Dive into the cosmos of Saint Seiya with our manga review. Unravel the epic tales, explore the iconic characters, and navigate the constellations of criticism and acclaim.
From armor clashes to mythological mysteries, discover the highs and lows that shape this celebrated manga universe. Click here to check a review about the classic Saint Seiya anime.
Story
Saint Seiya, while celebrated for its mythical themes and unique characters, does not escape criticism when it comes to its narrative structure. One notable aspect is the repetition evident in various story arcs, where conflicts often follow a similar pattern.
The recurring theme of the protagonists facing powerful adversaries, undergoing intense battles, and ultimately prevailing can lead to a sense of predictability for readers. I discussed it a lot in my article on how the Asgard Arc could improve.
Despite these shortcomings, Saint Seiya does possess elements that contribute to its enduring appeal. The exploration of Greek mythology, the intricate relationships among the main characters, and the overarching quest for justice and protection of the goddess Athena add layers of complexity to the story.
Considering these factors, a rating of 6 out of 10 for the story seems appropriate. While the repetitive nature and occasional lack of character development may detract from the overall experience, the series’ thematic richness and iconic moments ensure that it remains an engaging and beloved work in the realm of manga and anime.
Characters
The true brilliance of Saint Seiya lies in its rich and diverse cast of characters, which elevates the manga to iconic status. These characters are the beating heart of the narrative, each one uniquely contributing to the tapestry of the story.
From the courageous and honorable Pegasus Seiya to the enigmatic and stoic Cygnus Hyoga, the manga introduces a compelling array of personalities, each inspired by Greek mythology. Check here who are the strongest characters in the Saint Seiya universe!
What sets Saint Seiya apart is its ability to give depth to its characters, imbuing them with intricate backstories, personal struggles, and distinct motivations.
The interpersonal dynamics among the Bronze Saints, their camaraderie, and the unyielding bonds they share create a sense of unity and purpose that resonates with readers
Moreover, the complexity of the characters is reflected in the moral dilemmas they face, adding layers of nuance to the overarching theme of cosmic battles between good and evil.
In light of the exceptional character work, a rating of 9 out of 10 is well-deserved. I won’t give it a 10 just because some characters could see more screen time, like the gold saints.
Art
Saint Seiya, a renowned manga series, is often praised for its dynamic storytelling and iconic characters, but its art style has been a subject of criticism.
The manga’s visuals, particularly in its early chapters, have been described by some as lacking finesse and precision. Character proportions and facial expressions can appear inconsistent, contributing to a sense of visual unevenness throughout the narrative.
This inconsistency may be a turn-off for readers seeking a more polished and refined artistic presentation. Lost Canvas, for example, is much better in this aspect (check a Lost Canvas anime review here).
However, amidst these artistic shortcomings, one cannot overlook the brilliance of the Cloths—the mystical armors worn by the characters. The intricate details and elaborate designs of the Cloths showcase the artist’s talent in creating visually striking and unique armor sets.
The meticulous attention to the armor’s aesthetics adds a layer of richness to the series, capturing the essence of the characters’ mythological inspirations.
In conclusion, while the art in the Saint Seiya manga may fall short of perfection, it does have redeeming qualities in the form of the beautifully crafted Cloths. Do you want to know why are the Saint Seiya figures so expensive? Click here to find out.
Fans of the series may find solace in the captivating armor designs that compensate for the visual inconsistencies in other aspects of the artwork.
Taking these factors into account, a rating of 5 out of 10 seems fitting—a middle ground that reflects both the shortcomings and the commendable aspects of the manga’s art.
Worldbuilding
Saint Seiya stands as a testament to the art of worldbuilding, creating a universe that is both expansive and profoundly rich.
The manga intricately weaves together elements of Greek mythology, astronomy, and mysticism, constructing a tapestry of lore that immerses readers in a world of cosmic battles and divine destinies.
One of the most remarkable aspects of Saint Seiya’s worldbuilding is the integration of the constellations into the narrative. The concept of the Zodiac, with each character representing a specific astrological sign, adds a layer of depth and symbolism that enriches the storytelling.
The author’s meticulous attention to detail in aligning character abilities, personalities, and narratives with their respective constellations demonstrates a level of thoughtfulness that elevates the entire reading experience.
Given the profound and meticulously crafted world of Saint Seiya, a perfect rating of 10 out of 10 is more than warranted. Check all of the mythology references in Saint Seiya here.
Overall
The Saint Seiya manga earns a commendable overall rating of 7.5 out of 10, blending strengths and shortcomings into a dynamic reading experience. The narrative stands out, fueled by its captivating characters and the profound worldbuilding that intertwines Greek mythology and cosmic battles.
The diverse cast, rich backstories, and intricate relationships breathe life into the story, leaving an indelible mark on readers.
On the visual front, the art style faces criticism for inconsistencies, particularly in the early chapters. However, the mystical Cloths, intricate armors worn by characters, emerge as a visual triumph, showcasing the artist’s skill and compensating for the overall unevenness.
The detailed armor designs add a layer of richness, capturing the essence of mythological inspirations and creating a visually striking element within the manga.
In balancing these aspects, the 7.5 rating encapsulates the manga’s duality. While the narrative and characters propel it to greatness, the art’s fluctuations slightly dim the overall experience.
Nevertheless, Saint Seiya remains a revered work, celebrated for its epic storytelling, iconic characters, and a universe that seamlessly merges the mystical and the cosmic. To see Saint Seiya’s non-canonical sequel, read a Saint Seiya Omega review here.
Is the Saint Seiya Manga Worth Reading?
Saint Seiya is a true classic in the manga universe, but, having an anime adaptation, should fans bother to read it?
The Saint Seiya manga is well worth reading despite its dated art and occasional plot holes. While the visual style may not meet modern standards, the manga compensates with a captivating narrative and iconic characters. The story, deeply rooted in Greek mythology, unfolds with cosmic battles and intricate character relationships.
Admittedly, there are plot holes, and the early art may seem inconsistent. Yet, if readers can look past these flaws, they’ll discover a rich world filled with profound themes and epic tales.
The enduring appeal lies in the resilience of its characters and the imaginative fusion of myth and cosmic adventure, offering an engaging experience for those willing to embrace its unique charm.