Fushigi Yuugi: Genbu Kaiden
Fushigi Yugi: Genbu Kaiden

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The prequel to the popular shojo manga series "Fushigi Yugi" tells the tale of the first priestess of The Universe of The Four Gods. You don't have to read the original to understand the events. Fans of the series may find the Genbu arc to be more enjoyable. It's darker and more mature than the previous series and filled with more angst filled drama. (Especially for those who read or seen the spoiler in the original series) This series doesn't require a Kleenex box, yet... but is does fall into the tragedy category. Fushigi Yugi: Genbu Kaiden is a serious, adventure manga bordering shojo ... and josei.

The reason why sound got a zero is because it's a book. Animation is referring to the artwork.

Takiko, the heroine, is a lot stronger in personality and emotionally than Miaka. (Fushigi Yugi) The original heroine may have added a comic quirk to the show, but Takiko's personality doesn't make the reader what to throw their shoe at the idiot. (Miaka) She's not afraid to defend herself and has a heart of gold-- a perfect heroine. Limdo, the "good, bad guy" of the series may be the typical rebellious teenager but his personality and history adds well to the story, making it more interesting. (Serious, who doesn't like Limdo?) Some of the characters seem unimportant to the story once their chapter of fame is up, but Limdo is some of the glue that holds the story. Back story is important to any written work and Watase has given characters enough. Some characters seem thrown in for a few chapters and disappear once they are introduced, which is the only downfall. Overall, the characters add to the story and are characters people would enjoy.

The art is very Watase Yu but a lot more realistic. Her style hasn't changed much but has improved since the original Fushigi Yugi. (It was very early 1990s) Those who love her artwork will love this series and those new to her manga will also like how detailed everything is. Limdo and Shigi sometimes look like the same character (Although, Absolute Boyfriend fans may mistake Limdo as Night) but characters aren't hard to identify. Even though it's a shojo manga, the battle scenes seem shonen with a feminine twist.

The flaws to the story are sometimes they add jokes in when you may think it's supposed to be serious. Two examples, when Inami fights Takiko wielding a massive, opium pipe. Or, when Limdo transforms into a woman. (Another Ranma 1/2? But this isn't a comedy.). It seems too out of place in a drama. Despite some of the weirdness in the plot, the storyline is great. The romance between Limdo and Takiko add to the story as well as their "forbidden love." (Conflict is important to written work) Also, the suspense in wondering if the warriors will be captured by their country, the enemy country, or both countries. Unlike the original series, the warriors and priestess are not welcome in their land. It's full of more sorrow than the original, but it has a nice spin and isn't retelling the original series.

Those who like angsty romance stories will enjoy this series, but it's mainly a fantasy/adventure story. It's meant for women (some guys may like it, but it's shojo) aged fifteen and up. It's mature but doesn't have extreme violence and has only brief nudity; (none male and no sex) the story is meant for an older audience but the pictures are safe around younger teenagers. Younger teenagers may enjoy the series but not as much as older teens. The biggest downside is the volumes aren't produced quickly enough. It's an excellent manga series that should have more recognition.

Hehe,here comes my review and I'm second as I see.

Story 9/10
Very creative I have to say,very.Especially compared to other manga who usually take place in high school and such.This is a romantic anime indeed but I like how it starts how things progress and how the characters meet with each other.I'm also a big fan of manga/anime that have to do with history and such(ex.mthology) but also combines romance.The idea of a girl being sucked inside a book is pretty damn good,and I like the two worlds and the fact that she has to return to both.Makes things complicated like they already weren't.It also combines ... drama to the point where it's not just there all the fake cries,but you actually live the drama too and the agony.But I believe that's the mangaka's best ability,to make the viewer feel the story.

Art 9/10
ALthough a bit old fashioned and reminds me of 90s,I am pretty pleased.Being a fangirl I find the guys pretty handsome,like Uruki(hoho,sorry seems like my inner fangirl took over).Surroundings are pretty good as well.What really bothers is that,having read most of the mangaka's other mangas as well,I felt like the heroine is just the same based on appearance.That's the feeling I got,but I doubt you will if you haven't read the other manga by her.

