Fans of Shinobu Kaitani’s critically acclaimed psychological thriller manga, Liar Game, have cause for celebration as a new short serialization titled Liar Game: The Last Game has been announced. The new series will launch in Shueisha’s Grand Jump Mucha magazine on February 25, 2026, featuring a color opening page and picking up after the events of the original manga, with protagonist Nao Kanzaki tackling a new “game.” This announcement coincides with an upcoming television anime adaptation of Liar Game set to premiere in April 2026.
A Return to the World of Deception
The new short serialization, Liar Game: The Last Game, is set to reignite the intricate battles of wits and deception that captivated readers for a decade. The original Liar Game manga, written and illustrated by Shinobu Kaitani, ran in Shueisha’s Weekly Young Jump magazine from 2005 to January 2015, concluding with 19 compiled volumes. Known for its high-stakes psychological battles where participants are encouraged to lie and betray to win vast sums of money, the series gained a dedicated following for its complex plots and exploration of human nature.
What to Expect from The Last Game
While specific plot details for Liar Game: The Last Game are still under wraps, it has been confirmed that the story will be set after the ending of the original manga and will feature Nao Kanzaki embarking on a new “game.” This suggests a continuation of the intricate mind games and moral dilemmas that were hallmarks of the original series. The inclusion of a color opening page for the new serialization is also a treat for fans, hinting at a significant presentation for its debut.
The Enduring Legacy of Liar Game
Liar Game has transcended its manga origins, inspiring a variety of adaptations that speak to its widespread appeal and compelling narrative.
Live-Action Adaptations
The manga’s popularity led to multiple live-action adaptations in Japan, including two television series in 2007 and 2009-2010, and two feature films, Liar Game: The Final Stage (2010) and Liar Game: Reborn (2012). A South Korean television series adaptation also aired in 2014, further solidifying the franchise’s international reach. In 2023, the series even saw a stage play adaptation.
Upcoming Anime Adaptation
Adding to its impressive list of adaptations, an anime television series produced by the renowned studio Madhouse is slated to premiere in April 2026. The anime adaptation was announced during REMOW’s panel at Anime NYC 2025 and is generating significant excitement among fans who believe the anime format can deliver justice to the manga’s intense psychological battles and strategic depth. The series will be directed by Asami Kawano, with Yuzo Sato serving as chief director, and will feature Saya Hitomi as the voice of Nao Kanzaki and Takeo Otsuka as Shinichi Akiyama.
The return of Liar Game in both manga and anime forms marks a significant moment for the franchise, promising new thrills and a fresh perspective on its beloved characters and mind-bending games.
