Evangelion Manga [Archive] - AnimeSuki Forum

evil|plushie

2004-08-16, 08:20

Anyone else read the manga? I'm quite interested in how it's proceeding. It's showing a lot more of the characters than they did in the anime.

Pros: Rei has more screen time and character development. That's always a plus. Rei is more proactive. Shinji also seems more proactive, and a lot more mature.

Cons: Touji dies. They didn't include the very cool fight between Eva-01 and the Orb of shadow that swallowed it. That was probably one of the coolest scenes in the entire anime. Although they might show it later.

stpehen

2004-08-16, 13:54

I would say the manga is solidly entertaining, but not brilliant in the way that Anno's anime series was. The lethargic pace is a con. Apparently it's close to being wrapped up, but I haven't read v9 yet.

Mr_Paper

2004-08-16, 14:03

Hiya Everyone,
I'm new here so please go easy on me!! I would like to know if the Evangelion manga will ever be finished. I have collected all the comics from Book 1 to book 7. Does anybody know if they will continue to Book 8? I am talking about the English translation ones done by Viz comics? I can't seem to get any information!!

Arigatou gozaimasu!!
Hillsy-san.The manga has been ongoing since about late '96. The manga is published as a monthly serial meaning that there is only a volume published once a year. It has nothing to do with Viz being slow, rather they've caught up to the original manga and now must wait for additional volumes to be published in Japan.

This is why they also print the monthly's and sell them.

arias

2004-08-16, 17:40

Actually, the series has been released up to volume 8 in mandarin AND volume 9 has just been released in Japanese. My brother spotted in Kinokuniya Singapore, an imported version of Vol 9 is available.

And yes, the series is being released at the author's pace. If I recall correctly, the gap between book 5 and 6 was 3 years.

Yebyosh

2004-08-16, 20:43

Actually Volume 9 is already out pretty much 4 months ago, the Chinese version came out like 1-2 months back. (We are talking about the volume with the Kaoru & Asuka cover, with the Japanese volume actually available with a Rei figurine right?)

Vol 9 was quite nice. The mangaka (who was the character designer for Evangelion) expanded the background of Asuka greatly. You'll learn more about her relationships with her mother and it is way more darker than what the TV series portrayed.

The Evangelion manga is turning out to be a good product as well.

arias

2004-08-16, 20:50

evil|plushie

2004-08-16, 22:42

Ah...I remember that 3 year waiting period well -_- I was wondering if the mangaka had given up on the manga.

The manga seems to be taking a more pro shinji/rei stance than the anime ever did though.

Ambience Blue

2004-12-11, 20:57

I've started on the manga, and though I only have the first three volumes, it's coming around nicely. I guess the manga does a good job of tying loose ends together like why exactly Rei was injured before the first battle but I think that there are too many goofy parts to it, and many of the characters aren't taken seriously enough. Having seen the anime first definitely helps since recurring themes like Shinji's mother come so powerfully now. My overall impression is that it's a mixed grab bag. Some parts came out chillingly well (much better than the anime) while others notably the second Angel fight were a lot less convincing.

aldw

2004-12-12, 00:14

I currently have volume 4-8, and this thing kicks ass.

JokerD

2004-12-12, 09:30

Yea, I remember the 3 year wait as well. Was pretty upset when a new vol came out when I don't have access to my supplier. The current volume is the red one with Asuka on the cover. Can't remember the volume number off-hand and I can't check since my room is a mess right now. I guess Viz will release the volumes soon enough.

What I hear is that the author is doing this as a sort of a side project kinda thing, which would explain the long waiting times between volumes. He still has his day job at the anime studio I guess, but don't quote me on this.

What I like about this is that it expands a lot on the character's past. I thought that Kaji's pass was a pretty nice touch and it ties up a lot of loose ends as well. A lot of details that I guess was cut out from the 30min TV shows. Oh yea, it's a lot less dark as compared to the anime.

arias

2004-12-12, 10:35

JokerD is right; it's quite a side-project thing but it's also a *massive* side project. The rumor is that the artist Yoshiyuki Sadamoto, who is the character designer for the Evangelion anime (and other Gainax anime like Nadia - Secret of Blue Water), disagreed with Hideaki Anno on how EVA should have played out. Hence; the difference between the manga and the anime. Some characters who live in the anime, die in the manga, and vice versa. Since the artist will be continually engaged in projects, which I'm guessing are stuff such as EVA artbooks or character designs for upcoming animes, he's working on EVA manga on a snail's pace. Literally. It's not as much less "dark" than the anime, then less "psychotic" :D.

Well.. I enjoyed reading it, and let me tell you; the recent EVA book covers are some of the most beautiful artwork in the manga scene.

