Titan Manga is bringing Nahato, Kazutomo Miya, and Shinichirō Nariie’s manga series, The One. Later On…, to English-speaking audiences. Scheduled for release on March 31, 2026, the first volume is already available for pre-order in the U.K. and soon in North America. Here’s a look at what makes this series stand out and why it might be your next manga obsession.
A Tale of Rejection and Reinvention
The One. Later On… tells the story of Wazu, whose life takes a turn when he is rejected by the hero’s party and forced to leave his hometown. Once an ordinary, weak boy, Wazu dedicates two years to rigorous training in the mountains. His goal? To prove his worth. However, upon returning, he discovers that his childhood friend, Aria, is engaged to the hero who once scorned him. This sets Wazu on a new journey filled with misunderstandings, budding relationships, and the challenge of finding his place in a changed world.
From Light Novel to Manga
Shinichirō Nariie is adapting the manga from the light novel series penned by Nahato and illustrated by Kazutomo Miya. The light novel series, which launched on the Shosetsuka ni Naro website in September 2015, concluded in August 2016. Earth Star Entertainment published the novel series in 12 main volumes and one spin-off volume. The manga adaptation started in August 2018, with Earth Star Entertainment releasing the sixth volume in November 2022.
Titan Manga’s Growing Portfolio
Titan Manga, an imprint of Titan Comics, has been steadily increasing its manga offerings.
Spring 2025 Line-Up
In Spring 2025, Titan Manga is set to release several titles, including:
- The Godless World of Onee-chan Vol. 1 by Shinya Murata and Tokisada Hayami: A spin-off from the anime Working for God in a Godless World, this Isekai story follows a sister with God-tier strength searching for her missing brother in a world without religion.
- Yan Vol. 1 by Chang Sheng: An action-packed thriller from the award-winning writer of Oldmen and The Hidden Level, promising a suspenseful story.
- Dopeman Vol. 1 by Ryo Yoshigami and Yuhey Ogino.
- Farewell, My Odin Vol. 1 by Chihiro Yoshioka.
- Toxic Super Beasts Vol. 1 by Nykken: A world where kaiju threaten everyday life, and the military uses secret weapons known as “Witches” to combat them. A young psychiatrist oversees the wellbeing of these human-kaiju hybrids.
- Cosmic Censorship Vol. 1 by Ryuuichi Sadamatsu.
- Outsiders Vol. 1 by Kanou Akira: A modern fantasy epic where vampires and werewolves clash in the shadows, and humans uncover the secrets of their ancient feud.
Fall 2025 Releases
Titan Manga’s Fall 2025 releases include:
- Gran Familia, Volume 1 by Kenji Hamada: Set in a world where humans and demi-humans are on the brink of collapse, the Grand Familia vampire clan controls the criminal underworld. Leo, the young heir, dreams of coexistence but faces a violent turf war. The first volume is slated for September 30, 2025, with the second on December 30, 2025.
- Isekai Metaller, Volume 1 by Kasuga Dragon: Combines isekai adventure, heavy metal action, and comedy as a rock-obsessed hero battles dragons and werewolves. The first volume arrives on October 14, 2025, with the second on December 30, 2025.
- Sanda, Vol. 1 by Paru Itagaki: In a near-future Japan where Christmas has faded into myth, a middle-school student becomes entangled in a mystery involving a missing friend and the hidden magic of Christmas. The first volume is scheduled for September 2, 2025, with the second on November 18, 2025. An anime adaptation by Science SARU is also in the works.
- Saint Seiya: Dark Wing, Vol. 1 by Masami Kurumada and Kenji Saito, with art by Shinshu Ueda: Continuing the Saint Seiya saga, this manga features Wyvern and the Gold Saints. The first volume is set for September 16, 2025, and the second for November 18, 2025.
- The Raven Dark Hero, Vol. 1 by Tonkye and Akira Mitsuya: Explores a shattered superhero’s dream where power corrupts. The first volume is planned for October 28, 2025, and the second for January 27, 2026.
- Do Women Need Sex Entertainment? by Yachinatsu: Slated for November 11, 2025.
- Gamera – Rebirth – : Code Thyrsos: Celebrating the 60th anniversary of Gamera, this manga reveals the origins of the legendary kaiju as a prequel to the Netflix series.
The Rise of Korean Webtoons and Manga
Korean webtoons and manga (manhwa) have seen a surge in popularity. Several factors contribute to this trend:
- Accessibility: Official platforms and consistent scanlation groups have made Korean webtoons more accessible. Webtoons are designed for digital devices, typically using a vertical scrolling format that caters to mobile users.
- Cultural Wave: The “Hallyu wave,” encompassing Korean music, dramas, films, and webtoons, has successfully drawn in a global audience.
- Content: Some argue that Korean webtoons, especially in the shoujo/josei genres, offer more choices and cater to female audiences, while Japanese manga often focuses on male readers. Isekai themes are also approached differently, with Korean isekai often featuring “badass villainesses.”
Manga vs. Webtoons
Manga and webtoons each have unique characteristics:
- Format: Manga are typically published in lengthy volumes and read from right to left, while webtoons are designed for digital devices and use a vertical strip format.
- Production: Manga are often initially hand-drawn and primarily in print, whereas webtoons cater to digital users.
- Adaptations: Many manga have been adapted into anime series, while webtoons have inspired numerous Korean dramas and movies.
Translation and Globalization
High-quality translations are vital for the globalization of webtoons. Translators need strong creative writing skills and a deep understanding of cultural nuances to accurately convey the story’s essence. The increasing demand for manhwa English translation highlights the potential for webtoons in international markets.
What to Expect from The One. Later On…
With its blend of rejection, training, and self-discovery, The One. Later On… promises to be an engaging read. The story explores themes of resilience, friendship, and finding one’s place in a world that has moved on. Fans of light novels and manga, especially those who enjoy stories of personal growth and unexpected journeys, will likely find this series appealing. As Titan Manga continues to expand its offerings, The One. Later On… adds another exciting title to its growing roster. Mark your calendars for March 31, 2026, and get ready to embark on Wazu’s journey.
