Although created by famous manga artist Masashi Kishimoto, the Samurai 8 manga did not attract the widespread attention that one would expect. Unlike his previous blockbuster hit, Naruto, this series has struggled to find a place among anime enthusiasts.
Although Kishimoto participated in the writing, the illustrations were still handled by Akira Okubo.
Samurai 8’s lackluster performance surprised many fans and did not even know of its existence. Given Kishimoto’s track record, this result raises questions about what happened to this particular project.
To reveal the mystery behind its failure, it is necessary to delve into the technical intricacies of the manga and its overall execution.
Analysis of the ups and downs of Manga Samurai 8
Before delving into the shortcomings of the Samurai 8 manga, it’s important to acknowledge its positive aspects. Despite its difficulties, the series still has commendable elements.
The plot is promising, making fans curious about its ongoing story. Additionally, certain aspects of the character designs received praise, although reservations about the overall art style remained.
However, despite these strengths, the manga still faced significant challenges along the way. While the premise has potential, its development leaves much to be desired for fans.
Many readers expressed dissatisfaction with Masashi Kishimoto’s writing style, pointing out points that did not meet expectations.
There is no doubt that Naruto has become a fan favorite series. However, there is a popular view among fans that Masashi Kishimoto’s acclaimed work was somewhat saved by Shueisha’s editorial intervention, revealing an often repetitive writing style. since his Naruto days.
Furthermore, opinions on the art style of the Samurai 8 manga are also divided among fans.
Akira Okubo’s role as a manga illustrator is undeniable, demonstrating his outstanding talent in visual storytelling. However, for a shounen series like Samurai 8, a more dynamic art style is desired.
The genre thrives on exaggerated drawings and sharp lines, creating the right atmosphere for intense action.
Unfortunately, the softer, rounder lines of Samurai 8’s art did not resonate well with much of the animanga community, contributing to its lackluster reception.
Furthermore, the weight of sky-high expectations from fans may have contributed to the series’ demise. Kishimoto’s reputation precedes him, having created one of the most iconic anime and manga series to date.
The bar was set very high, and when Samurai 8 failed to meet these lofty standards, its fate seemed sealed from the start.