Manga Review: King of Thorns
People often ask: “If you could have one superpower what would it be?” One day I decided to sit down and plan out what would be the best superpower so that I would be prepared should someone ask. After brainstorming I came up with two superpowers that were tied for my favorite. One of them is turning what I imagine into reality. Just like any superpower this one has flaws. This manga explores what happens if someone tries to utilize this great power in order to take over the world. In this manga the so called, “Medusa virus,” has started to infect humans. The result? People slowly turn in stone. Huge power awaits those who can control the Medusa virus.
Rather than have a long running series King of Thorns ends in one go, an action packed thirty-seven chapters. There is never a dull moment. In the beginning we follow eight survivors, who were chosen along with 152 others, to be put into a “cold sleep” until the virus was cured. However, these 152 others do not make it past the first chapter. This is a survival manga and as you can tell, most do not. After waking up from their sleep early the infected notice that their medical facility has fallen into disarray. Now these survivors must learn the truth of the Medusa virus and the mystery of the medical facility.
What I liked most about this manga is that all of my theories turned out to be false. That is one of the greatest praises I can offer a manga. If I see an abnormally large amount of plant growth after an unknown amount of time has past I would naturally think that the story takes place in the far future. If strange creatures are also present than I would be that much more sure of my theory. But like I said before, all of my theories were wrong. Make as many conjectures as you want this manga will still give you a run for your money.
This manga’s artwork also deserves praise. The artwork is very distinct, the slightly rough art easily reflects the character’s feelings of horror, confusion, and pain. Unfortunately, the plot is not as well worked out. Although all lose ends are tied the explanation concerning the main character in the last chapter is fairly confusing. I had to reread the explanation to understand it and I still think I am missing something.
All in all this is a very good manga and I highly recommend it. The mangaka employs many twists making this manga unique in both the sci-fi and the horror genres.
Available here
Source: mangafox.com
