After a three-year wait, the Crusher Joe REBIRTH manga is set to resume serialization. Fans of the classic science fiction series can rejoice as Yū Harii, the manga’s author, announced the exciting news via their X (formerly Twitter) account. This revival promises to bring a fresh dose of space-faring adventure to both longtime enthusiasts and new readers.
A Long-Awaited Comeback
The announcement, made on Monday, May 19, 2025, marks the end of a hiatus that began in 2022. Crusher Joe REBIRTH had previously faced an earlier interruption in October 2020, with a planned return in spring 2021 that was ultimately delayed. The manga did briefly resume in July 2021, adapting Haruka Takachino’s first novel, Crusher Joe: Rentai Wakusei Pizanne no Kiki (Crisis on Solidarity Planet Pizanne), originally published in 1977.
Free Chapters to Celebrate
To celebrate the manga’s return, all chapters of Crusher Joe REBIRTH are currently available for free on Kodansha’s Comic Days app and web service until June 18. This is an excellent opportunity for new readers to dive into the series and for existing fans to revisit their favorite moments.
What is Crusher Joe?
Crusher Joe is a Japanese science fiction novel series created by Haruka Takachiho, which debuted in 1977 and spanned 13 volumes. The series follows Joe, a skilled “Crusher,” and his team as they navigate the dangerous and mysterious expanse of space, taking on various challenging jobs. Crushers are essentially skilled troubleshooters who handle problems, big or small, for a fee. Joe, in particular, is an elite Crusher known for his expertise and high standards, often refusing illegal or morally questionable assignments.
The Genesis of Light Novels
Takachiho’s Crusher Joe is notable for its emphasis on visual concepts, with renowned animator Yoshikazu Yasuhiko providing illustrations. This approach is considered a progenitor of the light novel style. The series shares a universe with Takachiho’s other work, Dirty Pair, with Dirty Pair set roughly 20 years before the events of Crusher Joe.
Adaptations and Influence
The Crusher Joe series has seen numerous adaptations, including:
- A 1979 manga adaptation by Fujihiko Hosono.
- A 1983 animated film and a 1989 video project by Sunrise.
- Crusher Joe REBIRTH, a manga adaptation by Isuke Harii that launched in 2017.
Despite initial sluggish box office performance compared to other space operas of its time, Crusher Joe garnered a dedicated following, particularly among animation enthusiasts. Its visual appeal and focus on character dynamics have influenced later works like Cowboy Bebop.
Diving Deeper into Crusher Joe REBIRTH
Crusher Joe REBIRTH is Isuke Harii’s manga adaptation of Haruka Takachino’s original novels. Launched in Kodansha’s Evening magazine in September 2017, the manga aims to retell the classic stories with a fresh perspective. Yoshikazu Yasuhiko, known for his character designs in Gundam: The Origin, is responsible for the character designs in Crusher Joe REBIRTH, lending a familiar and appealing aesthetic to the series.
Story and Characters
The manga begins with the adaptation of “Extermination! The Space Pirates Trap” (撃滅!宇宙海賊の罠), the first novel in the Crusher Joe series. The story unfolds in the 22nd century, where humanity has expanded into space, leading to the emergence of “Crushers” – versatile mercenaries who tackle dangerous jobs, ranging from research and protection to rescue missions.
Joe leads his team aboard the spaceship Minerva, consisting of:
- Alfin: A cute and intelligent young woman, often described as a runaway princess.
- Ricky: A teenage genius with exceptional technical skills.
- Talos: A cyborg strongman, providing the team with immense physical strength.
- Dongo: A reliable and versatile robot, handling various tasks on the ship.
Together, they undertake various missions, facing space pirates, uncovering hidden secrets, and dealing with the challenges of a vast and often perilous galaxy.
A Blend of Action and Humor
Crusher Joe is known for its blend of action, adventure, and humor. While the plots are not always deeply intricate, the characters and their interactions provide much of the series’ charm. The comical antics of Joe and his team, whether aboard the Minerva or on various planets, create an engaging and entertaining experience.
The Hiatus and Return: A Timeline
- 1977: Haruka Takachiho begins the Crusher Joe novel series.
- 1979: Fujihiko Hosono creates the first manga adaptation of Crusher Joe.
- 1983: Sunrise releases the Crusher Joe animated film.
- 1989: Sunrise produces the Crusher Joe video project (OVA series).
- September 2017: Crusher Joe REBIRTH by Isuke Harii launches in Kodansha’s Evening magazine.
- October 2020: Crusher Joe REBIRTH goes on hiatus.
- Spring 2021: A planned return is delayed.
- July 13, 2021: The manga resumes with the adaptation of Crisis on Solidarity Planet Pizanne.
- February 2022: Crusher Joe REBIRTH announces another hiatus.
- May 19, 2025: Yū Harii announces the resumption of serialization.
Where to Find Crusher Joe
For those interested in exploring the world of Crusher Joe, here are some options:
- Manga: Crusher Joe REBIRTH is available on Kodansha’s Comic Days app and web service (with free chapters until June 18, 2025). Older manga volumes may be found through online retailers like Amazon.
- Anime: Discotek Media has released the Crusher Joe movie and OVAs on DVD and Blu-ray Disc.
- Novels: While the Crusher Joe novels have not been officially licensed in English, fans may find fan translations or Japanese versions online.
Final Thoughts
The return of Crusher Joe REBIRTH is a welcome event for fans of classic science fiction manga. With its engaging characters, thrilling adventures, and stylish art, the series promises to deliver more exciting stories in the Crusher Joe universe. Be sure to check out the free chapters on Kodansha’s Comic Days and stay tuned for further updates on the serialization.
