One Punch Man (2017)

[ワンパンマン]

Volume 15

Author: ONE
Artist: Yusuke Murata
Publisher: Jump Comics

Synopsis:
Saitama aimlessly wanders the city, always finding himself two steps behind the monsters laying waste to heroes left and right.

Story/Characters:
This volume is more exposition than action, but we get some new plot threads introduced like Wind and Flame, other ninja from Sonic's village (with similarly redundant names), trying to recruit our speedy antagonist. There's a nice conversation between King and Saitama about the latter's goals. Also, Garou isn't having the easiest time of it. The Monster Association makes its demands to the Hero Association and we get to see Kurobikari (Darkshine) in action. I like his approach to morale. ^o^

Art:
There's not nearly as much action here as previous few volumes, but we get some good funny shots and the creepy Destrochloridium. There's also more poolside Fubuki fanservice on one of the title pages and if you look at the back cover and wonder who the bunny girl is, I may be bursting your bubble a bit to reveal she's just a character in one of King's games. Garou vs. Bankenman is pretty amazing. ^o^

Other:
This is a rare volume that actually has some art on the inside of the dust cover, but given the content, you may well wish you went without. ^o^ Our two bonus chapters feature an explanation of the threat levels and an alternative look at the Vaccine Man fight from the beginning of the series. And there's a silly omake page of Saitama and Genos at the beach.

Conclusion:
After the writing was really taken to the next level in the previous volume, this can be a bit of a let-down, but the story gets moved forward and there are some good funny moments to be had. It's a solid entry and if you're collection, you'll of course get it, but on its own merits, I don't know if I can call it a must-buy. It's certainly worth reading at the least.

Rating:
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