Spiraken Review Podcast

In this episode, Xan revisits a legendary seinen series originally reviewed way back in Episode 102 by former co-host Kal. City Hunter by Tsukasa Hojo  follows Ryo Saeba, a "Sweeper" who cleans up Tokyo's underworld while chasing beautiful women, and his partner Kaori, who keeps him in check with a giant hammer. Does this new Kana omnibus edition elevate the classic, or does the original review still hold true? We reload and find out. In This Episode: A fresh look at Ryo Saeba's iconic blend of lethal skill and legendary lechery. Evaluating the quality and presentation of this new Kana omnibus release. The latest manga releases and our Ichibancon 2026 itinerary—hope to see you there! Support the Show: Help us keep sweeping up new reviews: Gofundme Engage With Us: Subscribe! YouTube | Website Follow @spiraken on X (Twitter), Bluesky, Instagram Join the community on Discord Support us on Patreon Rate us on Apple Podcasts Random Question of the Day: "If you had a 'City Hunter' style business card, what three letters would you use as your signal?" #Spiraken #MangaReview #CityHunter #TsukasaHojo #Seinen #ActionManga #KanaManga #ClassicManga #Ichibancon Music Credits: "Trendsetter" by Mood Maze (via Uppbeat) License code: YEPNB5COHX56JVES WHERE TO FIND US Bluesky: bsky.app/profile/spiraken.bsky.social Instagram: instagram.com/spiraken Email: Spiraken@gmail.com | Xan: xan@spiraken.com Patreon: patreon.com/spiraken Discord: tinyurl.com/spiradiscord X: x.com/spiraken YouTube: youtube.com/@spiraken Twitch: twitch.com/spiraken Amazon Store: amazon.com/shops/spiraken

In this episode, Xan dives into the hot new Shonen Jump sensation, Ichi the Witch, by Osamu Nishi with art by Shiro Usazaki. This series follows Ichi, a feral boy who becomes the world's first male witch. Does this hit have the magic to become one of the "New Big Three"? We analyze its unique premise, stunning artwork, and shonen potential. In This Episode: A light spoiler look at the first chapter's high-concept, "first male witch" hook. Discussing the beautiful, dynamic artwork and Shiro Usazaki's artistic return. The latest manga releases and a preview of our upcoming schedule for Ichibancon next week! Support the Show: Help us power up our reviews: Gofundme Engage With Us: Subscribe! YouTube | Website Follow @spiraken on X (Twitter), Bluesky, Instagram Join the community on Discord Support us on Patreon Rate us on Apple Podcasts Random Question of the Day: "If you could master one type of 'witch' magic from any series, what would it be and why?" #Spiraken #MangaReview #IchiTheWitch #OsamuNishi #ShiroUsazaki #ShonenJump #Shonen #ActionManga #VizManga Music Credits: "Trendsetter" by Mood Maze (via Uppbeat) License code: YEPNB5COHX56JVES WHERE TO FIND US Bluesky: bsky.app/profile/spiraken.bsky.social Instagram: instagram.com/spiraken Email: Spiraken@gmail.com | Xan: xan@spiraken.com Patreon: patreon.com/spiraken Discord: tinyurl.com/spiradiscord X: x.com/spiraken YouTube: youtube.com/@spiraken Twitch: twitch.com/spiraken Amazon Store: amazon.com/shops/spiraken

