What do you think?
Rate this book
Oblivion Rouge, Volume 1: The HAKKINEN
Oblivion Rouge follows the career of a young teenage villager named Oumi as she becomes embroiled in a conflict that threatens a futuristic Africa and the world itself.
In the near future, a virus called the LEUP has infected half the population . The resulting war between the people of Liam, known as the infected, and the people of Galoum, known as the immune, becomes a bloody and brutal affair. When a mysterious army called the Hakkinen emerges to quell the war between the two countries , they adopt children of war to aid them. Oumi and her friends are enlisted to help find a cure and end the bloodshed. With an all-African cast, Oblivion Rouge stems from the roots of West African philosophy . It is both a brutal dystopian depiction of the future and a beautiful adventure that explores the depth of the human spirit . Oumi has made a promise to never suffer the losses and humiliation she has already seen in her young life. But with strange forces gathering against her continent, can she overcome her own insecurities to lead her people to paradise? Oblivion Rouge is rated OT for Older Teen, recommended for ages 16 and up.
Saturday AM, the world’s most diverse manga-inspired comics, are now presented in a new format! Introducing Saturday AM TANKS , the new graphic novel format similar to Japanese Tankobons where we collect the global heroes and artists of Saturday AM. These handsome volumes have select color pages, revised artwork, and innovative post-credit scenes that help bring new life to our popular BIPOC, LGBTQ, and/or culturally diverse characters. Join in even more adventures with the other action-packed Saturday AM TANKS Apple Black , Clock Striker , Gunhild , Hammer , Henshin! , The Massively Multiplayer World of Ghosts , Saigami , Soul Beat , Titan King , Underground , and Yellow Stringer .
In the near future, a virus called the LEUP has infected half the population . The resulting war between the people of Liam, known as the infected, and the people of Galoum, known as the immune, becomes a bloody and brutal affair. When a mysterious army called the Hakkinen emerges to quell the war between the two countries , they adopt children of war to aid them. Oumi and her friends are enlisted to help find a cure and end the bloodshed. With an all-African cast, Oblivion Rouge stems from the roots of West African philosophy . It is both a brutal dystopian depiction of the future and a beautiful adventure that explores the depth of the human spirit . Oumi has made a promise to never suffer the losses and humiliation she has already seen in her young life. But with strange forces gathering against her continent, can she overcome her own insecurities to lead her people to paradise? Oblivion Rouge is rated OT for Older Teen, recommended for ages 16 and up.
Saturday AM, the world’s most diverse manga-inspired comics, are now presented in a new format! Introducing Saturday AM TANKS , the new graphic novel format similar to Japanese Tankobons where we collect the global heroes and artists of Saturday AM. These handsome volumes have select color pages, revised artwork, and innovative post-credit scenes that help bring new life to our popular BIPOC, LGBTQ, and/or culturally diverse characters. Join in even more adventures with the other action-packed Saturday AM TANKS Apple Black , Clock Striker , Gunhild , Hammer , Henshin! , The Massively Multiplayer World of Ghosts , Saigami , Soul Beat , Titan King , Underground , and Yellow Stringer .
224 pages, Paperback
Published July 19, 2022
6 people are currently reading
71 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
January 22, 2023
Papsouleye is an absolutely phenomenal illustrator & story teller. He is part of a new wave of manga artists paving the way for new & diverse ideas, stories & art. I felt attached to Oumi & her tragic backstory & felt sympathy for the insane conflict she did not ask to be part of. Its an interesting & captivating read that will have you amazed with Papsouleye’s illustrations & emotional dialogue. It does not disappoint!!
January 6, 2023
Beautifully detailed, unique art style makes the book fun to read. The visual storytelling is impeccable, with exactly enough detail to leave readers wanting to know more about what's happening. The first time I read the piece, it was easy to get lost in all the characters and environments. Interestingly, the story and pace opened itself up across multiple readings. The artist takes readers into the labyrinth with his characters. Will you make it to the other side?
January 6, 2023
The artistic excellence in this book is overwhelming. All friendships and ties are put to the test while these young soldiers fight to defend a shared cause… complicated (and emotional) in all the right ways. The visual description in the drawings goes above and beyond, it really brings you into this post apocalyptic world and gives you that feeling of urgency. Also love to see such a badass female protagonist as the ruler of her own world. Can’t wait for vol 2
January 21, 2023
I’ve been following Pap on socials for a minute and his art was so intriguing, when I saw he had physical releases of this coming I knew it was gonna be a purchase. From the world building influence by his west African roots to the surprisingly dark and brutal opening arc, I gotta say Oblivion Rouge is definitely going on the regular read list for sure. If you love wonderfully paced, intriguing world building, incredible power systems, and above all killer art, please read Oblivion rouge
July 24, 2022
I was so bummed when I ran out of story to read, staring at the book, and flipping through for more. So, so good, so different, so intriguing, and absolutely unique. With vibes of the Hunger Games in a afro-futuristic setting where a virus is ravaging the country, there's nothing to not love in this book. So excited to see where it goes and what happens with the characters!
