MANGA REVIEW | "Record of Ragnarok" - Volume Sixteen
Record of Ragnarok has recently been doing well with balancing the present fights with the characters’ backstories. However, in Volume Sixteen, Hades’s past is revealed, and I can’t help but feel like it causes the wind to be taken out of the sails of this battle manga ship. And while what’s seen in the flashback is very interesting, its inclusion here late into the fight feels a little too slapdash. In fact, it reminds me of how these flashbacks used to be more of a hindrance in early volumes of Record of Ragnarok.
That’s not to say that what is there isn’t interesting. In fact, it puts a light on how much Hades is respected by the Greek gods, in contrast to the Christian Devil and the way he’s portrayed in the faith. When the Titans invaded Mount Olympus, it was Hades who put on a brave face and took them down during the climax of the fight. He’s shown as being selfless and even cautious when it comes to the battle, especially when compared to Zeus and his cocky ways.
The inclusion of this backstory aids in humanizing Hades, as he continues his fight against Qui Shi Huang. Both combatants aim to be the strongest kings of their respective lands, and seem to leave no room for any ounce of fear flowing through their veins. Even when limbs are chopped off, or when it appears one of them is on the verge of defeat, something energizes them to keep on standing up and continuing the fight. And then, the final blow is laid out.
I’ll say this: the battle between Hades and Qui Shi Huang was well-written. It’s one of the very few times where I had no idea who would come out on top. And even with humanity hanging in the balance, it was a match where I would’ve been happy with either combatant coming out on top. From the reaction of the crowd and those putting the fight on, I’d say that feeling is mutual.
However, it does ruin the mood when the characters spend almost an entire chapter dissecting the victor’s final blow. I mean, we all just read it! There’s no need to focus on it when his strike could be seen as clear as day. Did the writers need to fill up space because they were still working on the logistics of the next fight? Was there a deadline for the next chapter coming up, and they couldn’t take a break from it?
No matter. Because we are shown the next combatants, and it’s a big one. On the side of the gods, Beelzebub, who is raring for a fight after the events of the last battle. As for the side of humanity, they need someone hardworking, someone constantly reinventing power, and someone who is a little eccentric. And boy, is there nobody more perfect for the job than Nikolai Tesla!
Volume Sixteen of Record of Ragnarok may have its pacing issues, but its fight between Hades and Qui Shi Huang was delightfully unpredictable. The blows, the weaponry, and even its grand finale will leave you wanting to know how it ends. But now, it’s time to prep for the next fight: Beelzebub against Tesla. I’d say that fight will be pure magic, but I’d be wrong. Nay—
FINAL GRADE:
Promotional consideration provided by Chantelle Sturt of VIZ Media.
