Psyren is one of the most unique manga series in the U.S. Shonen Jump brand. It’s not about a boy trying to be “the best” at anything. Oftentimes, the main character finds himself being saved by the very girl he's trying to rescue. There are no cute animal mascots in the story. It’s a very serious, often grim, sci-fi story filled with psionic teens traveling through time trying to stop an apocalypse. The one thing it does have in common with most SJ titles is—action, lots and lots of action!

This is a manga where you really have to pay attention, or you’ll get lost. The main group of characters are trying to stop an apocalypse called the Global Rebirthday. To stop it, they must fight against the agents of a nefarious organization called W.I.S.E. But they don’t just fight, they travel through time trying to change the future to avoid the Global Rebirthday. And that’s where it gets a little confusing, because the characters change appearance depending on which timeline the story is currently in.

But even if it’s a tad hard to follow (for me), it’s still one heck of a ride, mainly due to the cool psionic battles. These kids have a variety of unique abilities, and the fights are bloody and exciting. Iwashihiro Sensei has a knack for drawing action, and there’s plenty of that in this volume.

In an attempt to get a secret code that will neutralize the psionic powers of Amagi, the man destined to bring about the Global Rebirthday, Ageha and Matsuri raid a high-security military facility. And naturally, they dress up in hot leather outfits. Actually, this section is a bit of a nod to the Matrix, and Iwashihiro Sensei even makes a little joke about it.

But before they can reach the code, a W.I.S.E. guy shows up! (I’m am sorry for that pun) And this one’s a real psycho, with the ability to spread a debilitating virus just by touching someone. And not only that, he can spread other toxic gases by way of insects.

Most of the volume is dedicated to that fight and it’s pretty wild! The action is a little more violent than most SJ manga. I mean, when they hit each other, you reall feel it. It’s kind of amazing. Also, this villain is delightfully creepy, and his toxic gas insect powers are fun.

If you’ve overlooked this series, I’d give it a chance. It has great battles, good art, and it’s a fun read for those looking for something a bit brainier than the usual beat-em-up affairs.

Psyren volume 12 is available from VIZ.com! 

by Urian Brown