Ranma 1/2 (1993)

[らんま1/2]

Volume 26

Author/Artist: Rumiko Takahashi
Publisher: Shounen Sunday Comics

Synopsis:
Ranma misunderstands Akane's reason for staying with Shinnosuke as the true threat to Ryuugenzawa reveals itself.

Story/Characters:
The entire volume is devoted to the rest of the Ryuugenzawa story. I like the chemistry that develops between Akane and Shinnosuke. Of course it's doomed to go nowhere, but Ranma's misunderstanding drives a lot of the interpersonal drama until Orochi makes his appearance. The drag outfits of Ranma, Ryouga, Shinnosuke and Shinnosuke's grandfather are laughably bad. The big fight with Orochi is pretty good and the ending of the arc is sweet.

Art:
Of course this is a comedy series, so Orochi is rendered in the same derpy fashion as most other animals in the series. It takes away any sense of actual threat, but this is a comedy series, after all. If you want more intimidating monsters, look to Inuyasha. As I said, the drag outfits are laughably and deliberately horrible. There are some rather good shots that deserve mentioning.

Conclusion:
I really enjoy the Ryuugenzawa story and I think most fans of the series will too. Definitely give this volume a read.

Rating:
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