Spiraken Manga Review Ep 585: Gachiakuta

 Xan tackles Hikari-Man
—Hideo Yamamoto’s (Homunculus) twisted tale of electromagnetically sensitive outcasts seeking vengeance. Is this brutal seinen sci-fi a cathartic triumph or a descent into madness?
Some Minor spoilers, and some raw analysis of Yamamoto’s signature darkness, plus updates on new manga releases you need to know.

Xan dives into Last Quarter, a haunting romance from Ai Yazawa (creator of Nana)
—blending supernatural mystery with her signature emotional depth. Does this hidden gem live up to her legendary status? No spoilers, just pure admiration for Yazawa’s art and storytelling magic. Plus, updates on the latest manga releases you won’t want to miss!
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Random Question:"Would ‘Last Quarter’ make an amazing OVA/OAA series?" Comment your pitch below!
🎶 Featured Music:"Trendsetter" by Mood Maze (via Uppbeat)License code: YEPNB5COHX56JVES
🏷️ #Tags:#AiYazawa #LastQuarter #Nana #ShojoManga #VizMedia #ShojoBeat #MangaReview #Spiraken #SupernaturalRomance #MysteryManga #AnimeAdaptation #YazawaArt #MangaPodcast #wheelofmanga 
⚖️ Legal:This review is protected under Fair Use. "Spiraken" is owned by AD Villanueva (2007–present). All manga art/images are property of Ai Yazawa and Viz Media.

In this episode, Xan dives into Takahashi from the Bike Shop by Arare Matsumushi
 
- a critically acclaimed josei romance about an office worker falling for a blunt bicycle shop owner. Despite its unconventional art style, this Yen Press title has captured readers' hearts. But does the storytelling overcome its visual quirks? Join us as we explore what makes this slice-of-life manga work (or not)!

 In this episode, Xan cracks open Ice Head Gill by Ikuo Hachiya
a new Shonen Jump series about an axe-wielding boy battling liches in a frostbitten world. Does this Norse mythology-infused action manga deserve its spot in Jump’s lineup? Tune in as we break down its standout moments, generic tropes, and icy lore!
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Music Credit: Closing Theme: Trendsetter by Mood Maze (via Uppbeat) License code: YEPNB5COHX56JVES
Random Question of the Day: What’s your favorite Norse-inspired manga? (Vinland Saga? MÄR? Let us know in the comments!)
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In this episode, Xan explores Super Cub by Tone Koken (illustrated by Kanitan) -
a heartwarming slice-of-life manga about a lonely girl discovering freedom through her Honda Super Cub.

In this episode, Xan dives into Hikaru in the Light by Mai Matsuda,
an inspirational music manga now being released in full color by Scholastic. Does the colorization enhance the story, or does it change the tone of this limited series? Join him as he explores its origins on the Azuki Manga app, shares his thoughts on the adaptation, and breaks down why this series is worth your attention.
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Thanks for tuning in, and we hope you enjoyed this episode. Until next time, keep turning those pages!

In This Episode, Xan has the privilege to review a cornerstone manga series that has influenced so many. Is it worth the hype? Let's find out as he reviews Ashita no Joe/Tomorrow's Joe/Ashita no Joe: Fighting For Tomorrow by Asao Takamori and illustrated by Tetsuya Chiba.

In This Episode, Xan has the privilege to review a signature samurai manga that discusses one of the most popular Japanese Swordsman of all time. Is it worth the hype? Well, sit back and find out as he reviews Vagabond by Takehiko Inoue.