Hey guys! So your interest in me covering the individual arcs on the channel seems high. So we will be doing at least The Black Swordsman and The Golden Age and see how it goes. As always, if your feedback to those is that you want me to continue, I will. Look for The Black Swordsman one sometime next week.
please read the lost chapter (chapter 83) it is within the golden age arc. was published in magazine form but not in volumes and has weird space in canon but I feel it is needed especially as it referenced later.
how deep does the rabbit hole in berserk go? theres more to berserk than a big sword guy.. Omg you will be laughing at your own words when you read it all :P
Really glad you decided to read it. I fucking adore Berserk(I actually read the whole thing 4 times and picking up the deluxes as they come out) Kudos on waiting before getting the video out. Very respectful towards Kentaro Miura instead of riding the news of his death as it happened for clickbait
Mad respect. I can't wait until you are finished and you do a "why you should read Berserk" video haha. If you decide to do it that is haha. You have a pretty good TBR list too, you might want to add "Gantz" to it. Funny you said no One Piece, a friend of mine is making me read it and I fucking love it, very different tone tho haha.
@@Glowingfed funny thing is that one piece isn't even my style yet I'm loving it(altho I did really love Naruto), it really grows on you and there is a lot of heavy emotional moments. Tbh nothing has ever made me cry as much as one piece while reading it haha Man I wish I could teleport to that world and join the strawhats lol. Never heard of xianxian tho
I just recently started it as my first ever manga or comic book, I've only finished volume 2 and I'm completely obsessed. It's literally the perfect dark fantasy horror adventure that I love. I've been looking for something like this my whole life honestly. It checks every single box for me. The art is incredible. The horror and monsters are freaking Lovecraftian, great characters, quality writing. It's awesome.
@@coleton7048 if you have only finished volume 2 just wait for artwork later in the series. He constantly progresses as a writer and his art style is always improving. Don’t spoil yourself!
Wow they didn't throw you into the deep end of anime, they threw you straight off the cliff into the abyss of anime... Lain should never be someone's first. EVER
Amen! As incredible as Lain is, it requires a very specific time, place, mindset, and level of commitment to be enjoyed in its entirety. I’d never consider it for a beginner lol
@@lalalarose8197 in the video mike mentioned he had a buddy who tried to get him into anime by showing him lain which is what op was discussing, so I replied to add to that conversation...
To the "are they issues?" question, Berserk was released chapter by chapter in Young Animal, which is sort of an anthology comic that has a bunch of different stories in it. The volumes are equivalent to the trade collections in western comics, a kind of mass market format called tankobon.
Yes, and chapters can be anywhere from 20 - 100 pages long, but eventually they average around 40 pages each. And each tankobon usually contains about 10 chapters.
That intro was amazing, Mike! Can’t wait to see you journey through one of the finest manga out there, and live through the greatest moments of the series. Thank you, Miura. Rest In Peace.
I look forward to you going on this journey. I've been reading Berserk for 14 years (that's half my life!) and it's my favorite comic after One Piece (which is my favorite piece of fiction in general). Berserk's going to take you for a ride and it definitely deserves to be talked about on the channel.
Berserk is my favorite fantasy story of all time, so glad to see a big fantasy book reviewer giving it some love! Edit: If you like Berserk you should check out more stuff from the Seinen demographic such as Naoki Urasawa’s Monster, Blade of the Immortal, Vagabond, Battle Royale and Vinland Saga!
@@carlosdanielcalderonmontoy3723Game of Thrones, Prince of Thorns, Mistborn, Elric of Melnibone, Lightbringer, Wheel of Time, The Poppy War, The First Law, Malazan Book of the Fallen, The Black Company, The Prince of Nothing, A Land Fit For Heroes, The Witcher, Conan the Barbarian, Drizzt the Dark Elf, Dresden Files, The Faithful and the Fallen... Mostly dark fantasy lol.
@@nightmarishcompositions4536 Oh just in case, I don't know if you have heard of Kara no Kyoukai, it is a dark fantasy light novel, it also has a beautiful anime adaptation. You may wanna read it or watch it.
My favorite story of all time. So glad you're finally reading it! "Struggle. Contend. Endure. For that alone is the sword of one who confronts death. Never forget this." -Skull Knight RIP Miura🙏
I'll have you know that Berserk was inspired by: Hellraiser (The Godhand), Macbeth, Nietzche, Hieronymus Bosch and many other painters, manga artists from the 80' and writers. Also the series gets more philosophical in the Golden Age which I think you will like more then now.
I didn’t see any mentions of it in the comments (if someone already have, sorry, I didn’t see it) so I’ll just go ahead and remedy that and recommend Blade of the Immortal by Hiroaki Samura. The series is set in Japan during the mid-Tokugawa Shogunate period (1603 - 1868) and follows the cursed samurai Manji, who has to kill 1,000 evil men in order to regain his mortality. The art work is good and drawn in a more realistic way than you usually find in manga. Don’t be intimidated by the fact that it takes place in a historical setting, you don’t need to know a ton of Japanese history to read it and if anything is unclear there is always Wikipedia.
People love to overhype the golden age arc, which, let's be honest, deserves all the attention it gets. But this implies a significant drop in quality moving forward, which simply isn't true. It's still amazing going forward, and some of the later arcs are almost as good as the golden age.
@@mikesbookreviews people will try to convince you it goes downhill after golden age, but I think that’s mostly nostalgia goggles. I’m on volume 30 rn and both conviction and millennium falcon have been insane arcs
I've subbed literally just to see/hear of your reactions to the twists and turns this story goes through... However many minutes you spend on this series; I will watch all of it. Cover it all, Struggler.
Same, this manga saved my life. Guts' journey is so inspiring, berserk is ultimately a story of hope and pushing through seemingly insurmountable odds. Amazing story
I just started this week. I've only finished volume 2 and I'm completely obsessed. It literally check every box that I love. Please do many more videos about it. I'm going to be reading through the whole series almost non stop.
People say you should get to the meat and potatoes, but man you haven't even gotten to the potatoes yet, let alone the meat. You're still at the breadsticks before the meal dude. You will probably love it even more once you start unpacking more of Berserk's layers.
