Ranked #1479

Fushigi Yuugi (Manga)

I cannot believe that no one has yet submitted a review on this multi level, multi themed, multi quality manga. Because I feel it to be necessary, I am going to separate this review into two halves; two reviews. One for what was meant to be the series (1-13) and one for what became of the series (14-18)

My ratings are actually based on this first review; the main series itself.

First off, the story is astounding; my favourite to date. It was original and intriguing, emotional and inspirational, gripping and not predictable. It worked on several levels, allowing it to appeal to a wider audience than possibly intended. It had an epic quality, but at the same time was very romantic and touching. There were moments where I felt water come to my eyes; pathetic? Every moment- every side plot, every back story - added to the overall plot and made it all the more complex and intriguing.

The characters were all unique and fabulous. Their back stories were very good and each one had a radiating personality; whether it was good or evil. They were all believable and individual; no character was similar to another. They also worked excellently together to make the story all that more enjoyable. Their personalities were so strong that it felt as though Watase hadn't planned the story at all; it felt as though the characters were so alive that they ruled and made the outcome of the entire plot.

The art, while not Watase's best, was very good indeed. I loved the character designs and the overall feel of the manga; many have actually asked her to go back to that original style. She's certainly talented.

Overall, I enjoyed it a lot. It was one of those well planned, well paced stories of a perfect length (until Watase added the later chapters). Everything, I felt, was perfect. Worth the read!


As for the second half, those regretfully poor books (14-18).

Story: 3
This was just a saddening, fan-requested addition which dragged on and really added nothing to the story. Think Final Fantasy X, and then X-2. Wonderful story ruined by an unecessary sequal. The only difference is, FY's ending didn't really change at all.

Art: 9
As good as the main - true - part of the series. Same character designs; same style; same quality.

Character: 7
The characters were almost as good as they were in the first 13 books. The only problem is, they no longer developed. Those beloved characters were there to just add a few pointers, and so they truly didn't make spellbinding or inspiring appearances.

Enjoyment: 3
Slow, repetative, pointless, long-winded, samey... Yeah... You get the picture.

Overall: 4
Need I say more? Only read it if you REALLY want to see the slight difference in the end. read more

First of, (This is one of my favorite manga and lets just say I Rated everything outstanding.)

A review for the main story, (Volumes 1-13)

Story: The story revolves around Miaka a stubborn, gluttonous and most of the time a whin'er high school girl. While in the library she got sucked and literally transported back in ancient China. She learned that in order to get back to the real world she must become the priestess of Suzaku. As being a priestess her task is to gather her celestial warriors and summon the beast god to save the country in brink of catastrophe. She will then be granted three wishes..... Not an easy task though, when her bestfriend, Yui, got sucked inside the book she becomes Miaka's rival. Now both side is racing to find their warriors and summon their respective Gods, before the other can. The story is like an opera drama, it can played with emotions well. It can make you laugh, symphatetic and cry. Engaging plot filled with heartfelt moment, lots of twists and turns.

Art: Created in early nineties', the character designs are really good. Being a Watase fan, I really like her art.

Character: Fushigi Yugi had one of the best character development out there (for most of the cast). The character grows onto you while you read. It has a wide variety of personalities. Entertaining and Memorable characters.

Enjoyment: The plot is based on the constellation and being a person who likes constellation I greately enjoyed this. There are a handful of slapstick jokes and there're three characters that were just hilarious.

Overall: Fushigi Yugi's memorable cast, interesting story, and awesome art, made it one of my fave manga. I highly recommend this.

Warning! (LoL) Miaka and her love interest (Tamahome) are annoying when it comes to their romance. But if you could handle it the series is really enjoyable. Try and check out the first volume and if it is your cup of tea then great! Go wallow yourself inside.

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