Steel Ball Run is incredible... Every chapter, every character has their own unique touch, no matter how minor they may be. The art style, the villain Funny Valentine, Johnny, Gyro, and so many other characters bring so much to the work... But even with all that, the character development and the ending are absolutely stunning. I've never read a manga this good... It had me crying for half an hour after it ended, and honestly, I had high expectations, but it exceeded them by far. Simply a masterpiece, the ending filled me with sadness, but I still cherish everything this Part 7 of JoJo's has given me.
A breath of fresh air for the franchise, and an outstanding work in most aspects. An incredible message filled with reflections in an extraordinary adventure; in every arc, you feel frustration, happiness, sadness, and a flood of emotions that make it unforgettable.
<br /><br />
Jojo is still Jojo, but what was once an "Ora Ora Ora" has now become self-defense homicide, and I'm glad Araki decided to experiment with this. Steel Ball Run features some of the best fights in the entire series, yet it's not the battles that linger in your memory.
<br /><br />
What truly endure are the small moments between Gyro and Johnny, and everything they must sacrifice to achieve their dreams.
Without much else to add that hasn't already been said, honestly, this is the day Araki touched the heavens and brushed against perfection.
<p>
Let me tell you something first, this is a masterpiece in its own right. This part was very different from the previous parts; it isn't a parallel universe to the previously existing Jojo universe. Instead, it stands on its own, and that's what makes it so special. It introduces a host of new characters and breaks some of the established Jojo narrative rules. Unlike earlier parts, the story focuses on two characters—Johnny and Gyro. It departs from the usual "JoBros" aspect of Jojo and centers these two as the main protagonists around whom the story revolves. The clear parallels to Part 1 pay off significantly for Steel Ball Run, delivering a new and incredible story set in the American Wild West Era—or better known as the Cowboy Era. Moreover, it appeals more to western audiences than ever before. I highly recommend that everyone who loves an exciting and heartbreaking story read this masterpiece by Hirohiko Araki, as it represents, in my view, the pinnacle of the Jojo experience and manga in general.
TLDR
Story 9/10
Art 8/10
Characters 9/10
Enjoyment 8/10
Overall 9/10
Steel Ball Run (SBR) is the seventh part of Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure and marks Hirohiko Araki's transition from Shonen Jump to Ultra Jump. This shift allowed for monthly releases instead of weekly ones, giving Araki more time to develop his work. SBR is often regarded as one of Araki's greatest achievements and ranks highly among manga enthusiasts, currently sitting at #2 on MyAnimeList's manga rankings. While I agree that SBR is exceptional, it isn't my favorite Jojo part; that title belongs to Part 5: Vento Aureo. Below, I'll explain why I believe SBR isn't flawless.
**Story**
The narrative of SBR is extraordinary. In my opinion, it's Araki's finest work and one of the best stories I've encountered in any medium. Initially, the story revolves around Johnny Joestar, a paraplegic former jockey who joins the Steel Ball Run race—a grueling cross-country horse race—to investigate the mysterious phenomenon known as "Spin," which temporarily restored movement to his legs. As the plot unfolds, we learn that the race is a front for U.S. President Funny Valentine, who seeks to gather fragments of Jesus Christ's body to empower America. Along the way, Johnny learns Spin techniques from Gyro Zeppeli, culminating in his mastery of the Infinite Rotation.
Despite its brilliance, the story has two significant flaws. First, the death of Hot Pants feels rushed and unsatisfying. She's a recurring character whose contributions are substantial, yet her demise lacks the gravitas given to other key characters' deaths in earlier parts, such as Noriaki Kakyoin's. Her death occurs abruptly due to Funny Valentine's "Love Train" ability, leaving little room for emotional closure.