@@nejcvranic3421 Dude, since I wrote this I've already finished two more volumes. I finished volume 4 last night and will be starting volume 5 tonight. It just keeps getting better and better. Spoilers below: Holy shit the ending of The Black Swordsman Arc was epic! I'm fascinated by the Godhand and especially Griffith and how he will end up a part of it and what happens between him and Guts. The story is soooooo incredibly good and the art is fucking awesome. I'm at where Guts has joined the Band of the Hawk and they did a raid on an enemy camp outside the castle. It's fucking amazing.
@@ivo96 Where to even begin... How can I even put into words how much I love the story, the characters, the world, the darkness, the grittiness, everything about it. It's literally everything I look for in fantasy. I fucking love it. I read finished volume 9 last night and read chapter 1 of volume 10 this morning before work. Guts and Casca sexy time and opening up to each other. Really glad they're getting together! Can't wait to see how they save Griffith and what this eclipse is that Zodd said is coming. Also, Judeau is the best.
This is my first time seeing your channel but I can already tell you've got a good mind for this medium and it'll be interesting to hear your perspective on the chapters, I think you will very much enjoy reading as well as reviewing and I'm sure your fans would love to hear it. With Berserk having a lot more eyes on it now it's a perfect time for people to really see and admire the beautiful art and story Mr. Miura created for all of us. Subbed, looking forward to hearing your thoughts
Berserk is one of the best stories ever written and very Influential in the world today. I read the whole manga like 20 times in high school and am a huge fan. It’s allot and pretty messed up and will definitely leave you on the ground afterwards so I think you’ll love it lol.
@@carlosdanielcalderonmontoy3723 it’s good I mainly read epic fantasy but I’ve read a lot of manga like berserk. As far as books though I’ve read the Wheel of Time every thing by Brandon Sanderson and I’m 30% through the Malazan book of the fallen series right now. I’ve also read the game of thrones and Narnia if you count that but I’m also on book 3 of the Overlord novels which are actually pretty good.
@@maximasforrester8689 Very interesting👌🏼, and talking about Overlord, I *really really* want to get into it, but I can't yet though. Thanks for answering🙌🏼
@@maximasforrester8689 oh, I don't know if you know about this one but I recommend you *Tongari Boushi no Atelier* or Atelier of Witch Hat. It is a pure fantasy manga.
"I'm about ten years late for that" Truer words haven't been spoken. Although one can say you started Berserk at the right time, with a lot of plotlines and loose ends actually completed.
I know some in the comments have been upset about my comments on that, but as a longtime reader of the big two (Marvel & DC), it's not even a shadow of its former self. It's a memory.
I should read this. i dont know why but i dont seem to have seen it recommended or raved about as much as you have and so hadnt heard much about it. It sounds right up my alley!
If it sounds up your alley it’s worth. I grew up on American comics and Berserk was the manga version of a werewolf bite, so to speak, that changed me. The series is equally dark as it is beautiful.
Man, I was 13 when I read it for the first time, muuuuch to young, story and art is vicious and beautiful, very adult but soo good. I was devastated when I read about his death. Worst news since RJ passing.
16:33 LMAO, no worries dude. That intro gave me shivers btw, it was amazing. I WOULD REALLY LIKE TO SEE YOU REVIEW THIS MANGA. *ahem* I mean im not pushing you but... DO IT.
Yes cover berserk on the channel want to see your thoughts! I was blown away by the series when I read it in high-school!! I'm 32 now and it still blows me away
That intro got me as hyped as any movie or video game trailer I’ve ever witnessed! I’m SO hyped you’re reading this, and I hope it does well so that you can review the series.
@@catPENGUINpony you can have character development and philosophy and still maintain quality. VS seems too controversial among it's fanbase, that's a bad sign for me.
@@Ζήνων-ζ1ι if you think being controversial to a fanbase is a sign of a writing quality drop, then you need to learn how to form your own opinion without following what everyone else is saying.
@@1estel1ch.42 He said nothing of its writing quality, just that there are points of contention within its own fanbase. Though to be fair that’s to be expected of any fanbase.
I am so glad you decided to cover Berserk! One of my favourite mangas, that I actually stopped reading at some point because it was coming out too slow. I have decide to reread and then continue reading, so this is a great opportunity to do it alongside you. Do you have a specific reading schedule?
I recorded the video around vol 3 of the stories but I recorded the intro and quotes around vol 8. So I was aware of the context of the “dreams” quote.
the golden age is probably the deepest arc in terms of themes, but don’t only believe the people who say the series declined steeply in quality after that, i personally prefer the third and fourth arc over golden age.
Rosine!!!!! Truly one of my favorite pseudo apostles! Also, one of my favorite panels is in the Conviction Arc. It is the panel where Guts is cradling Jill and explaining stuff to her. ❤❤❤
Yeah lost children and conviction are up there with golden age; it only has the eclipse to possibly put it on top but in overall quality these are godtier
Hi TH-cam engagement algorithm, yes I'm still here, engaged and commenting. So about that Berserk manga. I haven't read enough different manga to be able to confidently make top 10 and such, but of the very few I have read, Berserk is most definitely my favorite by far. Basically all you said you've heard about it, I agree with. Including it being not really PC, hell, sometimes it makes ASOIAF look family friendly by comparison. And I love it. I'm really interested in hearing your opinion on it, so looking forward to your review of Black Swordsman or Golden Age whichever comes first (best to read them in order anyway), and I hope you get enough views to not stop reading and making reviews after it. And guys who are here just for "regular" books, dont stop watching just because this time it's manga. It's still a kind of book. Dont be close minded, broaden your horizons, if you were interested in what Mike has to say on regular books, why wouldnt you be interested in hearing his thoughts on manga right. Cheers :)
For those getting into Berserk, it took me a while to start reading. I would look at the art style and say It's not for me; I forced myself to read the first 2 volumes (Black swordsman arc) and thought it was stupid and hated Guts as a generic overpowered character. Then when you get to the end of Volume 3 and start of the Golden Age Arc. BOOM! Mindblowing. Best manga. Best art style. Best story. If you are going to read this, get through the first 14 volumes before passing judgement, from there you'll be hooked.
