Okay, let's talk about JoJo's Bizarre Adventure. Specifically, how many volumes are in Part 1, Phantom Blood?
Most people say five. And technically, they're not wrong.
But hear me out. This might be a hot take.
Is Phantom Blood Really *Just* Five Volumes?
Five volumes is the official count. That's what the internet says, the manga databases say, and probably even what your cool anime-loving friend says.
But I have a theory. A *bizarre* theory, if you will.
My "Unpopular" Opinion: Part 1 Actually Feels Longer
Think about it. Phantom Blood crams so much into those five volumes. There's the whole Dio-becoming-a-vampire saga.
Plus, all the battles! Jonathan's training! The introduction of Hamon!
It's a whirlwind. Seriously, I feel like I've aged alongside Jonathan Joestar during his fight with Dio.
Five volumes just feels… insufficient.
The Pacing: A Speedy Trip Through Victorian England
The pacing is pretty fast, right? Like, bam! Orphanage, bam! Rivals, bam! Stone Mask, bam! Vampire!
It’s like a Victorian-era action movie compressed into manga form.
This frenetic pace makes those five volumes *feel* like more.
Consider the Impact: Setting the Stage for Everything
Phantom Blood, despite its brevity, lays the foundation for the entire JoJo universe. We meet the Joestar family. We learn about their destiny.
We get a taste of the bizarre powers that will define the series.
And, of course, we meet Dio Brando, the ultimate villain.
This impact makes the story feel larger than its page count.
So, How Many Volumes *Does* It Feel Like?
Okay, I'm not saying it's *actually* more than five volumes. Math is math.
But emotionally? Spiritually? In my heart of hearts?
It feels like at least eight. Maybe even ten. Don't @ me.
Is It Just Nostalgia? Probably.
Maybe it's nostalgia talking. Phantom Blood was many of our gateway into this crazy, wonderful world.
Perhaps that explains the inflated sense of size.
But hey, a little nostalgia never hurt anyone, right?
Final Verdict: Still Awesome Regardless
Whether you think Phantom Blood is five volumes or fifteen in spirit, one thing is undeniable.
It's a fantastic start to an incredible series. JoJo's Bizarre Adventure is just that: Bizarre and an Adventure.
And that's what truly matters, right?
Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm going to go re-read it and pretend it's ten volumes long.