In this episode, Xan dissects the romantic comedy Hope You're Happy, Lemon by Mizuki Kishikawa. This manga takes the classic "body swap" premise and injects it with the high-stakes drama of an ex-girlfriend wild card. Does this story honor the beloved trope with fresh emotion, or does it rely on predictable beats? We analyze its charms and challenges. In This Episode: A light spoiler discussion of the first chapter's compelling setup. Analyzing the manga's execution of the body-swap trope and its tangled love triangle. Breaking down the character dynamics and emotional stakes. Highlighting the latest and greatest manga releases. Support the Show: Help us keep the reviews balanced: Gofundme Engage With Us: Subscribe! YouTube | Website Follow @spiraken on X (Twitter), Bluesky, Instagram Join the community on Discord Support us on Patreon Rate us on Apple Podcasts Random Question of the Day: "If you had to swap bodies with someone from your past for a day, who would it be and why?" #Spiraken #MangaReview #HopeYoureHappyLemon #MizukiKishikawa #RomCom #BodySwap #Shojo #VizManga Music Credits: "Trendsetter" by Mood Maze (via Uppbeat) License code: YEPNB5COHX56JVES WHERE TO FIND US Bluesky: bsky.app/profile/spiraken.bsky.social Instagram: instagram.com/spiraken Email: Spiraken@gmail.com | Xan: xan@spiraken.com Patreon: patreon.com/spiraken Discord: tinyurl.com/spiradiscord X: x.com/spiraken YouTube: youtube.com/@spiraken Twitch: twitch.com/spiraken Amazon Store: amazon.com/shops/spiraken

In this episode, Xan and Gretta delve into the charming yet complicated world of Betrothed to My Sister's Ex by Tobirano, with art by Chikage Nakakura. This manga adaptation of a hit light novel presents a classic Cinderella romance with a mistaken-identity twist. Does this tale of an overlooked baron's daughter and a dashing count earn its "happily ever after," or does the heroine's profound self-sabotage undermine the fantasy? We debate the highs and lows. In This Episode: Analyzing the classic "Cinderella with a twist" premise and its execution. A critical discussion about Marie's extreme self-deprecation and its impact on the romance. Sharing what we enjoyed about this popular shojo adaptation. The latest must-read manga releases and news. Support the Show: Help us keep the reviews coming: Gofundme Engage With Us: Subscribe! YouTube | Website Follow @spiraken on X (Twitter), Bluesky, Instagram Join the community on Discord Support us on Patreon Rate us on Apple Podcasts Random Question of the Day: "What's a classic romance trope (like mistaken identity or Cinderella) that you never get tired of, and what makes it work for you?" #Spiraken #MangaReview #BetrothedToMySistersEx #Tobirano #ChikageNakakura #Shojo #RomanceManga #Cinderella #LightNovelAdaptation Music Credits: "Trendsetter" by Mood Maze (via Uppbeat) License code: YEPNB5COHX56JVES WHERE TO FIND US Bluesky: bsky.app/profile/spiraken.bsky.social Instagram: instagram.com/spiraken Email: Spiraken@gmail.com | Xan: xan@spiraken.com Patreon: patreon.com/spiraken Discord: tinyurl.com/spiradiscord X: x.com/spiraken YouTube: youtube.com/@spiraken Twitch: twitch.com/spiraken Amazon Store: amazon.com/shops/spiraken

In this episode, Xan delves into the dark, hyper-detailed cyberpunk world of Mujina into the Deep by Inio Asano (creator of Goodnight Punpun). This highly anticipated manga presents a brutal, near-future dystopia where human rights are a commodity. Does this stark departure from Asano's usual work justify its intense hype? We dissect its visceral art, grim narrative, and polarizing characters. In This Episode: Analyzing the shift from Asano's introspective slice-of-life to this ultraviolent, action-sci-fi world. A critical look at the manga's stunningly detailed artwork and its bleak, oppressive themes. The latest manga news and announcements for upcoming events. Support the Show: Help us navigate challenging works: Gofundme Engage With Us: Subscribe! YouTube | Website Follow @spiraken on X (Twitter), Bluesky, Instagram Join the community on Discord Support us on Patreon Rate us on Apple Podcasts Random Question of the Day: "What's the most drastic genre shift you've seen from a creator you admire, and did it work for you?" #Spiraken #MangaReview #MujinaIntoTheDeep #InioAsano #Cyberpunk #SciFiManga #VizSignature #ActionManga #Dystopian Music Credits: "Trendsetter" by Mood Maze (via Uppbeat) License code: YEPNB5COHX56JVES WHERE TO FIND US Bluesky: bsky.app/profile/spiraken.bsky.social Instagram: instagram.com/spiraken Email: Spiraken@gmail.com | Xan: xan@spiraken.com Patreon: patreon.com/spiraken Discord: tinyurl.com/spiradiscord X: x.com/spiraken YouTube: youtube.com/@spiraken Twitch: twitch.com/spiraken Amazon Store: amazon.com/shops/spiraken