June 16, 2022
This is exactly the post-apocalypse story that I never knew I needed. Afro-futuristic + post-apocalypse + Hunger Games style bloodbath of brain vs brawn + fascinating disease that is wiping out the population = a stellar story that I couldn't put down!
I need more, this was so incredible.
I need more, this was so incredible.
July 15, 2022
Oblivion Rouge is a mix of post-apocalypse ,Sci-Fi and Battle Royale like graphic novel.
Kind of Revolutionary book who tried to tell African Story in the modern way.
Brillant and Genius.
Kind of Revolutionary book who tried to tell African Story in the modern way.
Brillant and Genius.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 22, 2023
Amazing author with fancy imagination and a beautiful father as far as the storyboards are concerned. Much recommended
January 27, 2023
There's something ominous in the atmosphere, Oblivion Rouge, the debut novel of Sengalese-American artist Pap Souleye Fall comes with gore and grit. His art style adds malice and macabre just as the story telling and world builds around you.
We follow Oumi as she navigates the trauma of dead loved ones, her own past, and the threat of Leup and Hells. Once I began reading I instantly felt the tension of the journey ahead of Oumi. The feel of Oblivion Rouge gives Gantz and Alien VS Predator. The atmosphere feels as slimy and prickly as the second skin the characters are trying to master.
The characters don’t feel cookie cutter, they feel alive and human. You will love some of them, you will foam at the mouth at others. As they progress towards becoming a new generation of Hakkinen, things become more chaotic. The stakes are high as the Initiation began and everyone’s true colors began to surface. We get a deeper look at what everyone is capable of and it's sink or swim.
The pacing is a little fast for me but it all circles back perfectly. I’m eager to see what's next for Oumi and others as the story unfolds.
Pap Soul Eye paints a vivid and grim tale of neocolonialism and identity through Oblivion Rouge. The color red has a significant theme in the story and I can't wait to find out more about it.
If you’re looking for the something that even the Crypt Keeper would keep on his shelf then look no further!
We follow Oumi as she navigates the trauma of dead loved ones, her own past, and the threat of Leup and Hells. Once I began reading I instantly felt the tension of the journey ahead of Oumi. The feel of Oblivion Rouge gives Gantz and Alien VS Predator. The atmosphere feels as slimy and prickly as the second skin the characters are trying to master.
The characters don’t feel cookie cutter, they feel alive and human. You will love some of them, you will foam at the mouth at others. As they progress towards becoming a new generation of Hakkinen, things become more chaotic. The stakes are high as the Initiation began and everyone’s true colors began to surface. We get a deeper look at what everyone is capable of and it's sink or swim.
The pacing is a little fast for me but it all circles back perfectly. I’m eager to see what's next for Oumi and others as the story unfolds.
Pap Soul Eye paints a vivid and grim tale of neocolonialism and identity through Oblivion Rouge. The color red has a significant theme in the story and I can't wait to find out more about it.
If you’re looking for the something that even the Crypt Keeper would keep on his shelf then look no further!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 25, 2023
Oblivion Rouge reste un melange parfait de manga et de la culture africaine, ce talentueux artiste Pap Souleymane a bien su mélanger ces deux mondes. D'où l'originalité d'Oblivion. Je t'encourage et attends vivement les nouveaux volumes. Bonne continuation.
August 9, 2022
Oblivion Rouge is a manga-style series with a cool title and a grim/ badass vibe.
Volume 1 features a large cast of characters, many of which have unique personalities and designs. Their relationships to and opinions about the protagonist, Oumi, help effectively build investment in her motivations, which motivations are substantial, in light of the high-stakes, Hunger Games style conflict.
The art is fun to look at and expressive, especially with respect to the character's faces and emotions. Ocassional touches of colour make certain images and emotions pop, in a way which is both visually pleasing and conducive to the narrative.
It does seem like there is room for the emptional impact to build even further, as the reader spends more time with the characters in future installments.
Volume 1 features a large cast of characters, many of which have unique personalities and designs. Their relationships to and opinions about the protagonist, Oumi, help effectively build investment in her motivations, which motivations are substantial, in light of the high-stakes, Hunger Games style conflict.
