Spiraken Review Podcast

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.socialInstagram: instagram.com/spirakenEmail: Spiraken@gmail.com | Xan: xan@spiraken.comPatreon: patreon.com/spirakenDiscord: tinyurl.com/spiradiscordX: x.com/spirakenYouTube: youtube.com/@spirakenTwitch: twitch.com/spirakenAmazon 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.socialInstagram: instagram.com/spirakenEmail: Spiraken@gmail.com | Xan: xan@spiraken.comPatreon: patreon.com/spirakenDiscord: tinyurl.com/spiradiscordX: x.com/spirakenYouTube: youtube.com/@spirakenTwitch: twitch.com/spirakenAmazon 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.socialInstagram: instagram.com/spirakenEmail: Spiraken@gmail.com | Xan: xan@spiraken.comPatreon: patreon.com/spirakenDiscord: tinyurl.com/spiradiscordX: x.com/spirakenYouTube: youtube.com/@spirakenTwitch: twitch.com/spirakenAmazon 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.socialInstagram: instagram.com/spirakenEmail: Spiraken@gmail.com | Xan: xan@spiraken.comPatreon: patreon.com/spirakenDiscord: tinyurl.com/spiradiscordX: x.com/spirakenYouTube: youtube.com/@spirakenTwitch: twitch.com/spirakenAmazon 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.socialInstagram: instagram.com/spirakenEmail: Spiraken@gmail.com | Xan: xan@spiraken.comPatreon: patreon.com/spirakenDiscord: tinyurl.com/spiradiscordX: x.com/spirakenYouTube: youtube.com/@spirakenTwitch: twitch.com/spirakenAmazon 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.socialInstagram: instagram.com/spirakenEmail: Spiraken@gmail.com | Xan: xan@spiraken.comPatreon: patreon.com/spirakenDiscord: tinyurl.com/spiradiscordX: x.com/spirakenYouTube: youtube.com/@spirakenTwitch: twitch.com/spirakenAmazon 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.socialInstagram: instagram.com/spirakenEmail: Spiraken@gmail.com | Xan: xan@spiraken.comPatreon: patreon.com/spirakenDiscord: tinyurl.com/spiradiscordX: x.com/spirakenYouTube: youtube.com/@spirakenTwitch: twitch.com/spirakenAmazon 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.socialInstagram: instagram.com/spirakenEmail: Spiraken@gmail.com | Xan: xan@spiraken.comPatreon: patreon.com/spirakenDiscord: tinyurl.com/spiradiscordX: x.com/spirakenYouTube: youtube.com/@spirakenTwitch: twitch.com/spirakenAmazon 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.socialInstagram: instagram.com/spirakenEmail: Spiraken@gmail.com | Xan: xan@spiraken.comPatreon: patreon.com/spirakenDiscord: tinyurl.com/spiradiscordX: x.com/spirakenYouTube: youtube.com/@spirakenTwitch: twitch.com/spirakenAmazon Store: amazon.com/shops/spiraken

In this episode, Xan delves into the award-winning Akane-banashi by Yuki Suenaga, illustrated by Takamasa Moue.