Cornel

2004-12-12, 15:31

I have volume 1-4, and though I haven't seen the anime, it is good and on par with the animation of the anime. :heh: Just to note, I didn't really like some of the crappy animations that I saw in the series.

stonedzombie

2006-02-06, 17:21

since the manga is over now, can someone tell me if the ending of the manga took the ending of the series or the "EOE" movie?

dfens

2006-02-06, 19:05

Um the manga isn't over it just stopped at volume 9 at the battle with the 16th angel so it gives you an idea where the story is at with the anime, and is being released in small chapters when ever of about 15-20 pages at a time. Once their is enough pages volume 10 which looks like the final volume will finish the manga series. It might go as high as volume 11 but who knows if it does that should be the last anything after that would be streching the story too thin.

But if 10 is the final it's going to be a long time before it comes out.

Shinji103

2006-02-08, 20:25

The wait for volume 10 is just killing me. :twitch: The manga is just so much better than the anime, imo. :D

Crimen Scythe

2006-02-08, 21:15

yup..there's a theory that the manga might have a completely different ending than the anime...it's quite possible...and i hope the manga finishes before the next 5 years...

Shinji103

2006-02-08, 22:49

yup..there's a theory that the manga might have a completely different ending than the anime...it's quite possible...Sweet! :D

and i hope the manga finishes before the next 5 years...:twitch: :twitch:

air_archmage

2006-06-13, 15:01

I just hope they use the End of Evangelion ending. No offence but I'm one of the many people who thought the orriginal ending was a tad bit to "unexplained." ((I just hate cliff hangers xD)) And the Death and Rebirth one was just plain odd O__o

neoko

2006-06-19, 00:04

I hope they use neither.

I hated the anime ending, and i didn't really get the movie ending. I mean what will they do from there?

Uber ending for eva manga please :D

aldw

2006-06-19, 19:49

The total number of volumes should be around 12, according to various sources.

Kisuke06

2007-06-13, 18:02

The cover art for the next volume(volume 11):

http://img484.imageshack.us/img484/2614/evangelion11japbv5.jpg

SWEET! :)

Animaniac: DN Guy

2007-07-03, 17:10

This is everything to talk about the manga Neon Genesis Evangelion.

Vol. 3 cover

http://www.booksamillion.com/bam/covers/1/56/931/399/1569313997.jpg

Rules

1. No posting links to manga downloads
2. No asking for manga downloads
3. Please remember to put titles for spoilers!

Don't forget to but a title for spoiler!
Naruto once forgot and I pushed him on Sasuke!

(Insert Episode 3 Accidental Kiss here)

EvaForever

2007-10-15, 20:07

Hey does anyone here know If viz has edited the evangelion manga?

Endless Twilight

2009-07-07, 23:45

Mega bumpage.

Apparently there's a new stage out, at last.

yezhanquan

2009-07-08, 00:22

About time. Like I said before, when I see YS's art, all is forgiven.

Fran~

2009-07-08, 00:30

i need to re-read the entire manga in order to remember what the hell is going on :(

YS sure took his time :D

Thx for the notice!.

Endless Twilight

2009-07-08, 00:34

Well no need to remember that much cause right now it's basically EoE with a little new twists. Or rather, a big twist this time around.

Gendo's character has ended up as quite different from his anime self. But also works well, and his speech to Shinji was a good scene I felt.

Wonder where they'll go from here with Shinji and Misato now. And will they keep the kiss? Gotta see that.

But who knows when the next chapter will be out now. Maybe Sadamoto will just lazy around for over an year again now.

About time. Like I said before, when I see YS's art, all is forgiven.

Haha, true that. It was as great as ever, especially the kickass Misato cover.

Fran~

2009-07-08, 00:41

But who knows when the next chapter will be out now.
With the next economic crisis. :D

Haha, true that. It was as great as ever, especially the kickass Misato cover.
*runs to see that*

yezhanquan

2009-07-08, 00:49

I guess first and foremost, he's a character designer and artist. Curiously, I don't see him in the same vein as CLAMP, who I described as "old dames" on more than one occasion. He has this shy persona around him, almost like a nerd who just happens to draw really, REALLY well.

Used Can

2009-07-08, 01:13

I'd like to see Gendō going Kefka.

Von Himmel

2009-07-08, 08:27

If he managed to become a god.
Seriously though, the Gendou in the newest chapter surprised me :(

yezhanquan

2009-07-08, 08:34

If he managed to become a god.
Seriously though, the Gendou in the newest chapter surprised me :(

Same feeling here.

And I just realised that volume 12 would be very short, and would take a LONG while to come out.

Endless Twilight

2009-07-08, 13:10

I think Manga Gendo (and thus Sadamoto) surprised everyone in this chapter. Outright saying he has never felt love for Shinji? That's a whole new level of douchebaggery, even for Gendo.

