Introduction

Have you ever come across a manga with art so ugly that it becomes strangely captivating? Well, that’s exactly what you’ll find in 81 Diver. Trust me, you won’t be able to look away!

A Unique Creation by Shibata Yokusaru

81 Diver is the brainchild of Shibata Yokusaru, the mastermind behind Airmaster. The manga revolves around Sugata Kentarou, a shougi player with a gambling addiction, and the woman he loves, “Ukeshi”, a maid with generous proportions who is also a legendary shougi player known for her defensive and reactionary play. While I may not completely understand the ins and outs of shougi, the intense matches depicted in this manga keep me on the edge of my seat.

An Unforgettable Moment

Let me share with you one of the most memorable scenes in 81 Diver. Sugata finds himself playing against a shougi hermit who lives as a hobo. The stakes are high, with money on the line for Sugata. However, the hermit has an unusual request – he wants to touch Ukeshi’s breasts if he wins. Rather than dismissing this outrageous demand, Sugata decides to turn it into a serious match, forgoing the money to satisfy his desire. And so, the two engage in a fierce and intense game of shougi, fueled by their overwhelming motivation to “grab em!” But, as you might expect, the match takes an unexpected turn. I won’t spoil the ending, but rest assured, it’s the kind of manga that keeps you guessing.

Beauty in Imperfection

You may be wondering if 81 Diver’s charm translates well into other media forms, such as the J-drama adaptation. Personally, I have yet to explore it, as I fear the actors’ polished appearances may detract from the manga’s appeal. In fact, I believe that if the art were prettier or more sexually appealing, it would fundamentally alter the essence of 81 Diver. The manga’s premise of a shougi-playing maid with exaggerated physical attributes could easily devolve into a shallow depiction of seduction and objectification, similar to works like Ikkitousen or Queen’s Blade. However, Shibata Yokusaru’s artistic style manages to divert attention away from Ukeshi’s attractiveness, despite the ample time dedicated to describing her voluptuousness. The unconventional and outrageous art actually serves to emphasize Ukeshi’s incredible shougi skills. It’s this unique combination that makes 81 Diver a must-read.

In conclusion, 81 Diver is a hidden gem in the manga world. Its unconventional art style, gripping matches, and absurd romance make it a truly one-of-a-kind experience. If you’re looking for something out of the ordinary that will keep you entertained and guessing, then give 81 Diver a try. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed!

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