Attack on Titan (2019)

[進撃の巨人]

Volume 28

Author/Artist: Hajime Isayama
Publisher: KC Magazine

Synopsis:
The military disputes its response to Governor Zackley's assassination by the Yeager Faction.

Story/Characters:
In the previous volume, I'd stated some interest in what's now dubbed the Yeager Faction. I take it back. The only people I hate more than these a-holes is frickin' Marley. I also mentioned last time that Eren alienating himself from Armin and Mikasa cuts us from the anchor of the story. Well, he takes it even further, making him entirely unsympathetic. I can only think of two possible excuses that could salvage the character in my eyes, but at this point, he can die for all I care. He's burned the bridges that much. Not a good thing to do with our main character, but, as I said, there are possibly two routes than can be taken to save him. Whether or not Isayama goes either route is uncertain at this point, but some of the things Eren says to Armin hints at one of those possibilities.

The real surprise for me is how much more sympathetic Zeke has become. Delving into his backstory contextualizes a lot of the things he's done. I may not necessarily agree with it, but I've got a better appreciation for him as a character. I sure hope something similar is done for Eren.

The contrivances of Gabi's subplot come to a head and the way it plays out isn't too surprising. Again, I'm not really invested in her and Falco doesn't do enough to make me care to much about him either.

Art:
There isn't a lot of action this volume, but we do get some good action shots, which have always been Isayama's strong point. Some of the facial expressions, though. He continues to hit the uncanny valley pretty hard at times.

Other:
The gang plays with a Ouija board in the high school AU this time. I honestly look forward to these bits more than the main series at this point.

Conclusion:
I'm seriously starting to wonder about the series. I don't have anyone to latch on to at this point. If Armin and Mikasa would develop a little frickin' agency, I might be able to follow them. I'm sure not on Eren's side at the moment. There is some good material here and I particularly like what was done with Zeke's backstory, but I'm feeling less and less invested into what happens next. I may be getting the next volume used and save a couple hundred yen. Give this one a read at least and make your own call, but I can't say it's a must have.

Rating:
Read It