot: This is kind of the weakest point. It's essentially a basic "yeehaw" story, but they added some body-hunting elements and stands, which I appreciate. They tried to make it less cliché, but it's still somewhat meh, to be honest. However, the Silver Bullet arc, featuring Juan Joestar, is one of the best horse-related stories in the series.
In conclusion, you need to know what you're getting into so you don't overhype yourself too much, like what happened to me with Stone Ocean. I hope you guys enjoy this part as much as I am and check out the Johnny Joestar OP on YouTube—it's really good. Also, don't forget the mythic song of Gyro!
Following the journey to gain legs, Johnny Joestar, the main character, ends up ACQUIRING JESUS CHRIST'S LEFT ARM, SPINE, AND LEGS. WITH THE POWER OF SPINNING HIS FINGERNAIL, HE MASSACRES THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES.
It's MAL's fault for not implementing a spoiler system, and I'm not rewriting a spoiler-free version.
Also, Johnny might be selfish, but can you really blame him? His dad hates him, he's disabled, he accidentally caused his brother's death, and nothing has gone right in his life. He's utterly miserable. Can you blame him for being a bit selfish when he sets out on a quest to walk again and then hate him for it, you plebs? Johnny is the best JoJo.
Part 7 of Jojo's seemed to me like an incredible masterpiece, truly recommended. I don't know if Araki smokes, but the charm of Funny Valentine, along with Kira Yoshikage, makes them the best Jojo's antagonists, honestly.
I found it excellent; Johnny is the best brother I can mention, alongside the impressive Gyro—truthfully.
Diego—I loved his evolution, along with the others. There's nothing more to say—it was extraordinary, wonderful.
I don't know what else to add—I cried a lot during the ending. It's the first time a manga brought tears to my eyes. The first was Berserk, but this is on another level. I'm following Part 8, and if there's a Part 9 in the future, I'd love to see a Latin protagonist,XD—a Latin Jojo. That would be insane, brother.
Bible two Looking good! Very good original characters like Jesus. OutSTANDing artstyle.
Amazing soundtrack, my favorite is the Pizza Mozzarella composed by Gyro Zeppeli.
I think this is one of, if not the best romcoms I have read. This might be a little spoiler, but the story starts with our protagonist Pocoloco getting the most OP STAND,
which can beat even Dio in a heartbeat, and he defeats everyone in the whole part. Our other main protagonist, Sandman, is so OP that he goes full barefoot and demolishes the entire lobby.
By the way, it's about a race in 'merica for money, also involving Jesus stuff.
Serving as a soft reset for Jojo's Bizarre Adventure, Steel Ball Run takes the story in original and daring directions. But does it work? Oh who am I kidding? I'm going to be straight up.
I consider Steel Ball Run to be one of the greatest written works I've ever read.
STORY: 9/10
I will admit Steel Ball Run has a very, very slow start. In fact, Stands aren't even introduced until around 20 chapters in. That's another thing: Steel Ball Run is seinen instead of shounen, meaning each chapter ranges from 35 to 60 pages long compared to the 20-page chapters of the previous Jojo Parts. This may seem daunting at first, but once you get invested in Steel Ball Run, it feels like the story was too short, despite being the longest Jojo Part to date. Steel Ball Run also changes the Jojo formula in its fights. Stands are no longer mostly humanoid; they function more as superpowers than spirits who fight for you. Each fight is engaging and unique, dealing with psychological warfare more than throwing blind punches. This makes the fights in Steel Ball Run among the best in the series.
Steel Ball Run is also magnificently written, with very great story arcs throughout. However, there is a controversial turn near the very end that I won't spoil, which will surely throw some people off and make them consider it unnecessary. Eh, I didn't mind it too much, though it does undermine what made a previous Part so good to a degree. Despite that, it still contains one of the greatest and most emotional endings I've ever read.
ART: 10/10
Part 4 may have been the pinnacle of Araki's style, but Steel Ball Run is his pinnacle in terms of talent. Truly perfect art in all fields. The detail is much more in-depth than in previous Parts, and character designs are on point.
