Kingdom (Rating 4.94)

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Summary

Score

Overall Review

• Kingdom is a work that deserves high praise for its originality in storytelling, well-crafted characters, and profound depictions of growth.
• Particularly, the thematic messaging and relationships between characters are well-developed, creating a strong sense of consistency throughout the story.
• On the visual side, the intricate character designs and detailed backgrounds enhance the sense of immersion.
• Moreover, the pacing of the story and the buildup to climactic moments are excellent, making it highly engaging for readers.
• Overall, Kingdom is a masterpiece with exceptional quality. Absolutely recommended—don’t miss out!

Synopsis

• Set during China’s Warring States period, Kingdom follows the journey of a young boy named Xin (Shin) and his companions as they navigate battles and grow amidst the chaos.
• After losing his best friend, who was like family to him, Xin resolves to live as a general.
• Through numerous battles against formidable foes, he forges strong bonds with his allies and paves his own path.
• The story intertwines strategy, friendship, and hope while showcasing the growth of Xin and his companions.

Detailed Evaluation

Story (Score 18.0 / 18.5)

1. Originality and Freshness of Ideas (6.0 / 6.0)
   While rooted in China’s Warring States period, the story focuses on the personal growth and battles of heroes, offering a unique and epic narrative distinct from other historical or war-themed works.
2. Themes and Message (5.0 / 5.0)
   The themes of “conviction,” “companionship,” and “war” are consistently portrayed and deeply tied to the characters’ actions and development.The story leaves a profound impression, delivering a strong sense of purpose.
3. Risk-Taking Attitude (2.0 / 2.5)
   While tackling a challenging historical backdrop, the story employs bold approaches in character dynamics and strategies. However, it occasionally feels somewhat conventional.
4. Expectations for Ending (5.0 / 5.0)
   The buildup and execution of the story’s developments are masterfully done, with strong hooks leading to an impactful conclusion.

Characters (Score 18.5 / 18.5)

5. Uniqueness and Impressions (5.0 / 5.0)
   The protagonist Xin and the surrounding characters are highly distinctive and memorable, with each having a strong individuality that influences the story significantly.
6. Growth and Internal Consistency (5.0 / 5.0)
   Character growth is central to the story, resonating emotionally and maintaining a sense of coherence.
7. Character Conviction and Relatability (6.0 / 6.0)
   The actions and words of the characters are well-grounded, evoking genuine emotions and enabling readers to empathize with their struggles and growth.
8. Relationships with Other Characters (2.5 / 2.5)
   The multifaceted relationships among the characters deeply impact the story, driving it forward with their bonds and conflicts.

Visuals (Score 23.0 / 23.5)

9. Character Design Originality (5.0 / 5.0)
   Each character’s design is highly distinctive, making their traits instantly recognizable and immersing the reader in the story’s world.
10. Character Movement and Expression (5.0 / 5.0)
    The characters’ movements and expressions are vivid, enhancing emotional depth and amplifying the impact of key scenes.
11. Background and Worldbuilding (5.0 / 5.0)
    The detailed depiction of backgrounds effectively conveys the vast and complex world of the Warring States period.
12. Sense of Immersion (6.0 / 6.0)
    Battle scenes and tense moments are masterfully rendered, drawing readers into the story with a sense of immediacy.
13. Innovation in Expression Techniques (2.0 / 2.5)
    While incorporating some innovative methods in art and storytelling, familiar techniques are also prevalent.

Pacing (Score 21.0 / 21.0)

14. Pacing of the Introduction (5.0 / 5.0)
    The story immediately captures attention by showcasing Xin’s passionate journey and the compelling narrative surrounding him.
15. Smoothness of Development (5.0 / 5.0)
    The narrative flows seamlessly, maintaining focus and keeping readers engaged.
16. Presence of Lulls (5.0 / 5.0)
    The story never loses momentum, with constant developments keeping interest high.
17. Build-Up to the Climax (6.0 / 6.0)
    The story’s climaxes are brilliantly paced, evoking excitement and emotional resonance.

First Impression (Score 5.0 / 5.0)

18. Cover/Key Visual Impact (2.5 / 2.5)
    The cover design is highly eye-catching, conveying the theme and allure of the story at a glance.
19. Title Impression (2.5 / 2.5)
    The title “Kingdom” is concise and impactful, effectively representing the work’s themes and leaving a lasting impression.

Volume Count

74 volumes (ongoing as of this review)

Author

Author

• Yasuhisa Hara

Major Works

• –

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