In this episode, Xan travels to that galaxy far, far away to review Star Wars: Path of the Lightsaber by Kenny Ruiz. This manga follows a young salvager who discovers a lost lightsaber in the tumultuous era right after The Last Jedi. Is this a worthy addition to Star Wars canon, or does it fumble its potential? We ignite our sabers and dive into this new corner of the saga. In This Episode: A breakdown of the story's unique setting in the post-Last Jedi timeline and its scrappy, ground-level protagonist. Analyzing how it expands—or doesn't expand—the lore of the Jedi and the Force. The latest manga news and releases. A quick apology for this episode's lateness! Thanks for your patience. Support the Show: Help us keep the hyperdrive running: Gofundme Engage With Us: Subscribe! YouTube | Website Follow @spiraken on X (Twitter), Bluesky, Instagram Join the community on Discord Support us on Patreon Rate us on Apple Podcasts Random Question of the Day: "If you found a lost lightsaber in the Star Wars universe, what would you do with it?" #Spiraken #MangaReview #StarWars #PathOfTheLightsaber #KennyRuiz #StarWarsManga #VizManga #SciFiManga #TheLastJedi Music Credits: "Trendsetter" by Mood Maze (via Uppbeat) License code: YEPNB5COHX56JVES WHERE TO FIND US Bluesky: bsky.app/profile/spiraken.bsky.social Instagram: instagram.com/spiraken Email: Spiraken@gmail.com | Xan: xan@spiraken.com Patreon: patreon.com/spiraken Discord: tinyurl.com/spiradiscord X: x.com/spiraken YouTube: youtube.com/@spiraken Twitch: twitch.com/spiraken Amazon Store: amazon.com/shops/spiraken

Happy New Year from Spiraken! Xan and Gretta kick off 2026 with a tranquil and beautiful manga to match the season of new beginnings. They review Wash It All Away by Mitsuru Hattori, a calming slice-of-life story about a woman with amnesia who finds peace running a laundry service. Is it a masterclass in relaxation, or is it too uneventful? We unfold the layers of this gentle series. In Our First Episode of 2026: A deep dive into the serene, healing atmosphere and stunning art of Wash It All Away. Discussing the unique premise of cleaning as a metaphor for emotional healing. The latest manga releases to add to your new year's reading list. Introducing Book #5 in the "45 Books for 45 Years" project (This Will Be Fun by E. Asher). Support the Show for the New Year: Help us start 2026 strong: Gofundme Engage With Us: Subscribe! YouTube | Website Follow @spiraken on X (Twitter), Bluesky, Instagram Join the community on Discord Support us on Patreon Rate us on Apple Podcasts Random Question of the Day: "What's your favorite relaxing or 'healing' activity, and is there a manga, book, or show that captures that feeling for you?" #Spiraken #MangaReview #WashItAllAway #MitsuruHattori #SliceOfLife #Iyashikei #HealingManga #SquareEnixManga #HappyNewYear Music Credits: "Trendsetter" by Mood Maze (via Uppbeat) License code: YEPNB5COHX56JVES WHERE TO FIND US Bluesky: bsky.app/profile/spiraken.bsky.social Instagram: instagram.com/spiraken Email: Spiraken@gmail.com | Xan: xan@spiraken.com Patreon: patreon.com/spiraken Discord: tinyurl.com/spiradiscord X: x.com/spiraken YouTube: youtube.com/@spiraken Twitch: twitch.com/spiraken Amazon Store: amazon.com/shops/spiraken