CHARACTERS: 10/10
Steel Ball Run, though its primary cast is a fraction of other Parts, contains some of the best characters in Jojo, and in my opinion, some of the best characters of all time. Gyro Zeppeli qualifies for the latter. He's hilarious but also has a tragic backstory that offers him plenty of motivation while keeping him mysterious. Diego Brando is an interesting spin on Dio Brando from The Phantom Blood, and his Stand Scary Monsters is awesome. Lucy and Steven Steel are a great duo. Steven is barely in the story but is a well-written and unique supporting character, and while Lucy doesn't really come into play until the finale, she is still compelling. Wekapipo is one of the best side protagonists and works well as a foil to Gyro. Steel Ball Run also contains my favorite side villain, Ringo Roadaggin, and though his time spent in the story is brief, it is arguably the pinnacle of Jojo.
As for the Jojo and main villain, they're simply the best. Johnny Joestar is a tragic lightning rod of Shakespearean proportions. It's not only impossible to not root for him, but it is immoral. He has one of the greatest and most significant character arcs I've ever experienced, and his Stand Tusk is awesome to boot. He is my favorite Jojo bar none, despite being one of the most depraved ones. Johnny is immoral and sinful and can be considered the villain of Steel Ball Run, but he is still a compelling force of nature.
The villain, President Funny Valentine, in contrast, can be considered the hero to an extent, and is one of the most sympathetic villains to grace manga. In fact, it's no secret Funny Valentine is my favorite antagonist ever. He's like a better version of Ozymandias from Watchmen who takes pride in his actions rather than cry in secret. A true patriot, Funny Valentine will stop at nothing to make America great again. As said by the man himself, his "heart and actions are utterly unclouded. They are those of JUSTICE." His Stand, Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap (D4C), has one of the most insane and unique powers of any Stand and makes for a more than satisfying final fight.
ENJOYMENT: 10/10
Steel Ball Run blew me away in every way. It is a literal epic, a poetic work of great magnitude following flawed heroes on a large-scale journey that tests their spiritual and emotional strength as well as their physical. It is compelling and powerful, and the fights are pretty damn great. Absolutely mind-blowing and awe-inspiring yet will leave you in an emotional wreck, despite the story still being filled with trademark Araki humor (thanks mostly to Gyro and his obsession with making up gags). Johnny and Gyro are a perfect tag team; their relationship is strong and real, and their chemistry is on point. They are part of what makes the story so damn compelling.
OVERALL: 9.75/10
Steel Ball Run is one of the most intense and pleasing emotional rollercoasters I've ever experienced. It contains some of my favorite characters in fiction history and is a fantastic new take on the Jojo universe that, dare I say, is utterly superior to all that's come before it. Featuring my favorite fights, my favorite Jojo, my favorite villain, my favorite story, and one of the most emotional endings I've read, it's no secret that I consider Steel Ball Run to be the greatest Jojo Part, and one of the greatest manga ever created, period.
Popular Reviews
Because of this, my review and others for JoJo will use a unique rating system tailored specifically for JoJo, designed to be beginner-friendly, illustrating whether it's worth investing time in the series and how it compares to other parts.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Following a year-long break after the conclusion of Stone Ocean, Araki releases the newest JoJo part set in a world reset from Stone Ocean—Steel Ball Run. Often regarded as one of the best JoJo parts, I concur with that sentiment. It eliminates all the negatives and amplifies the positives, beginning with a coherent, full-fledged story that justifies stand battles beyond "hired henchmen with stands."
That justification is a race across the United States for a prize of US$50,000,000.
Of course, competitors would fight tooth and nail to secure that prize.
Johnny Joestar emerges as an incredibly complex protagonist. Initially resembling Jolyne as somewhat of a jerk, over the course of its 24 volumes (7 more than the typical JoJo part), he evolves into the most human character in the series.
Gyro Zeppeli, echoing the Joestar-Zeppeli dynamic seen in parts 1-2, is equally remarkable, albeit less intricate. He functions not only as a rival but also as a mentor and comic relief during the rare moments of rest during the race.
The art and style are exceptional, surpassing even Stone Ocean, suggesting Araki used his hiatus to refine his skills further. It also features some of the finest pin-up style covers.
This time, the "stand user of the week" formula is non-intrusive, as these are simply other racers striving for the $50 million. The battles are even more engaging due to several key factors:
1) There's a significant reduction in humanoid stands. Stands are now mostly abilities or objects with abilities, minimizing ghost punches.
2) Besides stands, there's Spin, the new universe's equivalent of the Ripple, yet far more intriguing and versatile, doing much more than causing fire through intense breathing.
