JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure: Can You Start the Series With Steel Ball Run?

JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure, created by Hirohiko Araki, is one of the most iconic names in the history of anime and manga. Spanning across several generations, the series revolves around the never-ending fight between good and evil. The story is divided into separate parts, with each part focusing on different protagonists within the Joestar bloodline, taking readers to culturally rich settings.

While every part of JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure has a dedicated following, the seventh part, titled Steel Ball Run, is a step above the rest. As the highest-rated part of the series with a recently announced anime adaptation in the making, this is a name that stands out to those who wish to dive into the world of JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure.

Due to this, many may wonder whether it is possible to start the series directly with Part 7. Fans can technically begin JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure with Steel Ball Run, however, they will be unable to derive complete satisfaction from doing so.

Steel Ball Run ran in the Ultra Jump magazine from 2004 to 2011, concluding with 96 chapters across 24 volumes. It is the second-highest-rated manga on the MyAnimeList platform and is widely considered by fans as the best installment of JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure.

Most importantly, the story is a complete reboot of Araki’s universe. The first six parts of JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure take place within the same world, albeit in widely different periods and nations. At the end of Part 6, Stone Ocean, Enrico Pucci’s powers resulted in the creation of an alternate universe with no connection to its predecessors.

Hence, though several characters reappear, they are different versions of what fans may already be accustomed to. While the Joestar bloodline is the main focus of the story, it lacks the history and grand purpose that the first six parts built upon.

Instead, Steel Ball Run takes place in the American Old West, featuring an intense race that spans the entire country. The story introduces Johnny Joestar, a crippled man who becomes fascinated by the mysterious steel balls possessed by Gyro Zeppeli. Wishing to learn more about them, he joins the race to follow Gyro, competing against a cast of distinctive and powerful characters.

With political intrigue surrounding President Funny Valentine’s quest to find the Saint’s Corpse and the addition of exciting new Stands, Steel Ball Run is exhilarating from start to end. As seen earlier, it holds no direct relation to its previous parts and acts as a standalone story. Therefore, if fans want to, they can jump directly into it.

Why You Should Read the Other JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure Parts Before Steel Ball Run?

While it has been established that starting the series with Steel Ball Run is possible, many do not recommend it. This is because JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure, as the name indicates, is bizarre and unlike any other story. Most newcomers find it hard to directly immerse themselves into the narrative and need time to acclimate to its uniqueness.

Hence, by starting with the first part, fans can get used to Araki’s storytelling method and art style. Additionally, it is important to understand that Steel Ball Run marks a reboot of JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure universe. Recognizing the sacrifices of the Joestars and their epic battles against antagonists adds emotional weight and deeper context to the events of Steel Ball Run.

Characters like Dio Brando are also reintroduced in this new universe, though with notable differences from their previous forms. Nevertheless, getting to know them in the prior parts is crucial to understanding clever references and the sense of nostalgia that Araki seeks to capitalize on.

Finally, the parts after the Steel Ball Run continue in this alternate universe, titled the “SBRVerse.” Part 8 - JoJoLion is a retelling of Part 4, offering creative new versions of pre-existing locations and characters. Thus, to appreciate the creator’s growth, in his narrative experimentation, and to enjoy a more holistic experience, fans may wish to read or watch the first six parts before diving into Steel Ball Run.

Trending

Those curious about JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure can start with Steel Ball Run if they wish to, but they will miss out on appreciating the series to its full capacity. To understand Araki’s intent and to fully engage with his world, most fans will recommend starting the series from the very beginning.

×

Was this article helpful?

Thank You for feedback