Second, the final arc, "High Voltage," undermines the story's cohesion. After defeating Funny Valentine, the narrative introduces an alternate-universe version of Diego Brando, Johnny's rival, who was previously killed by Funny Valentine. This twist strains credibility because the timeline doesn't align logically—Alternate World Diego would have had to coexist with our universe's Diego during critical moments, which contradicts established rules seen earlier in the story. Moreover, Alternate World Diego wields The World, DIO's Stand from Part 3, which comes across as blatant fan service rather than organic storytelling. His defeat at the hands of Lucy Steel using Diego's severed head also feels contrived and anticlimactic. These issues mar what could have been a perfect conclusion.
That said, even with these missteps, the core story remains compelling, driven by well-crafted conflicts and an engaging antagonist.
**Art**
Araki's move to Ultra Jump significantly enhanced the artwork quality. With more time between chapters, he refined his style, resulting in stunning visuals throughout the latter half of SBR. However, the early chapters suffer from rushed illustrations, particularly noticeable in Johnny's initial appearance, where he looks less polished compared to later depictions. Despite this uneven start, the overall art surpasses anything seen in the previous six parts, showcasing Araki's growth as an artist.
**Characters**
One of SBR's standout features is its richly developed characters. Unlike many stereotypical shonen protagonists, Johnny Joestar is multidimensional. Once a world-class jockey, he became paralyzed after accidentally killing his brother, leading to his father's harsh declaration, "God took the wrong son." This trauma shapes Johnny's personality—he masks his inner pain with arrogance while grappling with guilt and self-doubt. His journey begins when he witnesses Spin's miraculous effects, reigniting hope and propelling him into the Steel Ball Run.
Funny Valentine, the primary antagonist, is equally fascinating. Motivated by a belief in the supremacy of those who seize power, he orchestrates the race to acquire the Holy Corpse Parts, aiming to elevate America above all nations. His ideology and ambition make him a formidable and memorable villain.
**Enjoyment**
While I thoroughly enjoyed most of SBR, certain sections fell flat. The early arcs, especially Tomb of the Boom, lacked excitement and dragged unnecessarily. It wasn't until the Scary Monsters Arc that the story truly captivated me. From there onward, the pacing improved, and the stakes escalated effectively.
**Overall**
Steel Ball Run is a masterpiece within the Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure series. Its intricate story, vibrant characters, and innovative concepts set it apart from its predecessors. Although it has some flaws, particularly in the final arc, it remains an essential read for fans of the franchise. If you're a JJBA enthusiast, SBR is not just recommended—it's mandatory.
I'm not a professional reviewer, and there's not much I can add about this part that hasn't already been covered in other reviews, so I'll keep it brief.
9/10 story. The narrative is straightforward without too many layers or hidden meanings, which means you won't have many "AHA!" moments from figuring things out ahead of time—this is what keeps it from being a perfect 10. However, the pacing becomes sharp and engaging after the first 20 chapters or so.
10/10 art. Every single panel in this series is stunning; it's Jojo, after all. You won't find more consistently detailed artwork in manga than this.
9/10 characters. While the characters are well-written, consistent, and undergo satisfying development throughout the story, their personalities aren't particularly complex or intriguing.
8/10 enjoyment. Personally, I was exhausted after speed-reading Stone Ocean (which, surprisingly, I found quite good despite the criticism), so I had to take several long breaks while reading this part. As a result, I couldn't fully immerse myself in the story as quickly as I would have liked.
9/10 overall. It needs more tiny horses.
Just kidding—I'll give it a 10/10 because my lower enjoyment score is my own fault. If you've been following Jojo up to this point, I recommend taking a short break before diving into Steel Ball Run for a richer experience.
((I WILL PROBABLY UPDATE THIS REVIEW AFTER RE-READING.))