Yeah the first arc is definitely pretty rough around the corners, it's easy to think you have the whole series figured out as just some tropey edgelord action manga. From volume 4 onwards though it quickly starts dismissing that assumption as you get into the golden age and slowly discover it's much more a modern classic of a greek tragedy with some of the most somber and though-provoking scenes you've ever read. Glad you stuck with it enough to uncover that amazing story.
So glad you're giving Berserk a shot. While beautifully drawn the themes of the series, the conflict in this story and the amazingly realized characters is what has kept me reading Berserk for 24 years.
Hi, Mark. I watched your Golden Age, The black swordsman and this one back to back. so glad you're liking Berserk this much. you're gonna love this man's journey and what will follow in the following arcs is the best stories manga medium offers. can't wait for your next video.
Berserk, to me, is probably one of the most heart breaking stories that has ever been told, with the Golden Age Arc, after that it's still good, and there's some badass moments as the story continues to progress, but Golden Age is best.... Maybe his students will be able to finish it if he left detailed notes, who knows,,,,
Personally, while I love the Golden Age Arc, and it has perhaps the best individual moment or two, I think the Millennium Falcon / Hawk of the Millennium Empire Arc is my favorite.
@@FuckTH-camAndGoogle People shit on Black Swordsman, but for me that and the Conviction Arc are the funnest and most entertaining parts of the story. I love rage filled, loner, PTSD, maniac Guts. He is such an asshole, and he is just barely hanging on to his sanity. He basically has to laugh manically and rage and kill things just to keep the pieces of his psyche together. It's only with the fight with Mosgus where he starts to calm down again and start to battle with a level head again. Of course if Mosgus were a true apostle, that might not have been the case. Miura was a master of story telling and characterization through detail and world and theme as much as he was with his art and dialogue/narration. Golden Age has a lot of the best character stuff though which is why it's most people's favorite. The back stories to these 3 main characters, and the origin story of how they became mortal enemies is so expertly written that it's damn near perfect. Most of Farnese's backstory and character development stuff comes in Falcon/Empire Arcs though which is part of what makes those so good. That and Gut's evolution. As much as I love rage filled edgy Guts, it's because of what he later becomes and how he changes that I love those earlier chapters so much. You have to understand that is Guts at his lowest and he's going through some stuff.
Hi Mike! I subscribed to your channel in the hopes that you give us MUCH MORE Berserk content! Please do videos about your opinions on the series. Berserk is one of my absolute favorites. ❤
Enjoy this glorious journey, and I can't stress this enough, you won't be ready for the Eclipse, but if you survive that, you'll enjoy the conviction arc. Carry on fellow struggler!
Vinland Saga and Monster are great, especially Vinland Saga since you’re into Vikings and such, the characters are super well written and I’m sure you’ll enjoy it.
Found you through Dresden, so super happy to see you on my other favorite series now, Berserk. With the two having very similar magic systems and both having protagonists who relentlessly never give up, I think it's easy for a fan of one to instantly enjoy the other. And thanks for the respect to the creator and the consideration for the video's release timing, you've always been a class act. Goes without saying I'd love to see you cover this on the channel, arc by arc is probally a solid method, or just whenever you feel there's been a milestone (golden age being so massive has a lot). I think regardless of what the viewers want though, I don't think you'll be able to resist making a video after the ending of the Golden Age :)
please please please cover it. Subscribing just for that. Also, don't wanna be too pushy, but just want to put in my word for imo, the best shounen/adventure/worldbuilding manga ever - One Piece. Again, not demanding that you start reading it now (or ever); just hoping this comment can be one of many factors that may one day lead you to read it. I can almost guarantee that you'll like/love it - and once you do, the length is an upside, no? The longer one's favorite thing lasts, the better. Anyway, stoked to see that you're reading my other favorite manga - Berserk!
Just found this video and your channel and i'm sure i'm not the only one when i say "i would love to see more Berserk on your channel!!!!!" - subscribed =)
Greatest manga ever written the character progression the character development everything is just perfect IMO I loved reading berserk even the 3rd and 4th time
I’ve been reading Berserk for 16 year after becoming disillusioned with DC and Marvel. The simple dogged determination of the anti protagonist in the face of impossible odds helped me through some rough times. Glad to see you reading it and I hope you dig it Mike. And those shots fired at American comics in the beginning had me holding my sides man. 🤣🤣🤣
Serial Experiments Lain still holds up thematically, but it can be a rough intro to anime! At least you gave it a try. Thanks for the Berserk discussion!
First time ever seeing your channel but I was drawn to the title. You have a lot of the same opinions I have regarding modern American comics and I think it would be awesome to see/hear a first time manga reader give their thoughts on Berserk especially after reading the Golden Age Arc. Let alone the journey and struggles that happen after that. Enjoy the causality!
Xmen movies, when only Geoff John’s is readable, sword of berserk, this video actually ended up making me personally feel old lol! Seriously though, great video and great intro!
Welcome Struggler. I always love getting someone's new take on Berserk. For now Berserk is my all time favorite manga. Might have to take a few points eventually for not having an ending. Eventually Kingdom might surpass it but that remains to be seen. Still I am looking forward to your journey.
I heard about Berserk cause of the Souls games and decided to watch the 90's anime adaptation since i don't read manga. I was so blown away by the story that i just had to read the manga and it was amazing! The story is so good and Guts is now my favourite fictional character of all time! I just found this video in my recommendation feet but i really hope youll do more videos on berserk cause i will most def be here to watch them. Even if you don't i hope youll finish reading Berserk, it's too good to miss out on. I loved this video aswell!
I know i'm VERY late to your party (I just discovered your wonderful channel last week) But, to let you know, I heard a while before that, I forget where, that Berserk WILL be finished. Miura's staff has notes of where he wanted the story to go, and Miura's best friend since high school, also a mangaka, has been tapped to finish his friend's story. It's a sweet tribute from his dear friend, and I hope the ending is as great as Miura would have made. RIP to a wonderful storywriter, artist, and creative.
If you don’t like marvel or dc. Kirkman’s invincible is great. Skybound comics under image is mostly great. I’ve enjoyed what I’ve read of birthright as well.