Merry Christmas Eve! In this special holiday episode, Xan unwraps Kamudo, the new fantasy epic from the legendary duo Akira Himekawa (creators of The Legend of Zelda manga). Set in a divine world before mankind, this series follows Kamuna, a boy born with a dragon's hand. Is this widely anticipated manga worth the hype? We dive into its stunning art and mythic world to find out! In This Festive Episode: A review of the lush art and ambitious world-building in Kamudo. Update #4 in the "45 Books for 45 Years" project (Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin). The latest manga releases for your holiday wishlist. Wishing you and yours a very Merry Christmas! Support the Show: A great gift to the podcast: Gofundme Engage With Us: Subscribe! YouTube | Website Follow @spiraken on X (Twitter), Bluesky, Instagram Join the community on Discord Support us on Patreon Rate us on Apple Podcasts Random Question of the Day: "If you could receive one fantastical ability (like a dragon's hand) as a 'gift,' what would you choose and why?" #Spiraken #MangaReview #Kamudo #AkiraHimekawa #FantasyManga #VizManga #LegendOfZelda #HolidayEpisode #MerryChristmas Music Credits: "Trendsetter" by Mood Maze (via Uppbeat) License code: YEPNB5COHX56JVES WHERE TO FIND US Bluesky: bsky.app/profile/spiraken.bsky.social Instagram: instagram.com/spiraken Email: Spiraken@gmail.com | Xan: xan@spiraken.com Patreon: patreon.com/spiraken Discord: tinyurl.com/spiradiscord X: x.com/spiraken YouTube: youtube.com/@spiraken Twitch: twitch.com/spiraken Amazon Store: amazon.com/shops/spiraken

In this episode, Xan travels back to the dawn of modern manga with Lost World by the legendary Osamu Tezuka. As the inaugural work in Tezuka's classic sci-fi trilogy, does this proto-manga about a rogue dinosaur planet stand as a visionary classic, or is it a fascinating but dated relic? We unearth its historical importance and see how it holds up today. In This Episode: Analyzing the historic, foundational style of this early sci-fi adventure. A look at the "Tezuka Star System" and how it shapes the classic characters. Update #3 in the "45 Books for 45 Years" project (Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros). The latest manga news and releases. Support the Show: Help us preserve manga history: Gofundme Engage With Us: Subscribe! YouTube | Website Follow @spiraken on X (Twitter), Bluesky, Instagram Join the community on Discord Support us on Patreon Rate us on Apple Podcasts Random Question of the Day: "What's the oldest or most historically significant comic or manga you've ever read, and what did you think of it?" #Spiraken #MangaReview #LostWorld #OsamuTezuka #Tezuka #ClassicManga #SciFiManga #DarkHorseManga #HistoryOfManga Music Credits: "Trendsetter" by Mood Maze (via Uppbeat) License code: YEPNB5COHX56JVES WHERE TO FIND US Bluesky: bsky.app/profile/spiraken.bsky.social Instagram: instagram.com/spiraken Email: Spiraken@gmail.com | Xan: xan@spiraken.com Patreon: patreon.com/spiraken Discord: tinyurl.com/spiradiscord X: x.com/spiraken YouTube: youtube.com/@spiraken Twitch: twitch.com/spiraken Amazon Store: amazon.com/shops/spiraken

In this episode, Xan ventures into the grim, oppressive world of Tower Dungeon by legendary creator Tsutomu Nihei (Blame!, Knights of Sidonia). Does the master of sci-fi architecture successfully conquer the dark fantasy genre with this tale of a nightmarish, living tower? We explore whether his iconic style creates a new horror classic or falters outside its usual domain. Also in This Episode: The latest update on the "45 Books in One Year" project (now reading: Holding Pattern). We're taking requests! What movie should we tackle in our next review episode? All the breaking news from the manga world. Support the Show: Fuel our exploration of dark corners: Gofundme Engage With Us: Subscribe! YouTube | Website Follow @spiraken on X (Twitter), Bluesky, Instagram Join the community on Discord Support us on Patreon Rate us on Apple Podcasts Random Question of the Day: "What's a creator (writer, artist, director) you'd love to see tackle a genre totally outside their usual wheelhouse?" #Spiraken #MangaReview #TowerDungeon #TsutomuNihei #DarkFantasy #Seinen #Grimdark #HorrorManga #Nihei Music Credits: "Trendsetter" by Mood Maze (via Uppbeat) License code: YEPNB5COHX56JVES WHERE TO FIND US Bluesky: bsky.app/profile/spiraken.bsky.social Instagram: instagram.com/spiraken Email: Spiraken@gmail.com | Xan: xan@spiraken.com Patreon: patreon.com/spiraken Discord: tinyurl.com/spiradiscord X: x.com/spiraken YouTube: youtube.com/@spiraken Twitch: twitch.com/spiraken Amazon Store: amazon.com/shops/spiraken

