Masahiro Anbe, the renowned manga artist best known for his hit series Squid Girl, is set to launch his latest manga, Akuma de Fukei!, on February 3, 2025. The new series will be serialized in Kodansha’s Weekly Young Magazine, marking Anbe’s first foray into this publication. This announcement follows Anbe’s previous works in Weekly Shōnen Champion, where he serialized both Squid Girl and Atsumare! Fushigi Kenkyū-bu.
A Romantic Comedy with a Devilish Twist
Akuma de Fukei! promises a departure from Anbe’s previous works, presenting a romantic comedy with supernatural elements. The story revolves around Eclair, a demon “policewoman” who descends from the demon world to a rural police box in search of an evil human to serve as her servant. Eclair’s quest leads her to Daichi Kuwahara, a police officer with a “bad guy’s face”.
Wordplay in the Title
The title itself, Akuma de Fukei!, is a clever wordplay using the Japanese word “fukei” written in hiragana, which can mean either “disrespecting the devil” or “protecting the devil”. This ambiguity creates a unique premise, suggesting that both interpretations could be valid. The dynamic between Eclair and Daichi forms the core of this romantic comedy, as they navigate their contrasting desires and personalities.
Plot and Character Dynamics
Eclair, with her clumsy personality, finds herself at odds with Daichi, who is determined to send her back to the demon world. Their initial interactions are characterized by a “battle of wits,” as Daichi tries to rid himself of the chaotic demon. However, his sense of responsibility prevents him from abandoning Eclair, leading to a complex relationship where they cannot leave each other alone, despite their differing goals. The series will delve into their daily lives, combining humor with romantic undertones.
A Rural Police Setting
The setting of a rural police station provides an interesting backdrop for this supernatural romantic comedy. The contrast between the mundane world of law enforcement and the chaotic presence of a demon policewoman sets the stage for both comedic and heartwarming situations.
Release and Publication Details
The manga will be serialized in Weekly Young Magazine, beginning February 3, 2025. The first volume of Akuma de Fukei! is scheduled for release on June 6, 2025. This marks a significant change from the initial online listing, which suggested a direct release of the tankobon volume without prior serialization. The first volume will contain 192 pages and has a listed price of 792 yen (approximately $5 USD).
Potential for English Release
Fans outside of Japan are hopeful for an English version release, although there are no official announcements yet. Given the popularity of Anbe’s works, particularly Squid Girl, an international release of Akuma de Fukei! is certainly a possibility that many fans are eagerly anticipating.
Masahiro Anbe’s Previous Works
Before Akuma de Fukei!, Masahiro Anbe had two notable manga series: Squid Girl and Atsumare! Fushigi Kenkyū-bu.
Squid Girl
Squid Girl (Shinryaku! Ika Musume), serialized from 2007 to 2016, is Anbe’s most popular work. The story follows a squid girl who comes ashore to avenge the pollution of the ocean by humankind, only to find herself working as a waitress in a beachside restaurant. The series gained a considerable following, leading to two 12-episode anime series in 2010 and 2011. Squid Girl also received three original video animation (OVA) episodes. The anime was streamed by Crunchyroll as it aired in Japan and has been licensed for release by Sentai Filmworks in North America.
Atsumare! Fushigi Kenkyū-bu
Following Squid Girl, Anbe serialized Atsumare! Fushigi Kenkyū-bu (Assemble! Mystery Research Club) from September 2016 to July 2024. This series revolves around a group of high school students exploring supernatural mysteries. While it did not receive an anime adaptation, it was also published in Weekly Shōnen Champion, further establishing Anbe’s presence in the manga world.
Anbe’s Style and Experience
Masahiro Anbe’s manga are known for their distinctive comedic style, often incorporating absurd situations and quirky characters. His experience with both comedy and slice-of-life genres makes him well-suited to explore the romantic comedy elements of Akuma de Fukei!.
A Departure from Previous Themes
While Anbe has created humorous and lighthearted manga in the past, the inclusion of a supernatural element with a demon protagonist adds a new dimension to his work. This blend of romantic comedy, supernatural elements, and a rural police setting demonstrates Anbe’s ability to create engaging and original storylines.
Fan Anticipation
The announcement of Akuma de Fukei! has generated considerable excitement among fans of Anbe’s work. The unique premise of a demon policewoman seeking a human servant while battling wits with her coworker has piqued the interest of many. With the first volume releasing in June and serialization starting in February, fans will not have to wait too long to dive into Anbe’s new series.
Social Media Buzz
Online platforms have been buzzing with anticipation, as manga enthusiasts and fans of Squid Girl share their thoughts on the new project. Many are eager to see how Anbe’s storytelling and comedic talents will translate into this new romantic comedy.
Conclusion
Masahiro Anbe’s Akuma de Fukei! is poised to be a significant new series in the manga landscape. The combination of a supernatural concept, romantic comedy, and the setting of a rural police station provides a unique backdrop for engaging storytelling. Scheduled for release in early 2025, Akuma de Fukei! is a highly anticipated series that is likely to attract a wide audience. As fans eagerly await the February 3 launch, all eyes are on Anbe as he embarks on this exciting new manga journey.