So hyped you read this Mike ! And damn that was such an awesome intro (the quotes you chose, your narration, and also the graphics seemed like you put a lot of work and thought into) looked sick👏🏼 welcome to the band of the hawk..
Ps- Also Monster, Vinland Saga and Death note (NEVER watch the live action Netflix American remake)are all great “Mature” manga recommendations from your homie. Add in Attack on Titan and you’re set.
I'm glad you decided to read this series and I hope you'll do more similar content. I've always been a fan of anime and manga but I haven't read Berserk yet. I was waiting for it to be finished, but given what has happened I don't think it will ever be completed. So as soon as possible I will start it. I'm very interested to hear your opinion about the series.
My copy of the Deluxe Volume 1 just arrived 20 minutes ago and now this pops up on my feed. Scary how they always know! Seriously can't wait to sink my teeth into this series. I avoided comics and manga for the longest time. Now I've gotten hooked on quite a few of the greats. Berserk will be an excellent addition.
Good on you for trying something different. Appreciate the honesty and it's fine that not everyone likes the same stuff. Looking forward to hearing your thoughts. Also, cracked me up that your friend tried showing you Lain as a starting point. Serial Experiments Lain is amazing, but absolutely not something I would show someone to get them into Anime. It's a slow scifi acid trip of a show. I have to be in the right mood to watch something like that. Kind of like I have to be in the right kind of mood to watch more experimental live action films. But if you're in that mood it is a trip.
Hey guys! So your interest in me covering the individual arcs on the channel seems high. So we will be doing at least The Black Swordsman and The Golden Age and see how it goes. As always, if your feedback to those is that you want me to continue, I will. Look for The Black Swordsman one sometime next week.
YES!!!!
please read the lost chapter (chapter 83) it is within the golden age arc. was published in magazine form but not in volumes and has weird space in canon but I feel it is needed especially as it referenced later.
You've earned a subscriber.
how deep does the rabbit hole in berserk go? theres more to berserk than a big sword guy.. Omg you will be laughing at your own words when you read it all :P
Most viewed video hahaha we will see more :P
Without Miura we wouldn’t have so many games like Dark Souls or Bloodborne. Rest In Peace.
Definitely!
Your profile picture is awesome, too. I finished Blood Meridian a few months ago. Such a great book!
Or ff7
Or monster hunter
The whole dark phantasy genre would be alot different .
Really glad you decided to read it. I fucking adore Berserk(I actually read the whole thing 4 times and picking up the deluxes as they come out)
Kudos on waiting before getting the video out. Very respectful towards Kentaro Miura instead of riding the news of his death as it happened for clickbait
That was important to me. I wanted to be respectful. I’ll never be a channel attempting to use a tragic event for views.
Mad respect.
I can't wait until you are finished and you do a "why you should read Berserk" video haha.
If you decide to do it that is haha.
You have a pretty good TBR list too, you might want to add "Gantz" to it.
Funny you said no One Piece, a friend of mine is making me read it and I fucking love it, very different tone tho haha.
@@mikesbookreviews respect bro
@@Struggler12349 can’t stand one piece tbh. Have been reading a bunch of xianxia tho
@@Glowingfed funny thing is that one piece isn't even my style yet I'm loving it(altho I did really love Naruto), it really grows on you and there is a lot of heavy emotional moments. Tbh nothing has ever made me cry as much as one piece while reading it haha Man I wish I could teleport to that world and join the strawhats lol.
Never heard of xianxian tho
Mike, I bid you welcome to this transcendent place. This abstract time.
I appreciate that. Sorry it took me so long to report for duty.
@@mikesbookreviews Our newest Kingsman.
When I finally try Manga, this is at the top of my list.
I will be eagerly awaiting that!
Philip, you will love it, I can assure you! Try it soon as possible!
I just recently started it as my first ever manga or comic book, I've only finished volume 2 and I'm completely obsessed.
It's literally the perfect dark fantasy horror adventure that I love. I've been looking for something like this my whole life honestly. It checks every single box for me.
The art is incredible. The horror and monsters are freaking Lovecraftian, great characters, quality writing. It's awesome.
@@coleton7048 Good to know what awaits me!
@@coleton7048 if you have only finished volume 2 just wait for artwork later in the series. He constantly progresses as a writer and his art style is always improving. Don’t spoil yourself!
Wow they didn't throw you into the deep end of anime, they threw you straight off the cliff into the abyss of anime... Lain should never be someone's first. EVER
Amen! As incredible as Lain is, it requires a very specific time, place, mindset, and level of commitment to be enjoyed in its entirety. I’d never consider it for a beginner lol
What does that have to do with manga?
@@420taku3 what is lain?
@@lalalarose8197 op said nothing about manga
@@lalalarose8197 in the video mike mentioned he had a buddy who tried to get him into anime by showing him lain which is what op was discussing, so I replied to add to that conversation...
To the "are they issues?" question, Berserk was released chapter by chapter in Young Animal, which is sort of an anthology comic that has a bunch of different stories in it. The volumes are equivalent to the trade collections in western comics, a kind of mass market format called tankobon.
Yes, and chapters can be anywhere from 20 - 100 pages long, but eventually they average around 40 pages each. And each tankobon usually contains about 10 chapters.
Your right
This is definitely entertaining watching someone who’s never read manga talk about it so definitely make more berserk videos
I'm planning to.
That intro was amazing, Mike! Can’t wait to see you journey through one of the finest manga out there, and live through the greatest moments of the series.
Thank you, Miura. Rest In Peace.
Glad you enjoyed it. Miura provided quite the brilliant dialogue to choose from.
I look forward to you going on this journey. I've been reading Berserk for 14 years (that's half my life!) and it's my favorite comic after One Piece (which is my favorite piece of fiction in general). Berserk's going to take you for a ride and it definitely deserves to be talked about on the channel.
Berserk is my favorite fantasy story of all time, so glad to see a big fantasy book reviewer giving it some love!
Edit: If you like Berserk you should check out more stuff from the Seinen demographic such as Naoki Urasawa’s Monster, Blade of the Immortal, Vagabond, Battle Royale and Vinland Saga!
