Appleseed

In the mid-1990s, Dark Horse Comics brought Masamune Shirow's cyberpunk vision to American readers with this two-issue series, a compact translation of his influential manga. Set in a post-apocalyptic world of biomechanical warriors and political intrigue, the story follows elite soldiers Deunan Knute and Briareos as they navigate the utopian city of Olympus. Shirow's dense, kinetic artwork and intricate world-building define this brief but potent glimpse into a sprawling saga. It matters as a key early Stateside release from one of manga's most celebrated creators.