Sakamoto Days Vol. 1 Review: An Unassuming Masterpiece

Sakamoto Days Vol. 1

Review

Rating

9

Good

Writer: Yuto Suzuki

Artist: Yuto Suzuki

Publisher: Viz Media

Release Date: April 22, 2022

Page Count: 200

Format: Manga

Sakamoto Days is one of those manga that hit the perfect blend of action, comedy, and emotional storytelling. Taro Sakamoto is an incredibly fun protagonist to follow because of his dynamic skillset and unassuming appearance. While parts of the story may feel formulaic, you’re guaranteed a fun time while reading this fast-paced shonen manga.

Sakamoto Days Vol. 1

Review

Writer: Yuto Suzuki

Artist: Yuto Suzuki

Publisher: Viz Media

Release Date: April 22, 2022

Page Count: 200

Format: Manga

Sakamoto Days is one of those manga that hit the perfect blend of action, comedy, and emotional storytelling. Taro Sakamoto is an incredibly fun protagonist to follow because of his dynamic skillset and unassuming appearance. While parts of the story may feel formulaic, you’re guaranteed a fun time while reading this fast-paced shonen manga.

Rating

9

Good

When it comes to action-comedy manga, Sakamoto Days stands out with its unconventional protagonist and unique approach to storytelling. Created by Yuto Suzuki, this series blends thrilling battles, heartfelt moments, and plenty of humor, all centered around Taro Sakamoto—a retired hitman turned unassuming family man. But despite its widespread popularity, Sakamoto Days has sparked mixed opinions. So, is it a captivating masterpiece or a repetitive slog? Let’s dive in and explore what makes this manga so unique.

Overview of Sakamoto Days

Sakamoto Days follows Taro Sakamoto, a seemingly ordinary, middle-aged man who once reigned as a legendary hitman. Now, he’s dedicated to protecting his family and running a humble convenience store. However, his peaceful life is constantly interrupted by assassins from his past, leading to action-packed encounters that showcase his ingenuity and deadly skills.

What makes Sakamoto truly unique is the juxtaposition of his appearance and abilities. Beneath his unassuming demeanor lies an unmatched warrior, whose use of everyday objects in battle creates a fresh and humorous twist on the action genre. As Sakamoto juggles his dual life, a cast of colorful characters, including his telepathic assistant Shin and the spirited Lu Xiaotang, join the adventure, adding charm and depth to the story.

Image: GONKBONK

Review

In a world where you can find action manga everywhere you turn, Sakamoto Days shines because of its innovative approach to action sequences and unique characters. Taro Sakamoto’s battles are anything but conventional; rather than relying on sheer strength or advanced weaponry, he cleverly utilizes his surroundings to outsmart opponents. Like a more deadly and rotund Jackie Chan, he uses everyday objects, like frying pans or grocery store supplies, as combat tools, resulting in dynamic fights that keep readers on the edge of their seats. This creativity breathes fresh life into the action-comedy genre, making every encounter feel like a unique spectacle.

But beyond its gripping action, Sakamoto Days offers a well-balanced story that weaves humor, tension, and heartfelt moments. While the overarching story centers on Sakamoto’s dual life as a retired hitman and family man, the manga introduces emotional stakes by gradually revealing more about his dark past. These glimpses into his former life add depth to his character, allowing readers to understand his motivations and appreciate his commitment to protecting his newfound peace, especially in the face of his dark past coming back to haunt him. Alongside this, the series tackles relatable themes of redemption and familial bonds, grounding the story in an emotional core that’s incredibly resonant

Image: GONKBONK

What I love most about the series is how it effortlessly blends humor into intense situations without diminishing the stakes. Sakamoto’s deadpan humor, often juxtaposed with Shin’s over-the-top reactions or Lu’s energetic antics makes the story feel refreshingly lighthearted. This balance between action and comedy ensures the series remains engaging without becoming overwhelming or monotonous.

At its core, Sakamoto Days is a story about a man protecting the people he loves, something that many can easily relate to. Sakamoto’s dedication to his family not only pushes the story forward but also reinforces the idea that even the most unassuming individuals can harbor immense strength when it comes to safeguarding what matters most. He’s simply a great protagonist who you can’t help but love to root for. Especially when the story gets very intense, it’s always satisfying seeing Sakamoto come out on top knowing the type of character he is. 

However, the manga isn’t without its hiccups. Story beats can feel a bit formulaic at times, with Sakamoto’s constant battles against deadly assassins. Additionally, while the main cast is compelling and well-developed, certain secondary characters lack the backstory needed to make them truly memorable. For some, the humor, while a highlight for many, occasionally disrupts the flow of more serious scenes, pulling readers out of the moment. But in the end, all these quirky pieces come together for a read that offers plenty of fun and excitement along the way.

Image: GONKBONK

Final Thoughts

Sakamoto Days delivers a very distinct blend of action, comedy, and heartfelt storytelling. While it’s not perfect by any means, its innovative battles, relatable themes, and engaging characters have solidified its place as a fan favorite. Whether you’re drawn to its thrilling combat or its touching portrayal of family bonds, there’s plenty to enjoy in this unconventional series. Now’s the perfect time to jump into the series as its highly-anticipated anime adaptation is just right around the corner! 

Why You Should Read Sakamoto Days

• Sakamoto’s innovative combat strategies keep every fight fresh and exciting.
• The family-centric narrative grounds the story with heartfelt moments.
• It seamlessly blends between tension and levity for consistent entertainment.
• Sakamoto’s duality as a hitman and family man creates a unique and compelling protagonist you love to root for.