3) Given their journey across an entire country, the variety of locations and scenarios leads to the most fascinating matchups in JoJo history.
Lastly, the main antagonist ranks among the favorites for many. His motivations are so compelling that I questioned the morality of his actions, as unlike prior villains, he had a genuine goal with a clear plan to achieve it.
The plot twists and final battle are my favorite across all JoJo parts. They encapsulate what makes these climactic fights great while elevating them further, maintaining interest throughout, moving through various settings, instilling a sense of urgency, culminating in a chase spanning nearly eight volumes without ever feeling drawn out. It's akin to defeating Liquid Snake in MGS only to hear IT'S NOT OVER YET moments later, leading to one last fight for survival.
This is one of the best JoJo parts, sharing top honors with Diamond is Unbreakable as my favorite. The art is unparalleled, characters are uniformly excellent, motivations are sensible and heartfelt, and it's brimming with emotional moments, something JoJo often lacks.
It's the most complete and gratifying part to read, leaving you with the rare feeling of truly concluding an adventure alongside Johnny by the end.
It's a well-known fact that Araki initially intended Part 7 to belong to a separate series, and this is quite evident. There's a significant shift in tone and pacing compared to Part 6.
Story: 9/10
The story remains engaging throughout. The horse racing at the beginning of the part is decent on its own, but as the narrative unfolds, it becomes much better. "Who shot Johnny Joestar" remains one of the most perplexing elements I've encountered in a manga recently.
Art: 9/10
Jojo's art is fascinating because it isn't necessarily the most visually stunning I've seen, but Araki's ability to adapt his style to the tone of the manga is exceptional. The close-ups in Part 7 are likely the best in all of Jojo, and the Stand designs reach their peak here as well.
Character: 10/10
Part 7 boasts the most well-developed characters in the entire Jojo series, and this isn't exactly a controversial opinion. Funny Valentine is my personal favorite character in the series, with Johnny coming in as a close second. In shonen, characters are often clearly defined as either "good guys" or "bad guys," but since Part 7 is seinen, the morality of characters can be more fluid. This allows villains like Funny Valentine and Sandman to exist without being purely evil.
Enjoyment: 10/10
The comedy in Part 7 is divine. The interactions between Gyro and Johnny are hilarious, and even Pocoloco has some standout moments. The action is thrilling, and the story is captivating.
Overall: 10/10
I would wholeheartedly recommend reading Part 7, and also Parts 1-6 to give Part 7 more depth and significance. It's truly a masterpiece.
I soon realized that comparing it to the other parts wasn't fair; Part 4 was incredible, Part 5 was amazing, and Part 6 was fantastic... but Steel Ball Run turned out to be a legitimate masterpiece.
Story: 10
This genuinely caught me off guard. I never thought I'd enjoy a horse race so much, but the plot is far better crafted than in previous parts. It's truly a coming-of-age story, whereas other parts often prioritize great characters and fights over the narrative. There's such a strong focus on Johnny's growth, mystery, yearning, and regret. It's a deeply moving piece of literature filled with rich themes and emotions.
Art: 10
I know giving every category a 10 might make me seem like a fanboy, but this art is among the best. It may not be as picturesque as Vagabond or as intricately detailed as Berserk, but it's rare to find art of this caliber. Araki used his time wisely to create stunning double-page spreads. While complaints about "same face syndrome" began with this part, I believe it's a deliberate shift toward a more model-like art style by Araki, and I think it looks fantastic.
Characters: 9.5
I considered giving this category a 9 because, while I adore Johnny and Gyro, I felt the main cast could have benefited from a few more characters. They seemed to be the only two, whereas previous parts had 5-6 main characters. Still, this was clearly a choice made by Araki, and all the characters in this part are far more emotionally complex and determined. Upon reflection, this personal journey between Gyro, Johnny, and us, the viewers, might have been overshadowed by additional comrades.
Enjoyment: 10
As you can tell, I thoroughly enjoyed it. The hype built up to an incredibly satisfying finale. The fights were meticulously crafted, and I loved the stands. The "reveals" or perhaps "plot twists" were the best in this part by far, maybe surpassed only by Part 8 later on. Parts 1-6 didn't have enough depth for these reveals to feel significant and meaningful.
Overall: 10
The previous parts were great. This was a masterpiece.