In this episode, Xan delves into the award-winning Akane-banashi by Yuki Suenaga, illustrated by Takamasa Moue. ----more---- This manga brilliantly explores the traditional Japanese art of rakugo through the eyes of a young woman on a mission of artistic revenge. Does it successfully translate the humor, tension, and passion of live performance onto the page? We break down this modern shonen masterpiece. Also in This Episode: Announcing a personal project: "45 Books in One Year" (starting with Project Hail Mary). We want your input! What movie should we review next? The latest and greatest manga news. Support the Show: Help us keep the stories coming: Gofundme Engage With Us: Subscribe! YouTube | Website Follow @spiraken on X (Twitter), Bluesky, Instagram Join the community on Discord Support us on Patreon Rate us on Apple Podcasts Random Question of the Day: "What's a traditional art, craft, or skill you'd love to see a manga explore in-depth?" #Spiraken #MangaReview #AkaneBanashi #YukiSuenaga #RakugoManga #ShonenJump #VizManga #ComingOfAge #ArtisticRevenge Music Credits: "Trendsetter" by Mood Maze (via Uppbeat) License code: YEPNB5COHX56JVES WHERE TO FIND US Bluesky: bsky.app/profile/spiraken.bsky.social Instagram: instagram.com/spiraken Email: Spiraken@gmail.com | Xan: xan@spiraken.com Patreon: patreon.com/spiraken Discord: tinyurl.com/spiradiscord X: x.com/spiraken YouTube: youtube.com/@spiraken Twitch: twitch.com/spiraken Amazon Store: amazon.com/shops/spiraken

In this episode, Xan dives into the acclaimed prequel, My Hero Academia: Vigilantes, by Hideyuki Furuhashi and Betten Court. This series explores the street-level heroes who operate without a license in the MHA universe. Does this grittier, more personal tale of Koichi and his friends surpass the global stakes of the original? We deliver our verdict on this complete collection.   In This Episode: Why this prequel offers a fresh, ground-level perspective on the MHA world. How it deepens the lore with fantastic backstory for key characters like Eraser Head. An announcement for an upcoming convention appearance! The latest manga news and releases. Support the Show: Help us keep the spotlight on great spin-offs: Gofundme Engage With Us: Subscribe! YouTube | Website Follow @spiraken on X (Twitter), Bluesky, Instagram Join the community on Discord Support us on Patreon Rate us on Apple Podcasts Random Question of the Day: "What's a spin-off or prequel series that you think rivals or even surpasses the original?" #Spiraken #MangaReview #MHAVigilantes #MyHeroAcademia #Vigilantes #HideyukiFuruhashi #BettenCourt #Prequel #SpinOff Music Credits: "Trendsetter" by Mood Maze (via Uppbeat) License code: YEPNB5COHX56JVES WHERE TO FIND US Bluesky: bsky.app/profile/spiraken.bsky.social Instagram: instagram.com/spiraken Email: Spiraken@gmail.com | Xan: xan@spiraken.com Patreon: patreon.com/spiraken Discord: tinyurl.com/spiradiscord X: x.com/spiraken YouTube: youtube.com/@spiraken Twitch: twitch.com/spiraken Amazon Store: amazon.com/shops/spiraken

