Manga Up! Global, Square Enix’s official manga reading app, has announced the addition of six new English-language manga titles to its growing digital library throughout late September. The new releases, culminating with “I’m No Hero in the Shadows!” on September 30, aim to provide international readers with fresh content across various genres.
The expansion highlights Manga Up! Global’s ongoing commitment to delivering timely English localizations of popular and emerging Japanese manga series directly to a global audience. The platform, which launched worldwide in 2022, offers a diverse selection of titles, including simulpub releases that allow fans to keep up with their favorite series shortly after their Japanese debut.
A Closer Look at the New English Manga Additions
The six new titles, released incrementally over several days in late September, bring a mix of fantasy, action, and unique slice-of-life concepts to the service. Each addition expands the variety available to subscribers, many of which are adaptations of popular light novel series.
“From Old Country Bumpkin to Master Swordsman: The Twin Dragonblade’s Journey to the Top” (Released September 20)
Kicking off the latest wave of releases was Sasami Hazama’s manga spinoff, “From Old Country Bumpkin to Master Swordsman: The Twin Dragonblade’s Journey to the Top”. Based on Shigeru Sagazaki’s light novel series, this title follows Surena Lysrandra as she embarks on an adventurer’s journey after completing her tutelage. Her meteoric rise through the guild ranks puts her on a path to achieving Blank Rank, a rare pinnacle for adventurers. Her quest intertwines with Logan, an aged adventurer, and a young aspiring adventurer named Nell.
“The Saint’s Modern Recipes for Survival: Cooking to Avoid Death by My Husband’s Fans!” (Released September 21)
Chikage Nakakura’s “The Saint’s Modern Recipes for Survival: Cooking to Avoid Death by My Husband’s Fans!” joined the lineup on September 21. This intriguing title blends elements of fantasy and modern-day culinary skills, presenting a unique premise for survival.
“The Executioner and Her Way of Life” (Released September 24)
An adaptation of Mato Satō’s acclaimed light novel series, Ryō Mitsuya’s “The Executioner and Her Way of Life” became available on September 24. This series is known for its dark fantasy elements and compelling narrative, revolving around an executioner tasked with eliminating “Lost Ones” – individuals summoned from another world who pose a threat to their current reality.
“Overpowered and Underpaid: An OP Swordmaster Turns Hit Streamer” (Released September 25)
On September 25, Manga Up! Global introduced Jojo Ueyama’s manga adaptation of Genkotsu Kumano’s “Overpowered and Underpaid: An OP Swordmaster Turns Hit Streamer”. This title merges the popular “overpowered protagonist” trope with a modern twist, as a skilled swordmaster navigates the world of online streaming.
“Lockdown Life with the Class Beauty” (Released September 27)
Jaguchi’s manga adaptation of Senya Mihagi’s light novel series, “Lockdown Life with the Class Beauty,” was added on September 27. This series offers a romantic comedy or slice-of-life perspective, exploring the dynamics of two individuals confined together.
“I’m No Hero in the Shadows!” (Released September 30)
Rounding out the recent additions, S.Kosugi’s manga adaptation of Kōta Kaedehara’s light novel series, “I’m No Hero in the Shadows!,” premiered on September 30. This title is anticipated to deliver a narrative centered around a protagonist who, despite their capabilities, operates from the sidelines, reminiscent of “eminence in shadow” tropes but with its own distinct flair.
Manga Up! Global’s Platform and Future
Manga Up! Global continues to be a key platform for Square Enix to distribute its vast catalog of manga worldwide. Since its global launch, the app has aimed to provide direct access to both classic hits like “Fullmetal Alchemist” and “Soul Eater,” as well as new and ongoing series. The service offers over 200 series, with many chapters available through daily bonus items, and a Vault Pass subscription for unlimited reading of regular chapters. This steady stream of new content, as exemplified by these six recent additions, reinforces Manga Up! Global’s position as a significant player in the digital manga landscape.
