Zyword

The kingdom of Araimel has been put under a spell and only two survivors remain. The fate of the realm of Zyword itself rests in the hands of the talented spell caster, Princess Lunatia Araimel, the king's young daughter. Blessed by the Goddess, and indebted to those who did not survive, Lunatia journeys to the Supreme Council of the Holy Valstoke Church in hopes that she might learn the truth of Zyword's cruel fate. Created by former CLAMP member Akiyama, Zyword should be a breathtaking story of adventure, love and determination. Unfortunately it reads an awful lot like a video game, only without the excitement of interactive play. The plot is thin, and though the action sequences are extremely well drawn, it all feels flat. The artwork is beautiful, drawn with all of the elements essential to CLAMP's style, and Akiyama's attention to detail is supreme; the art essentially carries this book. Despite the backing of a big name and exquisite style, Zyworld is simply forgettable. (Aug.)