One Punch Man (2018)

[ワンパンマン]

Volume 16

Author: ONE
Artist: Yusuke Murata
Publisher: Jump Comics

Synopsis:
Garou finds himself cornered by a group of heroes looking to capture him.

Story/Characters:
I've been fairly interested in the concept behind Garou from the start, but this is the volume where he truly shines. He's kinda getting his just deserts for trying to pick off a weakened Metal Bat before. However, we see just how cunning, resourceful and downright stubborn he is. Even with the odds stacked against him, he doesn't give up, which earns him some serious respect in my book. I also want to give a nod to Megane, who's in the running with Mumen Rider as a low-level hero with a lot of heart (though in his case, it looks like he actually has the potential for superhuman ability). Without spoiling anything, I will say that the situation escalates, making it even more interesting. Also, it's worth noting once again that a lot of heroes are petty dirtbags when it comes right down to it. I do like that there are a lot of shades to the characters.

Art:
After an action-lite volume, we kick things up into high gear once again. The action sequences are amazing. The anatomy seems rather impossible at times, but I'll just consider it to be that way for stylistic effect. Also, we get some art on the inside of the dust cover again, but this time it's not Sonic on the toilet, thankfully.

Other:
We get a little side chapter about Megane catching up with an old associate from the Fubuki Group, which highlights his progress as a solo hero. Now that he's come back, I'd really like to see more of him. He may not quite be Saitama II, but he could prove to be interesting.

Conclusion:
I'll admit to being a little underwhelmed by the previous volume, but that was mostly in consideration of the high-octane action and drama that preceded it. We get back to the action and if you have any investment at all in the character of Garou, you're definitely going to want to get this one.

Rating:
Own It