Fist of the North Star Volume 11-12 Manga Review: A Comprehensive Analysis of Kenshiro’s Continuing Journey
The latest volumes of Fist of the North Star take readers on a new adventure following the conclusion of Raoh’s reign. Rin and Bat continue to fight against injustice, but find themselves facing new challenges. Kenshiro makes a return, facing off against Falco to determine the fate of the wasteland’s new era. Meanwhile, Ein, Rin, and Bat uncover long-buried secrets in the Imperial City. The anticipated battle between Gento Kouken and Hokuto Shin Ken unfolds, presenting Kenshiro with a formidable opponent.
Written by Buronson and illustrated by Tetsuo Hara, Fist of the North Star Volumes 11 and 12 delve into the evolution of the characters and the ever-present struggle for survival in a harsh world. Translated by Joe Yamazaki, with lettering by John Hunt and editing by Mike Montesa, these volumes continue to captivate readers with their intense action and intricate storytelling.
Volume 11 marks a significant time skip in the series, moving the narrative forward several years. While the drama surrounding the Hokuto brothers may have reached its climax, the wasteland remains a brutal place where small communities fight to survive against all odds. Rin and Bat have grown older and more resilient, taking on the role of freedom fighters in a world where danger lurks at every corner. Kenshiro’s return brings hope and strength to their cause, as he once again demonstrates his unmatched skills in combat.
The character redesigns in these volumes are noteworthy, with Rin and Bat appearing significantly older and more mature. Kenshiro’s unchanged appearance reflects his steadfast nature as a warrior, while Rin and Bat’s growth symbolizes their journey towards independence and strength. The detailed artwork by Tetsuo Hara captures the essence of the characters and the intensity of their battles, creating a visually stunning reading experience.
Volume 12 introduces Falco as a new antagonist, wielding the Gento Kouken style that poses a unique challenge to Kenshiro. While the style’s ability to disintegrate anything it touches sets it apart, the narrative struggles to differentiate it from previous martial arts styles featured in the series. Despite this, Falco’s character development and intricate backstory add depth to the conflict, making him a formidable opponent for Kenshiro.
The volumes are packed with visceral action, stunning visuals, and iconic one-liners that have become synonymous with Fist of the North Star. The series continues to deliver on its promise of intense martial arts battles, gruesome deaths, and moments of both tragedy and comedy. Tetsuo Hara’s artistry shines through in every panel, showcasing his talent for capturing dynamic fight scenes and evocative imagery.
In addition to the main storyline, Volume 11 includes a special 2014 story featuring Kenshiro, Kokuoh, and Juza’s son, providing fans with an extra treat in celebration of the series’ 30th anniversary. The inclusion of this bonus story and an interview with Buronson at the end of Volume 11 adds depth to the reading experience, offering insights into the creative process behind the iconic manga.
Overall, Fist of the North Star Volumes 11 and 12 are strong entries in the series, maintaining the high standard set by earlier volumes. While the narrative may lack some direction and the new villain may not reach the same level of greatness as Raoh, the volumes deliver on the core elements that have made the series a timeless classic. Fans of Fist of the North Star will find plenty to enjoy in these action-packed and visually stunning volumes.