The art is fun to look at and expressive, especially with respect to the character's faces and emotions. Ocassional touches of colour make certain images and emotions pop, in a way which is both visually pleasing and conducive to the narrative.
It does seem like there is room for the emptional impact to build even further, as the reader spends more time with the characters in future installments.
December 9, 2022
I loved the storyline. It’s fast paced, easy to follow and enough details withheld to keep you interested and anticipating what’s next. The art is amazing and has a horror esthetic. The background stories are interesting. You know they characters are only going to get stronger. I can’t wait to see how their skills evolve.
December 27, 2022
This series was a treat and refreshing, The characters are well designed and the story leaves room for a promising future, This one was a good time. The art is great and the concept is insightful. If you like manga art like Dorohedoro, Blame! and are into sci-fi this is for you. I excited to discover this world.
January 20, 2023
J’adore le manga il est très bien écris et les illustrations sont juste ouf .
Et le personnage de Oumi vraiment impatient de découvrir la suite du moins j’ai hâte .
En tout c’est du très bon travail bien préparé et bien exécuté pap Souley 💪🏾💪🏾💪🏾 You are the best
Et le personnage de Oumi vraiment impatient de découvrir la suite du moins j’ai hâte .
En tout c’est du très bon travail bien préparé et bien exécuté pap Souley 💪🏾💪🏾💪🏾 You are the best
January 20, 2023
Closer to 3.75 stars.
April 3, 2023
Quite a strong start to a series that is both diverse and futuristic, I’m intrigued to see where it is going!
February 5, 2025
There’s a lot going on here. The art is solid. Some of the dialogue and concepts are a little confusing. I’m going to keep with it, at least through book 2.
August 12, 2022
Hmm, I liked this despite it being violent and gory (think: Squid Game). Body horror galore! After establishing the setting, we are immediately thrust into an elimination round/tournament plot. Action sequences and character designs were especially niceeeee, but I felt bombarded by how many characters were introduced.
I really want to get inside the main character's head, Oumi. She's storing a lot of trauma and it seems as if it's about to burst. Another character Salam is a detached butthole (not the literal body part lol; I’m saying he’s a jerk), but he’s got my interest. He already seems like a fun foil to Oumi. Bensikin is the obligatory annoying character, but he fulfills his role well enough, I guess.
I would read a volume 2.
[rating from personal enjoyment]
I really want to get inside the main character's head, Oumi. She's storing a lot of trauma and it seems as if it's about to burst. Another character Salam is a detached butthole (not the literal body part lol; I’m saying he’s a jerk), but he’s got my interest. He already seems like a fun foil to Oumi. Bensikin is the obligatory annoying character, but he fulfills his role well enough, I guess.
I would read a volume 2.
[rating from personal enjoyment]
August 22, 2022
Oblivion Rouge” follows the career of a young teenage villager named Oumi as she becomes embroiled in a conflict that threatens a futuristic Africa and the world itself.
My favorite part is its illustration of WestAfrican philosophy with an all African cast. From Oumi overcoming her own insecurities and discovering a strength from within, this title has something for every reader.
I also appreciate the titles usage of black and white, and variations of grays, to focus on the line work and textures of each scene. There currently aren't many graphic novels out there by African authors… So this title is surely a must have.
Definitely check out or request this title at your local library or favorite bookstore. A solid 5 out 5.
My favorite part is its illustration of WestAfrican philosophy with an all African cast. From Oumi overcoming her own insecurities and discovering a strength from within, this title has something for every reader.
I also appreciate the titles usage of black and white, and variations of grays, to focus on the line work and textures of each scene. There currently aren't many graphic novels out there by African authors… So this title is surely a must have.
Definitely check out or request this title at your local library or favorite bookstore. A solid 5 out 5.
March 29, 2025
I didn’t even know African manga existed! That being said, I was excited and hopeful. However, truth be told, i don’t like most manga, or comics for that matter.
The truth is I dislike repetitiveness and sameness. I feed off courage and original thought, which is not common within the species. The only real difference i saw here was representation, which has its own beauty. However representation with identity and originality is basic.
So i give a basic score 3✨
Good enough not great. We shall see where it goes from here.
This manga also needs some help with it panels and editing.
The truth is I dislike repetitiveness and sameness. I feed off courage and original thought, which is not common within the species. The only real difference i saw here was representation, which has its own beauty. However representation with identity and originality is basic.
So i give a basic score 3✨
Good enough not great. We shall see where it goes from here.
