When you think of “Usagi Yojimbo,” you think of medieval Japan, samurai, ninja, political intrigue and furry characters. One of the newest stories, “Kaito’84,” is so different that it doesn’t have Stan Sakai involved in the creative process. Instead, there’s Zach Rosenberg (script) and Jarred Cullum (art and letters)
In a timeline where the ‘Usagi Yojimbo” characters live in 1980s Japan, Usagi and Yukichi, known as Kai and Yu in this universe, are a bunch of thugs stealing just to survive and own a car that barely starts. One day, Kai is given an offer from an “assistant to a high-ranking cabinet member of the Japanese Diet,” who will pay them lots of money, provide a new car, and have their records expunged. All they have to do is steal a spear that’s on display at the Osaka Castle Museum.
Obviously, there must be a lot more to this or else it wouldn’t be “Usagi Yojimbo.” Sadly, the first issue is missing the magic that comes with the series. Not that there is anything wrong with putting these characters in 1980s Japan, but the way the first issue sets up the story is a little dull. Yes, it has a car chase and possible political intrigue, but so far it feels OK.
The artwork seems to be the best part of the comic. It looks like a gritty 1980s comic with its dark colors, gritty city life vibe and overall ugliness that’s expected from that era. Some fans will not appreciate the artwork, saying it does not look like “Usagi Yojimbo” at all, but it fits perfectly in the context of the story.
“Kaito ’84” doesn’t have Sakai or anything people associate with the series to the point that some fans may be put off. The story is OK and the artwork works with the plot, but it may not be for everyone. A “Usagi Yojimbo” story like this can work if done correctly, but the plot is what’s holding it back.
Leave a Reply