The narrative, despite its simplicity, is undeniably one of the greatest works of fiction I've ever encountered. I'd even label it as peak-fiction, primarily due to the characters. Johnny is a multifaceted and incredibly realistic character with whom I deeply resonate. Gyro provides necessary comic relief yet remains fascinating in terms of motivation. Lucy Steele is superbly crafted, her storyline being an exhilarating journey. Diego and Hot Pants, though minor characters, contribute some of the most pivotal details. Then there's Funny Valentine, the major antagonist. While he isn't my favorite character in this part, he stands out as the best villain in the series. Complex and enigmatic, he wields immense power. It's rare that I come across a character in anime or manga who makes me think: 'something significant is about to happen'.
Of course, Araki excels in artistry, but the characters are truly the highlight of this manga. The entire story challenges you to ponder who is right and who is wrong, unfolding naturally without overwhelming information (except perhaps during the final battle).
Steel Ball Run is, in my view, the epitome of perfection in manga.
Story.
The narrative of Part 7 represents a staggering leap forward compared to its predecessors, almost unbelievable that it stems from the same creator. The race setting ensures a consistent pace throughout the journey—nothing lags, and nothing feels hurried. As characters uncover the hidden machinations behind the race, their evolving goals become deeply engaging, adding layers of intrigue to the plot.
Art.
The artwork is not only masterfully executed but also extraordinarily imaginative. Even minor panels are meticulously detailed, surpassing some detail-oriented manga like Vagabond. Araki's use of perspective and angles is unparalleled in the medium, making the action sequences fluid and captivating. This contributed to my rapid reading of the entire part. The colored scans available online elevate the art even further, showcasing what I believe to be the pinnacle of manga artistry—a drastic improvement over previous parts, which were already impressive.
Characters.
Steel Ball Run boasts a much smaller cast than other parts, allowing for deeper exploration of motivations and actions. With more plausible backstories—unlike, say, Giorno's—the story becomes easier to immerse oneself in. I found myself constantly anxious about how the protagonists would navigate perilous situations.
Enjoyment.
My enjoyment of Steel Ball Run surpassed any other fiction I've consumed. Natural character interactions, humor, a compelling antagonist, and an emotionally resonant journey all coalesced into an unforgettable experience.
Overall.
Taking everything into account, awarding Steel Ball Run a perfect score is inevitable. There isn't a single aspect I could critique. To anyone contemplating reading Steel Ball Run, I wholeheartedly recommend it. JoJo's Bizarre Adventure, with this part included, solidifies its place as one of manga history's greatest achievements.
Steel Ball Run is absolutely a must-read. However, Diamond is Unbreakable stands out as a significantly better manga overall. Steel Ball Run takes the second spot. The characters are quite compelling, and the art style, while not bad, is certainly unconventional.
One notable issue is that stands aren't introduced until around chapter 15, despite being central to Jojo's universe. But Gyro's use of Steel Balls is a refreshing concept—after all, who wants to read thousands of pages filled with nothing but stand battles?
The story itself is fantastic; Araki ventured into uncharted territory here, and it paid off beautifully. I've never encountered anything quite like this, and that's precisely what makes Jojo so captivating. For 90% of readers, the goal is simply to enjoy an engaging and entertaining experience.
In conclusion, I highly recommend this manga to everyone due to its intriguing nature. I truly enjoyed (or am enjoying) every moment of reading it. <p>
A truly remarkable work, the depth of emotions conveyed through this story is astonishing. The characters are well-crafted, each playing a crucial role in supporting the narrative. The villains are intriguing, while the protagonist is exceptionally well-written and developed. The battles and scenes are intense and dynamic, and the originality is evident throughout.<br /><br />In brief, it's the best I've come across. While I'm uncertain if it qualifies as a masterpiece, this work undoubtedly represents visual excellence and pure storytelling.<br /><br />The artwork in every chapter is fantastic, from the settings to the characters, everything is meticulously drawn and conceptualized. Of course, there are aspects that could have been improved, such as certain character deaths or specific fights, but these minor flaws do not detract from the overall greatness of the work. It's clear that no creation is perfect, yet this manga stands out as the best in its class.