Used Can

2009-07-08, 14:44

Outright saying he has never felt love for Shinji?
He didn't really need to say it. It's always been fairly obvious.

Endless Twilight

2009-07-08, 18:36

yezhanquan

2009-07-08, 20:23

Except that was never the case in the anime version.

And way to miss the point regardless, since it's not a matter of needing to say it or not, it's saying it bluntly right in his son's face that makes it so hardcore.

He sees himself as a victim of the son's "Oedipus complex", where it is clear that Shinji doesn't have such stuff going on in his mind. Seriously, being jealous of your wife's affection on the kid? You really do need help, man.

Endless Twilight

2009-07-08, 22:49

Makes me wonder what Yui really was like to be able to love a man like him.

yezhanquan

2009-07-08, 23:23

Makes me wonder what Yui really was like to be able to love a man like him.

That was a running joke I shared with my friend, so much so that if any of us mentioned the "Eva joke", both of us know what exactly was being talked about.

BTW, the punchline was "She thinks he's cute." We were like :twitch::twitch::twitch:.

jonli

2009-07-09, 02:48

Maybe Gendo tapped all the right buttons in bed :D

Endless Twilight

2009-07-09, 03:28

What with his extensive harem throughout the series, I'd say he probably knows his stuff in that department.

yezhanquan

2009-07-09, 03:29

It's probably his sweet mouth. Heck, two smart women fell in love with him.

Endless Twilight

2009-07-09, 03:36

Three, if you count Ritsuko's mother.

...Which you probably shouldn't, I guess.

yezhanquan

2009-07-09, 03:51

I counted her among the two. Is Rei considered "smart"?

Endless Twilight

2009-07-09, 14:14

Uh, it would Ritsuko, Ritsuko's mother... and Yui, naturally. Rei isn't really confirmed. (though likely seeing how messed up the guy is)

Used Can

2009-07-09, 19:46

Except that was never the case in the anime version.
You mean Gendō's dislike for Shinji? It was always quite blatant to me.

And way to miss the point regardless, since it's not a matter of needing to say it or not, it's saying it bluntly right in his son's face that makes it so hardcore.
That's sort of true, but I'd find it odd if Shinji didn't see it coming. In addition, at times, I got the impression Shinji didn't like his father either. All the same, he's still a kid; so, that may explain why that kind of statement would have a big impact, particularly so, when Shinji was in a state of depression.

Endless Twilight

2009-07-09, 19:58

You mean Gendō's dislike for Shinji? It was always quite blatant to me.

Except Anime Gendo downright states that he was sorry for the way he'd always acted towards Shinji, and that he simply did it because he didn't feel worthy of Shinji's love and because he himself was afraid that Shinji would reject him.

Used Can

2009-07-09, 20:04

Hell, my memory is quite terrible. All the same, it's been almost 5 years since I re-watched Eva the last time.

When did he say that, EoE?

Endless Twilight

2009-07-09, 20:46

Hell, my memory is quite terrible. All the same, it's been almost 5 years since I re-watched Eva the last time.

When did he say that, EoE?

Yes. His final scene went like this:

Gendo: I've waited so long for this moment to arrive. I will finally be with you again, Yui. When Shinji's near me... all I ever do is cause him pain. I thought it was better when I did nothing at all.
Yui: Were you afraid of Shinji?
Gendo: I didn't believe that anyone could love me. I never deserved to be loved.
Kaworu: So, you were running away... and you rejected the others around you... so there was no chance you would ever be hurt.
Yui: And you were terrified by the invisible bonds that people form.
Rei: You were afraid, and so you closed off your heart.
Gendo: And so, this is my retribution. Forgive me, Shinji.

yezhanquan

2009-07-09, 21:41

Uh, it would Ritsuko, Ritsuko's mother... and Yui, naturally. Rei isn't really confirmed. (though likely seeing how messed up the guy is)

Forgot about Ritsuko herself. But, hell, you're dating a man that has dated your mom? Alarms should have gone off long ago.

Endless Twilight

2009-08-16, 21:15

New chapter out. Nice scene with Shinji and Misato. And looks like it'll all start next chapter.

yezhanquan

2009-08-16, 21:22

Reading this chapter, I'm reminded of Nagasawa Miki's and Koyasu Takehito's excellent voicing of this part of the movie. Oh, and Hiro Yuuki too.

winhlp32

2011-05-01, 06:58

http://yaraon.blog109.fc2.com/blog-entry-1741.html

Looks like Shinji got to Asuka in time this time around.

Endless Twilight

2011-05-01, 12:15

Finally. Only been 466 days since the previous chapter's scanlation was released!

