Review by Ian Keogh

How do you fight water? That’s the problem the heroes have to overcome in the opening chapter of Sacrifice. However, the big news is that after goodness knows how many volumes, we finally get to see One-Punch Man throw not just the single punch, but two. The monsters are beginning to realise just how strong Saitama is, but the continuing joke is the heroes continuing to underestimate him, puzzled, not quite sure why he’s hanging around.

Readers know, though, even if he is underground just to complain about the noise. After four volumes beneath the surface, in Sacrifice writer One finally reintroduces the Monster Association’s leader, but they’re not around for long. Considering the protracted build-up, some might have expected something longer, but the title chapter dealing with Orochi is perfect as it is. It’s beautifully understated, very funny and a neat bit of plotting. One even tops it by reintroducing King, and everyone assuming King was responsible for the decisive moment.

As ever, Yusuke Murata delivers energetic action, and a multitude of great looking monsters. Some are threatening, others deliberately funny, but all match their names and personalities.

If there’s any thought that the defeat of their leader knocks the stuffing out of the Monster Association, One soon dispels it. After all, none of them know what’s happened, so they continue to think they have the advantage. One-Punch Man will remain in the tunnels for Drive Knight as well. The previously defeated Super S proves a threat once again, and Amai Mask comes into contact with his worst fear, and that’s where this volume ends.