Kodansha USA Publishing announced on Friday a new wave of manga acquisitions, set to debut in print and digital formats in Fall 2026. Among the newly licensed titles captivating fans are Den Mitao’s Boys’ Love comedy “Kiss or Die Trying!” and Kotora Aoshima’s unique romantic comedy “Fan/Girl x Call/Boy.” These additions bolster Kodansha’s diverse catalog, bringing fresh narratives to North American readers.
Expanding the Fall 2026 Lineup
The latest announcement from Kodansha USA highlights their continued commitment to bringing a wide array of Japanese manga to English-speaking audiences. The Fall 2026 lineup promises to introduce readers to new worlds and characters, ranging from madcap romantic escapades to relatable fan culture.
‘Kiss or Die Trying!’ (Douse Shinunara Kiss Shitai!)
Authored by Den Mitao, “Kiss or Die Trying!” is described as a “madcap BL” (Boys’ Love) series. The story centers on Kanemaru, a seasoned serial dater, who develops an interest in Liu, a transfer student who also works at Kanemaru’s favorite Chinese restaurant. However, their budding romance is constantly thwarted by unpredictable and dangerous predicaments, with the universe seemingly conspiring to keep them apart, even if it means life-threatening situations. This unique premise promises a blend of romance, humor, and high-stakes absurdity.
‘Fan/Girl x Call/Boy’ (Deriwo no Oshigoto)
From author Kotora Aoshima comes “Fan/Girl x Call/Boy,” a romantic comedy tailored for fans of titles like “Wotakoi: Love is Hard for Otaku” and “Sweat and Soap”. The manga introduces Sakurako, a reclusive and devoted fan of ero-ge (erotic fantasy games), who hires a call-boy named Fuji to experience feelings akin to her favorite game characters. An unexpected stumble reveals Sakurako’s otaku collection and an erotic game paused on her TV, exposing her true intentions. The twist? Fuji turns out to be a fan of the same game, leading them to spend the night gaming instead. Their continued connection helps Sakurako find the courage to venture outside, particularly for game-themed cafe outings with Fuji.
Kodansha USA’s Continuous Growth
Kodansha USA has been consistently expanding its catalog with numerous licenses across various genres, catering to a broad readership. Recent announcements have included titles slated for Spring 2026 and Fall 2026, showcasing a robust publishing schedule. The company often announces new print and digital releases during major industry events like San Diego Comic-Con and Anime Expo, with titles like “DRAGON CIRCUS” and “Stella Must Die” being among their other spring 2026 acquisitions. Their commitment to a diverse range of genres, from fantasy and horror to romantic comedies and BL, continues to solidify their position in the North American manga market.
