Neon Genesis Evangelion (2001)

[新世紀エヴァンゲリオン]

Volume 7

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

Synopsis:
After the battle with the Eighth Angel, Shinji leaves NERV once again, but when the next Angel attacks, he must decide whether he can return to the cockpit or not.

Story/Characters:
This volume pretty well corresponds with Episode 19 and part of Episode 20. Because they kill off Touji in this version of the story, the fallout of the Bardiel fight is more severe. The Zeruel fight is pretty much unchanged but no less impactful. The real difference here is Kaji's backstory, something you don't get in the series. Par for course, it's a horrible experience but it helps explain his dysfunctionality and how it interacts with Misato's. I found it intriguing, but some people may find it bad for pacing in the middle of an Angel fight.

Art:
You can expect the same level of quality you've come to expect with some extra punch for the Zeruel fight

Conclusion:
The Zeruel fight is on my top three for the series, so that gives this volume a considerable edge. The new material Kaji's backstory is also pretty cool, so together that makes for a good addition to the series.

Rating:
Own It