Cut-Over Criteria

Cutover Criteria is one of my favourite manga ever, honestly. Story: 10. The manga throws you directly into the story, starting with Seto Haruma, a software engineer, reflecting on himself turning 30. Hagiwara Jin is the younger subordinate of Haruma, having only recently joined the company and has a crush on Haruma. He quite quickly pursues him, wanting to "test out" a relationship. Haruma is quite reluctant at first but soon accepts his confession. The pacing is a little fast at the start, but soon slows down into a nice pace, although it can be a bit too slow at some points. What I especially loved washow good the communication between Haruma and Jin was showcased. Besides Jin being extremely upfront with his feelings, problems are easily understandable and clearly worked through, and doesn't beat around the bush too much. Just about all the characters in this manga feel realistic and well written. Art: 10>>. I gotta say, the art is absolutely amazing. The mangaka is very clearly a very talented artist. Everyone has (imo) a distinct recognizable face (although there were around 2 points where it slipped up) which are all drawn very beautifully, and the anatomy and linework is very well done. The art alone makes Cutover Criteria a pleasure to view and read. Characters: 10. Haruma is toned-down, mature and can be pretty blunt at times, but is surprisingly kind, which makes it easy for Jin, someone very upfront and persistent, but ultimately incredibly adorable, to tease Haruma, creating a very cute dynamic between the two, and it really makes you root for them and enjoy reading. (P.S. there are many panels where Jin is drawn as a chibi dog/with ears when reacting to something strongly, which i think is totally adorable hehe) Overall, I give Cutover Criteria a very confident 10! Something about this manga just makes me absolutely adore it and I will continue to re-read it many times.