Tags: Action, Adventure, Fantasy, Comedy, Romance, Harem, Isekai
Sub-Tags: Strong Lead, OP, Gods, Slapstick
Synopsis:
Makoto Misumi was an average, everyday high schooler, who found himself shipped off to another world at his parents’ whims. Upon arrival, however, he’s insulted by the Goddess for being too ugly and thrown into a desolate wasteland. He frantically searches for human warmth and connection, but can find nothing but monsters and inhuman settlers. When he finally meets companions he can trust, they turn out to be a pair of powerful perverts in a former dragon and a former giant spider! His high-octane, incredibly misfortunate trek through this foreign world has only just begun! (Source: Hanashi Media)
A Monster at World’s Edge!
Written by Kei Azumi and illustrated by Mitsuaki Matsumoto, Hanashi Media’s latest acquisition is a comedic fantasy isekai series that many may recognise.
Whether familiar with the anime or a newcomer to the series, Tsukimichi’s first volume makes for a great opener. Despite treading on what is now familiar ground, this series shows why this isekai sub-genre became popular in the first place.
The key to encapsulating the essence of a harsh start to Isekai life comes from the author’s composition of a protagonist. Far from the usual mild-mannered hero, Makoto Misumi isn’t afraid to speak his mind. His raw and unfiltered feelings toward a world that sends nothing but bullshit his way helps bring his experiences within the world to life.
Furthermore, I personally like the author’s decision to have Makoto be a descendant of those from the Isekai world.
As part of this background, it is revealed that to earn their place on Earth, Makoto’s parents had to promise one of their children to the Isekai world. As a result, they’ve been secretly training both Makoto and his sisters from birth to prepare them for a world where fighting is a part of everyday life. This eventually sets up a good explanation as to why Makoto is so calm in the face of terrifying monsters and horrifying situations.
The Tale of a Dragon and Spider
For the series’ first volume, the story follows Makoto as he journeys through the edge in the hopes of discovering fellow humans as well as introducing his main companions for the trip.
Whilst this type of journey would be nothing out of the ordinary for any isekai series, it’s led to stand out from the crowd through the introduction of his legendary beast companions.
Tomoe and Mio are great additions to the series. Both legendary creatures, the contract that bonds them together with Makoto reveals them to be rather unique characters. A weeaboo for Samurai culture and a masochist with a taste for blood, they send the chaotic nature of the series to new limits as they cause Makoto no end of trouble. Martial arts training can only do so much when your overpowered companions are extremely unpredictable and can destroy a town with the slash of a sword.
In conclusion, Tsukimichi’s first instalment makes for a great introduction to the series for anime aficionados and newcomers alike. Hanashi Media’s translators have done an excellent job of keeping the humour and Makoto’s unfiltered emotions that make the series iconic. This, coupled with unique characters and ample amounts of chaos, and you’ve got yourself a smash series.
Tsukimichi Vol. 1
My Rating: 9/10
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You can read the second volume of this series digitally through the distributors listed on the Hanashi Media website.
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