I'm actually surprised so many high fantasy folks are reluctant to even try this.
What other fantasy stories have you read? I am just curious about this things😅haha
@@carlosdanielcalderonmontoy3723Game of Thrones, Prince of Thorns, Mistborn, Elric of Melnibone, Lightbringer, Wheel of Time, The Poppy War, The First Law, Malazan Book of the Fallen, The Black Company, The Prince of Nothing, A Land Fit For Heroes, The Witcher, Conan the Barbarian, Drizzt the Dark Elf, Dresden Files, The Faithful and the Fallen...
Mostly dark fantasy lol.
@@nightmarishcompositions4536 That is a lot, thanks for answering👌🏼, I still have to read some of the ones you mentioned, I love dark fantasy as well❤
@@nightmarishcompositions4536 Oh just in case, I don't know if you have heard of Kara no Kyoukai, it is a dark fantasy light novel, it also has a beautiful anime adaptation. You may wanna read it or watch it.
My favorite story of all time. So glad you're finally reading it!
"Struggle. Contend. Endure. For that alone is the sword of one who confronts death. Never forget this." -Skull Knight
RIP Miura🙏
I highly recommend you to watch the 1997 anime.. it basically defined how Berserk sounds and feels. Especially the music and voice acting.
STELLAR
The fucking penpals combined with the weird fuckin synth soundtrack, it’s beautiful
Susumu Hirasawa's music totally defines the sound of berserk it's amazing
I'll have you know that Berserk was inspired by: Hellraiser (The Godhand), Macbeth, Nietzche, Hieronymus Bosch and many other painters, manga artists from the 80' and writers.
Also the series gets more philosophical in the Golden Age which I think you will like more then now.
I’ll have you know
@@Yungshamgod Because he mentioned Hellraiser :D
agreed and there is the escher painting to.
Yea it sounded like there was a Nietzhe quote in the intro - gaze long enough into an abyss, the abyss will gaze back into you
@@benjaminabraham8290 That actual quote is used later on in the series.
I didn’t see any mentions of it in the comments (if someone already have, sorry, I didn’t see it) so I’ll just go ahead and remedy that and recommend Blade of the Immortal by Hiroaki Samura. The series is set in Japan during the mid-Tokugawa Shogunate period (1603 - 1868) and follows the cursed samurai Manji, who has to kill 1,000 evil men in order to regain his mortality.
The art work is good and drawn in a more realistic way than you usually find in manga. Don’t be intimidated by the fact that it takes place in a historical setting, you don’t need to know a ton of Japanese history to read it and if anything is unclear there is always Wikipedia.
Might check that one out. Looks good and sounds like a neat concept
Noted.
@@mikesbookreviews it is very good. I was going to recommend this as well.
People love to overhype the golden age arc, which, let's be honest, deserves all the attention it gets. But this implies a significant drop in quality moving forward, which simply isn't true. It's still amazing going forward, and some of the later arcs are almost as good as the golden age.
I actually think Conviction is a better arc than golden age. Golden age gets hyped because it’s the backbone the rest of the story is built off.
@David Einhorn Agree about the artwork
As someone who just finished Golden Age, if it gets better than this I can see why this series is so beloved.
@@mikesbookreviews people will try to convince you it goes downhill after golden age, but I think that’s mostly nostalgia goggles. I’m on volume 30 rn and both conviction and millennium falcon have been insane arcs
@@mikesbookreviews hoping for a review soon 👀
I've subbed literally just to see/hear of your reactions to the twists and turns this story goes through...
However many minutes you spend on this series; I will watch all of it.
Cover it all, Struggler.
My favorite manga ever. Guts' struggle is a massive inspiration for me, for all Berserk fans I think. The most in-depth character arc I've ever seen.
Same, this manga saved my life. Guts' journey is so inspiring, berserk is ultimately a story of hope and pushing through seemingly insurmountable odds. Amazing story
I just started this week. I've only finished volume 2 and I'm completely obsessed. It literally check every box that I love.
Please do many more videos about it. I'm going to be reading through the whole series almost non stop.
People say you should get to the meat and potatoes, but man you haven't even gotten to the potatoes yet, let alone the meat. You're still at the breadsticks before the meal dude. You will probably love it even more once you start unpacking more of Berserk's layers.
@@nejcvranic3421 Dude, since I wrote this I've already finished two more volumes. I finished volume 4 last night and will be starting volume 5 tonight.
It just keeps getting better and better.
Spoilers below:
Holy shit the ending of The Black Swordsman Arc was epic! I'm fascinated by the Godhand and especially Griffith and how he will end up a part of it and what happens between him and Guts. The story is soooooo incredibly good and the art is fucking awesome.
I'm at where Guts has joined the Band of the Hawk and they did a raid on an enemy camp outside the castle.
It's fucking amazing.
@@coleton7048 can we get an update
@@ivo96 Where to even begin... How can I even put into words how much I love the story, the characters, the world, the darkness, the grittiness, everything about it. It's literally everything I look for in fantasy. I fucking love it.
I read finished volume 9 last night and read chapter 1 of volume 10 this morning before work. Guts and Casca sexy time and opening up to each other. Really glad they're getting together!
Can't wait to see how they save Griffith and what this eclipse is that Zodd said is coming. Also, Judeau is the best.
@@coleton7048 these type of responses make my day. Glad your loving it brother .
Berserk is easily my favorite piece of fantasy fiction in general, not just in manga. Welcome to the journey, struggler
What other fantasy stories have you read? I am just curious about this things😅haha
I'll certainly be on board for any other Berserk coverage you put up.
I just finished the Conviction arc. This is one of the greatest stories ever told.
This is my first time seeing your channel but I can already tell you've got a good mind for this medium and it'll be interesting to hear your perspective on the chapters, I think you will very much enjoy reading as well as reviewing and I'm sure your fans would love to hear it. With Berserk having a lot more eyes on it now it's a perfect time for people to really see and admire the beautiful art and story Mr. Miura created for all of us. Subbed, looking forward to hearing your thoughts
I'm really enjoying it. I knew this many viewers couldn't be wrong.
