Ranma 1/2 (1989)

[らんま1/2]

Volume 6

Author/Artist: Rumiko Takahashi
Publisher: Shounen Sunday Comics

Synopsis:
Ranma enters a watermelon-breaking race to get the Phoenix Pill. Cologne arranges for a duel between Ranma and Ryouga to test his new abilities.

Story/Characters:
We get a beach episode to round out Ranma's quest for the Phoenix Pill and then we get another big showdown with Ryouga, only this time he's undergone training from Cologne. I like how Cologne uses Ryouga as a pawn to further strengthen Ranma. The fight is a good display not only of Ranma's physical abilities but also his considerable resourcefulness in a fight. Whatever other qualities he may be lacking, he finds a way to come out on top. The last two chapters is a little one-shot of Martial Arts Tea Ceremony. It's okay but not nearly as satisfying as the 19-chapter spread we just came off of.

Art:
I'm sure the beach episode is primarily there for fanservice value, and you have that. The duel with Ryouga has some good shots to it. Takahashi doesn't disappoint with the action. No wonder it works so well in Inuyasha.

Conclusion:
The beach episode is pretty good, but the duel with Ryouga is the real feature of this volume. The Martial Arts Tea Ceremony bit is weak by comparison but not without some comedic value. All told, this one's still worth a read even with the comparatively weak last two chapters.

Rating:
Read It