Review 58: Challengers

Art: 8
Plot: 7
Characters: 7
Sex: 6

Challengers has the beneficial element of more than two characters and a (slightly) embellished plot, but these aren't enough to save it from becoming just another so-so yaoi on the shelves. It revolves around Kurokawa (black-haired guy above), who falls in love with the naive and completely oblivious Tatsumi (see uke above). Tatsumi's older brother is a fire-breathing dragon - not literally - who knows Kurokawa is itching to try something, and beats him up at every opportunity.

The art is nice, and the characters are well-done. I like Tatsumi's brother's design in particular. He seems very intimidating and yet comical at the same time.

The plot? That was that first paragraph. I know... sad.

The characters are just 'okay'. Very standard. Oblivious uke, persevering seme, overprotective big brother of uke... it's all there. And there's a foreigner who's a playboy. Seen it all before.

Well, I generally only read one volume of a yaoi when I judge (harshly), and this has worked against 'Challengers' due to the fact that there is NO SEX in the first volume. That's right, you heard me. None. Nada. Zip. Zilch. ZERO.

I am flabbergasted.

All in all, 28/40. Ick.

Recommendation: If the typical cliches work for you, and you enjoy seeing the most oblivious, head-full-o'-puddin' ukes... go for it.