But yeah, that's a pretty interesting twist on the EoE events. Looking forward to where it goes from now.

MAX_COLA_POWER!

2011-05-01, 16:49

Phew, so no more ecstasy instrumentality goo third impact MisatoReiAsuka triple contact fusion Adam and Eve references? Nice...-v-

Used Can

2011-05-02, 04:40

Darknemo2000

2011-05-02, 05:08

Hmmm... I wonder if Sadamoto really plans to go through a good end.
Also... a good end in Eva... I don't know if I want that.
Well, I can live with some degree of happiness, just not a perfect end. I want see some serious shit to happen.

Its not like Sadamoto's manga is very deep to begin with. Certainly falls short compared to anime in those terms, so Happy ending would not be so out of the place, really.

konart

2011-05-02, 05:19

Hmmm... I wonder if Sadamoto really plans to go through a good end.
Also... a good end in Eva... I don't know if I want that.
Well, I can live with some degree of happiness, just not a perfect end. I want see some serious shit to happen.

more like Asuka ending. Good or bad. Was there a bad ending anyway? I can't consider any ending as bad in Eva(same goes for good though)

Renegade334

2011-05-02, 06:49

The good ending was the last part of ep.26, where Shinji learns to break his shell and is accepted by everyone else. Though metaphorical it may be, it's still the next best thing to a happy denouement you'll ever be rewarded with.

NGE was not IMHO ever meant to end well, since the main theme is the quest for oneself through the destruction of the world...both on the inside and the outside.

Not to mention that NGE is not like all other shounen series where the main character gets all gar and seizes salvation with both hands - rather, it just proves the opposite: that when sh*t happens, sometimes, you just can't get back up, because the entire world is out to drive you into your own grave.

NeoFireHawk

2011-05-02, 12:56

more like Asuka ending.
I wouldn't have high hopes for that if I were you. Remember how big of a Rei fanboy Sadamoto is and if something, I personally expect a far crueler ending for her than the one we saw in EoE. Of course that he can always surprise us but considering how little development Asuka got in the manga that would look pretty unnatural, if you ask me.

Used Can

2011-05-02, 20:00

Its not like Sadamoto's manga is very deep to begin with. Certainly falls short compared to anime in those terms, so Happy ending would not be so out of the place, really.
It definitely lacks Anno's continuous psychoanalysis of the characters, but when it comes down to development, the manga still goes on ups and downs just like the anime did. Perhaps, Shinji is slightly more ballsy and Rei is slightly more "human," but other than that, I think it's rather the same in terms of development. In fact, I really liked how Sadamoto developed some characters the anime didn't develop as much like Touji and especially Kaji. In addition, I think the manga has had some sadder aspects than those in the anime. Like for example, Touji piloted the EVA-03 in both stories, but in the anime he survived (although, under poor conditions); in the manga, on the other hand, he got killed. Moreover, when it comes down to NERV's/Gendou's and SEELE's plans, it's still the same thing.

So, I really, really cannot see a perfect end with the heroes beating all the bad guys and achieving a perfect end. If you ask me, that simply doesn't work with Eva.

Not to mention that NGE is not like all other shounen series where the main character gets all gar and seizes salvation with both hands - rather, it just proves the opposite: that when sh*t happens, sometimes, you just can't get back up, because the entire world is out to drive you into your own grave.
Also, remember, the time Shinji went badass in Rebuild, he pretty much fucked the world over (and he said he didn't even care) by triggering the 3rd Impact.

NeoFireHawk

2011-05-02, 22:32

So, I really, really cannot see a perfect end with the heroes beating all the bad guys and achieving a perfect end. If you ask me, that simply doesn't work with Eva.
Who exactly are the bad guys in Evangelion, if I may ask?

Darknemo2000

2011-05-03, 03:15

It definitely lacks Anno's continuous psychoanalysis of the characters, but when it comes down to development, the manga still goes on ups and downs just like the anime did. Perhaps, Shinji is slightly more ballsy and Rei is slightly more "human," but other than that, I think it's rather the same in terms of development. In fact, I really liked how Sadamoto developed some characters the anime didn't develop as much like Touji and especially Kaji. In addition, I think the manga has had some sadder aspects than those in the anime. Like for example, Touji piloted the EVA-03 in both stories, but in the anime he survived (although, under poor conditions); in the manga, on the other hand, he got killed. Moreover, when it comes down to NERV's/Gendou's and SEELE's plans, it's still the same thing.

Oh I agree about Touji and Kaji. But he also screwed up Asuka's character making her very shallow in the series, compared to her anime original. But I would take Sadamoto's Kaji over anime Kaji anytime, his Asuka though sucks.

yezhanquan

2011-05-03, 03:34

Well, you win some, you lose some. For me, the manga is just to see Sadamoto's art in action. Still have a weak spot for his art after so long.