Character 10/10
Nothing wrong to point out here.I'm pretty satisfied with the characters.They're pretty realistic such as their motives and the reasons they act that way are believable.Also the characters make mistakes too,sometimes even show a side we haven't seen of them but of course you come to understand why they did that.This is something I could really praise this manga for.

Enjoyment 9/10
To have given such a high rating means I definetely enjoyed it the only problem is the scanalations and translations that are slow.Why I didn't given this a 10,cause despite how good a manga/anime is or how bad it is if you start analyzing it,you can just have the time of your life and not be that much of a masterpiece or even if it is you just might not have been in the mood and didn't enjoy it as much.So yeah,just a bit more and I'd have given it a ten.I think it lacks good battles.I have high expectations when it comes to battles so this is case me.

Overall 9/10
I'd highly recommend this to anyone fan of adventure,romantic,drama.I think it's a pretty good manga and you wouldn't feel sorry for the time you spent reading it.Of course it depends on tastes but anyway.Pretty sad though that I haven't encountered any fans of it so far.

Water of life, swell with wind and let them walk the earth once more. It matters not where or when. Let it be that this time they should meet and never again be separated. And this... was the first story told of the Priestess of Genbu. - FY:GK Final Volume [Yuu Watase]

After a long decade of grueling and impatient wait, Yuu Watase has finally concluded Genbu's arc of Fushigi Yugi, her life's work. As much as I love the classic original Fushigi Yugi, this prequel proved as a worthy stand alone series that far exceeded in storytelling, art and overall theme compared to its predecessor, ... Suzaku/Seiryu arc. However to compare both series is unjust as both has its appeal. While becoming familiar with the original is not required to fully appreciate Genbu Kaiden. Although a few references in the series would be reminiscing of the original thus gives it more a sense of familiarity. Of course, the inevitable faith of the Priestess of Genbu has been predetermined in the original.

Genbu Kaiden is like a piece of poetry, poignantly written about how precious life is. The different bond of relationship the characters shared; through happiness, romance, forgiveness, sacrifices and even death and how to continue to live on with life when tragedy strikes. All these theme were incorporated and effortlessly delivered by Watase with such ease and grace.

Contrast to the original Fushigi Yugi which was sappy melodramatic, light hearted and guilty of vexing romance. Genbu Kaiden's sophisticated plot and theme was a refreshing change. Watase's plethora of anecdotes shojo lines and often whiny/weak heroine was almost nonexistent. Rather we have Takiko whose not only an eye catcher but also has brain, guts and will to achieve what she set out to do. Takiko was not the typical damsel in distress. A bit too perfect for a heroine, not really as her existence and fate was also her flaw. The romance between Takiko and her love interest, Uruki was more favorable. The subtle and slow progression of romance was delicately executed without becoming too trite or redundant for the readers. I was sold on the love between the two.

Genbu Kaiden's strong point was the message it tried to convey to its readers. As I mentioned, the obvious theme it had was death, sacrifices and forgiveness. Most of the celestial warriors didn't have it as easy living as the chosen protectors since they symbolizes desctruction. Watase tried to give each warrior a tragic story with heartwarming resolution. Watase explored and exploited brotherhood relation, to master/servant faithful bond and even down to inanimate connection.

Ultimately, what elevated this series amidst its predetermined ending (as I've read the original) was the bittersweet fate of Takiko. Each character that has perished in the process of Takiko's quest to gather the seven warriors has made an impact and had meaningful purpose. Despite of countless death and the tragic destiny of Takiko, I felt that Watase has created a brilliant elegy commemorating and celebrating life.

More than twice I've shed tears because of this series. Especially on the last couple of pages. Not because it ended tragic, but because of how powerful, moving and meaningful it was. Takiko singing while Uruki embracing her at the end was too poignant.

Overall, Genbu Kaiden is hands down worthy as a prequel. I love the epilogue-esque ending. The Priesstess of Genbu's final wish was brilliant and heartwarming. I could not think of a much suited ending. I confess, I doubted Watase's ability to come up a good ending but instead she had won me over as she crafted yet another masterpiece. The more reason to love Yuu Watase. The ending of Genbu Kaiden reminds me of why she's my favourite mangaka. She's just amazing and one gifted storyteller. Throughout the 10 years process, Watase has become a much adept writer and as well as an artist. Memorable, intense and tragic scenes were highlighted and was brought to life fully by Watase's art. Her art style and character designs has improved drastically over the course. Though still has some minor hand and body proportion issues. But this is just a minor nitpick.