Definitely, this part is the best of all for me because it introduces a new method of obtaining stands, and the timing of the story was a great move to include bounty hunters like Mountain Tim. Another thing I really liked is that it's almost fate's joke that in the manga there's a character named Gaucho, which is also the term used in my country for people born in the region where I live. Setting aside this curiosity, I found it quite unusual to have the theme of Jesus Christ and Christianity as the central focus of this part. Since this part is the first after the timeline change, it contains many references for those who have followed the other parts of Jojo, yet it also functions as a standalone manga without relying on the others.<p>
Peak fiction—a good synonym for this phrase would be Jojo no Kimyou na Bouken Part 7: Steel Ball Run.
Story (10/10)
The plot of Part 7 is absolutely legendary. Gay cowboys trying to fight Benjamin Harrison and dinosaurs to find Jesus! What could possibly be a better story than that? While the narrative follows a somewhat repetitive formula similar to other parts of JoJo, with one Stand user after another appearing and disappearing, it was flawlessly executed and never once made me bored. The character backstories were rich and emotionally engaging.
Art (10/10)
Araki just keeps getting better! And Part 7 is no exception. JoJo Part 7 features stunning artwork. Sometimes, I just stare at a panel for several minutes. I highly recommend reading the black-and-white manga over the colored version.
Character (10/10)
The characters are incredibly well-written. Their deaths always hit me hard every single time! Additionally, I loved the ideologies of both the villains and the protagonists. The main characters are superbly crafted, and they have fantastic designs as well.
Enjoyment (10/10)
I thoroughly enjoyed every moment of it. The Stands themselves are incredibly unique, often not taking humanoid forms, and their abilities are utterly bizarre!
Overall (10/10)
This manga is peak fiction. A must-read!
Steel Ball Run. Need I say more? Initially, I hesitated about writing a review due to the numerous ones already out there. However, my deep affection for this manga compelled me to proceed. Araki has crafted an unforgettable, powerful, and gripping narrative that is nothing short of the pinnacle of Jojo and arguably the greatest fictional story ever told. While people may have their preferences among other parts of the series, each installment is remarkable in its own right. Yet, Steel Ball Run stands on a level of perfection unmatched by any other.
Story - 10/10: Breathtaking. That's the single word that encapsulates the essence of Steel Ball Run's story. It pays homage to Araki's previous works, serving as a heartfelt tribute to the entire series—a dream come true for any Jojo fan. The concept of a horse race across America in the late 19th century offers a fascinating twist compared to earlier installments, with its expansive landscapes. This mirrors the journey seen in Stardust Crusaders but refines it into a more polished format. At first glance, one might question how a mere horse race could form a great story, but this is where Jojo's magic shines—transforming the ordinary into the extraordinary. As the plot unfolds, we uncover the true purpose of the race, complicating our heroes' goals as they confront a dangerous threat. Each arc progressively enhances the storytelling quality, surpassing expectations at every turn. Among the standout arcs is "The True Man's World" (chapters 33-35), which ranks among my favorites in the series and promises not to disappoint. The shift from a weekly to a monthly release schedule allowed for richer narratives, making even regular arcs compelling. High stakes, moral dilemmas, and edge-of-your-seat suspense define the experience. Battles feel climactic enough to serve as conclusions to other mangas. Even standalone chapters like "Third Stage: Cannon City" (chapter 32) brim with emotion and depth, immersing readers fully in the journey. The final confrontation ranks among fiction's most intense, evoking raw emotions that brought tears to my eyes. Despite its intensity, Steel Ball Run balances action, serious themes, and moments of comedy effectively, such as in "Seven Days in a Week" (chapter 63). The power system introduces refreshing twists, with stands gained through unique methods central to the plot. Spin serves as a refined counterpart to hamon/ripple, offering clearer definitions and evolving alongside the protagonists. For newcomers eager to dive in, I strongly advise reading the series in order for a richer experience. Ultimately, Steel Ball Run is a coming-of-age tale centered around two friends-turned-brothers navigating fate and discovering humanity's true essence.