In this episode, Xan tackles Kaiju Kamui by Shintaro Arima, a kaiju manga that wears its Evangelion influences on its sleeve.   Does this story of a pilot bonding with a biological weapon to fight monsters forge its own path, or does it get crushed under the weight of its inspirations? We break down what works and what feels a little too familiar in this action-packed series. ----more---- In This Episode: A critical look at the series' clear Evangelion parallels and its original ideas. Our final verdict on whether it's a worthy read for kaiju and mecha fans. The latest headlines and releases in the world of manga. Support the Show: Help us keep the reviews coming: Gofundme Engage With Us: Subscribe! YouTube | Website Follow @spiraken on X (Twitter), Bluesky, Instagram Join the community on Discord Support us on Patreon Rate us on Apple Podcasts Random Question of the Day: "What's a manga or anime you feel is a little too derivative of another series?" #Spiraken #MangaReview #KaijuKamui #ShintaroArima #KaijuManga #Mecha #Evangelion #ActionManga Music Credits: "Trendsetter" by Mood Maze (via Uppbeat) License code: YEPNB5COHX56JVES WHERE TO FIND US Bluesky: bsky.app/profile/spiraken.bsky.social Instagram: instagram.com/spiraken Email: Spiraken@gmail.com | Xan: xan@spiraken.com Patreon: patreon.com/spiraken Discord: tinyurl.com/spiradiscord X: x.com/spiraken YouTube: youtube.com/@spiraken Twitch: twitch.com/spiraken Amazon Store: amazon.com/shops/spiraken

In this special episode, Xan is joined by Gretta to revisit a true classic: Mushishi by Yuki Urushibara. Originally reviewed in Episode 120, does this beloved fantasy mystery about a wandering "Mushi Master" hold up after all these years? We examine the beautiful new Kodansha Collector's Edition to see if it's the definitive way to own this atmospheric and philosophical series. In This Nostalgic Episode: A fresh look at Ginko's journeys and the ethereal world of the Mushi. Is the new Collector's Edition worth the upgrade over the original prints? Does Xan's original review from 120 episodes ago still stand? The latest manga news and Gretta's new obsession with Murder, She Wrote. Support the Show: Help us continue our journey through manga history: Gofundme Engage With Us: Subscribe! YouTube | Website Follow @spiraken on X (Twitter), Bluesky, Instagram Join the community on Discord Support us on Patreon Rate us on Apple Podcasts Random Question of the Day: "What's a manga or book you loved years ago that you'd love to see get a beautiful, deluxe re-release?" #Spiraken #MangaReview #Mushishi #YukiUrushibara #Kodansha #CollectorsEdition #Seinen #FantasyManga #ClassicManga Music Credits: "Trendsetter" by Mood Maze (via Uppbeat) License code: YEPNB5COHX56JVES WHERE TO FIND US Bluesky: bsky.app/profile/spiraken.bsky.social Instagram: instagram.com/spiraken Email: Spiraken@gmail.com | Xan: xan@spiraken.com Patreon: patreon.com/spiraken Discord: tinyurl.com/spiradiscord X: x.com/spiraken YouTube: youtube.com/@spiraken Twitch: twitch.com/spiraken Amazon Store: amazon.com/shops/spiraken

In this episode, Xan dives into the brutal and unique dystopian action of Tank Chair by Manabu Yashiro. This manga features a comatose assassin in a weaponized wheelchair and the sister who guides him on a violent path to recovery. Is this an underrated gem for fans of Chainsaw Man and Dorohedoro? We load up and fire off our full review. In This Episode: Breaking down the hyper-violent, heartfelt, and utterly original premise. How the series balances its crazy action with a powerful sibling bond. An announcement for an upcoming convention appearance! The latest headlines from the world of manga. Support the Show: Help us keep the spotlight on hidden gems: Gofundme Engage With Us: Subscribe! YouTube | Website Follow @spiraken on X (Twitter), Bluesky, Instagram Join the community on Discord Support us on Patreon Rate us on Apple Podcasts Random Question of the Day: "What's the most creative or unexpected weapon you've seen in a manga or anime?" #Spiraken #MangaReview #TankChair #ManabuYashiro #Seinen #ActionManga #DystopianManga #HiddenGem #kodanshaManga Music Credits: "Trendsetter" by Mood Maze (via Uppbeat) License code: YEPNB5COHX56JVES WHERE TO FIND US Bluesky: bsky.app/profile/spiraken.bsky.social Instagram: instagram.com/spiraken Email: Spiraken@gmail.com | Xan: xan@spiraken.com Patreon: patreon.com/spiraken Discord: tinyurl.com/spiradiscord X: x.com/spiraken YouTube: youtube.com/@spiraken Twitch: twitch.com/spiraken Amazon Store: amazon.com/shops/spiraken

