Ever felt like your day was rough? Try living in a world where giant, naked, smiling (yet decidedly not friendly) Titans want to eat you. That's the everyday reality for the characters in Attack on Titan.
Season 1 Part 2 of the manga box set throws you right back into the thick of it. Remember that wall they thought was keeping them safe? Yeah, about that...
More Than Just Giant Scary People-Eaters
You might think it's all just screaming and running, and, okay, there *is* a lot of that. But beneath the surface, Attack on Titan is surprisingly touching. You start to really care about these characters, even the ones who make questionable decisions (looking at you, Eren!).
There's a certain camaraderie that develops when you're constantly facing down death. They become like a quirky, dysfunctional family, fighting tooth and nail for each other. Even when they're bickering over who gets the last potato (seriously, that potato scene is a classic).
Eren's Mood Swings: From Hero to... Well, You'll See
Let's talk about Eren. He's got that classic shonen protagonist energy – headstrong, determined, and prone to bouts of uncontrollable rage. One minute he's roaring about wiping out all the Titans, the next he's making questionable choices that have everyone facepalming.
He's basically a walking, talking, Titan-shaping mood swing. But that's part of what makes him so compelling! You're never quite sure what he's going to do next.
Mikasa: The Silent Protector with a Secret Soft Spot
Then there's Mikasa, the stoic badass who could probably take down a Titan with one hand tied behind her back. She's fiercely protective of Eren, and while she doesn't say much, her actions speak volumes. You just *know* she has a secret soft spot under all that hardened exterior.
The subtle moments where her concern for Eren peeks through are surprisingly heartwarming amidst all the chaos.
Armin: The Underdog Strategist We All Root For
And who can forget Armin? He might not be the strongest or the fastest, but he's got a brain the size of a small country. His strategies are often the key to surviving, and you can't help but root for the underdog.
He proves that brains can be just as powerful as brawn, especially when facing down towering, hungry Titans.
Unexpected Laughs Amidst the Apocalypse
Believe it or not, there are moments of genuine humor sprinkled throughout the series. It might be dark humor, but it's there! It could be a character's snarky comment in the face of danger, or the sheer absurdity of the situations they find themselves in.
Sometimes you just have to laugh, otherwise you might cry (or get eaten).
"It's not about if I can do it. I *have* to do it!" - Eren Yeager (before inevitably doing something reckless)
So, if you're looking for a manga series that's equal parts thrilling, emotional, and surprisingly funny, give Attack on Titan Season 1 Part 2 a try. Just be prepared for a rollercoaster of emotions, a healthy dose of existential dread, and the sudden urge to join the Survey Corps (don't actually do that).
Just remember to keep your 3D Maneuver Gear handy, and maybe invest in some really good earplugs for all the screaming. Happy reading!