Character - 10/10: Steel Ball Run boasts some of the most developed and flawless characters in manga history. Johnny Joestar, the protagonist, stands out as morally ambiguous, contrasting with previous Jojos. His life spiraled downward after corruption stemming from privilege left him abandoned and hopeless until meeting Gyro Zeppeli, who reignited his will to live. Johnny's journey exemplifies resilience and redemption, proving that no situation is beyond recovery. Gyro Zeppeli, hailing from Naples, teaches Johnny the art of spin while grappling with his own burdens. Though initially overconfident, Gyro matures significantly, embodying selflessness and perseverance. Their relationship evolves beautifully, elevating each other's strengths and pushing boundaries together. Supporting characters like Lucy, Diego, Hot Pants, Wekapipo, and Sandman are equally well-crafted, driven by complex motivations. The antagonist, despite noble intentions, embodies warped justice, leading to devastating consequences. Every character, major or minor, contributes meaningfully to the narrative, reflecting personal growth against harsh realities.
Art - 10/10: Part 7 showcases Araki's artistic peak. Evolving from sharp, muscular styles in early parts to fluid designs in later installments, Steel Ball Run reflects Araki's maturity as an artist. Detailed close-ups of Johnny and Gyro during pivotal moments stand out, enhanced by intricate shading and linework. Diverse landscapes—from deserts to snowy tundras—mirror real-world geography, enriching the setting. Battle sequences maintain visual excellence, especially when depicting spin mechanics. Horses and stands boast distinct, memorable designs, blending natural and mechanical aesthetics for creative variety. Minor inconsistencies exist but do not detract significantly from the overall brilliance.
Enjoyment - 10/10: As my favorite Jojo part and manga overall, Steel Ball Run deserves nothing less than perfection. Its seamless blend of genres within a Western, 19th-century backdrop offers a singular experience. Recommended without hesitation to both seasoned fans and newcomers alike, it delivers nonstop excitement with minimal lulls. Let the story inspire you, the characters move you, and the art captivate you. Trust me—you won't regret it.
Popular Reviews
<p>
<br /><br />
Jojo is still Jojo, but what was once an "Ora Ora Ora" has now become self-defense homicide, and I'm glad Araki decided to experiment with this. Steel Ball Run features some of the best fights in the entire series, yet it's not the battles that linger in your memory.
<br /><br />
What truly endure are the small moments between Gyro and Johnny, and everything they must sacrifice to achieve their dreams.
Without much else to add that hasn't already been said, honestly, this is the day Araki touched the heavens and brushed against perfection.
<p>
<p>
Story 9/10
Art 8/10
Characters 9/10
Enjoyment 8/10
Overall 9/10
Steel Ball Run (SBR) is the seventh part of Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure and marks Hirohiko Araki's transition from Shonen Jump to Ultra Jump. This shift allowed for monthly releases instead of weekly ones, giving Araki more time to develop his work. SBR is often regarded as one of Araki's greatest achievements and ranks highly among manga enthusiasts, currently sitting at #2 on MyAnimeList's manga rankings. While I agree that SBR is exceptional, it isn't my favorite Jojo part; that title belongs to Part 5: Vento Aureo. Below, I'll explain why I believe SBR isn't flawless.
**Story**
The narrative of SBR is extraordinary. In my opinion, it's Araki's finest work and one of the best stories I've encountered in any medium. Initially, the story revolves around Johnny Joestar, a paraplegic former jockey who joins the Steel Ball Run race—a grueling cross-country horse race—to investigate the mysterious phenomenon known as "Spin," which temporarily restored movement to his legs. As the plot unfolds, we learn that the race is a front for U.S. President Funny Valentine, who seeks to gather fragments of Jesus Christ's body to empower America. Along the way, Johnny learns Spin techniques from Gyro Zeppeli, culminating in his mastery of the Infinite Rotation.
