One Punch Man (2020)

[ワンパンマン]

Volume 22

Author: ONE
Artist: Yusuke Murata
Publisher: Jump Comics

Synopsis:
Child Emperor brings out his trump card, the giant mech Big Giant, to take on a powered-up Phoenix Man.

Story/Characters:
This volume consists of three parts. The first part wraps up the fight between Child Emperor and Phoenix Man. The idea of the mental space where Phoenix Man launches his psychological attack on Child Emperor is an interesting one. The corruption in the Hero Association makes for a fruitful angle of attack. The second part pits Zombieman against a vampire, which gives us a good fight. I love how the opportunistic zako monsters always think they can take advantage of a fight and it always ends badly for them. The last part involves Do-S and the mind-controlled rescue team versus Atomic Samurai's pupils. Amai Mask shows up and it's absolutely brilliant how Iaian handles the situation. He's further cementing his place among my favorite heroes.

Art:
The art is excellent as ever. The fight between Zombieman and the vampire is particularly good. I love Iaian's smug face when he manages to play Amai Mask. The cover of Chapter 103 also warrants notice. Merry Christmas.

Other:
We get a brief two-page bonus chapter featuring Zombieman.

Conclusion:
There was some good stuff going on this volume. I liked how the Child Emperor vs. Phoenix Man fight was handled in particular. This one's worth a read at the very least, so give it a read.

Rating:
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