Introduction

I don’t usually read graphic novels or manga from lesser-known creators. Not because I dismiss their value, but often these works lack polish and editing to stand beside greater published series. That said, as an author myself, I always respect those who chase their dreams and bring their projects to life. That brings us to Project 100 by Erik Suaste. I discovered it on TikTok, of all places, while scrolling through random videos. What I saw was a passion project that screamed manga, and I quickly became intrigued. Learning that Erik created this first volume entirely on his own—without a team of artists or writers—immediately impressed me. After finishing Volume 1, I can say Project 100 is phenomenal, and I knew I needed to share my thoughts in this review.

Art Style

Project 100 screams manga through and through. The panel layout even includes the classic “you’re reading the wrong way” note in the back. Unlike many indie graphic novels that struggle to find a consistent look, Erik nails the gritty and realistic aesthetic. From detailed backdrops to expressive character designs, the art could easily pass for a professional manga release. While there are small tells that this isn’t Japanese-made, they are subtle, and overall the style feels authentic and immersive. I was impressed with the artwork and can’t wait to see how Erik evolves it in the next installment.

Story and Characters

The story of Volume 1 starts deliberately vague, which becomes clearer by the end. Project 100 follows Nicholi and Mari, a couple living in a collapsing world. Nicholi reluctantly joins Mari on a mission to steal resources for an organization, but things quickly unravel. Without spoiling, the vagueness pays off as revelations unfold. The world feels frighteningly close to our own, grounding the dystopian themes in realism.

The characters stand out because they talk and behave like real people. Nicholi and Mari’s banter feels authentic—like conversations I’ve had with friends. While Volume 1 doesn’t fully flesh out every character, the realism makes them relatable and sets up potential for deeper development in future volumes.

Pacing

During a TikTok livestream, Erik described Volume 1 as a slow burn. He wasn’t wrong. The story starts quietly but quickly escalates into chaos, with revelations almost every chapter. By the final act, the tension explodes and sets up powerful hooks for Volume 2. The pacing shift works in its favor—patient readers will be rewarded with a gripping conclusion.

Panel Layout and Flow

The paneling mimics manga structure, which can often be a risky move for indie projects. Thankfully, Project 100 flows naturally, with smooth transitions between scenes. Each panel connects seamlessly, keeping the story moving and easy to follow. Erik clearly understands the fundamentals of panel storytelling, and it shows in Volume 1.

Themes and Tones

The themes of Project 100 hit hard because they feel relevant to our world. Government overreach, survival instincts, and the sacrifices people make for ideals—these are issues we face today. While I won’t dive into politics here, it’s undeniable that Project 100 reflects societal fears in a powerful, unsettling way. The tone is dark, grounded, and thought-provoking.

Conclusion

Project 100 Volume 1 is a fantastic debut. Erik Suaste has created a hidden gem that, with the right attention, could gain serious traction. The mix of gritty realism, strong art, and thematic depth makes this an indie project worth supporting. I’m eager to see where Volume 2 takes the story, and I highly recommend giving Project 100 a chance if you want something bold and different in the manga/graphic novel space.

—Aaron