In this episode, Xan examines Mr. Megaman (Rockman-san) by Yushi Kawata & Yukito—a bizarre but charming slice-of-life manga where the Blue Bomber trades battling Robot Masters for a career in dentistry. Is this Udon Entertainment manga a loving tribute or a cavity-inducing misstep? We drill into this unique video game homage to find the root of its appeal. In This Episode: Analyzing this quirky slice-of-life take on a classic Capcom icon. Who this niche manga is for (and who might want to skip it). The latest manga news and upcoming releases. Support the Show: Help keep the podcast running: Gofundme Engage With Us: Subscribe! YouTube | Website Follow @spiraken on X (Twitter), Bluesky, Instagram Join the community on Discord Support us on Patreon Rate us on Apple Podcasts Random Question of the Day: "What's the weirdest or most unexpected 'day job' you can imagine for a classic video game character?" #Spiraken #MangaReview #MrMegaman #RockmanSan #MegaMan #UdonManga #SliceOfLife #VideoGameManga #Capcom Music Credits: "Trendsetter" by Mood Maze (via Uppbeat) License code: YEPNB5COHX56JVES WHERE TO FIND US Bluesky: bsky.app/profile/spiraken.bsky.social Instagram: instagram.com/spiraken Email: Spiraken@gmail.com | Xan: xan@spiraken.com Patreon: patreon.com/spiraken Discord: tinyurl.com/spiradiscord X: x.com/spiraken YouTube: youtube.com/@spiraken Twitch: twitch.com/spiraken Amazon Store: amazon.com/shops/spiraken YouTube Tags:

n this episode, Xan kicks off the 600s with a delightful change of pace: Cats with Jobs by Pandania. This wholesome slice-of-life manga explores the secret world of felines with careers. Is it the cathartic and relaxing read we all need? We dive into this charming webcomic-turned-manga to see if its gentle humor and positive vibes are a perfect palate cleanser. In This Episode: A review of this gentle, episodic manga about working cats. How it succeeds as a comforting, low-stakes read. Exciting new updates and the latest manga news. Support the Show: Help us continue reviewing: Gofundme Engage With Us: Subscribe! YouTube | Website Follow @spiraken on X (Twitter), Bluesky, Instagram Join the community on Discord Support us on Patreon Rate us on Apple Podcasts Random Question of the Day: "If your pet (or a favorite animal) had a job, what would they be perfectly suited for?" #Spiraken #MangaReview #CatsWithJobs #Pandania #SliceOfLife #WholesomeManga #Webcomic #ComfortRead Music Credits: "Trendsetter" by Mood Maze (via Uppbeat) License code: YEPNB5COHX56JVES WHERE TO FIND US Bluesky: bsky.app/profile/spiraken.bsky.social Instagram: instagram.com/spiraken Email: Spiraken@gmail.com | Xan: xan@spiraken.com Patreon: patreon.com/spiraken Discord: tinyurl.com/spiradiscord X: x.com/spiraken YouTube: youtube.com/@spiraken Twitch: twitch.com/spiraken Amazon Store: amazon.com/shops/spiraken

Celebrate 600 episodes of the Spiraken Manga Review! For this landmark episode, Xan tackles the controversial and popular Chained Soldier (Mato Seihei no Slave) by Takahiro with art by Yohei Takemura. Does this hit fantasy harem manga about a young man empowering a squad of super-powered women live up to its hype, or does it get... well, chained by its own tropes? We deliver a definitive verdict for this Yen Press title. In This Special Episode: A critical deep-dive into the series' unique power system and ecchi-heavy narrative. Our honest "mid-tier" assessment and who this manga is really for. A look ahead at the future of the Spiraken Manga Review! The latest and greatest in manga news. Support the Show for 600 More: Help fuel the next chapter: Gofundme Engage With Us: Subscribe! YouTube | Website Follow @spiraken on X (Twitter), Bluesky, Instagram Join the community on Discord Support us on Patreon Rate us on Apple Podcasts Random Question of the Day: "What's a 'guilty pleasure' manga or anime you enjoy, regardless of its critical reception?" #Spiraken #MangaReview #ChainedSoldier #MatoSeiheiNoSlave #Takahiro #Episode600 #FantasyHarem #YenPress #Milestone Music Credits: "Trendsetter" by Mood Maze (via Uppbeat) License code: YEPNB5COHX56JVES WHERE TO FIND US Bluesky: bsky.app/profile/spiraken.bsky.social Instagram: instagram.com/spiraken Email: Spiraken@gmail.com | Xan: xan@spiraken.com Patreon: patreon.com/spiraken Discord: tinyurl.com/spiradiscord X: x.com/spiraken YouTube: youtube.com/@spiraken Twitch: twitch.com/spiraken Amazon Store: amazon.com/shops/spiraken

