In the Freedom Wars story, Kai Wolf Silva isn’t particularly notable. He’s an early character who offers some tutorial dialog, then largely becomes dedicated to optional flavor text. Yet here’s an unofficial fan book dedicated entirely to him.
This book is largely a collection of art, manga and short stories that drag out the most appealing aspects of the character. He’s quiet, cool-headed and versatile. While acting distant, he’s also caring and motherly-like. Each story goes out of its way to bring these elements to the spotlight.
(Image Source: AliceBooks)
For an outsider who may not necessarily have a built-in love for Kai already, one of the most appealing aspects is a five page article towards the beginning. It’s an extensive breakdown of why he is so popular in their community. They analyze his dialogue and reactions throughout the game to flesh out his character for those who may have passed him by. It even looks at some popularity contests in Japan. Objectively Kai is best boy there, apparently.
This article sets the groundwork for understanding and appreciating everything else in the book. It’s an important piece, as the backdrops are typically a mundane missions with no real plot. Each story is an attempt to accentuate the parts of Kai that the authors value most. It gives him a chance to flex his personality muscles in a way the game’s developers never let him.
(Image Source: AliceBooks)
Kai is put into positions to help other familiar faces, as well as console each author’s interpretation of the silent protagonist. Because there’s no real structure, it can often feel directionless. It’s easy to get lost on exactly what is happening and the rough translation doesn’t help. Though it’s pretty rare to find any sort of official English translated doujinshi, so I’m not complaining too much here. It’s readable, which is about all I expected.
If you’re unsure that you’ll like the content, ask yourself ‘how much do I enjoy seeing other people express their love, if not obsession, for a character?’ If that’s not your thing, or you’re not a fan of Kai himself, you’re probably safe passing on it. Although as a shelf piece, the quality of book itself is pretty good. It’s a surprisingly thick and even features its own outer cover.
(Image Source: AliceBooks)
If I ever play Freedom Wars again, I’d be curious to see if it changes my view of his in-game persona. But considering I already played through it twice, that’s probably not happening any time soon.
If you’re interested, you can import it from AliceBooks.
(Header Image Source: AliceBooks)