Typical JoJo, no different from the other parts; if you're a fan of JoJo, this will be an incredibly fun experience. I recommend reading the earlier parts beforehand, as much of the enjoyment in this part stems from references to previous installments. With that said, I'll proceed with this review assuming the reader is familiar with JoJo.
Story 9/10
It follows the same formula used in every JoJo part: a story setup interrupted by battles, one after another. This part features some rather dull stands but also some of the most fascinating and entertaining ones. The uniquely quirky humor remains as engaging as ever.
Characters 9/10
The characters are highly enjoyable, equipped with exceptionally imaginative stands.
Art 9/10
JoJo offers colored versions of the manga, which significantly enhance the reading experience. The artwork is consistently great, and when it delves into detail, it becomes breathtakingly beautiful.
Enjoyment 9/10
It's thoroughly enjoyable throughout. While the beginning can be a bit confusing at times, once the story gains momentum, it doesn't let up.
Overall 9/10
<p>
Story: 9/10
Art: 10/10
Character: 10/10
Personal enjoyment: 9/10
Overall: 10/10
Let me begin by stating that if you haven’t experienced Parts 1 through 6 of JoJo, I strongly advise doing so before diving into Steel Ball Run. There are numerous references and thematic parallels that will significantly enhance your appreciation for this part. That said, if you simply can't wait and decide to jump straight into SBR, it stands alone as a compelling narrative with its own set of characters.
From an objective standpoint, Steel Ball Run arguably ranks as the finest installment in the JoJo series. Virtually every element from prior parts—characters, art, pacing, setting, and the gravity of conflicts—has been elevated here.
- Story -
SBR adopts a storytelling approach akin to Parts 5 and 6, progressively building its narrative while interspersing combat sequences between key moments, and it executes this beautifully. Some critics have mentioned a slow start, but I find it effectively establishes the atmosphere and introduces the characters with clear objectives.
As the story unfolds, the tension escalates, and each fight becomes increasingly engaging. The progression leads to a climactic finale filled with unexpected twists and revelations, culminating in a deeply satisfying conclusion. Araki’s decision to visit America to conceptualize the setting adds authenticity to the backdrop.
One minor flaw is the lack of logical consistency surrounding a pivotal plot device. However, this doesn’t detract from the enjoyment, especially since fans of JoJo aren’t typically seeking rigid logic in their adventures.
- Art -
Like many English-speaking readers, I encountered the colored edition of Part 7 via the Jojo's Colored Adventure team, and I highly recommend experiencing SBR this way—it looks stunning.
A distinctive feature of SBR is its transition from weekly Shonen serialization to monthly Seinen publication, granting Araki additional time to refine his artistic style. This effort pays off handsomely, as both character designs and Stand aesthetics are visually striking.
- Character -
The ensemble cast in Steel Ball Run is undoubtedly its standout feature. Each character is fascinating and, to varying degrees, plausible. They all possess distinct motivations driving their actions and ambitions, marking a significant improvement over Part 3’s one-dimensional antagonists.
Johnny Joestar, the protagonist, shines due to his physical, mental, and emotional development throughout the arc. Much of this growth stems from his interactions with Gyro Zeppeli, the other central figure in SBR. Their partnership is arguably the best dynamic in the entire JoJo series, characterized by their collaborative approach to battles, mutual learning, and comedic flair.
The primary antagonist of Part 7 deserves special mention as the second-best villain in the franchise, trailing only Kira. This assessment stems from two factors: first, his Stand ability is both bizarre and terrifyingly potent; second, his goals resonate on a realistic level, even appearing more idealistic than those of the hero. He is the sole main JoJo villain whose aspirations seem conceivable in reality.
- Fights -
Although I still lean slightly toward the battles in Part 5, SBR delivers its fair share of excitement. Many Stand abilities introduced here are inventive and fresh, though some fall flat. A notable distinction is the emphasis placed on the user rather than the Stand itself, adding depth to adversaries not seen in earlier installments. The highlight remains how most conflicts are resolved through strategy and adaptation rather than sheer force.
- Conclusion -
Steel Ball Run undoubtedly belongs among the top-tier entries in the JoJo saga. While it occasionally defies logic, it excels in delivering memorable characters, impressive artwork, captivating narratives, and thrilling confrontations—all set against the backdrop of horse racing. If these elements appeal to you, then JoJo's Bizarre Adventure: Steel Ball Run is a manga experience worth savoring.
