One Punch Man (2017)

[ワンパンマン]

Volume 13

Author: ONE
Artist: Yusuke Murata
Publisher: Jump Comics

Synopsis:
As the Monster Association continues its rampage, Saitama continues to advance in the tournament toward a final showdown with the champion Suiryuu.

Story/Characters:
The main feature of this volume is the match between Saitama and Suiryuu and it's really interesting seeing the clash of philosophies between this playboy martial artist and the guy who used to just be a hero "as a hobby". Outside the tournament, we get to see Flashy Flash in action, and it's always nice getting more insight into the vaunted S-Class, and we have Atomic Samurai meeting his fellow master swordsmen, which is neat. (This latter episode serves to set up the next phase of the Monster Association's plan.) There's also a brief bit where the heroes injured by Garou are fending off monsters and Mumen Rider continues to show he's got miles of heart. What a cool guy.

Art:
Murata really goes all-out for the Saitama vs. Suiryuu match. I continue to love the juxtaposition of high-octane action and silliness. I mean, Suiryuu's dishing out these arena-destroying mega-attacks and all Saitama does is try to keep his wig from flying off. We get some interesting designs for characters such as the Council of Swordmasters and new villain Gouketsu.

Other:
There's a side story with that jackwagon Amai Mask. There are some hints there may be something more to his character, but it'll take a miracle of writing to make me care.

Conclusion:
If you don't like the tournament, this volume isn't going to turn things around for you as it's even more prominently the focus, but particularly if you like the character of Suiryuu, it's rather enjoyable and we get a little bit of extra worldbuilding on the side. Personally, I enjoyed this one quite a bit and definitely consider it worth having.

Rating:
Own It