Akio Hiiragi’s manga adaptation of Satoshi Wagahara’s light novel series, The Devil Is a Part-Timer!, is concluding with its 24th volume, set to release on June 26, 2025. This marks the end of an era for fans who have followed the adventures of the Demon Lord Satan as he navigates the challenges of modern-day Tokyo.
From Demon Lord to Fast Food Fry Cook
The Devil Is a Part-Timer! began as a light novel series written by Satoshi Wagahara and illustrated by 029 (Oniku). The first novel was published by ASCII Media Works on February 10, 2011. The series follows the Demon Lord Satan, who, after attempting to conquer the world of Ente Isla, is defeated by the hero Emilia Justina and forced to retreat through a gate to modern-day Tokyo, Japan.
Stranded in a world with little magic, Satan and his general Alciel must adapt to human life to survive. Satan adopts the name Sadao Maou and begins working part-time at MgRonald’s, a fast-food restaurant. Alciel takes on the role of Sadao’s housekeeper, managing domestic duties while researching ways to regain their powers.
A Hilarious Isekai Twist
The Devil Is a Part-Timer! stands out in the isekai genre by reversing the typical formula. Instead of a human being transported to a fantasy world, the series features powerful, eccentric characters from a fantasy world trying to make a living on Earth. This concept, combined with comedy, has made the series a fan favorite.
The humor in The Devil Is a Part-Timer! comes from the characters’ interactions and their struggles to adjust to human society. Sadao’s dedication to his job at MgRonald’s, his bizarre priorities, and the culture shock experienced by the demons are sources of comedy.
Manga Adaptation and Spin-offs
Akio Hiiragi’s manga adaptation of The Devil Is a Part-Timer! launched in Kadokawa’s Monthly Comic Dengeki Daioh in December 2011. The manga entered its climax in 2020, and the 23rd volume was published on October 25. Yen Press publishes the manga adaptation in North America.
The series also has several spin-offs, including:
- The Devil Is a Part-Timer! High School!, a manga series by Kurone Mishima.
- Hataraku Maou-sama! no Meshi!, a gourmet-themed manga by Oji Sadō.
Anime Adaptations
The Devil Is a Part-Timer! has been adapted into two anime series. The first season, produced by White Fox and directed by Naoto Hosoda, aired in 2013. A second season, produced by 3Hz and directed by Daisuke Tsukushi, aired in 2022, with a second part in 2023.
Light Novel Series Conclusion
The light novel series ended with the 21st volume in August 2020. Satoshi Wagahara launched a new novel titled Hataraku Maou-sama! ES!! in 2023 to commemorate the second anime season. The light novel series is licensed in North America by Yen Press.
Plot Overview
The Demon Lord Satan attempts to conquer the world of Ente Isla by annexing its four continents with his demon generals. After the hero Emilia and her companions defeat two of his generals and confront him, Satan and Alciel flee through a gate to modern-day Tokyo, Japan. Due to Earth’s lack of magic, they lose their powers and transform into humans.
To survive, Satan adopts the identity of Sadao Maou and starts working at MgRonald’s. He aims to climb the corporate ladder while searching for a way to return to Ente Isla. Meanwhile, Emilia also arrives in Tokyo, seeking to eliminate Satan, but she too is weakened by the lack of magic.
Main Characters
- Sadao Maou/Demon Lord Satan: The protagonist of the series, who works at MgRonald’s to make a living. He is ambitious and aims to become a full-time employee and eventually climb the management ladder.
- Shirō Ashiya/Alciel: One of Satan’s generals, who becomes Sadao’s housekeeper. He is loyal to Sadao and takes care of domestic duties while researching ways to regain their powers.
- Emi Yusa/Emilia Justina: The hero who defeated Satan in Ente Isla. She follows him to Tokyo to finish the job but also loses her powers.
- Chiho Sasaki: A high school student who works with Sadao at MgRonald’s and develops feelings for him.
- Lucifer/Hanzo Urushihara: A fallen angel and one of Satan’s generals. He makes a deal with Olba to defeat Satan but is defeated and ends up living with Sadao and Shirō.
Reception and Legacy
The Devil Is a Part-Timer! has been praised for its humor, characters, and unique take on the isekai genre. The series has a mix of situational, absurd, and reactive humor. The characters are enjoyable, and the plot is interesting.
The anime adaptation has been well-received, with many fans eagerly awaiting the second season. The series has become a cult classic, and its popularity has led to multiple spin-offs and adaptations.
Potential Differences Between Manga and Light Novel
While the manga adaptation generally follows the light novel series, there may be some differences. Some events in the manga may differ from the light novel, and certain content may be omitted. It is also possible that the manga could have a different ending from the light novel, although this is unlikely.
Final Thoughts
As the The Devil Is a Part-Timer! manga series draws to a close, fans can look back on a decade of laughter, adventure, and a unique twist on the isekai genre. The series has left a lasting impact on the anime and manga community, and its characters and story will continue to be enjoyed for years to come.
