Astro Royale, the new manga created by Ken Wakui, the author of the world-famous series Tokyo Revengers, concluded its first major battle in chapter #6. Hibaru, the protagonist of the series, managed to defeat his adoptive brother, Kou, successfully recruiting the Ikebukuro Branch of the Yotsurugi Family.

This battle, while significantly different from the ones in Wakui’s previous series, proves that the amazing writing and moving themes of Tokyo Revengers are still alive. Astro Royale chapter #6 had the same ionate writing that made Takemichi’s story so engaging and heartfelt, and it bodes well for Astro Royale's chances to become as successful as Tokyo Revengers was.

Kou falls down unconscious after being defeated in Astro Royale
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Ken Wakui's New Shonen Jump Manga is Tokyo Revengers’ Opposite in the Best Way

While Tokyo Revengers' characters cannot seem to let go of the past, the cast of Astro Royale is focused on the future they want to create.

Astro Royale’s Is Just as Moving and Touching as Tokyo Revengers

Wakui’s Amazing Writing Style Is Still Present in His New Manga

Kou, the first antagonist of the Astro Royale manga series, was introduced as an arrogant and disrespectful young man, constantly mocking Hibaru. Kongo’s adopted son seemed to have an issue with his sibling’s desire to be a delinquent who would protect his community. After their fight in chapter #6, it was revealed that Kou disliked Hibaru’s mentality because his late older brother, Botan, had a similar philosophy. Wakui also used chapter #6 to indicate Kou's wish, which granted his powerful Astro, Ashura. Hibaru’s sibling wanted the power to destroy everything, hoping to save another of his siblings, Kuran.

When Botan died, he pleaded with Kuran to look after Kou for him, turning the once eccentric and joyful young man into a serious and stoic character. Kou believed that if he proved strong and took over the Ikebukuro Branch from Kuran, the latter would smile and laugh again. In just one chapter, Wakui managed to turn Kou from an unlikable and prideful delinquent into a character audiences can empathize with. This incredible writing was one of the reasons why the Tokyo Revengers manga series became so successful. Characters with a tragic past, like Mikey, are often used as the antagonists of the story.

Astro Royale and Tokyo Revengers do not seem to share many elements, despite having been created by the same author. For example, chapter #6 of Wakui’s latest manga proves that Hibaru is significantly stronger than Takemichi. Yet, they both have their creator’s style ingrained in them, containing incredibly moving moments and relatable characters. Both series demonstrate humans' complexity, rarely claiming someone is naturally evil. Wakui’s determination to create compelling stories with well-rounded characters can be seen once again in the Astro Royale series.

Takemichi and Hibaru Both Represent the Best of Humanity

Wakui’s Protagonists Are Always Relatable

Hibaru, looking happy, and Takemichi, with a serious expression, standing together. Behind them a city during sunset can be seen.

Although they have completely different origins, abilities, and personalities, Takemichi and Hibaru are undoubtedly amazing protagonists. Both are selfless and noble warriors who care deeply for those around them, willing to do and endure anything to see them smile. They are also incredibly forgiving and understanding, never holding a grudge or refusing to help even their enemies. Throughout Tokyo Revengers, Takemichi demonstrates these qualities several times, from refusing to abandon Mikey to choosing to befriend Kisaki. Hibaru seems to be following in the steps of his predecessor.

As of chapter #6, two of Hibaru's siblings, Kou and Shio, have attempted to either severely hurt him or kill him in cold blood. Against all odds, Kongo’s biological son decided to forgive his brothers, claiming that he would create a future in which all of them could live in harmony. Hibaru may be bolder and more reckless than Takemichi, but he is still the embodiment of Wakui’s ideals. In both series, the author highlights the importance of determination, comion, and meaningful relationships. These values are pivotal to his stories, being the main motivator for their main characters.

While Tokyo Revengers and Astro Royale may differ in several respects, both series can be equally moving and inspiring. As Hibaru’s journey progresses, his differences with Takemichi will likely continue to increase. Nonetheless, they will still hold the values and lessons that their creator wants his audiences to learn while reading his stories. They will remain an important part of what makes fans all around the world enjoy the manga created by Wakui.

Astro Royale is quickly proving itself to be a worthy successor to Tokyo Revengers. At their core, both are stories about how amazing the human spirit can be. These are incredibly significant stories that can help motivate readers to keep chasing their dreams, no matter how hard the road ahead looks.