Used Can

2011-05-03, 06:48

Who exactly are the bad guys in Evangelion, if I may ask?
I'm sure most people would say Gendou and everyone else in SEELE, since all of them are the ones puppeteering the events toward Instrumentality.

Oh I agree about Touji and Kaji. But he also screwed up Asuka's character making her very shallow in the series, compared to her anime original. But I would take Sadamoto's Kaji over anime Kaji anytime, his Asuka though sucks.
I agree his Asuka sucks, but well, it's the same in Rebuild.
Either way, my point is no version of Eva has had an idealistic type development. And thus, in my opinion, a good end simply wouldn't work.

linkinstreet

2011-05-30, 05:50

Just got my copy of Young Jump yesterday. Was quite surprised to see that Shinji went to save Asuka from the Eva Series. Grown a bit of backbone. Can't wait for next month

Endless Twilight

2011-05-30, 12:47

I agree his Asuka sucks, but well, it's the same in Rebuild.

"It's the same in Rebuild" doesn't really excuse anything, when Rebuild is where the Eva characters are at their absolute worse.

Anyway, this last chapter was interesting, but I wonder what'll happen with Asuka's psyche now that she's been saved and beaten once again by Shinji-sama. Well, knowing Sadamoto, probably nothing.

Darknemo2000

2011-05-30, 21:12

Anyway, this last chapter was interesting, but I wonder what'll happen with Asuka's psyche now that she's been saved and beaten once again by Shinji-sama. Well, knowing Sadamoto, probably nothing.

For some retardedly sudden reason she goes into life-long coma (like some random lance hitting her or super revival of super trauma) which allows us to focus on Shinji and Rei. Sadamoto already showed that he dont like Asuka as a character and wont focus on her more than necessarily and wont bother making it complex to remove her from the active characters list. It will be abrupt and shallow, just like Asuka's character.

Renegade334

2011-08-03, 06:15

Just read ch.85:

- Asuka has a dere moment with Shinji during a lull...
- ...just before the MP Evas clamber back to their feet and start regenerating (one even fuses its severed arm back into place).
- Ritsuko Akagi continues to confront Gendo & Rei but, as in the movie, the MAGI thwart her attempt to blow up the Geofront.
- BANG. 'Nuff said.
- Rei just looks on.
- The flock then swoops onto both Unit 01 & 02, swords at the ready.
- Shinji uses Unit 01's body to cover Unit 02 and save her from being impaled.
- 2.22 reference? Shinji coats his right arm with an AT Field and flings an MP Eva back.
- Chapter ends with Shinji impaling an MP Eva, in the throes of rage (think Zeruel confrontation rage).

http://img43.imageshack.us/img43/2905/eva8501.th.jpg (http://img43.imageshack.us/i/eva8501.jpg/) http://img191.imageshack.us/img191/6025/eva8502.th.jpg (http://img191.imageshack.us/i/eva8502.jpg/)

MAX_COLA_POWER!

2011-08-03, 14:44

Soooooo, no everyone dying in happiness juice yet?

konart

2011-08-03, 15:09

Soooooo, no everyone dying in happiness juice yet?

you. just. wait. :heh:

ridgezipline

2011-08-10, 18:25

Obelisk ze Tormentor

2011-08-11, 01:09

perhaps im one of those few who prefer the manga over the anime ._. 1) the main char isnt as emo 2) the anime is too dogmatic for my taste :heh:

You're (not) alone, buddy :). Oh yeah, tell me when the manga is over, okay ;). I've been sick waiting individual chapters for the ending :(.

Renegade334

2011-08-11, 05:43

The series is not on hiatus but Yoshiyuki Sadamoto (who's also reputed for being slow) happens to be working on the next Rebuild of Evangelion movie (animation + art + other GAINAX material) and he just took a break from RoE to draw ch.85. I'm not sure whether there'll be a new chapter next month, though...he might have gone back to Studio Khara to resume work on RoE 3.0.

Obelisk ze Tormentor

2011-08-11, 15:02

ridgezipline

2011-11-17, 13:28

*bump on this thread*

87/88 is out wohoo~

i really like the shinji's fight scene. plus we get to see rei again ^_^

MAX_COLA_POWER!

2011-11-17, 13:59

Hmm, based on my knowledge of the EoE movie, we may be getting everyone turning into happiness LCL goo in 1-2 chapters, 3 chapters max^^. Can't wait for that.

jonli

2011-11-17, 17:41

I really hope we don't get the LCL ending again. We've seen it happen already, and since Sadamoto is taking the manga is a slightly different direction, I really don't want it again.

