Okay, Hear Me Out: Before the Fall Is Kind of... Underrated?
Let's talk Attack on Titan. We all know and love the main series, right? Giant naked dudes, epic battles, and enough angst to fuel a small country. But what about Before the Fall?
Specifically, Volume 1. I'm going to say it: it's actually pretty good! Maybe even...better than some parts of the main series. Don't @ me.
Shiny New (Old) World
Before the Fall takes us back. Way back. Before Eren was even a twinkle in his dad's eye. We're talking the very beginnings of humanity fighting the Titans.
Think less fancy gear, more desperate scrambling. It's like a historical prequel, but with extra-large, extra-hungry monsters. It's a fresh take on a familiar, terrifying situation.
The Kuklo Conundrum
Our main man is Kuklo. He's... different. He's basically Titan-flavored. Found as a baby in a Titan's stomach. Talk about a rough start, huh?
This immediately makes him an outcast. Understandably. Who wants to hang out with the potential Titan-baby? But honestly, I found his struggle pretty compelling.
He's got this weird connection to the Titans. It's interesting! And let's be honest, anything's better than another Eren "I'm gonna kill all the Titans!" monologue. Sorry, Eren.
Zany Zanaris and the Gear
Then there's Zanaris. He's the inventor guy. A bit of a mad scientist. But a lovable mad scientist, of course!
He's obsessed with creating weapons to fight the Titans. This eventually leads to the creation of the very first 3D Maneuver Gear. Talk about a game changer!
I found his dedication inspiring, and his inventions ridiculously over-the-top. Like, come on, grappling hooks attached to swords? Genius!
Is It Perfect? Nah.
Look, Before the Fall isn't winning any awards for groundbreaking storytelling. It can be a bit clunky at times. And the plot is a little predictable.
But it's a fun, action-packed ride. It shows us a different side of the Attack on Titan universe. A world where hope is even more scarce.
My Unpopular Opinion: It's Worth a Read!
I know, I know. I'm probably the only person who prefers Before the Fall to some parts of the main series. But I stand by my opinion!
It's a good starting point if you want to learn the origin of gears. If you’re tired of the same old Titan-killing routine, give it a shot. You might be surprised.
Plus, the art is pretty great. Who doesn't love seeing Titans get sliced and diced? Especially when it's with prototype gear that probably malfunctions half the time?
So, next time you're looking for something Attack on Titan-related, don't just skip over Before the Fall. Give Kuklo and Zanaris a chance. You might just find your new favorite Attack on Titan adventure.
And hey, if you hate it, you can always blame me!