Berserk is one of the best stories ever written and very Influential in the world today. I read the whole manga like 20 times in high school and am a huge fan. It’s allot and pretty messed up and will definitely leave you on the ground afterwards so I think you’ll love it lol.
What other fantasy stories have you read? I am just curious about this things😅haha
@@carlosdanielcalderonmontoy3723 it’s good I mainly read epic fantasy but I’ve read a lot of manga like berserk. As far as books though I’ve read the Wheel of Time every thing by Brandon Sanderson and I’m 30% through the Malazan book of the fallen series right now. I’ve also read the game of thrones and Narnia if you count that but I’m also on book 3 of the Overlord novels which are actually pretty good.
@@maximasforrester8689 Very interesting👌🏼, and talking about Overlord, I *really really* want to get into it, but I can't yet though. Thanks for answering🙌🏼
@@maximasforrester8689 oh, I don't know if you know about this one but I recommend you *Tongari Boushi no Atelier* or Atelier of Witch Hat. It is a pure fantasy manga.
"I'm not reading One Piece." AURGH MY HEART!!!! But I'm really glad you're reading this masterpiece of a series.
and now he is reading op haha
I got teary eyed with the introduction. I’ve been reading it since 2008. Felt so depressed and deflated when I heard the news. RIP Miura
Why?
1. RIP Miura
2. It’s a masterpiece
HELL YEAH MIKE!!!!! I would love to see a review of every arc after you finished it!!!!!
If you like Berserk, you'll probably enjoy more Berserk.
This man gets it.
This is a safe bet.
"I'm about ten years late for that" Truer words haven't been spoken. Although one can say you started Berserk at the right time, with a lot of plotlines and loose ends actually completed.
I know some in the comments have been upset about my comments on that, but as a longtime reader of the big two (Marvel & DC), it's not even a shadow of its former self. It's a memory.
I should read this. i dont know why but i dont seem to have seen it recommended or raved about as much as you have and so hadnt heard much about it. It sounds right up my alley!
If it sounds up your alley it’s worth. I grew up on American comics and Berserk was the manga version of a werewolf bite, so to speak, that changed me. The series is equally dark as it is beautiful.
Same! Mike’s introductions are quality and make me think, “how have I not read this yet?”
Man, I was 13 when I read it for the first time, muuuuch to young, story and art is vicious and beautiful, very adult but soo good. I was devastated when I read about his death. Worst news since RJ passing.
You should do it, it’s such a good story it really transcends being “just” a manga.
I think you'd dig it.
See you after the Eclipse, man.
Too soon. I still haven't recovered (on The Lost Children now).
Berserk isn't just one of the top mangas but also one of the best literature from our era.
16:33 LMAO, no worries dude. That intro gave me shivers btw, it was amazing. I WOULD REALLY LIKE TO SEE YOU REVIEW THIS MANGA. *ahem* I mean im not pushing you but... DO IT.
Yes cover berserk on the channel want to see your thoughts!
I was blown away by the series when I read it in high-school!!
I'm 32 now and it still blows me away
Berserk is a great Manga series. One of the first manga I read and one of my favorites.
R.I.P. Kentaro Miura
That intro got me as hyped as any movie or video game trailer I’ve ever witnessed! I’m SO hyped you’re reading this, and I hope it does well so that you can review the series.
Enjoy! And if you like Berserk, you'll like Vinland Saga.
I heard VS gets really bad in later arcs.
@@Ζήνων-ζ1ι Not at all. It’s only bad to edgy 13 year olds who don’t understand character development or philosophy. Lol
@@catPENGUINpony you can have character development and philosophy and still maintain quality. VS seems too controversial among it's fanbase, that's a bad sign for me.
@@Ζήνων-ζ1ι if you think being controversial to a fanbase is a sign of a writing quality drop, then you need to learn how to form your own opinion without following what everyone else is saying.
@@1estel1ch.42 He said nothing of its writing quality, just that there are points of contention within its own fanbase. Though to be fair that’s to be expected of any fanbase.
The fact that he is wearing a t shirt that says "Destiny is all" while talking about Berserk.
Talk about irony.
I picked it because it had a big ass sword on it.
It is to big to be called a sword
STRUGGLE
@@turtleanton6539 More like a scrap of iron.
That's makes it fitting, not ironic.
I am so glad you decided to cover Berserk! One of my favourite mangas, that I actually stopped reading at some point because it was coming out too slow. I have decide to reread and then continue reading, so this is a great opportunity to do it alongside you. Do you have a specific reading schedule?
Just when I don’t feel like reading a heavy novel at the moment. I’m almost done with the Golden Age arc now.
@@mikesbookreviews Damn Mike! Love to see you progressing in the story! Looking forward to the Golden Age video
I think whenever you feel you've got to a "narrative checkpoint" would be great
This is really gonna be cool
I just realized, did you read that intro quote with zero context? Nothing wrong with that, great choice. I’m just excited for you to read this
I recorded the video around vol 3 of the stories but I recorded the intro and quotes around vol 8. So I was aware of the context of the “dreams” quote.
I very excited to see how the story changes you. It changes everybody that why it's so highly recommended.
Berserk is truly something special. I hope there is enough interest shown from viewers because I'd love to see your reaction to the later arcs.
Reiterate: Mike’s introductions are quality and make me think, “how have I not read this yet?” Yes, comics get convoluted like soap operas.
the golden age is probably the deepest arc in terms of themes, but don’t only believe the people who say the series declined steeply in quality after that, i personally prefer the third and fourth arc over golden age.
Fantasia is massively underrated
Rosine!!!!! Truly one of my favorite pseudo apostles! Also, one of my favorite panels is in the Conviction Arc. It is the panel where Guts is cradling Jill and explaining stuff to her. ❤❤❤
Yeah lost children and conviction are up there with golden age; it only has the eclipse to possibly put it on top but in overall quality these are godtier
Yeah, after the Golden Age, Berserk KEPT ON BEING BERSERK!
Can you do a review for every arc? I would love to hear a fresh perspective from a non manga/anime fan!
Whoops, i commented too soon. Shoulve watched till the end lol
That is the plan!
