Spiraken Review Podcast

Spiraken Review Podcasts · spiraken.com

600 episodes of manga mayhem, powered by our infamous Wheel of Manga! Will it land on Restaurant To Another World’s cozy charm or Attack on Titan’s despair? No one knows—not even us. Beyond the Wheel, we’re your go-to for manga hot takes, convention adventures, movie breakdowns, and our passionate monthly Book Club. From Lupin III’s heists to Vagabond’s soul-searching, if it’s kinetically enhanced, we’ve spun it. Tune in weekly for glorious uncertainty!. Check out our podcast at www.spiraken.com or at Youtube.com/@spiraken and remember to like and subscribe

999 episodes

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English language

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Episodes 300

Spiraken Manga Review Ep 640: Phantom Busters
1mo ago · 18:27
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 between the characters. Xan's thoughts on the insane, high-energy elements that drive the story. The lates
Spiraken Manga Review Ep 639: Galaxias
1mo ago · 13:09
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: Discussing the unique buddy-cop dynamic between Jio and Nereid. Exploring the fascinating setting where dra
Spiraken Manga Review Ep 638: Rai Rai Rai
1mo ago · 17:22
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 and its derivative nature. Xan's thoughts on the fast-paced but ultimately mediocre story. The lates
Spiraken Manga Review Ep 637: Billy Bat
2mo ago · 18:43
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 Episode: Discussing the incredible artwork and the atmospheric post-WWII setting. Xan's thoughts on how t
Spiraken Manga Review Ep 636: Rainbows After Storms
2mo ago · 12:44
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 and the sweet, heart-fluttering concept. Xan's honest thoughts on the overly familiar plot structure
Spiraken Manga Review Ep 635: Witch Hat Atelier Kitchen
2mo ago · 18:23
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 accessible recipes featured throughout the book. Appreciating the great art style that captures the cozy
Spiraken Manga Review Ep 634: Bug Ego
2mo ago · 18:19
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's thoughts on this genre shift from the creator of One Punch Man. The latest manga news and headline
Spiraken Manga Review Ep 633: Lone Wolf & Cub Deluxe Edition
2mo ago · 21:49
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 beautiful design of this new deluxe oversized hardcover edition. The latest manga news and headlines. Talk
Spiraken Manga Review Ep 632: Grim Night Tales
3mo ago · 15:08
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's thoughts on whether the chilling artwork and stories deliver genuine fear. The latest manga relea
Spiraken Manga Review Ep 631: In The Clear Moonlit Dusk
3mo ago · 21:30
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 Kohaku elevates the story beyond typical tropes. The latest manga releases from this week. Showing off so
Spiraken Manga Review Ep 630: Akira Failing In Love
3mo ago · 17:41
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 from this week. Hype for our 18-year anniversary this coming Friday! Continuing to discuss our panels
Spiraken Manga Review Ep 629: Liar Liar
3mo ago · 20:26
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 the game system and its mechanics. Xan's honest feelings on this very familiar story and where it st
Spiraken Manga Review Ep 628: Virgin Ventures
4mo ago · 14:56
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 narrative and its appeal. Debating where this ecchi title lands on the substance vs. fanservice spe
Spiraken Manga Review Ep 627: Love Bullet
4mo ago · 19:14
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 this week. Plus: Spiraken's initial panel list for Animazement 2026 is here! Support the Show:Help u
Spiraken Manga Review Ep 626: Nana 25th Anniversary Edition
4mo ago · 17:19
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 wondrous, expressive art that captures the punk energy and emotional depth of the story. Examining the
Spiraken Manga Review Ep 625: Old Boy Deluxe Edition
4mo ago · 21:49
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 wondrous, visceral art that brings this dark tale to life. Comparing the manga to the iconic film adapt
Spiraken Manga Review Ep 624: Assassin & Cinderella
5mo ago · 14:54
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 enjoyable story beats. The latest manga releases from this week. Support the Show:Help us keep the rev
Spiraken Manga Review Ep 623: Centuria
5mo ago · 18:08
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 and where Centuria stands on its own. The latest manga releases from this week. Support the Show:Hel
Spiraken Manga Review Ep 622: Tamon's B-Side
5mo ago · 20:15
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 versus his private reality. The latest manga releases from this week. Support the Show:Help us keep the s
Spiraken Manga Review Ep 621: Cyberpunk Edgerunners Madness
5mo ago · 17:48
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 striking art style and how it captures the grit and gloss of the Cyberpunk universe. The latest manga r
Spiraken Manga Review Ep 620: Kindergarten Wars
5mo ago · 18:21
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 to series like Assassination Classroom, Mission: Yozakura Family, and Full Metal Panic—while doing so
Spiraken Manga Review Ep 619: I Want To Escape From Princess Lessons
6mo ago · 19:11
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 the narrative diverges from classic tropes by giving Lettie the agency to leave. The latest manga rel
Spiraken Manga Review Ep 618: Magical Midlifer
6mo ago · 16:32
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 artwork and its narrative strengths and weaknesses. The latest manga releases and a recap of our Ichibanco
Spiraken Manga Review Ep 617: City Hunter Omnibus
6mo ago · 14:49
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 lethal skill and legendary lechery. Evaluating the quality and presentation of this new Kana omnibus
Spiraken Manga Review Ep 616: Ichi The Witch
6mo ago · 20:03
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 Usazaki's artistic return. The latest manga releases and a preview of our upcoming schedule for Ichibanco

