Review: #911
Title: Accel World 18: The Black Dual Swordsman
Series: Accel World – 18th volume
Author: Reki Kawahara
Comments: The plot slowly moves forward because the author tends to overindulge himself with battle sequences. In this case, it takes up half the volume. At the end of the last volume, the appearance of the final former member of Nega Nebulus leaves the characters stunned and we see how overpowered this character is. Merged into this is the introduction of the new space themed level which feels a lot like a gimmick and somewhat improbable. Once the battle is over, the plan to strike the Acceleration Research Society is revealed in bits and pieces. As per usual, this plan is sidetracked with yet another subplot in which Haru partners up with someone in order to investigate the nature of Brain Burst. The massive amounts of exposition and excessive amount of description can start to drag the atmosphere down but at its core, the story is still gripping. The whole nature of Brain Burst has evolved so much, with so many mechanics added that it is completely unrecognizable from when it was first introduced. Like the previous volume, there is a short story. It focuses on Blood Leopard and Scarlet Rain, diving in their backgrounds. Chronologically, it is set close to the volume, right before the school festival. It gives a deeper insight in Blood Leopard and her real life, but is otherwise optional.
Rating: 6/10