"I believed all that about upskirts and tentacles... but this is nothing like that"
Laughs in eclipse
Tbh that is not sexual but horrifying
Seeing it out of context I thought it was fan-service... In context it’s Pain: The Chapter 😢
LOL
I look forward to your future reviews of Berserk. Haven’t read it myself, maybe I will give it a shot.
I still get chills every time I get reminded of the Golden Age Arc.
Keep going. That isn’t just a recommendation, it’s a major theme in the story.
I really hope you continue doing these. I've never read manga and respect your opinions on books. If you like them I know I will!
I'd easily watch all your arc reviews of Berserk and hopefully Vinland Saga if you continue down the manga path. Great video.
Hi TH-cam engagement algorithm, yes I'm still here, engaged and commenting. So about that Berserk manga. I haven't read enough different manga to be able to confidently make top 10 and such, but of the very few I have read, Berserk is most definitely my favorite by far. Basically all you said you've heard about it, I agree with. Including it being not really PC, hell, sometimes it makes ASOIAF look family friendly by comparison. And I love it. I'm really interested in hearing your opinion on it, so looking forward to your review of Black Swordsman or Golden Age whichever comes first (best to read them in order anyway), and I hope you get enough views to not stop reading and making reviews after it. And guys who are here just for "regular" books, dont stop watching just because this time it's manga. It's still a kind of book. Dont be close minded, broaden your horizons, if you were interested in what Mike has to say on regular books, why wouldnt you be interested in hearing his thoughts on manga right. Cheers :)
For those getting into Berserk, it took me a while to start reading. I would look at the art style and say It's not for me; I forced myself to read the first 2 volumes (Black swordsman arc) and thought it was stupid and hated Guts as a generic overpowered character. Then when you get to the end of Volume 3 and start of the Golden Age Arc. BOOM! Mindblowing. Best manga. Best art style. Best story. If you are going to read this, get through the first 14 volumes before passing judgement, from there you'll be hooked.
Yeah the first arc is definitely pretty rough around the corners, it's easy to think you have the whole series figured out as just some tropey edgelord action manga. From volume 4 onwards though it quickly starts dismissing that assumption as you get into the golden age and slowly discover it's much more a modern classic of a greek tragedy with some of the most somber and though-provoking scenes you've ever read.
Glad you stuck with it enough to uncover that amazing story.
Loving the last kingdom t shirt! Really hope you enjoy berserk, it's my favourite story ever.
So glad you're giving Berserk a shot. While beautifully drawn the themes of the series, the conflict in this story and the amazingly realized characters is what has kept me reading Berserk for 24 years.
Hi, Mark. I watched your Golden Age, The black swordsman and this one back to back. so glad you're liking Berserk this much. you're gonna love this man's journey and what will follow in the following arcs is the best stories manga medium offers. can't wait for your next video.
Berserk, to me, is probably one of the most heart breaking stories that has ever been told, with the Golden Age Arc, after that it's still good, and there's some badass moments as the story continues to progress, but Golden Age is best.... Maybe his students will be able to finish it if he left detailed notes, who knows,,,,
Way to discredit Miura’s decades of work after the Golden Age. You’re practically saying he peeked right away.
@@lalalarose8197 mmmm, no, that's not what i said, but whatever. people love finding something to be confrontational about online...i swear
@@coltonsorrels8665 It may not be intentional but that’s how it comes across.
Personally, while I love the Golden Age Arc, and it has perhaps the best individual moment or two, I think the Millennium Falcon / Hawk of the Millennium Empire Arc is my favorite.
@@FuckTH-camAndGoogle People shit on Black Swordsman, but for me that and the Conviction Arc are the funnest and most entertaining parts of the story.
I love rage filled, loner, PTSD, maniac Guts. He is such an asshole, and he is just barely hanging on to his sanity. He basically has to laugh manically and rage and kill things just to keep the pieces of his psyche together. It's only with the fight with Mosgus where he starts to calm down again and start to battle with a level head again. Of course if Mosgus were a true apostle, that might not have been the case. Miura was a master of story telling and characterization through detail and world and theme as much as he was with his art and dialogue/narration.
Golden Age has a lot of the best character stuff though which is why it's most people's favorite. The back stories to these 3 main characters, and the origin story of how they became mortal enemies is so expertly written that it's damn near perfect.
Most of Farnese's backstory and character development stuff comes in Falcon/Empire Arcs though which is part of what makes those so good. That and Gut's evolution. As much as I love rage filled edgy Guts, it's because of what he later becomes and how he changes that I love those earlier chapters so much. You have to understand that is Guts at his lowest and he's going through some stuff.
Hi Mike! I subscribed to your channel in the hopes that you give us MUCH MORE Berserk content! Please do videos about your opinions on the series. Berserk is one of my absolute favorites. ❤
Enjoy this glorious journey, and I can't stress this enough, you won't be ready for the Eclipse, but if you survive that, you'll enjoy the conviction arc.
Carry on fellow struggler!
From all of the manga you could of choosen as first, you couldn t have choosen better then Berserk!!
Rest In Peace Miura-sensei
Vinland Saga and Monster are great, especially Vinland Saga since you’re into Vikings and such, the characters are super well written and I’m sure you’ll enjoy it.
Skol.
The way you sell a book/series is mind blowing
Love your content as always, mike
Quiet shout out to that shirt. I started The Last Kingdom just a week ago and am absolutely loving it.
Yay! I’m so excited, I picked the series up last November!
For horror manga you should check out anything by Junji Ito. Be aware though the physical volumes are expensive.
I've always had an interest in the Spiral one.
Found you through Dresden, so super happy to see you on my other favorite series now, Berserk. With the two having very similar magic systems and both having protagonists who relentlessly never give up, I think it's easy for a fan of one to instantly enjoy the other. And thanks for the respect to the creator and the consideration for the video's release timing, you've always been a class act.
