Square Enix’s Manga UP! Global is expanding its library with two new manga series: Ao Tachi’s The Dependable Delinquents’ Daily Lives and Yoshiki Tonogai’s JUDGE. These additions promise a blend of wholesome comedy and psychological suspense for readers to enjoy.
The Dependable Delinquents’ Daily Lives: Unexpected Heroes
Ao Tachi’s The Dependable Delinquents’ Daily Lives ( Zenryōna Furyō Kōkōsei no Nichijō ) launched on Manga UP! Global on Thursday, May 22, 2025. This manga offers a refreshing take on the delinquent trope, presenting a group of “bad boys” with surprisingly good hearts.
Synopsis
Samaritan High is notorious for its delinquent students. Kawai, Mori, and Tanikura appear to fit the stereotype, but they’re actually dedicated to doing good. Whether it’s rescuing stray animals or cheering up the neighborhood, these delinquents are always ready to lend a helping hand. The manga is a slice-of-life comedy that highlights the unexpected kindness of these misunderstood youths.
Publication Details
- Author and Artist: Ao Tachi
- Original Publication: Gangan pixiv (April 2024)
- Genres: Shounen, Comedy, Delinquents, School Life, Slice of Life
- Read Direction: Right to Left
- Status: Ongoing
- Official Japanese Version: https://www.ganganonline.com/title/2172
- Official English Version: https://global.manga-up.com/manga/655
JUDGE: A Deadly Game of Sin and Sacrifice
Yoshiki Tonogai’s JUDGE manga arrived on Manga UP! Global on Friday, May 23, 2025, delivering a dose of psychological suspense. This series delves into the dark side of human nature as a group of sinners faces judgment for their transgressions.
Synopsis
In an old courthouse, individuals bearing the guilt of the seven deadly sins are gathered to face a deadly trial. To escape alive, they must sacrifice one of their own. As the trial unfolds, the question remains: Who will be the first to fall? JUDGE explores themes of envy, lust, sloth, wrath, gluttony, pride, and greed in a high-stakes battle for survival.
Publication Details
- Author and Artist: Yoshiki Tonogai
- Original Publication: Shonen Gangan (January 2010 – August 2012)
- Volumes: 6
- Genres: Suspense, Psychological Horror
- English Publisher: Yen Press (August 2013 – February 2015)
Live-Action Adaptation
JUDGE was adapted into a live-action film, which premiered in Japan in November 2013.
Manga UP! Global: A Growing Platform
Manga UP! Global is a manga service operated by Square Enix, offering a variety of titles from their publishing division and original works. The platform launched internationally in English in July 2022 and has since grown to include a diverse selection of manga.
History and Development
- Original Launch: January 7, 2017 (Japan)
- International Launch: July 25, 2022 (English)
- Publisher: Square Enix
Monetization
Manga UP! uses a pay-per-chapter model with its own in-app currencies: UP, XP, and Coin. Users receive free UP regularly, which can be used to read chapters.
Other Noteworthy Manga Series
Aside from the newly added titles, Manga UP! Global offers a wide array of manga across various genres. Here are a few examples:
- The Crafty Mage: Frontier Settling Made Easy
- The Cynical Knight and Gentle Princess: Building Fairy Homes and a Life Together
- The Daily Life of a Middle-Aged Online Shopper in Another World
- The Diary of a Middle-Aged Teacher’s Carefree Life in Another World
- The Duke’s Daughter Drops Her Engagement and Facade
- The Duke’s Daughter Tiaresia Takes Revenge
Delinquents in Manga: A Popular Trope
The delinquent character is a common archetype in manga and anime, often portrayed as rebellious youths who defy authority. However, these characters can also possess hidden depths and unexpected qualities.
Common Characteristics
- Rebellious Attitude: Delinquents often challenge societal norms and rules.
- Tough Exterior: They may appear intimidating but can be vulnerable underneath.
- Loyalty: Delinquents are often fiercely loyal to their friends.
- Redemptive Qualities: Many delinquent characters undergo personal growth and find redemption.
Examples in Manga
- Weak Hero: A webtoon and television series featuring a protagonist who fights against bullies and delinquents.
- My Hero Academia: Vigilantes: A spin-off series focusing on unlicensed heroes who operate outside the law.
- The Delinquent Who Always Came to the Library Forced Me to Become His Partner: A manga about a delinquent who frequents the library and develops a relationship with a bookish student.
Final Thoughts
With the addition of The Dependable Delinquents’ Daily Lives and JUDGE, Manga UP! Global continues to expand its diverse library, offering something for every manga enthusiast. Whether you’re in the mood for a heartwarming comedy or a suspenseful thriller, these new titles are sure to provide hours of reading enjoyment.
