Review RWBY the Official Manga Vol. 1 Provides Interesting Takes and Beautiful Art

RWBY is an official manga by Bunta Kinami that is based on the hit series of the same name from Rooster Teeth created by Monty Oum. VIZ Media was kind enough to give me a copy of the first volume which consists of the first five episodes of the manga and the first eight episodes of the show. You can purchase your own copy through VIZ or other retailers.

The manga tells the same story, but there are some changes. For instance, we get to see more of what’s going on in some of the characters’ heads and we learn that apparently Weiss quickly warmed up to Ruby and saw a lot of potential in her as she explains how to bring down the Nevermore using their different semblances. Of course, this makes me wonder what’s going to happen in the second volume when Weiss constantly fights the fact that Ruby was appointed leader of the team. Most of what you read is exactly what we see in the show though. It’s mostly smaller pieces of nuance that are provided. It’s definitely an interesting take.

Of course, probably the best part of the RWBY manga is simply the art. The first few seasons of RWBY are often criticized for their art style. Heck, my wife wanted to stop watching soon after starting the show, but I convinced her to stick with it and she’s glad. I understand this is not an uncommon occurrence. However, the art from the manga is a lot more detailed and interesting. I’d love to see a remake of the first couple of seasons (at least) with a similar art style.

If you enjoy RWBY, or even if you’re curious about what happens in the show and don’t like the artwork of the series, you might enjoy the official manga.