Despite its brilliance, the story has two significant flaws. First, the death of Hot Pants feels rushed and unsatisfying. She's a recurring character whose contributions are substantial, yet her demise lacks the gravitas given to other key characters' deaths in earlier parts, such as Noriaki Kakyoin's. Her death occurs abruptly due to Funny Valentine's "Love Train" ability, leaving little room for emotional closure.
Second, the final arc, "High Voltage," undermines the story's cohesion. After defeating Funny Valentine, the narrative introduces an alternate-universe version of Diego Brando, Johnny's rival, who was previously killed by Funny Valentine. This twist strains credibility because the timeline doesn't align logically—Alternate World Diego would have had to coexist with our universe's Diego during critical moments, which contradicts established rules seen earlier in the story. Moreover, Alternate World Diego wields The World, DIO's Stand from Part 3, which comes across as blatant fan service rather than organic storytelling. His defeat at the hands of Lucy Steel using Diego's severed head also feels contrived and anticlimactic. These issues mar what could have been a perfect conclusion.
That said, even with these missteps, the core story remains compelling, driven by well-crafted conflicts and an engaging antagonist.
**Art**
Araki's move to Ultra Jump significantly enhanced the artwork quality. With more time between chapters, he refined his style, resulting in stunning visuals throughout the latter half of SBR. However, the early chapters suffer from rushed illustrations, particularly noticeable in Johnny's initial appearance, where he looks less polished compared to later depictions. Despite this uneven start, the overall art surpasses anything seen in the previous six parts, showcasing Araki's growth as an artist.
**Characters**
One of SBR's standout features is its richly developed characters. Unlike many stereotypical shonen protagonists, Johnny Joestar is multidimensional. Once a world-class jockey, he became paralyzed after accidentally killing his brother, leading to his father's harsh declaration, "God took the wrong son." This trauma shapes Johnny's personality—he masks his inner pain with arrogance while grappling with guilt and self-doubt. His journey begins when he witnesses Spin's miraculous effects, reigniting hope and propelling him into the Steel Ball Run.
Funny Valentine, the primary antagonist, is equally fascinating. Motivated by a belief in the supremacy of those who seize power, he orchestrates the race to acquire the Holy Corpse Parts, aiming to elevate America above all nations. His ideology and ambition make him a formidable and memorable villain.
**Enjoyment**
While I thoroughly enjoyed most of SBR, certain sections fell flat. The early arcs, especially Tomb of the Boom, lacked excitement and dragged unnecessarily. It wasn't until the Scary Monsters Arc that the story truly captivated me. From there onward, the pacing improved, and the stakes escalated effectively.
**Overall**
Steel Ball Run is a masterpiece within the Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure series. Its intricate story, vibrant characters, and innovative concepts set it apart from its predecessors. Although it has some flaws, particularly in the final arc, it remains an essential read for fans of the franchise. If you're a JJBA enthusiast, SBR is not just recommended—it's mandatory.
9/10 story. The narrative is straightforward without too many layers or hidden meanings, which means you won't have many "AHA!" moments from figuring things out ahead of time—this is what keeps it from being a perfect 10. However, the pacing becomes sharp and engaging after the first 20 chapters or so.
10/10 art. Every single panel in this series is stunning; it's Jojo, after all. You won't find more consistently detailed artwork in manga than this.
9/10 characters. While the characters are well-written, consistent, and undergo satisfying development throughout the story, their personalities aren't particularly complex or intriguing.
8/10 enjoyment. Personally, I was exhausted after speed-reading Stone Ocean (which, surprisingly, I found quite good despite the criticism), so I had to take several long breaks while reading this part. As a result, I couldn't fully immerse myself in the story as quickly as I would have liked.
