Ariadne in the Blue Sky.

This manga is how I imagine playing Chrono Trigger would feel like. It's wacky and funny and heartfelt and honest to a T. In my opinion, Ariadne in the Blue Sky is a criminally under-read manga (and also really underrated). From the mangaka of Claymore, you would think that there would be eyes on this one but, somehow, it's slipped under the radar. And while I would hesitate to say that Ariadne is outright better, I definitely think that it's a much more streamlined experience that better plays to Norihiro's strengths. Characters (8) - simple on the surface, but with enough depth that they're constantly evolving and growingon you, their enthusiasm is infectious and the expressions are on point Art (8) - as always, Norihiro goes hard with the backgrounds while keeping it solid with the action, characters are stylish and sufficiently unique (a breakaway from the uniformity that Claymore leaned into) Story (8) - always moving forwards without feeling rushed, upon completion it does feel like there was a bigger ambition with the plot than what was delivered, but it was a strong conclusion nonetheless, the worldbuilding goes hand in hand with the story with superb balance- I really enjoyed learning more about the world, which in turn pushed the story forwards (think Outer Wilds without the time looping) Pacing (9) - quick, but never rushed- the only strike against the pacing is a few b-plots that interject somewhat awkwardly at times without sufficient integration or payoff/linkage Aside from all the scores above, I really like how Ariadne in the Blue Sky just fits together really well. The characters, story, world, art, and progression all flow naturally into each other without any aspect feeling out of place. A big thing that ties it all together is a throughline of childish excitement and adventure, no matter the danger and stakes. It just nice to read. Read it.