The second volume of MegaTokyo is noticeably chunkier than the first, and adds a further 172 online comic strips to the print, immediately following on from where the first volume left off. After changing from the four panel layout to a true manga style, Fred has continued to improve on his artwork to create a more authentic Japanese style which is still unique to each character.

Straight onto the artwork, and we can see that there is a leap from Volume 1. It's clear that Fred has improved his artwork over the time. What makes Fred's artwork even better than before is his care of detail, and we always see details in the background of each scene. Fred usually leaves the backgrounds sketchy in nature while the characters are crisp, focusing the attention to the character's at hand. However, the background still deserves equal attention as it creates a unique feeling and is interesting to look at in the least.

The plot continues where the first one left off. Piro and Kimiko have gotten to know each other a little, and Kimiko is inquisitive about Piro and asks her roommate, who works with Piro at MegaGamers (a gaming store). Kimiko also lands the job as a voice actor, and we see her feelings come out as she continues working at this job. Unlike the first volume, we get a further insight into the strange Tohya, and of course Piro's friend, Largo.

Alongside Largo we have the equally violent natures of Dom and Ed, appearing more dominantly to aid Largo in his fight against zombies. There's a particular humorous set of comics here that portrays Largo telling his story. To contrast this, at the same time, Piro is having problems with Kimiko. This is just one scene at which the artist, Fred Gallagher, is able to contrast two opposite ends and blend them together.

Volume 2 therefore follows Piro's and Largo's further "adventures" in Tokyo, as Piro has fit quite well in the gaming store. On the other hand, Largo manages to get confused as an English teacher at a local high-school and secures his own job. So with the both of them earning money, surely it won't be long until they leave Tokyo? Wrong, Piro and Largo have their fair share of problems, and therefore end up continuing living in Tokyo.

This volume does not contain a similar sketchbook as the first volume did as an extra, but has pieces of art by Fred Gallagher. As an extra feature, the main one is a short story (in text form) in the Endgames universe (an online game within the comic). The Endgames universe is mentioned several times during the comic, and therefore this short story gives us an insight into what the actual game is like, and also of the characteristics and preferences of Piro and Largo.

On the whole, this is an excellent read with a great blend of humour with Piro's troubles with Kimiko, and Yuri's troubles with Piro. Largo is on the rampage on his never-ending battle against zombies accompanied by more references to Dom and Ed. Volume 2 continues well from the first volume, and with the improved artwork, creates a definite purchase for all MegaTokyo fans and newcomers alike.

5/5

Originally published on www.mangaview.net