Attack on Titan (2016)

[進撃の巨人]

Volume 19

Author/Artist: Hajime Isayama
Publisher: KC Magazine

Synopsis:
The Survey Corps and the Titan Shifters square off in a decisive battle that will determine humanity's fate.

Story/Characters:
The main highlight of this volume is Eren throwing down with Reiner with his new powers, making for a much more even fight. We get to see the Survey Corps and Titan Shifters' respective strategies collide. One thing I wasn't expecting was a flashback that tells us exactly what happened to Marco. Honestly, I kinda liked the thought that his death was entirely random, the sort of thing that happens in combat, but what we get has some good impact and goes a long way toward explaining why Reiner went nuts.

Art:
While there has been little action the past couple volumes, this one makes up for it by being nearly nonstop. Isayama has always shined when it comes to putting a lot of punch in the action set pieces, but I also want to note how good the facial expressions are in the flashback with Marco. Isayama's usually a bit wonky when it comes to faces, but he's really gotten a lot better.

Conclusion:
If you like action, this volume will satisfy in spades. While I don't feel the flashback with Marco was entirely necessary, it is effective. Fans will want this one in the collection.

Rating:
Own It