Tokyo, Japan – The spinoff manga Crows Gaiden: Housenka – The Beginning of Housen, penned by Shūhei Saitō, is set to conclude in two chapters, as announced in this year’s October issue of Akita Shoten’s Monthly Shōnen Champion magazine on Tuesday. The series, which delves into the origins of the formidable Housen Academy, has been running since 2017.
The impending conclusion marks the end of a prequel story that has provided fans with a deeper look into the world created by Hiroshi Takahashi.
The Genesis of Housen Academy’s Fiercest
Crows Gaiden: Housenka – The Beginning of Housen serves as a crucial prequel to Hiroshi Takahashi’s acclaimed Crows series. The manga specifically chronicles the origin story of the infamous Housen Academy’s “Housen Killer Corps,” focusing on the character Butta Terakado. The narrative unfolds one year prior to the official founding of Housen Academy, illustrating how, under Terakado’s leadership, the institution grew into a powerhouse rivaling Suzuran High School, known as the strongest delinquent school.
Shūhei Saitō launched the series in Akita Shoten’s Monthly Shōnen Champion in 2017, with the first compiled volume being released in February 2018. Since its debut, the manga has built a dedicated readership eager to explore the foundational years of one of the Crows universe’s most iconic factions.
The Road to Conclusion
The manga has been steadily progressing towards its climax, entering its final arc with the publication of the 19th compiled book volume in June 2024. This announcement confirms the final stretch for the popular series. Akita Shoten shipped the 22nd volume on June 6, 2025, with the 23rd volume scheduled to launch on October 8, 2025. These releases bring the compelling saga of Housen’s inception to its definitive close.
Legacy of the Crows Universe
Crows Gaiden: Housenka is a significant addition to the broader Crows franchise, which boasts a rich history across various media. The original Crows manga by Hiroshi Takahashi spanned 26 volumes and gained widespread acclaim for its gritty portrayal of high school delinquents and their power struggles.
Beyond the manga pages, the Crows universe expanded into a two-episode anime OVA adaptation. The series also inspired a successful live-action film trilogy, with acclaimed director Takashi Miike at the helm for the first two installments, Crows Zero and Crows Zero II. The third film, Crows Explode, premiered in Japan in April 2014. These live-action adaptations, in turn, inspired their own manga adaptations, further cementing the franchise’s expansive reach and enduring popularity. The conclusion of Crows Gaiden: Housenka will undoubtedly be a moment of reflection for fans of this iconic delinquent series.
