Inuyashiki

Written on 07/03/26

Found out about Inuyashiki when I saw that one clip of Shishigami nonchalantly breaking and entering and killing that family. That was a while ago and then I saw a video about Inuyashiki and then it hit me that this is where that scene is from and so I decided to read it to see what it's all about.
Anyway this was a pretty good read. not too long either so I finished it in about 2 weeks. The pacing is pretty tight and only felt a bit rushed at the end but even then just a tiny bit, and given the nature of Inuyashiki's existence, I think he may have preferred sacrificing himself over outliving everyone he knows due to being what he is. Though I suppose he could've continued to do good if he were to remain alive.

Hiro is a pretty good antagonist and I kinda like how the manga focuses on him for the majority of the middle portion. He's a complete sociopath and I like how this emphasized by showing he does indeed have the capacity to care about others he is close to but still goes on to murder people to feel 'alive' without consideration for those he kills. I think it also adds to him feeling threatening even when around those he does care about wince whenever they start to doubt him I wasn't sure if he was gonna snap or something like that. Though I suppose the one time he might have during one scene in the latter half but he couldnt really do anything due to being rendered somewhat harmless. I'm not too bothered by how he sacrifices himself in the ending as it's not exactly a redemption. It doesn't contradict how he behaved before since he does care for people he's close too and would rather have them not die, despite being okay with murdering just about anyone else. Ultimately Hiro is interesting because he has 0 qualms with killing innocent people despite the fact he has the ability to care for other but only is they are close to him. Note completly evil but a very dark grey I guess.

Mister Inuyashiki himself is pleasant dude. I like him as a protaganist, sort of rare to see an old man front and center. His desire to do good makes sense and is somewhat heartwarming to follow if a bit melodramatic at times, but I wouldn't blame him for feeling so strongly about saving lives considering he was effectively given a second chance a life.

I dig Hiroya Oku's art, leans more to realistic looking which I find distinct coming from a manga. I also really like how he uses deep shading in regards to Hiro, does well to make him look like someone who has lost their humanity. Also the background art is really nice at times.

That's all my thoughts on Inuyashiki. I'd give it a 6.5/10. Overall pretty good, but didn't blow me away.