For a comic that was launched to promote a video game, Akaneiro did a pretty good job of steering clear of that genres trappings for a while. But all that changed with Akaneiro #3. The story shifted from one that was character driven, to one that reveled in action sequences.  And, of course, we got a major boss battle. But despite it all, there’s still something special going on here. I only wish there was more time left for this title to develop.

Here’s the official word from Dark Horse:

Kani, a brave but inexperienced young huntress, uncovers a cunning plot by the demonic yokai, forcing her to make a decision that will shape her destiny—and that of her entire world!

As I’ve written before, Justin Aclin has approached this title with a level of sophistication that’s surprisingly adept given the simplicity of the story he initially set out to tell. At first glance, Akaneiro is just supposed to be retelling of Little Red Riding Hood. With swords. And video game action. But somehow, snuck between the panels, Aclin managed to transform this book into an examination of identity and mixed-heritage. In issue #1 we met Kani, whose status as a “go-between” allowed her to act as a liaison between two warring cultures — each of which she can make legitimate cultural claims to, given her lineage. In the last issue Kani unwittingly erased traces of her native roots so she could become a dreaded Red Hunter. And in issue #3 she comes to terms with that decision, and kicks a lot of ass in the process.

Vasilis Lolos offers some very good art in issue #3; he excels at fight scenes and this issue offers plenty of opportunities to shine. Particularly noteworthy is the rendering of the Demon King (AKA: the Big Boss); Lolos’ art is sharp, and wickedly fresh here. It’s a joy to watch this character swing a sword.

While I applaud Aclin for the range he tried to hit in this title, and Lolos for delivering some compelling art, three issues simply isn’t enough. The result: issue #3 felt mostly like long commercial for the upcoming game (mixed with a dash of emotional closure). That said, the commercial wasn’t bad.

3/5