Fushigi Genbu Kaiden is definitely one of her best, if not the best series. I realized by the end of the series that it's literally like a legend, a story that has been told with each passing of generation. Truly magnificent.

Thank you Watase-sensei. Takiko, Uruki, the Celestial Warriors and Soren will forever be remembered the same as the Suzaku/Seiryu arc. Byakko's arc should be in order to round up the Universe of the Four Gods.

STORY

I do admit that this got my attention bec. Fushigi Yuugi has been my favorite anime of all time. Upon reading the manga, Fushigi Yuugi: Genbu Kaiden, i thought it would be the same plot as the story of the Suzaku Group. But sensei Yuu Watase is a very good mangaka indeed. It has different plot and a lot more dramatic than the other. Though, rest assured that you will definitely enjoy this one too! I mean to say that you will keep on thinking what will happen next, why did that happen, and so forth. I got teary eyed as the story reaches it's ... climax ;( especially the final chapter.

ART

Outstanding for the Art! I couldn't argue about that. I read from several of mangaka's interview that she was trying to make a difference from the first one and that was a good idea for me. To make a "whole new experience"-y feel.

CHARACTER

Definitely a great character progression. Seemingly childish and selfish at first but dramatically changes to a mature and rational being for each one of them.

ENJOYMENT

As Ive said earlier, Ive enjoyed it to the point that I couldn't stop reading until I reach the final chapter. :)

OVERALL

Once again, Yuu Watase made a masterpiece when it comes to manga. You can feel that it is not only a hobby for her but she also devoted herself into it. So do i need to say more? Nothing but OUTSTANDING!

I am really picky when it comes reading fantasy mangas. I planned to read this when the first 11 chapters came out but held back because I wanted to binge on this manga so bad without getting stuck on cliffhangers and the waiting game for the next chapters to come out... and boy I'm glad I did! This is Watase-sama's masterpiece. i couldn't really stress this out more, its the type of story that will get you to hold on to your seat as the events unfold while the story progresses.

STORY:
I' try my hardest not to compare it to the original one (despite ... some hates) the first FY did have some strong pros that made the manga and anime a breathtaking experience for readers and viewers alike (esp for shojo fans). What's really nice is that although, Genbu Kaiden was a prequel to FY, the story can stand on its own, it doesn't depend too much or even at all to the original FY story. Those who have not heard of the first FY would still be able to fully enjoy this book, and even more so, those who were a fan of the first FY will automatically fall inlove with Genbu Kaiden. The story has more depth, more details and definitely not predictable, get ready for some crazy plot twists!

ART:
One of the reasons why I love reading Watase-sama's works are her drawings, they are absolutely beautiful. Even the details on each character's clothes were as clear as day. She did made an itty-bitty change on her art style with genbu kaiden as far as comparing it to the first FY or Ceres (like some of the character's eyes and the shape of their faces) but it is not something to frown upon really. The characters, as expected are still gorgeous.

CHARACTERS:
Where do I start? Although I love the suzaku seishis to heart, the Genbu celestial warriors are the REAL DEAL. I'm not even exaggerating. I fell inlove with all of them. Each characters have strong back stories that didn't came out forceful in the story line. Takiko Okuda, the MC (Priestess of Genbu) is by far the most promising character in the series. She has the will and prowess of how a real priestess should be and it's not in a Mary Sue kind of way. She's definitely hardcore, she can fight battles on her own and her way of thinking is very realistic, selfless and mature. I think Yuu Watase has profoundly written the Genbu Seven as these fierce likable individuals to set an example for the next set of seishis and priestesses to come. They do not play around when it comes to where their loyalty stands and the hardships they endure in this series is AGAINST ALL ODDS. It's really interesting how most of the story's turn of events favors on each of the characters's own motivation as a celestial warrior. My fav. episodes are probably the last 5 chapters where we get to see all of the Genbu Seven fight 100,000 soldiers. They are indeed the best and probably the strongest of all the seishis in the Universe of the Four Gods.

OVERALL:
My whole reading experience with this manga is very gripping. I had to take a few breaks to get my breathing in check (laughs). It's a very enjoyable ride, to the point that you'll get attached to the characters, endure their pain, cry with them, laugh with them and fall in love. This is definitely a 100/10... and I would recommend this to all shojo readers out there, a must read!

