This manga is a brilliant little masterpiece. Whilst the theme of the plot may seem overdrawn for some - a post apocalyptic world with only a single human survivor trying to regain knowledge of their old human civilisation - I can guarantee this work does it's due diligence to this trope and enacts it beautifully through in depth character and relationship development; a simple but effective world-building; and thought provoking and memorable chapters. It is bittersweet, it is hopeful, it is naive and comforting and yet unrelenting and chilling.
FORMATTING AND STORY TELLING STYLE COMPOUNDING THEMATIC CONTENT - I am personally a fan of show
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rather than tell story-telling as I find it more engaging, but Rojica to Rakkasei's world development is mostly pushed through the verbal teachings of Isaac, one of the main cast. Despite this incongruence to my personal tastes, I still found this world quite enjoyable and well thought out, and could feel that the teachings of Isaac were properly reflected in the world in following chapters consistently. Sometimes there are stories that simply have to be told, and I feel the simple and straightforward explanations of the world are stylistically fitting to this manga as a whole, capturing the simple curiosity and naivety of the characters quite perfectly.
The same as mentioned above can also be said for the art and its style itself, as I've given it a 10 despite the obvious lack of complexity it holds. This is due to the way the story and characters are represented - I feel any other art style would simply not have the same effect and as such the art style is perfectly chosen - a ten in my eyes. The whole tone and thematic execution of this story would be vastly different and less approachable if it were to be drawn in a more detailed style - or even just in a darker or more brutal style with more gruesome content. Rather than deeply unsettling or 'scary', Rakkasei is bittersweet (to me at least) and so I very much enjoy this easy to read and fun art style in relation to the tone it is trying to evoke, and the story and characters which it depicts.
It's also important for a manga with so few chapters as this that it is able to hook the reader as soon as possible and to not waste any of the limited pages it has with 'pointless' or out of character interactions or chapters. Rakkasei manages this very well, introducing readers to a curious and intriguing world from the get-go in chapter one and quickly compounding on this initial world creation with the evocation of the tone of the series in the content of chapter two. These alternating chapters of optimism and bleak nihilism continue throughout in quite a metaphorical way that is very enjoyable to read and interpret.
MEMORABLE AND MOVING CHARACTERS - There are so many loveable and deeply memorable characters within this manga. From the main cast to the side characters, even the one off characters or background characters - everyone is given a simple, fun, and unique design befitting their personal characteristics. Characters that aren't among the main cast also get their own development, as the manga often gives these side or background characters specific chapters to shine - two of the most major of these being Cain and Abel, and Grace and Nana - both pairs who moved me quite deeply by the end of the series.
I was dubious as to how attached I could become to these characters being such a simply formatted and told story and yet within only 25 chapters I was enthralled and moved beyond my expectations. Non-human characters expressing or attempting to replicate human values or actions is always something very intriguing to me and characters who struggle with these concepts are always the most appealing characters to me from any and all forms of media. As such, C3 was probably able to climb my ladder of favourite characters fairly quickly. Although it may be somewhat different to this character archetype, I still feel he reflects this trope with his lonely longing (that is further explored as the series develops) and determination to fulfil his role in the saviour of humanity, despite the objective futility of it.
SUBVERSION OF EXPECTATIONS FROM CUTE ART STYLE SHOWCASING THE NAIVETY OF OPTIMISM IN AN UNFORGIVING WORLD - I have always been a fan of manga that subvert your initial expectations - ones that shock you once you find the actual content inside of them behind their cutesy covers and art styles (for example series such as Made in Abyss or Puella Magi Madoka Magica). The cute yet dark and startling trope has been done before certainly, but not quite like how Kinome has pulled it off with Rojica. Rojica to Rakkasei retains its childish naivety until the end - unlike others of this trope, the art style doesn't gradually get darker or deal with heavier content - it is thorough and consistent which I believe sets it apart from the others of a similar thematic trope or execution.
Overall, Rojica to Rakkasei very quickly gained a spot in my top manga, or even media in general. It invites the curious and those piqued by human emotions or moral ambiguities with a simple and yet chilling, bittersweet story of a modern and yet long lost Earthen civilisation. I believe this manga is accessible to those of many ages unlike similar themed stories - the simplistic discussion of the inhumane invites the nihilistic adult whilst the optimistic characters and themes invite the kind-hearted child or preteen. It is very re-readable - short and to the point, although I still yearn to see more of these characters in the future. Definitely a deeply impactful series deserving of the praise it receives.
