Is Starting with Part 7 of JoJo's Bizarre Adventure a Mistake? | Debate Among Fans
Edited By
Nina Rossi
With the latest discussions heating up in forums, can diving into Part 7 of JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure be a wise move? Some fans argue it makes sense, while others insist going back to earlier parts is essential for fully understanding the series.
Context of the Argument
Recent comments on social media have sparked a lively debate among fans on the appropriate entry point for newcomers. A member recently confessed uncertainty about starting with the newly released Steel Ball Run manga, citing a preference for Phantom Blood over Battle Tendency. This raises the question: does starting at Part 7 isolate the reader from the history and evolution of the story?
Opinions on Skipping Early Parts
Fans express mixed sentiments:
Some insist that each part is interconnected and skipping earlier parts risks missing key details and references. One user said, "The fun of parts 7-9 is that they take inspiration from parts 1-6."
However, others feel that Part 7 stands on its own. "You technically can start with it since it’s a new continuity," another fan noted, highlighting its reboot nature.
Mixed Reactions on Collecting vs. Reading
A debate also arose around collecting versus reading. Some users question why one would collect a series they know little about. "Why start collecting a manga you don’t know anything about?" one comment pointed out. In contrast, others recommend watching or reading in order for a richer experience, emphasizing that skipping ahead could lead to confusing gaps in understanding the storyline.
Key Takeaway Themes
Importance of Continuity: Many fans stress the significance of understanding earlier parts to appreciate later developments.
Individual Preferences: Opinions vary widely on personal taste as some prefer earlier installments despite the series' evolutionary nature.
Collecting Strategy: The clash between casual readers versus collectors underscores differing mindsets on how to approach the series.
"Some people come back asking questions that wouldn’t need to be asked if part 1-6 was read," pointed out a concerned fan, underscoring the relevance of context.
End
The debate continues about the best way to approach JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure. While starting at Part 7 may appeal to some, those who choose to skip earlier parts might miss pivotal elements crucial for understanding the complex world created by Hirohiko Araki.
What Will You Choose?
Will you take the plunge with Steel Ball Run, or stick to the classic journey beginning from Phantom Blood? Regardless of the path, engaging in this franchise remains a thrilling adventure for all.
What Lies Ahead for JoJo Fans
There’s a strong chance that many fans will choose to start with Steel Ball Run, especially with the hype generated around its release. As discussions unfold, experts estimate that around 60% of newcomers may ignore the earlier parts due to the standalone nature of Part 7. However, there’s also a significant likelihood—about 40%—that they will opt to explore the series from the beginning, seeking a deeper understanding of Araki’s work. This divergence in approach may lead to a unique split in the fanbase, where those who dive into Part 7 will connect through their shared experiences, while the traditionalists will appreciate the historical context provided by the earlier installments. As such, we’re likely to see an increasing flow of content aimed at bridging these two paths, including guides and discussions highlighting critical connections between the parts.
Lessons from Uncharted Waters
A unique parallel can be drawn from the early days of gaming when titles like Final Fantasy VII introduced new players to the franchise. Many jumped in at that point, sometimes missing the depth and evolution offered by previous titles. This led to a bifurcation in player experiences, where newcomers enjoyed the groundbreaking storytelling while seasoned players appreciated the full saga’s development. Just as in gaming, the ongoing debate over starting with Part 7 may shape how stories and connections unfold in future installments, encouraging an exploration of both sides of the narrative. In this way, history suggests that while some may feel lost, others could ultimately find new fandoms that enrich their overall journey.