1 - Jobros: There needs to be good side characters so I can enjoy the plot. In parts 1 and 6, I didn't find strong side characters, which is why they rank lower on my list. On the other hand, in parts 3 and 5, I liked the side characters more than the protagonists themselves. For example, in part 5, I came for Giorno but ended up loving all the side characters more.
2 - Villain: This is a crucial element. In this case, I don't hate any of the villains, but depending on your perspective, some stand out more. For instance, I love Dio, but not as much as Kira. The same goes for the Ayayayas and Pucci. For me, the best villain is either Kira or Dio.
3 - Protagonist: I need to connect with the protagonist to fully enjoy a series. For example, I didn't quite like Lelouch from Code Geass, so I didn't enjoy the anime. The same happened with Jolyne—there's something about her I just can't put my finger on. The same applies to Jotaro and Josuke.
4 - Plot: This is very important. Part 1's plot is rather weak, and it gets progressively better until Josuke and Giorno, where it dips slightly. Then comes Stone Ocean, which has a beautiful plot. For me, there are no filler episodes in JoJo, so I don't mind the length of Stardust Crusaders.
Now, why did I explain all this? So you can understand why I love Steel Ball Run and why it's currently my favorite JoJo part. Let’s apply the four points to Steel Ball Run:
1 - Jobros: Oh man, I love Zeppeli. I usually don't like the Zeppeli-related side characters, so when I found out he was one of them, I was skeptical. But he completely debunked my expectations and became my third favorite character in this part. I'm not sure if Diego counts as a side character, so I won't include him here.
2 - Villain: This guy—I genuinely hate him, and that makes him a great villain. With all the other main villains, I couldn't truly hate them because they had some redeeming qualities or standards. This guy, however, mercilessly murdered anyone who stood in his way or ruined his plans. Now, let me categorize him here: Diego Brando is the opposite of this man. I love Diego; he's like an anti-hero but a cool one. He's a well-written character with "good" motivations, and there's not much else I can say about him except ZA WARUDO!
3 - Protagonist: I easily connected with Johnny. He's a great character who started off as a jerk but changed due to circumstances and became a better person. In contrast, Jotaro never changed his personality, even after Kakyoin, Avdol, and Iggy died—it’s frustrating how he remained such a stoic poker face through it all.
4 - Plot: This is kind of the weakest point. It's essentially a basic "yeehaw" story, but they added some body-hunting elements and stands, which I appreciate. They tried to make it less cliché, but it's still somewhat meh, to be honest. However, the Silver Bullet arc, featuring Juan Joestar, is one of the best horse-related stories in the series.
In conclusion, you need to know what you're getting into so you don't overhype yourself too much, like what happened to me with Stone Ocean. I hope you guys enjoy this part as much as I am and check out the Johnny Joestar OP on YouTube—it's really good. Also, don't forget the mythic song of Gyro!
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It's MAL's fault for not implementing a spoiler system, and I'm not rewriting a spoiler-free version.
Also, Johnny might be selfish, but can you really blame him? His dad hates him, he's disabled, he accidentally caused his brother's death, and nothing has gone right in his life. He's utterly miserable. Can you blame him for being a bit selfish when he sets out on a quest to walk again and then hate him for it, you plebs? Johnny is the best JoJo.
I found it excellent; Johnny is the best brother I can mention, alongside the impressive Gyro—truthfully.
Diego—I loved his evolution, along with the others. There's nothing more to say—it was extraordinary, wonderful.
I don't know what else to add—I cried a lot during the ending. It's the first time a manga brought tears to my eyes. The first was Berserk, but this is on another level. I'm following Part 8, and if there's a Part 9 in the future, I'd love to see a Latin protagonist,XD—a Latin Jojo. That would be insane, brother.
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Amazing soundtrack, my favorite is the Pizza Mozzarella composed by Gyro Zeppeli.
I think this is one of, if not the best romcoms I have read. This might be a little spoiler, but the story starts with our protagonist Pocoloco getting the most OP STAND,
which can beat even Dio in a heartbeat, and he defeats everyone in the whole part. Our other main protagonist, Sandman, is so OP that he goes full barefoot and demolishes the entire lobby.
By the way, it's about a race in 'merica for money, also involving Jesus stuff.
