A Real Explanation of Why Mob Psycho 100's Art Style Works So Well

I read this Screenrant article the other day talking about why Mob Psycho 100's (and One Punch Man's) art style in the manga was so genius. They assert that ONE's* "bad" art style fits in with the themes of the story, but then the article never really explains how. They also talk about how the crude art contrasts with when ONE takes a more serious approach to the illustrations, but they never explain why that contrast is a good thing. I think I'll actually attempt to write an article that articulates something.

First off, the art style fits in with the theme. I agree with this sentiment and I'll tell you why. Mob Psycho 100 is about a kid with psychic powers who otherwise feels that there is nothing special about him Someone with incredible abilities feels like a nobody. The art style supports this theme by being "nothing special" itself. You have an incredible story told through the lens of very sloppy-looking drawings, mirroring the way the character Mob views himself. I think that the art style also supports the theme through contrast as well. The story seems even more remarkable when you realize the tools by which its told are so mundane.

Secondly, the crude illustrations contrast with moments when the illustrations are taken more seriously. Again, that is true, but why does that matter? Not all juxtaposition is meaningful, but in MP100's case, it typically is. For the most part, the drawings are a means to an end, nothing more than vehicles to move the plot along. But in moments of intense action, the illustrations take on greater detail, leaving your eyes to linger more on the moment. This serves the story well, naturally making the reader dwell on significant moments with more detail in each frame. This highlights the climatic moments of the story, adding to the tension.

I think there is more that could be said about the effect of the rudimentary art style. Simply put, funny drawings amplify the humor of the story. Reducing focus on the art increases focus on the characters and plot. These things are obvious, and as such are the only things that the original Screenrant article explained at any length.

I think that while I agree with all of those points, I still find the crisper, more professional and consistent art style of the anime more appealing. It still uses those goofy illustrations, however, almost in an inverse way to the manga. Instead of the anime highlighting the serious moments, it highlights the humor. It's still incredibly effective and the show has some of my favorite animation of any series I've watched recently. Also, whether you're looking at the manga or the anime, the character designs are both simple and distinct. The visual language of Mob's design, namely his round-shaped, black-hair bowl cut, makes drawing fanart of him easy and accessible. Mob is therefore a great character for brand recognition and widespread acclaim. Overall, Mob Psycho 100 is a great story, no matter what kind of art style you prefer.

*(ONE is the pseudonym of the manga author of both MP100 and One Punch Man)