Idol x Idol Story!

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Idol×Idol Story caught my eye with its beautiful and cheerful cover and what a surprise !

Story : 9/10
The premise of Idol×Idol Story is reminiscent of TV shows where several contestants compete to avoid elimination (to a lesser degree than Blue Lock, for example). In a secluded place, 16 chosen candidates, aged between 14 and 22, face elimination after each test. They are divided into teams based on a ranking system that promotes inequality. The unfolding efficiency of events masterfully hooked me in the story’s flow. The development is not left behind and the pacing is just right, ensuring it remains engaging throughout. With a clear ... and concise plot, we also experience a reasonable number of twists and tensions. Not to mention the various points of view the author offers us along with bonus panels after every chapter that add to the idol-like feeling.

Art : 9/10
The author of New Game! has truly mastered his pencil over the years. Despite the similar-looking faces, each character design is thoughtful, and while we encounter some typical tropes, it’s easy to discern our 16 girls. The artwork has depth accentuating the black and white colors with well-executed paneling. The exaggerated facial expressions are always a delight. The motion is extremely precise and detailed bringing the characters to life during the peak moments (although it’s a shame there’s no sound). And of course, the girls are adorable as shown in the covers and the bonus panels with their amazing outfits.

Character : 9/10
With 16 characters, it might be daunting to memorize them all, but it's not. Each character undergoes development at their own pace and the focus is well-thought to not undermine the rhythm. Besides, we still have a summary of the 16 girls and their relationships in case of. Within each group, the characters face challenges and their interactions with each other is what makes them progress collectively rather than individually. They are cute, funny, endearing, and mischievous; their feelings and efforts are conveyed to us effectively. You’ll surely find your oshi and root for them to avoid elimination. Personally, I have taken a liking even to the initially plain girls and I find myself loving all 16 of them, plus the secondary cast too. Surprisingly, the presence of young adults contributes significantly and we engage in mature topics and discussions as well.

Enjoyment : 10/10
More than the usual CGDCT, the stakes strengthen our engagement and I found myself unable to stop reading. I've only watched and read a few works in the idol genre, but this one manages to stand out and has really grown on me. Tokutaro truly loves idols and we can feel his passion in Idol×Idol Story.

Idol X Idol Story! is introducing something new to the 2D idol sphere by bringing something that's common from the 3D idol world.

As an idol fan, it's always exciting for me to see an element I often see with real idols being brought up in idol anime or manga. In this case, the plot of having idols going through an idol survival show where girls that have dreams of becoming idols are competing with each other to get a spot in the final group.

There are a lot of potential from the premise alone. As idols that perform in groups, they have to work together and ... form bonds. Add the competitive element, and drama is bound to happen as well. All these facilitate character development and excitement for the plot.

Like many idol series, the story is character-driven. It has quite a big cast from the get go with everyone having unique traits. Unfortunately, the story can be a little bit rushed and some characters aren't developed enough, reducing the impact on some twists later on. However, it is something that gets better over time as each characters are slowly getting more and more of their story told, allowing readers to know and connect with them more.

The drama in this manga is executed pretty lightly, which can be a minus or a plus depending on individual taste. I personally expected heavier drama often seen in idol survival shows, so this manga can feel a bit dull at times with its more laid-back drama. However, it would probably be perfect for those who likes something that's more chill.

It's not the perfect idol manga, but it is bringing something new that touch upon a really prominent subject in the real idol world while still making it suitable for manga audience through its unique characters. It is worth a try for those who like idols - 2D and 3D alike - and CGDCT fans who is looking for just a little bit more spice from the usual relaxing fluffy slice of life. It is probably not for someone who is looking more into the world of real idol industry with a more serious and deep approach, nor it is for those looking for romance since the manga really focuses on the characters' dreams of becoming idols.

First of all, with all due respect, I have zero time to get invested in 16 DIFFERENT IDOL GIRLS WITH EACH OF THEM HAVING A SO CALLED "DIFFERENT PERSONLITIES" LOL. Why did the author even think this was a good idea. Slight reason could be how authors plan was all along to plan so much filler that plot is irrelevant.
Remember 16 different people. I bet also they have so easy backstories like being a nerd, but then you realize you have potential. Or lets just pull out the "Parents died at a young age and i need to take care of my siblings".

I think ... you already know the gist of the story. 16 people form a idol group. They suck at the start. But then we learn all their reasons and their backstories. And then they win some kind of tournament/festival. And then they lose etc. Its predictable. Copy and Paste from other mangas.
Idols have such boring outcome and development arc. They will always be static/stale because they are the same after and before following the plot. Always the same child trauma or parents force you to sing etc.