I've been interested in Berserk for a while, it's one of the classic manga and a huge inspiration to a ton of the grimdark authors that I enjoy. I've watched about 10 episodes of the 1997 anime adaptation before I fell off; figuring I'd enjoy it better if I had read the manga first. I've finally decided to do that, and I really enjoyed this first volume.Volume 1 contains the first 3 chapters of the manga, and takes place chronologically after the anime and future chapters. It's fun, but it really just throws you in. Nothing is explained, but we're introduced to Guts and his awesome sword, as well as some bits and pieces of the world.

It's terribly violent and doesn't apologize for it. There are decapitations, beheadings, nudity, and pretty much everything else just in these few short chapters. It's easy to see how so many fantasy authors were inspired, even if grimdark has waned a bit recently. I did feel some panels were a bit overdrawn and busy; it made it a bit hard to see what was going on sometimes. A minor complaint in what seems to be a great story. I'm excited to keep reading to see what makes Berserk so highly recommended.