Ral Grad Manga Volume 1
Story
A war is being waged between humans and shadows, and the humans are losing. The humans’ only hope is a new kind of shadow, one that will fight for them. Bound to a young boy named Ral, Grad is a shadow dragon who wants to stop he war so the shadows can return home. To do that, he’ll have to defeat the shadow queen Opsquria.
Ral was locked away in a lightless cell when he was an infant because of the shadow bound to him. Growing up in darkness, his only contact with the outside world was his teacher Miss Mio. Miss Mio is the one who freed him as a last resort when Sphaelite Castle was about to fall to the shadow army.
My Opinion
Ral Grad is an interesting fantasy manga. The shadows, and their abilities, offer a wide range of possibilities. From the shadow dragon Grad bound to Ral, to the plant like Riz bound to Kafka, shadows are presented in some very cool ways.
The art of Ral Grad is in capable hands. Tekeshi Obata of Hikaru no Go and Death Note does an excellent job. Comedy, action, drama, and fan service are all expertly presented.
Speaking of fan service, Ral Grad does contain mature content. Mostly in the form of Ral’s obsession with boobs and women. It’s really to be expected, he’s about 15 years of age and has no experience dealing with women, or anyone for that matter. That’s a big part of his character, so it comes up in the story pretty often.
I don’t think I’m familiar with Tsuneo Takano, but I’m sure I will be. The writing in Ral Grad is good. Plenty of action and drama, with moments of comedy and even a few surprises.
Is it worth it?
Ral Grad is worth it, if you’re old enough. There’s lots of fighting and lots of boobs, so this one isn’t for the kids. Older teens and adults should enjoy the adventure and fan service though.
Manga, Reviews, Action, Adventure, Fantasy, Mature Content, Ral Grad, Tsuneo Takano, Takeshi Obata, Boobs, Fan Service, Hikaruno Go, Death Note
Leave a Reply