For one of my first adventures into the world of manga comics, Cannon God Exaxxion had much of what I expected and quite a bit that was fresh and new. The world has welcomed the alien Riofaldians, who bring upgraded technology to the Earth. Not everyone, however, is so accepting. Hoichi, nicknamed "Gun," is one of those people, especially since his grandfather is convinced that the kindly face of the Riofaldians is merely a prelude to invasion. His friend Akane, honors student and reporter for the school paper, wants to interview Hoichi's grandfather, but Hoichi is convinced that she only wants to smear his name more. Still, Akane is a true friend to him and proves it despite her journalist's nose for a story.

Hoichi gets into fights at school because of these beliefs, and almost misses a new student who is very interested in meeting him. Isaka is a lovely young woman with tremendous assets that make her very attractive to the young male population of the school. However, she is only interested in Hoichi. It turns out that she isn't really a girl at all, but an android designed by Hoichi's grandfather in order for him to fight the Riofaldans. Isaka, along with Exaxxion (the giant robot also created and deployed by his grandfather) are the weapons that will make Hoichi a hero.

Not all Riofaldans believe in the takeover, and the conflict between various Riofaldans as well as between humans and Riofladans is quite interesting. Miss Kin'ba, the Riofaldan teacher at Hoichi and Akane's school, is the most conflicted of these characters.

The black and grey artwork is detailed and tight, with some moments of wry humor. At times, I almost suspect the author of poking fun at the breast-centric school of manga art. Still, there are enough giant robots, violence and cute girls to attract the most casual manga reader, and a complex, interesting story for those looking for something a little stronger.

- Rambles
written by Beth Derochea
published 17 April 2004