 Alternative TitlesJapanese: ロジカとラッカセイ InformationType: Manga
Volumes: 3
Chapters: 25
Status: Finished
Published: Nov 17, 2017 to Jul 12, 2019
Theme:
Psychological
Serialization:
Kurage Bunch Authors:
Kinome (Story & Art) Statistics Ranked: #6382 2 based on the top manga page. Please note that 'R18+' titles are excluded. Popularity: #3082
Members: 7,201
Favorites: 195 Available At | Reviews
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Jun 9, 2021
This manga is a brilliant little masterpiece. Whilst the theme of the plot may seem overdrawn for some - a post apocalyptic world with only a single human survivor trying to regain knowledge of their old human civilisation - I can guarantee this work does it's due diligence to this trope and enacts it beautifully through in depth character and relationship development; a simple but effective world-building; and thought provoking and memorable chapters. It is bittersweet, it is hopeful, it is naive and comforting and yet unrelenting and chilling.
FORMATTING AND STORY TELLING STYLE COMPOUNDING THEMATIC CONTENT - I am personally a fan of show ... 
May 17, 2021
(This review will contain NO spoilers) I have never fallen head over heels in love with a manga so quickly before. This had everything I was looking for in it. This is my first review ever, I'm not great at these and this will be very bias hahaha.
I am very picky when it comes to what I spend my time reading and I often drop manga very quickly if it's not up to par with what I like. Rojica to Rakkasei offered so much in just the first chapter, a slice of life story with a very cute main cast! It did a fantastic job ... 
Nov 19, 2020
I live this story. it at first seems like your run of the mill fantasy slice of life, but it reveals itself to be an extremely interesting story.
It takes the form of many small stories, with a larger one underneath. it takes place in an apocalypse, and strange creatures run around the world. part of what makes this so interesting is that, through its cute art style, it pursues both bright and dark themes of philosophical natures. I highly recommend this series. it is a hidden gem. a shame that its so short though. ... 
Jun 22, 2021
This manga is a treasure to me. Without going in with much knowledge of it I quickly took it for a manga with charming qualities and adventure time aspects. After a few chapters I realized it went for a completely different story which I was not expecting at all. A story that leads you on in both the best and worst ways.
Story - The story for these is overall very charming and energetic. Of course that is what it wants you to expect. The element of surprise is definitely there for this series. It is able to blend good and bad seamlessly by showing different ... 
Jan 21, 2022
From first glance Rojica to Rakkasei may seem like a fun little slice of life story. But underneath that its a dark tale of love,friendship,duty & survival. The author masterfully incorporates these dark themes with lighthearted moments in a way that it doesn't feel forced.
In just 25 chapters this manga will engulf you in a post humanity world where you meet different people of species & learn their secrets along with the mysteries of the past. The art is simple but that doesn't take away from this beautifully crafted story. It never drags nor feels too short If you're looking for a short manga with ... 
Dec 1, 2022
This manga is so comfy and comedic, if you're someone who likes the comedy and wholesomeness in Undertale and Adventure Time. Then you've hit home. It's a perfect mix between those two, the characters have such good synergy between eachothers and everyone is so likeable. The world aswell they just work so well hand in hand.
The arstyle feels so simplistic at times but is often impactful and really makes you feel and pause for a good minute. Some panels are just a work of art, and made me really appreicate the work and story. Other times it's mostly cute and i love that. Especially how ... 
Jun 22, 2024
Rojica to Rakkasei offers a refreshing take on the post-apocalyptic genre, blending whimsy with an mysterious atmosphere. The story follows Rojica and his unusual companion, Rakkasei, as they navigate a world that's both desolate and strangely charming.
What sets this manga apart is its unique storytelling approach. Instead of focusing on grandiose plots or intense action, it delves into the everyday lives and small adventures of the protagonists. This slice-of-life element, set against a post-apocalyptic backdrop, creates a fascinating contrast that keeps readers engaged. One special aspect that made me love this manga is the dynamic between Rojica and Rakkasei. Their friendship feels genuine and heartfelt, providing ... 
Apr 14, 2022
This one reminded me of Adventure Time, probably because of the whole post-apocalyptic and “last human on earth” vibes but that’s not all about it.
It was a really immersive experience. It’s got an entrancing set of characters each more unique than the last. It’s light and uplifting most of the time but be warned cause it’s got a few bone-chilling moments. I found Rojica and Rakka’s parent/friend relationship so wholesome and refreshing. I would have loved for it to have delved deeper into the the past and I think it could have been longer but I’m okay with what it is anyway since the ... |
