Kizudarake no Jinsei

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Somehow a spinoff of a spinoff of a spinoff ends up being one of the best and most consistent entries in a series.

Kizudarake no Jinsei is a spinoff of the Tough franchise, specifically the spinoff about Kibo's dad, Oton. However the story of Jinsei is (for the most part) far more compelling than the Tough Sequel. Despite being about a larger than life bulletproof yakuza, its a story far more grounded in reality, and feels more reminiscent of something like Yomawari Sensei rather than Tough. As usual it has fantastic art, a interesting array of characters and all the best parts of a ... Tetsuya Saruwatari story, with none of the downsides.

You wont find the life or death hardcore MMA of Tough here, nor the dry wit of Oton but what you will find is a profound respect for life, and lessons on everything that a man is supposed to be. Jinsei is about being a man amongst men, about old school values, having an iron will, a determination and dedication to abstract larger than life concepts such as honour and integrity.

Ultimately if you want more TOUGH, I recommend this series, but if you're also like me and found the sequel to Tough dull, unfulfilling, and nowhere near as compelling as the prequel, then you'll enjoy this series far more than the Tough sequel. The only part I could say I disliked was the ending, but I would say the ending was quite fitting, and truthfully I just wanted more.

Scarred Jensei has been an intense and emotional ride so far. The mix of action and emotions really makes you connect with his struggle to move forward while his past keeps pulling him back.

For anyone who’s into Tough, this is definitely a recommendation. It’s got that same gritty feel, but with more focus on character growth and the emotional journey. I’m only at chapter 80, but the story has been strong so far. The pacing can be a bit slow in parts, but the development of Jinsei’s character makes up for it. If you're into action that hits you emotionally too, Scarred Jensei is worth ... picking up!