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Every episode
Spiraken Review Podcast
30 episodes
Spiraken Manga Review Ep 640: Phantom Busters
Ep 640 · Jul 22, 2026 · 18 min
Xan dives into the wild, insanely fun world of Phantom Busters by NeoShoco This paranormal buddy comedy follows a straight-A student who doesn't believe in ghosts, an exorcist who swallows them whole, and a club that's anything but normal. Does the hype around this unique concept live up to the reading experience? We break down the insane elements, the humor, and the dynamic that makes this series stand out. In This Episode: Discussing the unique concept and the hilarious, offbeat dynamic betwee…
Spiraken Manga Review Ep 639: Galaxias
Ep 639 · Jul 15, 2026 · 13 min
Xan sets sail into the unique fantasy world of Galaxias by Ao Hatesaka This alternate-world adventure follows Jio, a girl hidden from the world by her father, and Nereid, a mysterious amnesiac. Together, they must navigate a world where dragon-tailed beings exist alongside humans, and where a living legend named Yuri Holst may hold the key to their future. Does this buddy-cop dynamic and unique setting deliver a compelling story? We break down the adventure. ----more---- In This Episode: Discuss…
Spiraken Manga Review Ep 638: Rai Rai Rai
Ep 638 · Jul 8, 2026 · 17 min
Xan takes a critical look at the sci-fi manga Rai Rai Rai by Yoshiaki This fast-paced series follows a struggling space exterminator who gets abducted and implanted with a deadly alien entity. While the premise has potential, the execution feels overly familiar—with artwork that echoes other artists and a story that never quite finds its own identity. Is this mid-tier sci-fi worth your time? We break down what works and what doesn't. ----more---- In This Episode: Discussing the familiar artwork…
Spiraken Manga Review Ep 637: Billy Bat
Ep 637 · Jul 1, 2026 · 19 min
Xan dives into the long-awaited manga Billy Bat by the legendary Naoki Urasawa (creator of 20th Century Boys, Monster, and Pluto) with co-author Takashi Nagasaki Set in post-WWII America and Japan, this mystery follows a cartoonist who discovers that his creation may be connected to an ancient, world-shaping force. Does this series stand alongside Urasawa's iconic works? We break down the incredible artwork, the compelling mystery, and the feel of this ambitious story. ----more---- In This Episo…
Spiraken Manga Review Ep 636: Rainbows After Storms
Ep 636 · Jun 24, 2026 · 13 min
Xan explores the world of high school yuri romance with Rainbows After Storms by Ruka Kobachi This series follows best friends turned secret lovers as they navigate the highs and lows of their hidden relationship. While the concept is sweet and the main characters are undeniably adorable, the plot falls into a familiar pattern that repeats chapter after chapter. Is it worth reading? We break down the charm and the stagnation. ----more---- In This Episode: Discussing the adorable main characters…
Spiraken Manga Review Ep 635: Witch Hat Atelier Kitchen
Ep 635 · Jun 17, 2026 · 18 min
Xan returns to the enchanting world of Witch Hat Atelier with its culinary spin-off, Witch Hat Atelier Kitchen by Hiromi Sato based on the series created by Kamome Shirahama. This cookbook-manga hybrid invites readers into Qifrey's atelier after hours, where magical experiments take a delicious turn. Is this a worthy addition to the franchise? We break down the recipes, the art, and our honest feelings about this unique companion. ----more---- In This Episode: Discussing the informative and acce…
Spiraken Manga Review Ep 634: Bug Ego
Ep 634 · Jun 10, 2026 · 18 min
Xan dives into the bizarre and thought-provoking world of Bug Ego by ONE (creator of One Punch Man) with art by Kiyoto Shitara. This sci-fi manga follows two students who discover "hacks" that can alter reality itself—with dark and unpredictable consequences. Does this strange, Black Mirror-esque story deliver on its mind-bending premise? We break down the weirdness. ----more---- In This Episode: Discussing the eerie, tech-horror atmosphere and the moral questions at the heart of the story. Xan'…
Spiraken Manga Review Ep 633: Lone Wolf & Cub Deluxe Edition
Ep 633 · Jun 3, 2026 · 22 min
Xan finally reviews an iconic cornerstone of manga: Lone Wolf & Cub by Kazuo Koike with art by Goseki Kojima. Now presented in a gorgeous new deluxe hardcover edition from Dark Horse Comics, this groundbreaking gekiga classic follows a disgraced samurai and his young son on a path of vengeance. Does it still hold up after all these years? We explore its enduring power. ----more---- In This Episode: Discussing why this genre-defining samurai epic remains essential reading. Appreciating the beauti…
Spiraken Manga Review Ep 632: Grim Night Tales
Ep 632 · May 27, 2026 · 15 min
Xan ventures into the unsettling world of Grim Night Tales by Yamayu with art by Kensei Hokamoto, a horror anthology praised by none other than Junji Ito himself. Based on two decades of collected real-life hauntings from across Japan, this Seven Seas Entertainment release promises spine-tingling terror. Does it live up to the hype? We break down the basic setup and share our honest thoughts. ----more---- In This Episode: An overview of this horror anthology's structure and the tales within. Xan…
Spiraken Manga Review Ep 631: In The Clear Moonlit Dusk
Ep 631 · May 20, 2026 · 22 min
Xan explores the heartfelt world of In the Clear Moonlit Dusk by Mika Yamamori, a romantic comedy that follows two "princes" who discover there's more to each other than their striking appearances. This series captures honest emotions, genuine vulnerability, and a captivating slow-burn dynamic between Yoi and Kohaku. Is it worth the read? We dive in. In This Episode: Discussing the honest, tender feelings depicted throughout this character-driven romance. Why the connection between Yoi and Kohak…
Spiraken Manga Review Ep 630: Akira Failing In Love
Ep 630 · May 13, 2026 · 18 min
Xan dives into the charming world of Akira Failing in Love by Shinta Harekawa, a fun rom-com about a girl whose awkwardness around her crush is matched only by her determination. This series wears its heart on its sleeve and its tropes proudly. Is it worth the read? We break down the sweet nature behind the familiar beats. In This Episode: A look at the numerous tropes that power this endearing romance. Why the sweet, earnest core makes up for the predictable moments. The latest manga releases f…
Spiraken Manga Review Ep 629: Liar Liar
Ep 629 · May 6, 2026 · 20 min
Xan enters the arena of Liar Liar by Funa Yukia (original story by Haruki Kuou), ----more---- a light novel adaptation manga centered on mind games, deception, and a dose of fan service. Set on an island where everything is settled through strategic "Games," this series follows a transfer student who stumbles into the role of pseudo-strongest. Is it worth navigating, or does it feel like a game we've played before? We break down the familiar beats. In This Episode: A spoiler-light discussion of…
Spiraken Manga Review Ep 628: Virgin Ventures
Ep 628 · Apr 29, 2026 · 15 min
Xan explores the boundary between sexy storytelling and simple ecchi with Virgin Ventures: The Hilarious Hijinks of Erotic Amateurs by Kuroseimu. ----more---- This manga follows an inexperienced duo attempting to write erotic fiction despite having zero real-world experience. Is it worth reading as a story, or does it tip over into porn with plot? We break down the laughs, the cringe, and the surprisingly straightforward romance. In This Episode: A spoiler-light discussion of the sexy but simple…
Spiraken Manga Review Ep 627: Love Bullet
Ep 627 · Apr 22, 2026 · 19 min
Xan takes aim at Love Bullet by Inee, ----more---- a new shojo manga that reimagines cupids as gun-toting matchmakers with a modern edge. Does this quirky premise deliver a bullseye, or does it miss its target entirely? We break down the confusing narrative, oddly low-energy pacing, and where this mid-tier story lands. In This Episode: A spoiler-light discussion of the story's unique but muddled execution. Why this high-concept premise struggles to hold attention. The latest manga releases from…
Spiraken Manga Review Ep 626: Nana 25th Anniversary Edition
Ep 626 · Apr 15, 2026 · 17 min
Xan returns to a cornerstone of shojo manga: Ai Yazawa's Nana. ----more---- Twenty-five years after its debut, this quintessential story of two young women—both named Nana, both chasing dreams in Tokyo—remains a cultural touchstone. Does it hold up? We revisit this groundbreaking series in its new sprayed-edge omnibus edition and compare it to our original review. In This Episode: A spoiler-light discussion of why Nana remains a defining work in Ai Yazawa's legendary career. Appreciating the won…
Spiraken Manga Review Ep 625: Old Boy Deluxe Edition
Ep 625 · Apr 8, 2026 · 22 min
For our 625th episode, Xan returns to a seinen landmark: Old Boy Deluxe Edition by Garon Tsuchiya and Nobuaki Minegishi. Famous for its explosive 2013 film adaptation, this brutal noir thriller asks whether a story about revenge, confinement, and raw desperation ages like fine wine or crumbles under its own weight. We revisit our original review and see how it holds up. In This Episode: A spoiler-light discussion of this groundbreaking story and its impact on the thriller genre. Praising the won…
Spiraken Manga Review Ep 624: Assassin & Cinderella
Ep 624 · Apr 1, 2026 · 15 min
Xan dives into the deliciously predictable world of Assassin & Cinderella by Yuzo Natsuno, an ecchi shojo where a spy and an assassin trade bullets for wedding vows. Does this Square Enix title follow the Spy x Family blueprint, or does it carve its own path by adding a generous helping of spice? We break down the art, the tension, and the tropes. ----more---- In This Episode: Appreciating the stunning artwork and the dynamic between our deadly leads. Discussing the predictable but undeniably en…
Spiraken Manga Review Ep 623: Centuria
Ep 623 · Mar 25, 2026 · 18 min
Xan ventures into the grim world of Centuria by Tohru Kuramori, a dark fantasy manga that has drawn inevitable comparisons to Berserk. With its brutal opening, eldritch horrors, and a protagonist burdened by 100 stolen lives, does this newcomer topple the king of grimdark, or does it land somewhere in the middle? We tread carefully—keeping the mystery intact. In This Episode: A measured look at the first chapter's dark, visceral opening and what it sets up. Discussing the comparisons to Berserk…
Spiraken Manga Review Ep 622: Tamon's B-Side
Ep 622 · Mar 18, 2026 · 20 min
Xan explores the world of J-pop fandom with Tamon's B-Side by Yuki Shiwasu, a shojo series that peels back the glittering curtain of idol life. When a devoted fangirl discovers her favorite idol is actually a gloomy, insecure mess behind the scenes, she becomes determined to support him—whether he likes it or not. In This Episode: Breaking down the lexicon of the J-pop fan world and how the series navigates idol culture. Discussing the premise of a fangirl navigating her idol's public face versu…
Spiraken Manga Review Ep 621: Cyberpunk Edgerunners Madness
Ep 621 · Mar 11, 2026 · 18 min
In this episode, Xan plugs into the world of Night City once more with Cyberpunk Edgerunners Madness by Bartosz Sztybor with art by Asano. This manga prequel to the acclaimed Netflix anime series follows Rebecca and her brother Pilar as they claw their way toward becoming legendary edgerunners. Strap in for a chaotic ride through the City of Dreams. ----more---- In This Episode: Following the manic energy of Rebecca and Pilar as they dive headlong into Night City's underworld. Discussing the str…
Spiraken Manga Review Ep 620: Kindergarten Wars
Ep 620 · Mar 4, 2026 · 18 min
In this episode, Xan enrolls in Kindergarten Wars by You Chiba, a shonen action-comedy that takes the "assassins at school" premise and cranks it up to eleven. Set in a kindergarten for VIP children where the teachers are ex-criminals working off their sentences, this manga knows exactly what it is—and runs with it. Does it carve its own identity, or does it feel too familiar? Let's find out. ----more---- In This Episode: Discussing the familiar "assassins and school" setup and how it compares t…
Spiraken Manga Review Ep 619: I Want To Escape From Princess Lessons
Ep 619 · Feb 25, 2026 · 19 min
n this episode, Xan examines I Want To Escape From Princess Lessons by Izumi Sawano (Author), Uri Sugata (Illustrator), and Miru Yumesaki (Contributor). What begins as a familiar "princess in training" setup quickly evolves into something far more complicated—a story about captivity dressed in romantic clothing. We unpack its tangled dynamics. ----more---- In This Episode: Discussing the unsettling undertones of Prince Clarke's behavior and the story's "stockholm syndrome" energy. Examining how…
Spiraken Manga Review Ep 618: Magical Midlifer
Ep 618 · Feb 18, 2026 · 17 min
In this episode, Xan dives into Magical Midlifer by Maki, a new manga that flips the magical girl genre on its head. Instead of sparkly teenagers, we follow middle-aged men working behind the scenes to clean up the mess—literally. Is this a fresh, clever subversion or a story that leans too heavily on familiar tropes? We break it down. ----more---- In This Episode: Analyzing the unique premise of magical girls supported by grizzled, middle-aged veterans. Discussing the manga's distinctive artwor…
Spiraken Manga Review Ep 617: City Hunter Omnibus
Ep 617 · Feb 11, 2026 · 15 min
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 l…
Spiraken Manga Review Ep 616: Ichi The Witch
Ep 616 · Feb 4, 2026 · 20 min
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 Usaza…
Spiraken Manga Review Ep 615: Hope You're Happy Lemon
Ep 615 · Jan 28, 2026 · 15 min
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 it…
Spiraken Manga Review Ep 614: Betrothed To My Sister's Ex.
Ep 614 · Jan 21, 2026 · 24 min
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 classi…
Spiraken Manga Review Ep 613: Mujina Into The Deep
Ep 613 · Jan 14, 2026 · 22 min
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, act…
Spiraken Manga Review Ep 612: Star Wars Path of the Lightsaber
Ep 612 · Jan 7, 2026 · 19 min
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 pro…
Spiraken Manga Review Ep 611 : Wash It All Away
Ep 611 · Jan 1, 2026 · 20 min
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 Awa…
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