The acclaimed dark fantasy manga Berserk is set to resume serialization on February 14th, marking a highly anticipated return for fans after a four-month hiatus. The series, created by the late Kentaro Miura, will continue under the supervision of his close friend Kouji Mori and the artists at Studio Gaga. This news has sparked renewed excitement within the global manga community, eager to delve back into the complex world of Guts, Griffith, and the Band of the Hawk.
A New Chapter in a Continuing Saga
The upcoming chapter will be published in the fourth issue of Hakusensha’s Young Animal magazine for 2025. This release is particularly special as it will feature a color page, a visual treat for fans and a testament to the team’s dedication to upholding the high artistic standards set by Miura. The previous chapter was released on November 8, 2024, making this a welcome return after a brief break.
The return of Berserk is more than just a new chapter; it’s a continuation of a legacy. Studio Gaga, composed of Miura’s former assistants, has pledged to remain faithful to his original vision. With Kouji Mori, a childhood friend of Miura’s, overseeing the story, fans can expect a chapter that maintains the emotional and thematic depth that has defined the series for over three decades.
The Legacy of Kentaro Miura
Kentaro Miura‘s untimely death in May 2021 left the future of Berserk uncertain. Miura passed away at the age of 54 due to an acute aortic dissection. The manga had been serialized since 1989, and his passing marked a significant loss for the manga world. However, his final chapter was published posthumously in September 2021.
Following Miura’s death, the manga went on hiatus before resuming in June 2022. The decision to continue the series was met with mixed feelings, as many questioned whether anyone could truly capture the essence of Miura’s work. However, the continuation has been approached with great care, with Kouji Mori playing a key role in ensuring the story unfolds as Miura intended.
Kouji Mori and Studio Gaga: Carrying the Torch
Kouji Mori was not only a close friend of Miura, but also a confidant who had discussed the plot of Berserk with him in great detail, even up to the final chapter. He has stated that the story will continue “exactly as we discussed at the time, with almost no changes.” Mori has expressed mixed feelings about taking over the series, stating that “It may be unforgivable for me to do it, now that Miura is no longer here.” However, he is dedicated to remembering and conveying what Miura told him, ensuring that the continuation stays true to its original vision.
Studio Gaga, comprised of Miura’s assistants and apprentices who worked alongside him, is responsible for the art in the ongoing series. The studio’s work has been praised for its quality, with some even comparing it to Miura’s own style. Yoshimitsu Kurosaki, the current chief of Studio Gaga, is responsible for drawing many of the complex characters, including Guts, whose Berserker Armor is known for its intricate and challenging design.
What to Expect in the New Chapter
The new chapter will likely continue the current story arc, which began in September 2023 after the conclusion of the “Fantasia Arc/Elf Island Chapter.” Fans can expect to see Guts continue his harrowing journey, facing challenges and confronting the demonic forces that plague his world. The manga has seen Guts captured in the land of Kushan, and his brand is tingling. This suggests a turbulent and potentially pivotal moment in the narrative.
The inclusion of a color page in this chapter is a significant gesture that underscores the commitment of the creative team to maintain the quality and impact of the series. It signals a grand continuation of the epic saga, offering fans a visual spectacle to commemorate its return.
The Journey So Far
Berserk is set in a medieval Europe-inspired dark fantasy world, following the journey of Guts, a lone swordsman, as he seeks revenge on Griffith, the leader of a mercenary band known as the “Band of the Hawk”. The story is known for its dark themes, complex characters, and stunning artwork.
The manga has been adapted into various forms, including a 25-episode anime series in 1997-98, a film series called “The Golden Age Arc” (2012-13) and the recent “The Golden Age Arc – Memorial Edition” (2022). Despite these adaptations, the manga remains the core of the franchise, continuing to captivate audiences with its intricate plot and profound themes.
A Look Ahead
While the new chapter has been highly anticipated, some fans remain cautious about the direction of the series without Miura’s direct involvement. However, the dedication of Kouji Mori and Studio Gaga to honor Miura’s legacy provides a sense of hope that the story will continue to be told with the same passion and care that it has always been.
The series will continue to be published in Young Animal magazine, which is a semimonthly publication, and is known for its irregular release schedule. Despite these breaks, fans are committed to the journey.
The return of Berserk on February 14th is a significant moment for manga fans worldwide. It not only marks the continuation of a beloved series but also serves as a tribute to the artistic vision of Kentaro Miura, whose work continues to resonate with audiences. With the next chapter just around the corner, the anticipation for the next phase of Guts’s journey is stronger than ever.