I really loved this manga! Although for me the drawings were ok, it got a lot better as the story goes by. This manga really made me experience a bunch of different emotions and it really tugged on my heartstrings. The story was really cool and creative, the art was not bad but got a whole lot better as the story passes by, and I also think the mangaka drew the guy characters very nicely. The characters were ok at first but there was a whole lot of character development that makes you really love the characters (there were also some characters you would just ... love off the bat), like the heroine, at first I kinda thought she self pitied herself but after the first 5 chapters she becomes so cool, and towards the end I love her! I really enjoyed this manga and I believe that if you like historical, romance, action/adventure, and a bit of fantasy than I'm sure you will like this manga.

Genbu Kaiden was a... breathtaking journey.

Fushigi Yuugi: Genbu Kaiden is the prequel to Fushigi Yuugi and tells the story of the first Priestess, of Genbu, and the Genbu Seishi (celestial warriors). I had read the original first and while heading into this, expected a similar plot, same atmosphere and copied themes and tropes. But I got sooo much more.

Story: 10
The story is an easy 10. I'm going to try not to compare it too much to the original as it deserves to be its own standalone. The manga starts on our MC Takiko Okuda whose mother has recently died and father hates her. ... She gets transported to the universe of the four gods and immediately meets our male lead, Uruki, who can I just say is a beautifully written character (but more about that later). She journeys to find the seven seishi and encounters many obstacles on her way. At the start it seems more or less like the original but rewinded a few hundred years and modified slightly. It seems all happy-go-lucky and normal. BUT IT REALLY ISN'T. We get some interesting twists. The story takes a deep turn and the themes are mature and we explore some interesting politics of their world and the character relationships are meaningful and the story takes advantage of this. Twists seem planned and not shoe-horned and it all flows perfectly. The thing is though, if you've read the original, you know pretty much everything about the ending, but you don't know HOW it goes up until there and it manages to keep you hooked. And then when you near the end and you know what's gonna happen but you don't want it to... its heartbreaking. It's beautiful.
The story was so articulately written. Watase has come far.

Characters: 10
I give characters a frickin' 20 million out of ten. I can't stress how much I fell in love with them. I cared for them. So. Frickin. Much. One by one. I'm gonna talk about them one by one. First, Takiko Okuda. This is our MC, our Priestess and I can say without second thought that she is the BEST priestess. She becomes the priestess because she was finally needed by someone in her life, not because she wanted the wishes. Heck, she didn't even know about the wishes. She also fights really well with a naginata (like an elongated sword) and her WILL is so strong. Then we have Uruki, or Rimudo, who is has amazing progression. Without spoiling too much, he has a lot on him and meeting Takiko noticeably changes him and when he goes through a traumatic thing, it changes him again. He is just an all-around well written character, props to Watase again. The other characters, Tomite, Hatsui, Inami, Hikitsu, Naname, Haagasu and Temdan are all defined and progressed and clarified through the story. They all have their stories separate to the main plot, and stories THAT MATTER, not just tossed in backstories. They have motivations (not blind obedience, like what happened in the original) and their own trials and relationships. They matter to the story and when things affect them, we CARE. And this matters. Great character writing.

Art: 9
Its clear that Watase tried to change up her drawing to fit the new atmosphere of this series better, but it's also improved in certain aspects, though I'm not really the expert to be saying this. It's funny though, that when I went back to read the cameos of Tomite and Hikitsu in the original, they looked... different. And they look better in their own series, no insults intended to original. Their faces are more shaped and hair positioned more accurately. The drawing was pleasant, never boring and always find the mood as required. No complaints, in fact I enjoyed it a lot. So, 9.

Enjoyment: 10
An obvious 10, seeing as what I've said above. I got so emotionally attached and though I knew the outcome from the outset, it was so gripping, that I forgot for a second what was going to happen. I kinda think revealing the ending from the start almost makes it more precious in a sense. You learn to savour every moment as much as you need to because of it and I thought it was a unique, fun experience. If it wasn't obvious I LOVED IT. And anyone up for a historical fantasy/romance/adventure should totally read this.

Overall: 10
Because it really really deserves it.