Tuxedo Mask, the enigmatic protector of Sailor Moon, is a character whose presence is as iconic as the series itself. While often portrayed as a charming, rose-throwing figure in the anime, the manga delves deeper into his character, showcasing his essential role in the narrative and his relationship with Sailor Moon. Here, we explore the 10 best Tuxedo Mask chapters in the Sailor Moon manga, ranked by their impact on the story, character development, and overall importance.
10. Act 6: Tuxedo Mask Reveals His True Identity
In Pretty Soldier Sailor Moon, Act 6, Sailor Moon is incapacitated by an attack from Queen Beryl and Queen Metalia. It’s Tuxedo Mask who finds her unconscious and protects her. This chapter is significant as it reveals his identity to Sailor Moon. His words of encouragement serve as her anchor, highlighting his unwavering care for her. This reveal solidifies the bond between them, moving past the initial mystery and building a foundation for their future relationship.
9. Act 7: The Tragic Past of Mamoru Chiba
Act 7 delves into the tragic backstory of Mamoru Chiba, revealing his life as an orphan plagued by amnesia and dreams of a mysterious woman. This chapter humanizes Tuxedo Mask, portraying him not just as a romantic interest, but as a character with a painful past. His search for the legendary Silver Crystal fuels his subconscious need to become Tuxedo Mask, adding depth to his motivations and his relationship with Sailor Moon.
8. Act 9: The Revelation of Prince Endymion
Act 9 is crucial for Tuxedo Mask’s character development, revealing his past life as Prince Endymion. This chapter is filled with emotional moments, including him taking a hit for Sailor Moon. It serves as a catalyst, awakening Sailor Moon’s memories of her past life as Princess Serenity. The tragedy of their past lives adds a layer of complexity to their relationship, making their bond even more significant. This chapter truly fleshes out Tuxedo Mask completely, contrasting his tragic past life with the pain he suffers in his current life.
7. Act 13: Tuxedo Mask’s Role as an Anchor
In Act 13, Tuxedo Mask acts as a source of strength for Sailor Moon, but also highlights her vulnerability. When he falls in battle, Sailor Moon is overwhelmed with despair. Despite this, he becomes essential in defeating Queen Metalia, exposing her weak point and encouraging Sailor Moon to be confident. He shows, through both his strength and his vulnerability, that he is her anchor in times of need.
6. Act 25: Tuxedo Mask’s Psychic Abilities
This chapter showcases Tuxedo Mask’s psychic abilities more prominently. His psychometry, which allows him to perceive the history or future of objects and people through touch, and his precognition, manifested in dreams, become important tools. This deeper dive into his powers expands his role beyond physical support, making him a valuable asset to the Sailor Guardians. These abilities allow him to connect with Sailor Moon on a spiritual level.
5. Act 34: Tuxedo Mask’s Healing Powers
In Act 34, Tuxedo Mask’s healing powers are showcased. This chapter highlights his ability to not only protect, but also mend and nurture. These abilities evolve throughout the series, further solidifying his integral role in the Sailor Guardians’ fight. This ability also sets him apart from his anime counterpart, where these abilities are not as prominent.
4. Act 49: The Golden Crystal’s Power
Act 49 is a significant chapter where Tuxedo Mask plays a crucial role in defeating Queen Nehelenia. He is part of the reason why Elysion is revived. Through his Golden Crystal, Earth’s equivalent to the Legendary Silver Crystal, he provides a massive boost to Sailor Moon’s powers, leading to their ultimate transformation. This chapter emphasizes his importance to the overall victory, making it a fan-favorite.
3. Act 50: A United Front
Act 50 highlights the collaborative efforts of Tuxedo Mask and Sailor Moon. They combine their powers to create the next scepter. This act underscores the necessity of their combined strength. It is a pivotal moment that shows they are stronger together than they are apart, not just as a couple but as warriors. This unity is key in their battles against evil.
2. The Final Battle with Queen Metalia
In the final battle against the Dark Kingdom, Queen Metaria absorbs both Sailor Moon and Tuxedo Mask. However, they manage to combine their powers through the Silver Crystal and destroy Queen Metalia from within. This act is a testament to their deep bond and mutual reliance on each other. The visual of them united in the heart of the enemy is a powerful symbol of their combined strength. This moment solidifies Tuxedo Mask’s importance in the story as more than just a support character.
1. Act 60: The Ultimate Sacrifice
Act 60 displays the ultimate sacrifice Tuxedo Mask is willing to make for Sailor Moon. He takes Metaria into his own body, succumbing to her dark power and becoming Dark Prince Endymion. This sacrifice demonstrates his enduring love and devotion to her, even if it means becoming a foe. His transformation into a villain is a tragic turn, further proving how essential he is to the story. He is eventually saved when Sailor Moon finally controls the Crystal’s power. This act solidifies why many fans consider the manga version of Tuxedo Mask to be superior to the anime, as it focuses on his emotional and internal struggles.
Tuxedo Mask’s Manga Role
Unlike his anime counterpart, where he often plays a more passive role, the Tuxedo Mask of the manga is a proactive figure. He engages in battles, uses his psychic abilities, and is integral to many transformations and victories. The manga showcases him as a character who has more depth than the ‘damsel in distress’ trope that the anime presents. In the manga, he is not only Sailor Moon’s love interest but also her equal partner, both on and off the battlefield.
Beyond the Rose
While the image of Tuxedo Mask throwing a rose is iconic, the manga goes beyond this to explore his complexities. His relationship with Sailor Moon, his psychic abilities, and his past life as Prince Endymion all contribute to a richer, more compelling character. The manga version of Tuxedo Mask is not just a support character; he is an integral part of the Sailor Moon narrative, demonstrating his strength, his vulnerabilities, and his unwavering love for the titular heroine. These chapters highlight the manga’s dedication to fleshing out his character, making him a vital part of the Sailor Moon universe.
