Fans of Yoshiyuki Nishi’s fantasy manga, Lycanthrope Bōken Hoken (also known as Lycanthrope Adventure Insurance), have reason to celebrate as Shueisha is set to release the fourth compiled book volume, marking the series’ first new volume in seven years. This long-awaited release is slated for September 19.
A Return from Hiatus: The Long-Awaited Fourth Volume
The upcoming fourth volume of Lycanthrope Bōken Hoken arrives after a significant pause, with the third volume having been released in March 2018. The series, which began its serialization in Shueisha’s Young Jump magazine in October 2016 before moving to Tonari no Young Jump in September 2017, has gained a dedicated following for its unique premise.
The World of Lycanthrope Adventure Insurance
Set in a vibrant fantasy realm brimming with swords and magic, Lycanthrope Bōken Hoken revolves around the titular Lycanthrope Adventure Insurance company. This distinctive organization offers crucial insurance policies and support to adventurers who bravely undertake perilous journeys and navigate through dark, unknown territories. The manga blends elements of adventure, comedy, fantasy, and romance, categorizing it as a seinen demographic title.
The narrative often explores the intricacies of this “adventure insurance,” where the application of insurance types doesn’t always strictly adhere to conventional insurance functions, leading to intriguing scenarios. The series has been noted for its world-building, characters, and unique situations, despite some observations regarding inconsistent character portrayal and occasionally vague dialogue that skips over important information.
Yoshiyuki Nishi’s Esteemed Career
Yoshiyuki Nishi is a respected Japanese manga artist, widely recognized for his work on Muhyo & Roji’s Bureau of Supernatural Investigation. Born on December 27, 1976, and raised in Hachioji, Tokyo, Nishi previously worked as an assistant to renowned manga artist Takeshi Obata.
Muhyo & Roji’s Bureau of Supernatural Investigation
Nishi’s most prominent work, Muhyo & Roji’s Bureau of Supernatural Investigation (Muhyo to Roji no Mahōritsu Sōdan Jimusho), was serialized in Shueisha’s Weekly Shōnen Jump from November 2004 to March 2008, accumulating 18 tankōbon volumes. The dark fantasy, mystery, and supernatural series follows Toru Muhyo, a young magical law enforcer, and his assistant Jiro “Roji” Kusano, as they track and punish spirits using magical law. Viz Media licensed and released all 18 volumes of the series in North America. The manga also inspired a television anime series, which premiered in August 2018, with Crunchyroll streaming the series as it aired. A second season of the anime aired in 2020.
Other Notable Works
Beyond Muhyo & Roji and Lycanthrope Bōken Hoken, Nishi’s bibliography includes Bokke-san (2009), Hachi (2013-2014), and Mamono Kanteishi Babilo (2014). His diverse range of works showcases his versatility within the fantasy and supernatural genres.
The return of Lycanthrope Bōken Hoken with its fourth volume is a significant event for fans who have patiently awaited new material, demonstrating the enduring appeal of Yoshiyuki Nishi’s creative storytelling.