It's not that I didn't like EoE, it's just why would he take so many years to write the story and reinterpret it in his own vision just to set up the same conclusion?

Endless Twilight

2011-11-17, 20:22

Because albeit his art is fantastic, he's not a very talented writer and no matter how many of his little twists he adds to the story he always inevitably falls back on the TV series' plot outline, even when it no longer makes sense for certain characters to act the way they did there after he's written them differently (usually worse).

Also, he's a lazy mofo and I really doubt he's even passionate or invested artistically into the Eva manga any more after it's been going on for over 15 years. He likely just wants to get it over with at this point, and sticking to the original conclusion is the easier way to achieve that. I doubt there'll be any significant changes besides the usual Asuka shafting in favour of Rei.

ellifeedn

2011-11-17, 21:07

I haven't started reading the manga, but seeing where the story is now I wonder how one of the biggest mind-f**king endings will look in manga form.

Darknemo2000

2011-11-18, 14:21

Also, he's a lazy mofo and I really doubt he's even passionate or invested artistically into the Eva manga any more after it's been going on for over 15 years.

I dont agree on calling him lazy. He is a quite busy man and the art quality is pretty high and as a rule it takes more time to produce highquality art than low one. On the other hand I wholeheartedly agree that he isnt very passionate about Evangelion.

He is passionate about Rei but evangelion as a whole - not so much really.

I doubt there'll be any significant changes besides the usual Asuka shafting in favour of Rei.

The problem is that he changed quite a few things but he sometimes write series as if it strictly follows anime and those changes never have been made which mades his plot bit tough to follow.

And he is a dedicated Reifanboy and Asukahater so that shafting is pretty much expected at this point (technically he never even said he hated Asuka, just that that her character was allien to him and he never really understood her character). Though frankly I dont think he ever really tried to understand Asuka's character.

Used Can

2011-11-18, 15:44

Well, he hasn't killed Asuka (and she died horribly by this point in EoE), whilst Rei has already fused with Lilith. So, for all we know, Rei may get the same end as in EoE whereas Asuka may get a slightly better one.

I also think he's done an amazing job with some other characters like Tōji and mainly Kaji. Hell, Kaji's back-story in the manga was amazing.

Endless Twilight

2011-11-18, 16:03

Well, he hasn't killed Asuka (and she died horribly by this point in EoE), whilst Rei has already fused with Lilith. So, for all we know, Rei may get the same end as in EoE whereas Asuka may get a slightly better one.

And him not killing Asuka is supposed to prove he cares for her character?

It's the exact contrary. Her final scenes and death were amazing moments for her character in End of Evangelion. Here she manages to survive thanks to Shinji-sama's interference, but the ramifications of that are completely ignored. Instead of it leading to any new worthwhile direction for her character, she just drools and thanks Shinji as the good dere-dere, inefficient pilot and worthless character she is.

And a better end than in EoE? Seriously? Her end (and Shinji's) in EoE was fantastic, one of the greatest triumphs in the series, for sure. The quality of a character arc's conclusion isn't measured by how "happy" it is. Asuka could end up the healthiest and happiest person on Earth in the manga for all I care, she'd still be an extremely shallow character, light years from her anime self.

Used Can

2011-11-18, 16:25

Whilst I'll agree her fight in the manga wasn't nearly as good as the one in EoE, her fight in the manga wasn't bad either and she still got over her inner demons. In addition, she was also able to further her happiness a bit more by not getting killed by the MPEs after being saved by Shinji - which she appreciated.

Also, when I said better, I never meant better in terms of quality, but just a slightly happier end - she'll probably still have to see the whole world get tanged, but at least she won't have to go through the experience of getting devoured again.

As for her development, I'll agree. But again, we had already seen it in the anime. So, why not develop other characters instead? That is what the manga did. I really don't see that as a problem.

Endless Twilight

2011-11-18, 16:57

It doesn't matter if she appreciated being saved by Shinji. As a fan of her character, I want to see her get the most interesting characterisation and development possible, not just for her to become boringly happy through completely uninspired and mundane writing.

Ultimately I would like her to become happy, but only after going through the warranted character progression for someone as pathologically damaged as her. And Sadamoto has no idea whatsoever, nor the writing talent required, to achieve that. All he's done is dumb down her character by drastically simplifying her issues and moving her towards the desired end result of her character arc without having her go through the proper and necessary development to get there. He (and fans of the manga) might think him he's done her a favour by keeping her alive, but ironically enough all that's done so far is detract from her character. The Asuka that went into a coma due to her self-destructive inferiority complex towards Shinji's superior performance in Eva has been completely upstaged by him here, being utterly helpless and doing nothing but moaning and drooling while he kicks ass, yet she's seemingly got no qualms about it and actually blushes and sincerely thanks him for it. No mental conflict whatsoever. She's a shell of her anime self. A bland stand-in.