Goes without saying I'd love to see you cover this on the channel, arc by arc is probally a solid method, or just whenever you feel there's been a milestone (golden age being so massive has a lot). I think regardless of what the viewers want though, I don't think you'll be able to resist making a video after the ending of the Golden Age :)
please please please cover it. Subscribing just for that. Also, don't wanna be too pushy, but just want to put in my word for imo, the best shounen/adventure/worldbuilding manga ever - One Piece. Again, not demanding that you start reading it now (or ever); just hoping this comment can be one of many factors that may one day lead you to read it. I can almost guarantee that you'll like/love it - and once you do, the length is an upside, no? The longer one's favorite thing lasts, the better.
Anyway, stoked to see that you're reading my other favorite manga - Berserk!
I would love to see an arc review of berserk it really changed my life and is one of the greatest things i’ve ever read
Just found this video and your channel and i'm sure i'm not the only one when i say "i would love to see more Berserk on your channel!!!!!"
- subscribed =)
Greatest manga ever written the character progression the character development everything is just perfect IMO I loved reading berserk even the 3rd and 4th time
Glad to see this berserk has been a major impact on my life philosophy since a teenager
I felt this intro in my soul. How awesome
Damn that intro was epic
Thanks! I was proud of this one.
Well you now have a new sub who is ready to see you cover Berserk :)
I’ve been reading Berserk for 16 year after becoming disillusioned with DC and Marvel. The simple dogged determination of the anti protagonist in the face of impossible odds helped me through some rough times. Glad to see you reading it and I hope you dig it Mike. And those shots fired at American comics in the beginning had me holding my sides man. 🤣🤣🤣
I feel like everyone that got mad about my opinions on the state of modern American comics weren't reading them when they were actually great.
@@mikesbookreviews I would say you’re correct. Even my dad who’s a die hard comic guy finally stopped reading them.
Berserk, Vagabond, Vinland Saga, and Kingdom are absolute masterpieces.
And I could mention more, I think that just mentioning 4 mangas is practically nothing haha
Serial Experiments Lain still holds up thematically, but it can be a rough intro to anime! At least you gave it a try. Thanks for the Berserk discussion!
First time ever seeing your channel but I was drawn to the title. You have a lot of the same opinions I have regarding modern American comics and I think it would be awesome to see/hear a first time manga reader give their thoughts on Berserk especially after reading the Golden Age Arc. Let alone the journey and struggles that happen after that. Enjoy the causality!
Xmen movies, when only Geoff John’s is readable, sword of berserk, this video actually ended up making me personally feel old lol! Seriously though, great video and great intro!
Welcome Struggler. I always love getting someone's new take on Berserk. For now Berserk is my all time favorite manga. Might have to take a few points eventually for not having an ending. Eventually Kingdom might surpass it but that remains to be seen. Still I am looking forward to your journey.
I heard about Berserk cause of the Souls games and decided to watch the 90's anime adaptation since i don't read manga. I was so blown away by the story that i just had to read the manga and it was amazing! The story is so good and Guts is now my favourite fictional character of all time! I just found this video in my recommendation feet but i really hope youll do more videos on berserk cause i will most def be here to watch them. Even if you don't i hope youll finish reading Berserk, it's too good to miss out on. I loved this video aswell!
The animated opening you did was soooo on point 🔥🔥
Liking this so you keep reading and reviewing. Fresh views are a fun watch
Would love to see you read Berserk. Miura was an absolute legend of storytelling, and I'm glad to see his magnum opus get more attention.
I'm on the Conviction arc now. Enjoying it quite a bit.
I know i'm VERY late to your party (I just discovered your wonderful channel last week) But, to let you know, I heard a while before that, I forget where, that Berserk WILL be finished. Miura's staff has notes of where he wanted the story to go, and Miura's best friend since high school, also a mangaka, has been tapped to finish his friend's story. It's a sweet tribute from his dear friend, and I hope the ending is as great as Miura would have made. RIP to a wonderful storywriter, artist, and creative.
Hell yes thank you man. This is one of the best manga of all time imo
YES. YES WE WANT YOU TO COVER IT IN THE CHANNEL. at least I do ;-;
If you don’t like marvel or dc. Kirkman’s invincible is great. Skybound comics under image is mostly great. I’ve enjoyed what I’ve read of birthright as well.
I LOVE Birthright...
@@rkxproductions it is super good!
Agreed but why not Hellsing or Vagabond or Vinland Saga if he likes bersek
@@turtleanton6539 I was just commenting on his view on American comics. I wanted to give him a studio with some consistently good material.
Man , i'm so happy that you decided to read this masterpiece . I hope that you enjoyed every second of it .
Definitely keep reviewing berserk!
Loved the video:) as much of Berserk content as possible, thank you very much!
So hyped you read this Mike ! And damn that was such an awesome intro (the quotes you chose, your narration, and also the graphics seemed like you put a lot of work and thought into) looked sick👏🏼 welcome to the band of the hawk..
Ps- Also Monster, Vinland Saga and Death note (NEVER watch the live action Netflix American remake)are all great “Mature” manga recommendations from your homie. Add in Attack on Titan and you’re set.
Very interested in your videos about Berserk, please make more! I am collecting these series now in deluxe editions and hope to binge read the series.
I'm glad you decided to read this series and I hope you'll do more similar content.
I've always been a fan of anime and manga but I haven't read Berserk yet. I was waiting for it to be finished, but given what has happened I don't think it will ever be completed. So as soon as possible I will start it.
I'm very interested to hear your opinion about the series.
My copy of the Deluxe Volume 1 just arrived 20 minutes ago and now this pops up on my feed. Scary how they always know! Seriously can't wait to sink my teeth into this series. I avoided comics and manga for the longest time. Now I've gotten hooked on quite a few of the greats. Berserk will be an excellent addition.
Spectacular choice for your fist venture into manga. I truly hope you enjoy reading Berserk!
Great choice to read. Beserk's an amazing manga. I hope you enjoy it.
Good on you for trying something different. Appreciate the honesty and it's fine that not everyone likes the same stuff. Looking forward to hearing your thoughts. Also, cracked me up that your friend tried showing you Lain as a starting point. Serial Experiments Lain is amazing, but absolutely not something I would show someone to get them into Anime. It's a slow scifi acid trip of a show. I have to be in the right mood to watch something like that. Kind of like I have to be in the right kind of mood to watch more experimental live action films. But if you're in that mood it is a trip.