-Gyro Zeppeli out
I consider Steel Ball Run to be one of the greatest written works I've ever read.
STORY: 9/10
I will admit Steel Ball Run has a very, very slow start. In fact, Stands aren't even introduced until around 20 chapters in. That's another thing: Steel Ball Run is seinen instead of shounen, meaning each chapter ranges from 35 to 60 pages long compared to the 20-page chapters of the previous Jojo Parts. This may seem daunting at first, but once you get invested in Steel Ball Run, it feels like the story was too short, despite being the longest Jojo Part to date. Steel Ball Run also changes the Jojo formula in its fights. Stands are no longer mostly humanoid; they function more as superpowers than spirits who fight for you. Each fight is engaging and unique, dealing with psychological warfare more than throwing blind punches. This makes the fights in Steel Ball Run among the best in the series.
Steel Ball Run is also magnificently written, with very great story arcs throughout. However, there is a controversial turn near the very end that I won't spoil, which will surely throw some people off and make them consider it unnecessary. Eh, I didn't mind it too much, though it does undermine what made a previous Part so good to a degree. Despite that, it still contains one of the greatest and most emotional endings I've ever read.
ART: 10/10
Part 4 may have been the pinnacle of Araki's style, but Steel Ball Run is his pinnacle in terms of talent. Truly perfect art in all fields. The detail is much more in-depth than in previous Parts, and character designs are on point.
CHARACTERS: 10/10
Steel Ball Run, though its primary cast is a fraction of other Parts, contains some of the best characters in Jojo, and in my opinion, some of the best characters of all time. Gyro Zeppeli qualifies for the latter. He's hilarious but also has a tragic backstory that offers him plenty of motivation while keeping him mysterious. Diego Brando is an interesting spin on Dio Brando from The Phantom Blood, and his Stand Scary Monsters is awesome. Lucy and Steven Steel are a great duo. Steven is barely in the story but is a well-written and unique supporting character, and while Lucy doesn't really come into play until the finale, she is still compelling. Wekapipo is one of the best side protagonists and works well as a foil to Gyro. Steel Ball Run also contains my favorite side villain, Ringo Roadaggin, and though his time spent in the story is brief, it is arguably the pinnacle of Jojo.
As for the Jojo and main villain, they're simply the best. Johnny Joestar is a tragic lightning rod of Shakespearean proportions. It's not only impossible to not root for him, but it is immoral. He has one of the greatest and most significant character arcs I've ever experienced, and his Stand Tusk is awesome to boot. He is my favorite Jojo bar none, despite being one of the most depraved ones. Johnny is immoral and sinful and can be considered the villain of Steel Ball Run, but he is still a compelling force of nature.
The villain, President Funny Valentine, in contrast, can be considered the hero to an extent, and is one of the most sympathetic villains to grace manga. In fact, it's no secret Funny Valentine is my favorite antagonist ever. He's like a better version of Ozymandias from Watchmen who takes pride in his actions rather than cry in secret. A true patriot, Funny Valentine will stop at nothing to make America great again. As said by the man himself, his "heart and actions are utterly unclouded. They are those of JUSTICE." His Stand, Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap (D4C), has one of the most insane and unique powers of any Stand and makes for a more than satisfying final fight.
ENJOYMENT: 10/10
Steel Ball Run blew me away in every way. It is a literal epic, a poetic work of great magnitude following flawed heroes on a large-scale journey that tests their spiritual and emotional strength as well as their physical. It is compelling and powerful, and the fights are pretty damn great. Absolutely mind-blowing and awe-inspiring yet will leave you in an emotional wreck, despite the story still being filled with trademark Araki humor (thanks mostly to Gyro and his obsession with making up gags). Johnny and Gyro are a perfect tag team; their relationship is strong and real, and their chemistry is on point. They are part of what makes the story so damn compelling.
OVERALL: 9.75/10
Steel Ball Run is one of the most intense and pleasing emotional rollercoasters I've ever experienced. It contains some of my favorite characters in fiction history and is a fantastic new take on the Jojo universe that, dare I say, is utterly superior to all that's come before it. Featuring my favorite fights, my favorite Jojo, my favorite villain, my favorite story, and one of the most emotional endings I've read, it's no secret that I consider Steel Ball Run to be the greatest Jojo Part, and one of the greatest manga ever created, period.
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