Episodes

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More Leisure shows

Spiraken Review Podcast

Episodes 300

Spiraken Manga Review Ep 640: Phantom Busters

Spiraken Manga Review Ep 639: Galaxias

Spiraken Manga Review Ep 638: Rai Rai Rai

Spiraken Manga Review Ep 637: Billy Bat

Spiraken Manga Review Ep 636: Rainbows After Storms

Spiraken Manga Review Ep 635: Witch Hat Atelier Kitchen

Spiraken Manga Review Ep 634: Bug Ego

Spiraken Manga Review Ep 633: Lone Wolf & Cub Deluxe Edition

Spiraken Manga Review Ep 632: Grim Night Tales

Spiraken Manga Review Ep 631: In The Clear Moonlit Dusk

Spiraken Manga Review Ep 630: Akira Failing In Love

Spiraken Manga Review Ep 629: Liar Liar

Spiraken Manga Review Ep 628: Virgin Ventures

Spiraken Manga Review Ep 627: Love Bullet

Spiraken Manga Review Ep 626: Nana 25th Anniversary Edition

Spiraken Manga Review Ep 625: Old Boy Deluxe Edition

Spiraken Manga Review Ep 624: Assassin & Cinderella

Spiraken Manga Review Ep 623: Centuria

Spiraken Manga Review Ep 622: Tamon's B-Side

Spiraken Manga Review Ep 621: Cyberpunk Edgerunners Madness

Spiraken Manga Review Ep 620: Kindergarten Wars

Spiraken Manga Review Ep 619: I Want To Escape From Princess Lessons

Spiraken Manga Review Ep 618: Magical Midlifer

Spiraken Manga Review Ep 617: City Hunter Omnibus

Spiraken Manga Review Ep 616: Ichi The Witch

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Episodes 300

Spiraken Manga Review Ep 640: Phantom Busters

Spiraken Manga Review Ep 639: Galaxias

Spiraken Manga Review Ep 638: Rai Rai Rai

Spiraken Manga Review Ep 637: Billy Bat

Spiraken Manga Review Ep 636: Rainbows After Storms

Spiraken Manga Review Ep 635: Witch Hat Atelier Kitchen

Spiraken Manga Review Ep 634: Bug Ego

Spiraken Manga Review Ep 633: Lone Wolf & Cub Deluxe Edition

Spiraken Manga Review Ep 632: Grim Night Tales

Spiraken Manga Review Ep 631: In The Clear Moonlit Dusk

Spiraken Manga Review Ep 630: Akira Failing In Love

Spiraken Manga Review Ep 629: Liar Liar

Spiraken Manga Review Ep 628: Virgin Ventures

Spiraken Manga Review Ep 627: Love Bullet

Spiraken Manga Review Ep 626: Nana 25th Anniversary Edition

Spiraken Manga Review Ep 625: Old Boy Deluxe Edition

Spiraken Manga Review Ep 624: Assassin & Cinderella

Spiraken Manga Review Ep 623: Centuria

Spiraken Manga Review Ep 622: Tamon's B-Side

Spiraken Manga Review Ep 621: Cyberpunk Edgerunners Madness

Spiraken Manga Review Ep 620: Kindergarten Wars

Spiraken Manga Review Ep 619: I Want To Escape From Princess Lessons

Spiraken Manga Review Ep 618: Magical Midlifer

Spiraken Manga Review Ep 617: City Hunter Omnibus

Spiraken Manga Review Ep 616: Ichi The Witch