So yes, the manga might indeed give her a happier end, but it's abundantly clear that will also be one nowhere near as profound and compelling as what she got in the anime. I would like to think that any Evangelion fan would rather see a not-so-happy in-depth character study for one of its major characters than for said character to end up happy with so little substance behind it.

And I would have less of a problem with Asuka getting so little focus if Sadamoto actually managed to handle her character well when he does utilise her. But that's not what happens. He's basically ruined her beyond help at this point and the further development side characters like Kaji and Toji got, albeit enjoyable, certainly isn't enough to make up for it and make the manga stand up to the anime overall. It's still worth reading for the art mostly, but as far as the characters go (and Evangelion is as character-driven a story as it gets), it's completely outclassed. The aforementioned Kaji and Toji are pretty much the only characters that are comparable to their anime selves as far as I'm concerned.

Used Can

2011-11-18, 22:24

I don't see the problem with her being okay with Shinji saving her. By that point, she had already made peace with her mother. Her inferiority complex stemmed from the fact she thought her mother wouldn't care for her unless she was the best of the best, but after she was able to feel her mother's warmth once again, she had no reasons to remain chained by her inferiority complex.

Also, whilst I agree her characterisation wasn't as extensive as the anime's, I'd say the manga has kept the key elements that make Asuka who she is.

I wouldn't say the characterisation in the manga is bad, but it simply develops other characters. Personally, I've liked the characterisation Shinji, Rei, Tōji and especially Kaji have had. I remember there being some interesting development on Gendō and Fuyutsuki as well as a bit more insight on what Gehrin used to be along with what SEELE is currently doing.

I can understand the disappointment of someone who is a huge fan of Asuka, but I really don't think her lack of exposure ruins the manga. I think both the anime and the manga have their strong points and their weak points.

db84x

2011-11-19, 08:09

In some forum i heard that there are possibility that Asuka will erased for RoE but due her huge popularity then it never happen. Actually Asuka just comic relief character which created to made Evangelion not alienated mecha fans in that time. Btw if we asses Asuka character, we will find that it really fit with most mecha pilot character in that time. Don't forget that before Eva there isn't any timid, indecisive and coward pilot like Shinji or obedience, asocial and frail pilot like Rei. So don't surprise that Eva designer maybe dislike Asuka character because for them Asuka was create to accommodate fans but actually not really necessary for story.

Darknemo2000

2011-11-19, 12:40

Also, whilst I agree her characterisation wasn't as extensive as the anime's, I'd say the manga has kept the key elements that make Asuka who she is.

I disagree with this statement.

Asuka's character has been changed too drastically to say that Sadomoto kept the key elements. He didn't. He completely lost her as a character and from a deep character with her own problems from where her bitchiness raises, we have a shallow, whiny bitch whose main grape seems to be not the problems of socializing but a simple envy which raises from her being a very petty person.

The core of the character is completely different.

So don't surprise that Eva designer maybe dislike Asuka character because for them Asuka was create to accommodate fans but actually not really necessary for story.

Asuka is an Evangelions Sheryl (from Macross Frontier) in that regard. A character who wasnt really meant to be the main but whose story was so captivating that it became one of the main stories.

The difference is that MF in their movies shifted even more to that character and explore it creating even more depth, while Evangelion (both the remake and manga) shafted the character down to leave a final product quite shallow and not having much in common with the character from the original.

Obelisk ze Tormentor

2011-11-19, 13:08

The difference is that MF in their movies shifted even more to that character and explore it creating even more depth, while Evangelion (both the remake and manga) shafted the character down to leave a final product quite shallow and not having much in common with the character from the original.
Well, to be fair, the Rebuild series isn't over yet, so we can't exactly tell whether the Asuka in that version is shallow or not (yet).

As for the manga, yeah, maybe the manga-Asuka isn't as complex as in the anime, but I don't think she's that shallow of a character compared to other anime/manga characters out there. You can call me blasphemers or anything, but I enjoy manga-Asuka more than anime-Asuka. :D

Darknemo2000

2011-11-19, 20:40

You can call me blasphemers or anything, but I enjoy manga-Asuka more than anime-Asuka. :D

Yes, because she is dumbed down but gets much less screen time and as a result gets less on ones nerves.

And yeah rebuild isnt over yet, but from preview it doesnt look like the next one will be Asuka-heavy at all and sadly being one eyed (pirate) captain doesnt really account to character depth. Otherwise the rebuild Asuka doesnt have much to offer other than a typical and very generic tsundere antic that you have seen 1000 times elsewhere.

db84x

2011-11-19, 22:12

Yes, because she is dumbed down but gets much less screen time and as a result gets less on ones nerves.

