The story of Evangelion, its characterizations and mysteries and plots within plots and atmosphere and uncanny robots and monsters, is of course something I must admit I consider to be faultless. I strongly admire Evangelion and what its decades-unfolding tale has to say about morality and depression and responsibility and sin and human nature and so much more. That being said: this first omnibus (collecting volumes 1-3 of the manga) is surprisingly succinct and thorough. I’m sure that there’s a bias/understanding lent by having watched the series and movies over and over again these many years. However, there’s lots to admire here: powerful line work in the art, the shading and texture of the characters and Eva Units 00 and 01 as well as the angels all looks striking and unique and wonderful. The dialogue of this manga, often a departure from the anime, feels natural and cohesive with the anime while remaining its own coherent story. I am satisfied with this interpretation of Evangelion, so far. And the bonus interviews and color artwork are phenomenal!