Tower of God Chapter 1 Review - A Mysterious Beginning
Complete review of Tower of God Episode 1. Follow Bam as he enters the mysterious Tower. Analysis of SIU's masterpiece webtoon.
Introduction
Tower of God by SIU (Slave In Utero) is one of the original pillars of the Korean webtoon industry. Having started in 2010, it has influenced countless other series. Chapter 1 introduces us to a mysterious world and an unconventional protagonist.
The Premise
Unlike many action manhwa, Tower of God doesn't start with action. Instead, it begins with a simple yet powerful premise: a boy named Bam has spent his entire life in darkness, and the only light in his world is a girl named Rachel.
When Rachel enters the Tower seeking to see the stars, Bam follows—not for power, glory, or treasure, but simply to be with her.
Character Introduction
Twenty-Fifth Bam
Bam is immediately distinctive among manhwa protagonists:
- He's naive and innocent, having lived in isolation
- His motivation is pure—he just wants to be with the person he loves
- He shows incredible determination despite having no knowledge of the Tower
Headon
The mysterious administrator of the Tower's first floor. His cryptic nature and unsettling design immediately establish that the Tower is not a friendly place.
World Building
SIU demonstrates masterful restraint in Chapter 1. Rather than info-dumping, we're given just enough:
- The Tower is massive and mysterious
- People enter it for various reasons
- There are tests to climb higher
- The Tower has its own rules and administrators
Art Style
The early Tower of God art has a distinctive quality:
- Simple but expressive character designs
- Creative panel layouts
- Atmospheric use of shadows and light
- Unique visual aesthetic that sets it apart from other manhwa
Our Verdict
Tower of God Chapter 1 is a masterclass in setup. It poses questions we desperately want answered while introducing a protagonist whose simple motivation is refreshingly different.
Rating: 8.5/10
The slower pace might not hook everyone immediately, but for those willing to invest, this is the beginning of an incredible journey.
Why You Should Continue
The Tower of God universe expands exponentially. Chapter 1 is merely the door—behind it lies one of the most complex and rewarding stories in manhwa history.
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