A review by lavender__
Hikaru no Go, Vol. 23: Endgame by Yumi Hotta

emotional hopeful inspiring

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes

4.0

[im rambling. Also, this 'review' partly talks about previous volumes] Very fond of this series. Honestly, I'm not sure why it had to end at all, and feel like there were still many directions that this series still could've taken. I feel like

the theme of  "future and past" could've been better tied into this final volume, and also that like, few characters ever 'finished' their character development. HnG is a very,, continuous series? Like there are many characters left behind as Hikaru climbs the ranks of the go world, and while it's realistic that Hikaru of course cant stay in contact with all of them, i don't think the author gives proper closure? Like, why is there a new character taking up the third spot for the New Lions Cup, rather than an already established character? And he's been here for like 3 volumes or less and while the series is close to ending? (also kinda peeved that despite showing up in promo art for the series, Akari barely shows up in the series) Again its realistic, but it doesn't give proper closure

But I enjoyed the series all in all.  The characters are likable and have a clearly understood mindset. I admire how gutsy it is for the author to have the

main character lose his final tournament game, in the final volume. I wouldn't be surprised if many fans were unhappy with this decision, and I myself, was so surprised when I read it, thinking well, Hikaru is the protagonist, he'll secure a win somehow.

Definitely a series ill remember