The 86 series by Asato Asato is pure glee, and pure pain.

So 86 is a Light Novel series set in the future where ‘unmanned’ drones are used to fight a legion of AI unleashed upon the world by the Giad Empire. The manner of which the war started I don’t know, it’s never really established in the 6 volumes I’ve read or watched (it has an anime adaptation which I’ll talk about later). But I digress. The ‘unmanned’ drones are actually commanded by ‘86s’ who are any non-‘alba’ (silver hair, silver eyes, white skin) being used by the Republic of San Magnolia, they fight in the 86th district of the Republic which is basically anywhere not in the 85 districts. Hence where the name comes from. Also just a note this isn’t a spoiler it’s established on the blurb.

The story follows the 86 and seemingly their only ally among the Alba who command them as they navigate this brutal world where no one is safe.

It’s just utterly heartbreaking to read, I mean this in the best way possible. So many of the characters who you can get attached to die and the manners of death are horrifying. At times it feels like the Legion they’re fighting is just trying to be brutal.

There is also an element of romance to it, which sounds twisted but is done very well and often to illustrate the effects of war. With the story focusing heavily on its characters it’s within reason that there is a bit of romance. And that’s another good point, the character focused story really drives home the anti-war and anti-racism point with the dynamic between the rough living 86 who can die at any real time and their Alba commander who lives in luxury, sheltered from the war is really well made.

The action scenes are also made really well, the movements and weaponry are described in great detail and you truly understand where and what is happening on the battlefield.

Also, just a thing to note, there are quite a few plot twists in the first few books alone which took me by surprise.

There are also a few illustrations throughout of what might be talked about by an artist called Shiirabi, who does their job extremely well and makes great illustrations.

I also mentioned an Anime adaption, which is really good despite only having one season. It adapts the content well and just adds a whole new level of storytelling with the addition of being able to use visual storytelling. It was my introduction to the series and is perfect.

The emotional payoffs of this show is just brilliant, on top of the great action, characters and storytelling it creates an awesome story that should be read.

Also, just a note for anyone who might decide to buy the series now. Volume 7 is very hard to come across, I don’t know why but it seems to be very popular. It is being reprinted so maybe the supply issues will be alleviated but that’s yet to be seen. (I also wouldn’t recommend looking up Volume 7 if you haven’t reached it because the cover has spoilers)