Neon Genesis Evangelion (1997)

[新世紀エヴァンゲリオン]

Volume 4

Author/Artist: Yoshiyuki Sadamoto
Original Story: Gainax
Publisher: Kadokawa Comics Ace

Synopsis:
The Second Child is transferred to Japan to reinforce NERV headquarters and Shinji must adapt to working with the new pilot.

Story/Characters:
We skip Jet Alone here and get a very brief version of Episode 8 with the Gaghiel fight being handled entirely by Asuka as a way to build her up. I kinda favor the way she gets introduced here. The Israfel fight of Episode 9 is handled a little differently but not much. This is about as light-hearted as the series ever gets and it's actually kinda nice. Yes, Eva wouldn't be Eva if it didn't sink to the dank, dark depths, but given how draining things get later on, it's a relief to see happier times.

Art:
Though it's abbreviated compared to the TV series, the Gaghiel fight looks pretty good and the showpiece that is the Israfel fight is even better. With all the antics Asuka and Kaji bring to the story, there's a fair bit of comedic expressions which you won't see much of as the series progresses, so it's a nice change of pace.

Other:
Appropriately enough given that this volume has Asuka's debut, there's a blurb from her seiyuu, Yuuko Miyamura.

Conclusion:
This volume is quite a bit of fun, which isn't a word you normally associate with Eva. The introduction of Asuka and Kaji add a lot to the character dynamics. There's more simple enjoyment to be had here than anywhere else in the series and for that I highly recommend this volume.

Rating:
Own It