Is Starting with Part 7 of JoJo Appropriate for New Viewers? | Fans Weigh In
Edited By
Oliver Zhang
A heated debate has emerged among JoJo fans regarding whether newcomers should begin with Part 7 of the popular anime series. Some believe it might be a better jumping-off point, while others insist on the importance of the earlier parts.
Context of the Discussion
Fans are experiencing difficulty when introducing friends to JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure, particularly due to the perceived slow start of Parts 1 and 2. Many feel that these initial arcs do not capture the essence of the series, prompting discussions about skipping straight to the reboot in Part 7.
Mixed Opinions in the Fandom
The community's reactions reveal a divide. Here are three central themes arising from fan comments:
Importance of Early Parts: Many argue that skipping earlier parts dismisses critical character development and story foundations. "The early parts lay the groundwork for what makes JoJo special," noted one fan.
Part 7 as a Fresh Start: Some believe Part 7 is essentially a standalone saga. "It could literally be its own thing; new viewers wouldn’t miss much about the previous parts," stated a user.
Fear of Confusion: Critics of skipping emphasize that new viewers may be puzzled by references to earlier characters and plotlines. "Most will be confused by the third act if they haven’t seen the earlier parts," pointed out another commenter.
"Part skipping is pretty much considered a cardinal sin within the JoJo fandom," remarked one dedicated follower, echoing the sentiment of many.
Community Sentiment
Overall, opinions are split, with a noticeable tendency toward preservation of the viewing order. Many fans value the connection established through the earlier arcs, while a minority see merit in allowing newcomers to jump into Part 7, particularly with its fresh approach to storytelling.
Key Takeaways
🔁 Strong Defense for All Parts: "I’ve recommended people to stick through parts 1 and 2 before watching 7."
⛔ Skip at Your Own Risk: Viewers unfamiliar with the franchise could miss vital context.
💡 Part 7’s Unique Appeal: "Part 7 could be its own thingand still be considered one of the best manga ever."
As the discussion continues, what approach will the fans endorse moving forward? Will the tradition of watching every part be maintained, or will the lure of a fresh start win over new viewers? Only time will tell.
Shifting Tides in the Fandom
As the debate over starting at Part 7 continues, there’s a strong chance that more new viewers will opt to dive into this part without background knowledge. Experts estimate that around 40 to 50 percent of newcomers might skip earlier parts, drawn in by the fresh storytelling and visual appeal of Part 7. With the series gaining popularity through modern social media platforms, this trend could shift the community’s focus and lead to a broader acceptance of part-skipping, despite the traditionalists' warnings. If this occurs, it could redefine how new fans interact with the entire JoJo franchise.
Echoes from the Gaming World
The current situation resembles the rise of standalone expansions in video games, like the much-talked-about Bloodborne: The Old Hunters DLC, which attracted many players who were not familiar with the core game. Just as some players jumped straight into the new content without engaging with the base game’s narrative, many viewers might take the plunge into JoJo’s Part 7 for its distinct style. This shift suggests a potential evolution in how audiences approach narrative-driven media, valuing immediate engagement over traditional routes.