After repeated destruction caused by Akira, Neo Tokyo ends up a divided city [in ruins]. Within its borders two forces arise - Empire lead by Akira and Tetsuo and Lady Miyako's conclave. As city slowly devolves into chaos and conflict is started between two forces, some other players start popping out and it is not quite clear what is their goal.

Talking about objectives, Lady Miyako is The Enigma in this book. Her provocation will force Tetsuo to take steps into unknown that can become quite a deadly turn of events. Question remains why since it is more than obvious psychics are highly unstable and great danger to entire world.
And while for everyone (including Tetsuo) it might seem that he is controlling Akira as story progresses it becomes clear that Akira is not just a puppet and could be the true mastermind here.

Excellent story progression. While it might seem slower than first three books this one is important because it sets the stage for the showdown between Empire and [at the moment] unknown military forces.

Highly recommended. ( )

Neo-Tokyo is in complete ruins, Kaneda got engulfed by the massive explosion, Kei is alone with no one around to protect her, and Akira and Tetsuo are leading a new empire in the ruined city. This is still pretty amazing but the misogynist attitude of the men is so rough in this volume and was kind of hard to stomach. ( )

4.25

Things slow down and more world building and character development come into play as we are introduced to our newly realised post-apocalyptic world. This is where the scope and meat of the story really begins to take shape, and it's great to be getting to this part of the story.

Of course, this is Oshi; so "slowing down" does not in any way mean the absence of action. In some instances the brawls feel a bit contrived and unnecessary, and it's sadly no suprise that we get a bit of nudity and attempted rape (a manga cliché). Overlooking these unnecessary additions, it is a great piece of work. The final act especially just elevates everything, possibly making this the best volume so far. ( )

Wizard Top 100 of All Time: 41a
IGN Ultimate Bookshelf Essential

What. The. Crap. Is going on?

This whole thing has taken a left turn, and yet it hasn't. It's been a big paranormal mess from the beginning. Kaneda has left the Earth, but isn't dead and Neo-Tokyo has been left to fend for itself by the powers that be. Akira doesn't speak and Tetsuo is in waaaay over his head.

I must go on and figure out what the hell is going on. ( )