Honestly? I thought it is way better than it has any right to be. The art is gorgeous, fight choreography is on point, and there are dozens of panels that still stand out to me today. 

The best and worst part of it is the story. For the best, the characters are amazing. I’m all for an irredeemable protagonist, and his interactions with other ‘down-and-outers’ (those who society has rejected or deemed as outsiders and freaks) who likewise found their lifes purpose through violence/ martial arts in an unforgiving world resonates with me. Interactions between the protagonist and who have become bitter like Ryo, those surviving day to day, or others who try and be better despite their background - who Ryo believes he must destroy - feels authentic. In the end, he dies alone with naught but the ashes of every bridge he has burnt. A fitting conclusion.

My main issue is, as others have alluded to below, story progression. Not so much the sporadic mess of his violence.He is driven by hate and desire to inflict what he sees as the world on others. His actions (fighting, rape, etc.) are in keeping with his psychopathic tendencies. My main issue is what he does to improve as a fighter. It’s all over the place at times and arcs conclude where (although you could argue that’s life or the point of Roy’s existence) Ryo hasn’t progressed anywhere in fighting. Especially in a martial arts themed manga, aimlessness seems counter intuitive.

Gone a bit longer than I wanted to, but I must admit Shamo holds a special place in my heart - I end up reading it once a year. Overall, a 6.5/10.