This work completely fulfills its role of a prequel and sort of a introductory bait into the animated counterpart. It won't leave you with much of an emotional response (unless you're able to connect to characters in such a short duration), but its minor revelations, and hints of potential development for the main character are adequate to keep you interested.
Artistic value is hardly worth of mention, as it doesn't differ from the usual art you see in today's work, and on top of that it carries additional burden of distorted and at some parts horrid anatomical features.
If I had to summarize it, I'd say it's suitable for the accomplishment it achieves, a mere snack before you move onto the main course.