9/10 overall. It needs more tiny horses.
Just kidding—I'll give it a 10/10 because my lower enjoyment score is my own fault. If you've been following Jojo up to this point, I recommend taking a short break before diving into Steel Ball Run for a richer experience.
((I WILL PROBABLY UPDATE THIS REVIEW AFTER RE-READING.))
Of course, Araki excels in artistry, but the characters are truly the highlight of this manga. The entire story challenges you to ponder who is right and who is wrong, unfolding naturally without overwhelming information (except perhaps during the final battle).
I rate it 10/10.
<p>
Story.
The narrative of Part 7 represents a staggering leap forward compared to its predecessors, almost unbelievable that it stems from the same creator. The race setting ensures a consistent pace throughout the journey—nothing lags, and nothing feels hurried. As characters uncover the hidden machinations behind the race, their evolving goals become deeply engaging, adding layers of intrigue to the plot.
Art.
The artwork is not only masterfully executed but also extraordinarily imaginative. Even minor panels are meticulously detailed, surpassing some detail-oriented manga like Vagabond. Araki's use of perspective and angles is unparalleled in the medium, making the action sequences fluid and captivating. This contributed to my rapid reading of the entire part. The colored scans available online elevate the art even further, showcasing what I believe to be the pinnacle of manga artistry—a drastic improvement over previous parts, which were already impressive.
Characters.
Steel Ball Run boasts a much smaller cast than other parts, allowing for deeper exploration of motivations and actions. With more plausible backstories—unlike, say, Giorno's—the story becomes easier to immerse oneself in. I found myself constantly anxious about how the protagonists would navigate perilous situations.
Enjoyment.
My enjoyment of Steel Ball Run surpassed any other fiction I've consumed. Natural character interactions, humor, a compelling antagonist, and an emotionally resonant journey all coalesced into an unforgettable experience.
Overall.
Taking everything into account, awarding Steel Ball Run a perfect score is inevitable. There isn't a single aspect I could critique. To anyone contemplating reading Steel Ball Run, I wholeheartedly recommend it. JoJo's Bizarre Adventure, with this part included, solidifies its place as one of manga history's greatest achievements.
<p>
One notable issue is that stands aren't introduced until around chapter 15, despite being central to Jojo's universe. But Gyro's use of Steel Balls is a refreshing concept—after all, who wants to read thousands of pages filled with nothing but stand battles?
The story itself is fantastic; Araki ventured into uncharted territory here, and it paid off beautifully. I've never encountered anything quite like this, and that's precisely what makes Jojo so captivating. For 90% of readers, the goal is simply to enjoy an engaging and entertaining experience.
In conclusion, I highly recommend this manga to everyone due to its intriguing nature. I truly enjoyed (or am enjoying) every moment of reading it. <p>
Story (10/10)
The plot of Part 7 is absolutely legendary. Gay cowboys trying to fight Benjamin Harrison and dinosaurs to find Jesus! What could possibly be a better story than that? While the narrative follows a somewhat repetitive formula similar to other parts of JoJo, with one Stand user after another appearing and disappearing, it was flawlessly executed and never once made me bored. The character backstories were rich and emotionally engaging.
Art (10/10)
Araki just keeps getting better! And Part 7 is no exception. JoJo Part 7 features stunning artwork. Sometimes, I just stare at a panel for several minutes. I highly recommend reading the black-and-white manga over the colored version.
Character (10/10)
The characters are incredibly well-written. Their deaths always hit me hard every single time! Additionally, I loved the ideologies of both the villains and the protagonists. The main characters are superbly crafted, and they have fantastic designs as well.
Enjoyment (10/10)
I thoroughly enjoyed every moment of it. The Stands themselves are incredibly unique, often not taking humanoid forms, and their abilities are utterly bizarre!
Overall (10/10)
This manga is peak fiction. A must-read!
