This is probably one of the most graphic manga I've run across, not only for physical violence but mental as well. The twisted nature of the plot leaves the reader not really knowing who to cheer for, since the 'good' guys are really not much better than the bad ones, just bad in a different way. Some of the characters are outrageous (Kakihara definitely takes a place in my ranking as one of the best characters ever), and the violence is nonstop. I don't see it as violence for shock value's sake, though.

I wanted to feel bad for the protagonist, but the craziness surrounding him made it difficult. All in all, a very good read -- but only if you can handle this sort of material. I'll put it this way: there were some instances where I was afraid to see the next page, because I just *knew* what was coming.

this manga is pretty good except for the fact that ichi is like a little kid and he umm masturbates after killing.... anyways this is a pretty good manga about a japanese gang being toyed with by some old guy basically i guess... if u like that kind of stuff u are very welcomed to read

Gore has never really bothered me, but this series is different. This series imho is more focused on the scene by scene of how torture takes place and how all these insanely demented people get sexual pleasure from it then it is the plot. While the story is pretty good, its focus isnt. Manga series Berserk gore is mild comparatively.

... Last updated on June 7th, 2007, 8:11pm

And I don't say that lightly. The truth is, I've never before encountered a manga that so beautifully and effectively examined the workings of sadomasochism -- and I'm almost romantically overwhelmed by the beauty of Yamamoto Hideo's insight. There's also the fact that you have to travel far and wide in the manga universe to come across gore that's so gloriously unapologetic, but that doesn't fall flat as mere "glamorized" violence. Yamamoto Hideo dissects his characters to their tender, quivering cores, with all the dedication and delight that Kakihara uses on his more-or-less unsuspecting vicimts. I only hope that Yamamoto sensei follows this manga up with another manga about Kakihara's past, and about how he came to be who he is.

I can safely say that I used to laugh at people who fell in love with manga characters, but... No more. My soul is now totally pwned by Kakihara. Be mine, Kakihara...!

*scares away all other reviewers*

... Last updated on June 12th, 2007, 9:07am

Over the top violence, creepy disturbing characters and a well-told story makes this manga worth reading even if its for the shock factor. The portrayal of the characters and their unique idiosyncrasies are very well done. The gore and violence was too much for me (hence the lower rating) but this psychological thriller still kept me turning the pages until the end.

Awesome. If you're into hyper violence, INSANE characters and general filthyness. This is what you want to be reading.

this manga is pretty sweet...hideo yamamoto fanboys!!! (silence)

anyway this manga is pretty freakin gory... but if ur here reading about this manga im sure u already know that and scoffing while saying (pfft u think i care? i love gory shit) which is exactly what i had in mind :) and it didnt let me down... so check it out! Besides all the blood/gore/nudity part the story is quite amazing... the ending was pretty psychologically disturbing, and delivered well. check it out folks!