English Release of Berserk Creator’s Long-Awaited One-Shot

Overview

Dark Horse Comics is set to publish the first English edition of Dur-An-Ki, created by the renowned Kentaro Miura and Studio Gaga.
This one-shot series draws inspiration from Greek and Mesopotamian mythology and features a unique androgynous character named Usumgal.
Following Miura’s death in 2021, previously unpublished materials were included to complete the series, which will be available in English on September 16, 2025.

Plot and Background of Dur-An-Ki
- Influences from Greek and Mesopotamian Tradition

A compelling one-shot, Dur-An-Ki—conceived by Kentaro Miura of Berserk fame and the creative team at Studio Gaga—will soon be available in English for the first time thanks to Dark Horse Comics. This publisher, known for its role in distributing Miura’s significant works, is set to bring this intriguing narrative to a broader audience.

Originally published in Hakusensha’s seinen magazine, *Young Animal Zero*, from September 2019 to May 2020, Dur-An-Ki comprises two chapters spanning 64 pages. Following Miura’s untimely passing in 2021, the decision was made to conclude the series utilizing unpublished content. The complete volume will make its debut in English on September 16, 2025.

Plot and Background of Dur-An-Ki

Influences from Greek and Mesopotamian Tradition

Dur-An-Ki Manga Kentaro Miura Studio Gaga

The story of Dur-An-Ki centers on Usumgal, an androgynous character whose name translates to “Dragon.”This narrative unfolds in a richly illustrated world drawing from the distinct aesthetics of Greek and Mesopotamian mythology. The series first made waves as part of the inaugural issue of *Young Animal Zero*, and it sparked a mix of excitement and skepticism among Berserk fans, some of whom worried it might divert attention from the long-running series.

Miura himself characterized his role in Dur-An-Ki as minimal, noting that the bulk of the work was governed by Studio Gaga, the team tasked with carrying forward his vision for Berserk. By serving primarily as the director and storyboard artist, Miura ensured that his ideas were well-represented while allowing his studio to bring the story to life.

In a nod to the contemporary trend of strong female leads, mirroring successes like Disney’s Frozen and Mad Max: Fury Road, Miura sought to create a pioneering androgynous protagonist to challenge traditional gender norms in manga. After his death in May 2021, the narrative’s conclusion was confirmed, and the collected volume features a treasure trove of supplementary content, including unpublished artwork, story outlines, and concept sketches.

The title Dur-An-Ki is derived from Sumerian, meaning “mountain house, ”alluding to the assembly of deities in Mesopotamian lore, where heaven and Earth converge—akin to the famed Mount Olympus in Greek mythology. The English edition is meticulously translated by Duane Johnson, with lettering done by Studio Cutie. Be on the lookout for Dur-An-Ki hitting U. S.bookstores on September 16, 2025.

Source: Dark Horse Comics on Instagram

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