Hmm... Although this manga was published a long time ago, and I've read this manga a long time ago too, I feel myself am enforced to write some reviews, especially after I read some comments regarding this manga.
My opinion? Nearly masterpiece, just because some repetitive kills which is lack of twist and become quite boring in a certain point. If not because of that, I will say this manga series is one of "masterpiece" that I've ever read... Why?
First... the plot is amazing (well, the opinions may differ). It's a story of a hero who wants to change "the world" accordingly with the "true law", that is, "an eye for an eye". He questions blind Democracy and blind ethics, with just one statements, "Is anyone here ready to become a martyr under democracy flag?" and "I verdict him guilty solely based on his actions"... Very Simple, but indeed Very Deep... I like it very much because the authors can bring a "understandable" argument with many facts along with it. And it's very rare in the world of manga...
Second... The art is awesome and epic. It matches with the style of story telling... well, you can look it for a moment if you doubt it.
Third... The ending... Well, I weighted my appreciation process heavily in ending. Ending is simply a conclusion, means that the ending will determine the long last impression of a manga (if the reader read it until the end). Good start with bad ending, will bring long last bad impression (bad after-taste), and viceversa. And How about Akumetsu? As for me, Akumetsu can bring me the most realistic of ending of an antihero story... I wont say the details, but well, it's epic and heart-warming... one of the best ending I may say.
Hmm... I guess that's all... Long live to Akumetsu...