The latest edition of Shogakukan’s Big Comic Superior magazine has revealed exciting news for manga enthusiasts: Hiroya Oku, renowned for his groundbreaking work on Gantz, is set to embark on a brand new manga project. Since the conclusion of Gantz, Oku has been active in the manga scene, with his previous series, Gigant, wrapping up in 2021. Throughout the final chapters of Gigant, Oku kept fans updated via social media, building anticipation as he neared completion.
Originally serialized from 2000 to 2013 in Shueisha’s Young Jump, Gantz amassed a total of 37 volumes. The series garnered a dedicated following in the United States through its publication by Dark Horse Comics. Its influence extended beyond the page, inspiring a 26-episode anime adaptation available on Crunchyroll, along with the CGI film Gantz:O and several live-action adaptations. Excitingly, a new live-action film was announced in 2021, furthering the franchise’s legacy.
The plot of Gantz revolves around Kei Kurono, who is thrust into a perilous game of survival after death, where he must kill aliens to remain alive. This gripping narrative struck a chord with both Japanese and international fans, solidifying Gantz’s place as a classic in the manga and anime universe. Oku has mentioned that the concept for his upcoming series is already taking shape in his mind, expressing eagerness to bring it to life through his art. However, no specific release date has been disclosed at this time.
Exploring Hiroya Oku’s Other Notable Works
From Gantz to Gigant
Following the success of Gantz, Oku crafted another compelling story with Inuyashiki, a series that ran from 2014 to 2017. Kodansha published all ten volumes in English. This manga also received an anime adaptation, streaming from 2018 on platforms like Amazon Prime Video and Crunchyroll. Inuyashiki follows the life of a 58-year-old man grappling with the frustrations of life. After learning he has terminal cancer, his existence takes a bizarre turn when a mysterious light transforms him into a powerful machine. Struggling with his new reality, he decides to use his extraordinary abilities for good, raising questions about the true origins of his newfound form.
In 2017, Oku introduced yet another intriguing narrative with Gigant, his most recent work, which concluded in 2021 and was also published in ten volumes by Seven Seas in English. The story chronicles Rei Yokoyamada, a teenager aspiring to be a filmmaker. After a disappointing start to his career, he discovers that his favorite adult film actress, Papico, lives nearby. Their paths cross, hinting at a romantic development, but events take a dramatic twist when Papico intervenes to help an elderly man in need, leading to unexpected “gigant” occurrences.
Although details surrounding Oku’s new manga remain scarce, his distinct artistic style and narrative depth continue to captivate readers. Fans can finally look forward to fresh content after the conclusion of Gigant.
Both Gantz and Inuyashiki are currently streaming on Crunchyroll, allowing newcomers and veterans alike to explore these iconic works.
For further details, you can refer to this source from Anime News Network.
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