This manga also needs some help with it panels and editing.
December 23, 2022
As an otaku, I was taken into a new dimension, its not obvious to just let yourself go first my perspective might not be the best as this is truly the first time I read an afro manga with characters that have my look, but the art is what is awesome seeing an afro centered character and beyond the whole story which is relevant of today's world I will recommend Oblivion Rouge just not for the red perspective and the apocalyptic vision but a story with a chef-d'œuvre artistically.
Read
July 13, 2022I'm not all that into manga or anime but I am well aware of it's tropes in culture, characterization and story telling. However this story breaks a lot of the tropes and delivers something fresh, investive and insightful. I one hundred percent recommend this to people who want to read some new manga, particularly Pan-Africans.
June 15, 2025
Well, damn. This is a gripping afro-futuristic manga that blends raw intensity with profound storytelling. The artwork, while a bit rough at first, has this rare, almost macabre energy, and Pap Souleye Fall created a vivid, and unsettling world. Oumi is such a unique and refreshing female lead! Great start to a new, dark and very gritty series. Recommended!
Read
June 10, 2022el dibujo no me gustó tanto y la historia la encontré confusa, es rápido de leer.
thanks netgalley for a copy of this book.
thanks netgalley for a copy of this book.
March 12, 2023
Loved the Afrofuturistic setting but felt like it ran out of steam towards the end.
March 26, 2024
A Strong 2/5 Manga Volume
January 7, 2026
i need to be reading more manga WTF! run, don't walk, this was everything. big one for the body horror readers. this was an interesting mix of afrofuturism and afropessimism. the manga follows a young woman accused of being a harbinger of disease to her community as the world is ravaged by said disease and a ruthless militia rises up to eradicate the sick and infected.
from this ravaged world emerge the hakkinen, a mysterious but powerful military offering a treatment for the leup disease. the hakkinen bring with them a new world order wherein the youth are educated and trained to become part of the military fighting against the brutal militia terrorizing the sick. the hakkinen themselves seem to mirror a ruthless that the militia possess in challenging the youth to fight to the death for their graduation test. i found myself wondering what is appropriate to demand of young people in times of crisis and does appropriate even matter when the greater good is in play.
i was drawn to this because im curious about how we as a global society respond to growing public health and how we culturally live with disease and illness. the world building is tight as fuck, balancing mystery with horror and drama. the bio technology at the forefront of the book lends itself for a lot of possibility, armor that you can psychically manipulate? armor that pulls from your spirit, your chi? powerful!
the driving engine of the manga is Oumi's desperation to keep her loved ones safe no matter the cost, a desire no doubt propelled by her guilt and regrets, plus her grief at the loss of her family. reading Vol 1 made me curious about how I dividual proteins and genes can be manipulated for a certain outcome. viruses do it and CRISPR is doing it with genetic modification.
to what ends we seek to modify our humanity is the question that continues to define our epoch.
rhizo tested, rhizo approved!
from this ravaged world emerge the hakkinen, a mysterious but powerful military offering a treatment for the leup disease. the hakkinen bring with them a new world order wherein the youth are educated and trained to become part of the military fighting against the brutal militia terrorizing the sick. the hakkinen themselves seem to mirror a ruthless that the militia possess in challenging the youth to fight to the death for their graduation test. i found myself wondering what is appropriate to demand of young people in times of crisis and does appropriate even matter when the greater good is in play.
i was drawn to this because im curious about how we as a global society respond to growing public health and how we culturally live with disease and illness. the world building is tight as fuck, balancing mystery with horror and drama. the bio technology at the forefront of the book lends itself for a lot of possibility, armor that you can psychically manipulate? armor that pulls from your spirit, your chi? powerful!
the driving engine of the manga is Oumi's desperation to keep her loved ones safe no matter the cost, a desire no doubt propelled by her guilt and regrets, plus her grief at the loss of her family. reading Vol 1 made me curious about how I dividual proteins and genes can be manipulated for a certain outcome. viruses do it and CRISPR is doing it with genetic modification.
to what ends we seek to modify our humanity is the question that continues to define our epoch.
rhizo tested, rhizo approved!
January 24, 2023
Such a unique setting, art, style, action and designs! such a fun, dark, seinen and Afrofuturistic manga. The experimental nature of the storytelling and panel work is top stuff and I think will only get better from here on out. I noticed the growth and evolution artistically from page 1 to the final.
September 27, 2023
Battle Royale/Hunger Games inspired, with a dose of body horror. Not really for me, but a lot of readers are going to love the action scenes.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews