Manga artist Battan is set to launch her latest manga series, “Fatale Game,” in the upcoming June issue of Kodansha’s Kiss magazine, hitting shelves on May 23, 2025. This new series promises a fresh narrative, exploring the intriguing relationship between a struggling manga artist and her enigmatic new editor.
What We Know About “Fatale Game”
Battan shared the exciting news with her followers on Bluesky, posting a photo of the magazine announcement. This forthcoming manga centers on Seri Tainaka, a manga artist whose career has seen better days, with only one commercially successful work under her belt. Her life takes an interesting turn when she’s assigned a new editor, Sumire Futami. Sumire’s unconventional management style piques Seri’s curiosity and captivates her attention, setting the stage for a unique and compelling story.
Battan: A Rising Star in Manga
Battan has been steadily making a name for herself in the manga world with her character-driven stories geared towards adult women. She made her debut in 2015 with the slice-of-life series “Nijiiro Complex.” Since then, she has contributed significantly to the yuri manga and Japanese webcomic scenes. Her notable works include:
- Ane no Yujin (My Older Sister’s Friend): Published by LEED.
- Kakeochi Girl (Run Away With Me, Girl): Published by Kodansha. This series has also been translated into English, introducing Battan’s work to a broader international audience.
- Kemutai Ane to Zurui Imōto (Annoying and Cunning Sisters): Published by Kodansha. This manga was adapted into a live-action television drama in October 2023, further boosting Battan’s recognition.
- Soshite Heroine wa Inaku Natta (And Then There Were No Heroines): This manga was serialized on Torch web starting in March 2021 and began re-serialization on Web Comic Action in May 2024. The series concluded with its 21st chapter on April 15.
“Run Away With Me, Girl”: A Glimpse into Battan’s Style
“Run Away With Me, Girl” offers a great example of Battan’s storytelling and artistic style. The series follows a dramatic, funny, and poignant romance between two women who find themselves needing to escape their current lives to discover where they truly belong. The English version of the third and final volume was released in May 2023, allowing English-speaking readers to fully appreciate the series’ exploration of relationships and self-discovery.
Themes and Recurring Motifs
Battan’s works often delve into complex relationships, exploring themes of sisterhood, romance, and personal identity. Her characters are relatable and multifaceted, and her stories often resonate with readers who appreciate character-driven narratives. In many cases, her works cater to adult women audiences, skillfully tackling themes and situations that reflect the complexities of womanhood.
What to Expect from “Fatale Game”
While details about the specific plot of “Fatale Game” are still emerging, we can anticipate Battan’s signature style in this new manga. Based on her previous works, readers can expect:
- Intriguing Characters: Seri and Sumire are poised to be complex and well-developed characters with their own motivations and backstories.
- Exploration of Relationships: The dynamic between the manga artist and her editor will likely be a central focus, delving into the nuances of their professional and personal interactions.
- Emotional Depth: Battan is known for her ability to evoke strong emotions in her readers, and “Fatale Game” is likely to explore themes of ambition, creativity, and the challenges of navigating the manga industry.
Where to Read Battan’s Works
For those interested in exploring Battan’s manga, here are some options:
- “Run Away With Me, Girl”: Available in English from Kodansha USA Publishing, this series offers a great introduction to Battan’s storytelling style.
- Web Comic Action: Readers can find “Soshite Heroine wa Inaku Natta” on this online platform.
- Kiss Magazine: “Fatale Game” will be serialized in Kodansha’s Kiss magazine, available in Japan.
Battan’s Impact on the Manga Scene
Battan’s rise in the manga industry reflects a growing demand for diverse and character-driven stories. Her focus on adult women and her exploration of complex relationships have earned her a dedicated following. With “Fatale Game,” she is poised to further solidify her reputation as a talented and insightful manga creator. The manga “Annoying and Cunning Sisters” inspiring a live-action television drama adaptation shows her increasing influence.
Final Thoughts
Mark your calendars for May 23, 2025, and prepare to dive into the world of “Fatale Game.” With Battan’s track record for creating compelling characters and exploring complex relationships, this new manga promises to be a must-read for fans of yuri manga and character-driven stories. As Seri Tainaka navigates the challenges of her career and her intriguing new editor, readers are sure to be captivated by the unfolding drama and emotional depth that Battan brings to her work.
