Kodansha USA Publishing has announced a robust slate of new manga licenses set to debut in Spring 2026, offering a diverse collection of highly anticipated titles and beloved classics. The announcement, made at Anime Expo 2025, includes new series like GALAXIAS, OMORI, and Fruit of the Underworld, alongside significant anniversary editions and deluxe box sets. This broad selection aims to captivate a wide range of readers, from fans of action-packed shonen and psychological adventures to those seeking romantic comedies and collector’s editions of foundational works.
New Series Leading the Spring 2026 Charge
The upcoming season is highlighted by several fresh series making their English print debut, building anticipation within the manga community.
GALAXIAS: An Epic Shonen Fantasy
Among the new acquisitions is Ao Hatesaka’s GALAXIAS, a shonen adventure and fantasy series that has garnered attention for its compelling narrative and artwork. Originally serialized in Kodansha’s Weekly Shōnen Magazine and later transferred to the Magazine Pocket digital service, GALAXIAS follows the journey of Jio, a human girl yearning for adventure, and the mysterious, amnesiac dragonfolk Neraid. Their paths intertwine in a world where humans coexist with powerful beings known as dragonfolk, setting the stage for a rip-roaring adventure. The manga is characterized by its action-packed sequences and whimsical elements, drawing comparisons to popular titles like One Piece and Fairy Tail. Kodansha USA announced the North American license for GALAXIAS in July 2025, with the first volume slated for release in Q2 2026.
OMORI: From Indie Game Sensation to Manga
One of the most talked-about licenses is the manga adaptation of the acclaimed indie psychological horror RPG, OMORI. Illustrated by Nui Konoito with the original story by OMOCAT, the manga delves into the surreal and emotional journey of Sunny and his dream-world alter ego, Omori. The story explores themes of trauma, loss, and self-discovery as Sunny is thrust out of his reclusive life and confronts a dark past alongside his childhood friends. The OMORI manga aims to appeal to both long-time fans of the video game and newcomers experiencing the narrative for the first time. While digital chapters have been available through Kodansha’s K Manga service, the Spring 2026 announcement marks its print debut, allowing fans to collect the haunting yet heartfelt adventure in physical format.
Fruit of the Underworld: A Dark Mythological Twist
Adding a unique flavor to the lineup is Aya Kanno’s Fruit of the Underworld. This dark action-fantasy series offers a chilling reinterpretation of Greek mythology. The plot centers on Seiji, a boy who must descend into Hades’ underworld following a deadly crash to rescue his best friend and, in the process, save his own soul. Kanno is known for crafting intricate narratives with a blend of action and suspense, and Fruit of the Underworld is anticipated to resonate with fans of series like Jujutsu Kaisen and Demon Slayer due to its thematic depth and intense action.
Celebrating Classics: Anniversary Editions and Deluxe Collections
Beyond new series, Kodansha USA is also bringing back beloved titles in special editions, catering to both nostalgic fans and new readers.
MARS 30th Anniversary Edition
The deeply emotional shojo drama MARS by Fuyumi Soryo is set to return with a 30th Anniversary Edition. This collectible edition will feature an all-new translation, 2-in-1 hardcover volumes with metallic covers, and new cover illustrations by the creator. MARS was a best-selling shojo manga upon its initial English release in 2002 and has been out of print for decades, making this re-release a significant event for long-time enthusiasts.
Shugo Chara! 20th Anniversary Editions
PEACH-PIT’s popular magical-girl series, Shugo Chara!, will be celebrated with two new editions for its 20th anniversary: Shugo Chara! 20th Anniversary Edition and Shugo Chara! Jewel Joker. The anniversary edition promises refreshed covers, updated translations, and a beautiful color art gallery, allowing fans to relive Amu Hinamori’s journey of self-discovery. Shugo Chara! Jewel Joker continues the classic story, following Amu as a middle schooler transferred to Arcana Academy with a mission to retrieve powerful Arcana Jewels.
The Ghost in the Shell Legacy Edition Manga Box Set
For cyberpunk aficionados, Kodansha USA is releasing The Ghost in the Shell Legacy Edition Manga Box Set. This premium, uncensored edition brings together the complete defining work of modern cyberpunk, featuring two brand-new illustrations by creator Shirow Masamune, 11 exclusive posters, and a set of multicolored Fuchikoma robot stickers.
Additional Noteworthy Licenses
Kodansha’s Spring 2026 lineup further expands with other exciting titles, promising a diverse reading experience for fans.
Wicked Spot
Wicked Spot by Sal Jiang introduces a modern magical fantasy with a unique premise: a powerful sorceress named Sadako, after a century in hiding, discovers social media and becomes an internet sensation. Her decision to reveal her true identity as a witch sparks a magical clash, promising a whimsical yet intriguing narrative.
Kirio’s Fan Club
For those seeking an “oddball romantic rivalry comedy,” Kirio’s Fan Club by Ponchan Chikyū No Osakana offers a quirky and humorous take on romance. This series is expected to provide laughs and engaging love triangles, making it a distinctive addition to the shojo catalog.
Anticipated Release and Accessibility
The newly announced print titles are scheduled to be available starting Spring 2026 at major physical and online book retailers, including Barnes & Noble, Books-A-Million, and Amazon. Digital editions will be simultaneously released across various platforms such as Bookwalker, Amazon Kindle, Apple Books, Google Play, Nook, Kobo, and MyAnimeList. Fans can also directly access Kodansha’s digital manga through their official website, kodansha.us. This comprehensive release strategy ensures that a wide audience can easily access these new and returning series.