In this special milestone episode, Xan is joined by Gretta to revisit a true classic: Cat's Eye by Tsukasa Hojo. Originally reviewed 300 episodes ago, does the story of the three Kisugi sisters—art thieves reclaiming their father's work—still hold up? We dive into the new Kana omnibus edition to see if this iconic manga is worth a modern reader's shelf space. In This Episode: A fresh look at the classic heist/romance and how it holds up today. Is the new Kana omnibus release the definitive way to read it? Our thoughts on the new Cat's Eye anime adaptation on Disney+. The latest manga news and releases. Support the Show: Help us celebrate 600 episodes: Gofundme Engage With Us: Subscribe! YouTube | Website Follow @spiraken on X (Twitter), Bluesky, Instagram Join the community on Discord Support us on Patreon Rate us on Apple Podcasts Random Question of the Day: "What's a classic manga from your past that you'd love to see get a brand-new, high-quality release?" #Spiraken #MangaReview #CatsEye #TsukasaHojo #KanaManga #ClassicManga #HeistManga #300Episodes Music Credits: "Trendsetter" by Mood Maze (via Uppbeat) License code: YEPNB5COHX56JVES WHERE TO FIND US Bluesky: bsky.app/profile/spiraken.bsky.social Instagram: instagram.com/spiraken Email: Spiraken@gmail.com | Xan: xan@spiraken.com Patreon: patreon.com/spiraken Discord: tinyurl.com/spiradiscord X: x.com/spiraken YouTube: youtube.com/@spiraken Twitch: twitch.com/spiraken Amazon Store: amazon.com/shops/spiraken

Xan hits the set with Tenmaku Cinema, the short-lived but ambitious manga from the acclaimed duo Yūto Tsukuda (Story) and Shun Saeki (Art). Does this Viz Media title swap culinary ecstasy for cinematic passion, delivering a heartfelt story about a young cinephile and his literal ghostwriter? We explore if it captures movie-making magic without the infamous Food Wars! fan service. In This Episode: Analyzing the authentic filmmaking passion and terminology. How this series compares to the creators' previous blockbuster hit. Why this canceled manga still delivers a complete first story arc. The latest must-read manga releases. Support the Show: Help us keep the cameras rolling: Gofundme Engage With Us: Subscribe! YouTube | Website Follow @spiraken on X (Twitter), Bluesky, Instagram Join the community on Discord Support us on Patreon Rate us on Apple Podcasts Random Question of the Day: "If a ghostly screenwriter offered you one perfect script, what story would you want them to write for you?" #Spiraken #MangaReview #TenmakuCinema #YutoTsukuda #ShunSaeki #Shonen #FilmmakingManga #VizMedia #FoodWarsCreators Music Credits: "Trendsetter" by Mood Maze (via Uppbeat) License code: YEPNB5COHX56JVES WHERE TO FIND US Bluesky: bsky.app/profile/spiraken.bsky.social Instagram: instagram.com/spiraken Email: Spiraken@gmail.com | Xan: xan@spiraken.com Patreon: patreon.com/spiraken Discord: tinyurl.com/spiradiscord X: x.com/spiraken YouTube: youtube.com/@spiraken Twitch: twitch.com/spiraken Amazon Store: amazon.com/shops/spiraken