And yeah rebuild isnt over yet, but from preview it doesnt look like the next one will be Asuka-heavy at all and sadly being one eyed (pirate) captain doesnt really account to character depth. Otherwise the rebuild Asuka doesnt have much to offer other than a typical and very generic tsundere antic that you have seen 1000 times elsewhere.

I think in anime and manga Asuka character was same, Tsundere pilot with dark past but in manga her destiny is better since she not devoured by MP Eva. About rebuild since it not finished yet so I can't gave assessment.

Darknemo2000

2011-11-19, 22:56

I think in anime and manga Asuka character was same, Tsundere pilot with dark past but in manga her destiny is better since she not devoured by MP Eva. About rebuild since it not finished yet so I can't gave assessment.

Actually, Asuka in anime is not a generic tsundere at all. Plenty of tsundere traits but not enough to call her a generic Type A one. In manga is she generic. A shablon if you want. She lost most of her personality traits that made her exceptional, more than just a generic tsundere label.

Thats why they are different/ Anime Asuka couldnt fit into the typical labels and felt more like a living person, manga - is just a generic 2D tsundere who is also shallow as hell (her past became less troubling, her relationship with Shinji lost its complexity etc)

Obelisk ze Tormentor

2011-11-20, 01:05

Yes, because she is dumbed down but gets much less screen time and as a result gets less on ones nerves.
Wow Darknemo, your comment is pretty spot-on in explaining my fondness toward manga-Asuka :D. Yes, I like manga-Asuka more coz she is portrayed as a nicer person compared to her anime counterpart (whether or not it adds to the richness of her character). As a result, manga-Asuka is less 'evil' and doesn't annoy me too much.

Still, I'm not sure about her 'less screen-time (or page-time, in this case)'. I think she gets a lot of pages in the manga.

Darknemo2000

2011-11-20, 05:32

Still, I'm not sure about her 'less screen-time (or page-time, in this case)'. I think she gets a lot of pages in the manga.

Look at the role she has been playing in anime and in manga. It has certainly decreased. Even her relationship with Shinji was cut out for the most of it (and its not that she doesnt kiss shinji, its her complexity between Shinji and Kaji as well as her similarity to Misato's relationship was left out).

Obelisk ze Tormentor

2011-11-20, 09:17

Look at the role she has been playing in anime and in manga. It has certainly decreased. Even her relationship with Shinji was cut out for the most of it (and its not that she doesnt kiss shinji, its her complexity between Shinji and Kaji as well as her similarity to Misato's relationship was left out).
Umm...I was talking about manga-Asuka's screentime/pages there. What you said in your reply above is more about her role capacity. As far as I know, screen-time/pages does not equal role capacity. Yes, some of her roles has been significantly cut out, but she gets plenty of screen-time if we count the manga pages in its entirety.

Darknemo2000

2011-11-20, 15:55

Umm...I was talking about manga-Asuka's screentime/pages there. What you said in your reply above is more about her role capacity. As far as I know, screen-time/pages does not equal role capacity. Yes, some of her roles has been significantly cut out, but she gets plenty of screen-time if we count the manga pages in its entirety.

With her capacity decreases the number of pages as well. Omiting the whole Shinji/Asuka relationship complexity made it cut potentially a whole many of pages that would have been there if they would have not made the cuts and kept asuka's role as important as that of the main characters.

In anime she was the main character together with the others. In manga she is just a second importance side character.

ridgezipline

2011-11-21, 10:59

And a better end than in EoE? Seriously? Her end (and Shinji's) in EoE was fantastic, one of the greatest triumphs in the series, for sure. The quality of a character arc's conclusion isn't measured by how "happy" it is. Asuka could end up the healthiest and happiest person on Earth in the manga for all I care, she'd still be an extremely shallow character, light years from her anime self.

i guess to each his own. Anno's interpretation of evangelion just freaked the hell outta me.

call me un-artisitic if you wish -- but i am interpreting it from the mind set of anno at that point. he was clinically depressed and all his thoughts were projected throughout the series especially shinji. the more i watched it, the more i learned about the director -- not the characters.

at least in my opinion, sadamoto could give evangelion a proper ending -- yes, it means with closure.

Renegade334

2011-12-07, 07:32

Mh-hm...
The events are roughly similar to EoE, except that
Asuka is still alive and is suggested to have survived the TI blast that uncovered the Black Egg. A dying Ritsuko literally pulled off one last shot - placing a bullet at the base of Gendo's throat; it doesn't look like a lethal hit, but the man probably no longer has any vocal chords now.
Chapter ends with Ritsuko breathing her last and Reilith ascending to meet Unit 01.
So, yeah, she literally had the last word there.