Story - 10/10: Breathtaking. That's the single word that encapsulates the essence of Steel Ball Run's story. It pays homage to Araki's previous works, serving as a heartfelt tribute to the entire series—a dream come true for any Jojo fan. The concept of a horse race across America in the late 19th century offers a fascinating twist compared to earlier installments, with its expansive landscapes. This mirrors the journey seen in Stardust Crusaders but refines it into a more polished format. At first glance, one might question how a mere horse race could form a great story, but this is where Jojo's magic shines—transforming the ordinary into the extraordinary. As the plot unfolds, we uncover the true purpose of the race, complicating our heroes' goals as they confront a dangerous threat. Each arc progressively enhances the storytelling quality, surpassing expectations at every turn. Among the standout arcs is "The True Man's World" (chapters 33-35), which ranks among my favorites in the series and promises not to disappoint. The shift from a weekly to a monthly release schedule allowed for richer narratives, making even regular arcs compelling. High stakes, moral dilemmas, and edge-of-your-seat suspense define the experience. Battles feel climactic enough to serve as conclusions to other mangas. Even standalone chapters like "Third Stage: Cannon City" (chapter 32) brim with emotion and depth, immersing readers fully in the journey. The final confrontation ranks among fiction's most intense, evoking raw emotions that brought tears to my eyes. Despite its intensity, Steel Ball Run balances action, serious themes, and moments of comedy effectively, such as in "Seven Days in a Week" (chapter 63). The power system introduces refreshing twists, with stands gained through unique methods central to the plot. Spin serves as a refined counterpart to hamon/ripple, offering clearer definitions and evolving alongside the protagonists. For newcomers eager to dive in, I strongly advise reading the series in order for a richer experience. Ultimately, Steel Ball Run is a coming-of-age tale centered around two friends-turned-brothers navigating fate and discovering humanity's true essence.
Character - 10/10: Steel Ball Run boasts some of the most developed and flawless characters in manga history. Johnny Joestar, the protagonist, stands out as morally ambiguous, contrasting with previous Jojos. His life spiraled downward after corruption stemming from privilege left him abandoned and hopeless until meeting Gyro Zeppeli, who reignited his will to live. Johnny's journey exemplifies resilience and redemption, proving that no situation is beyond recovery. Gyro Zeppeli, hailing from Naples, teaches Johnny the art of spin while grappling with his own burdens. Though initially overconfident, Gyro matures significantly, embodying selflessness and perseverance. Their relationship evolves beautifully, elevating each other's strengths and pushing boundaries together. Supporting characters like Lucy, Diego, Hot Pants, Wekapipo, and Sandman are equally well-crafted, driven by complex motivations. The antagonist, despite noble intentions, embodies warped justice, leading to devastating consequences. Every character, major or minor, contributes meaningfully to the narrative, reflecting personal growth against harsh realities.
Art - 10/10: Part 7 showcases Araki's artistic peak. Evolving from sharp, muscular styles in early parts to fluid designs in later installments, Steel Ball Run reflects Araki's maturity as an artist. Detailed close-ups of Johnny and Gyro during pivotal moments stand out, enhanced by intricate shading and linework. Diverse landscapes—from deserts to snowy tundras—mirror real-world geography, enriching the setting. Battle sequences maintain visual excellence, especially when depicting spin mechanics. Horses and stands boast distinct, memorable designs, blending natural and mechanical aesthetics for creative variety. Minor inconsistencies exist but do not detract significantly from the overall brilliance.
Enjoyment - 10/10: As my favorite Jojo part and manga overall, Steel Ball Run deserves nothing less than perfection. Its seamless blend of genres within a Western, 19th-century backdrop offers a singular experience. Recommended without hesitation to both seasoned fans and newcomers alike, it delivers nonstop excitement with minimal lulls. Let the story inspire you, the characters move you, and the art captivate you. Trust me—you won't regret it.
Go! Go! Zeppeli ~ Nyoho
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