Overview of Shonen Jump Titles at Risk of Cancellation
- Many new entries in Shonen Jump are on the brink of cancellation due to diminishing sales and waning popularity.
- Works like Astro Royale and Ultimate Exorcist Kiyoshi are particularly struggling to capture audience interest.
- However, established series such as Undead Unluck, Mission: Yozakura Family, and Witch Watch appear secure due to strong sales figures and anticipated anime adaptations.
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As of 2024, significant hitters like Jujutsu Kaisen and My Hero Academia have concluded, leaving fans concerned about the future of Shonen Jump’s lineup. While One Piece remains a monumental success, it is approaching its climax. Amid these shifts, industry observers have warned that the magazine may be showcasing its “weakest”slate yet, lacking a series capable of shouldering the publication’s legacy. That said, Kagurabachi is gaining attention as a promising potential standout.
In recent years, Shonen Jump has witnessed a high turnover rate with many series being canceled shortly after release, typically within the first three volumes. This practice is a common strategy for testing reader interest; if a manga fails to meet a certain threshold of popularity, it is likely to be axed. While a series doesn’t need to be an instant hit, it must achieve a minimum score to survive past its rookie volumes. Unfortunately, some titles may face cancellation before even reaching their third volume.
Conversely, if a title begins to decline after a promising start, there is potential for the author to be pressured into a swift conclusion. So, which titles in Shonen Jump are at risk of cancellation or may prove resilient in the upcoming months? This analysis will exclude titles published on Shonen Jump+.
Titles Likely to be Canceled
Newly launched titles are typically at the greatest risk, making those debuting in 2024 prime candidates for potential cancellation. We will take a closer look at each series along with the reasons behind their uncertain futures.
Astro Royale (2024 —)
Created by Ken Wakui, known for the hit Tokyo Revengers, Astro Royale faced heightened expectations. Unfortunately, sales have not indicated a strong performance, which is disappointing given Wakui’s past success.
Although Tokyo Revengers managed to carve a niche in Shonen Magazine, Shonen Jump’s audience differs significantly. It is likely to reach the three-volume assessment, but declining sales make its cancellation a real possibility.
Hakutaku (2024—)
As a recent entry in the lineup, Hakutaku has not gained much traction. The story revolves around two students who aspire to create a video game for their peers, but initial feedback suggests it may not resonate with audiences.
Ultimate Exorcist Kiyoshi (2024—)
Despite a poor start, Ultimate Exorcist Kiyoshi recently experienced an increase in volume reprints, indicating a possible renewed interest. However, it remains in a precarious position and has yet to significantly attract readers. The premise centers around a powerful exorcist with a secret, which may not appeal to everyone.
Titles with Fair Chances of Survival
These titles are characterized by average performance, neither excelling nor failing. While some have seen a dip in sales, they may still attract enough attention to survive the competitive landscape.
Shinobi Undercover (2024—)
With its first volume recently released, Shinobi Undercover is finding its footing among readers. Drawing parallels to Fullmetal Panic? Fumoffu!, it follows Yodaka, a ninja assigned to protect a high school girl while masquerading as a student himself.
Hima-Ten! (2024—)
Hima-Ten!, another new title, has noted decent initial sales with its second volume set to release soon. Although the premise may feel uninspired—a high school student doing house cleaning—the potential for niche appeal might allow it to continue successfully.
Syd Craft: Love Is a Mystery (2024—)
Although Syd Craft: Love Is a Mystery hasn’t taken off, it presents an intriguing blend of mystery and romance through a detective seeking love among the very criminals he investigates. Created by Taishi Tsutsui, known for We Never Learn, there’s potential for improvement.
Kill Blue (2023—)
With consistent sales around 25,000 copies per volume, Kill Blue reflects a stable performance, despite slight concerns over declining numbers. The story centers around Jugo Ogami, a hitman who, after being accidentally de-aged to twelve, attempts to navigate his new reality while undertaking secret assignments.
RuriDragon (2022—)
Initially making waves upon release, RuriDragon has seen fluctuations in turnover due to a lengthy hiatus. The story follows Ruri Aoki, a girl who discovers she’s a half-dragon, adding unique elements to the narrative. Despite past success, its recent performance will determine its fate in the market.
Titles That Are Definitely Safe
The following titles appear secure for the foreseeable future. Typically, series achieving strong performance over their first year, or those with anime adaptations, enjoy a buffer against cancellation.
Akane-banashi (2022—)
With anticipation of an anime adaptation, Akane-banashi stands out as one of the safest titles in the current lineup. Centering on the traditional art of rakugo, it follows Akane’s journey as she seeks to become an actress to vindicate her father, enhancing its narrative flair.
Nue’s Exorcist (2023—)
Despite potential confusion with Blue Exorcist, Nue’s Exorcist has carved out a niche, showcasing consistent sales. Gakuro Yajima, the protagonist who forges a bond with a spirit, navigates a blend of action and supernatural elements that are likely to keep it in readers’ good graces.
Super Psychic Policeman Chojo (2024—)
While not achieving stellar numbers, Super Psychic Policeman Chojo has performed well enough to secure its spot. This comedic series follows a rookie officer and his psychic partner unraveling crimes, a formula known for maintaining interest without extraordinary sales pressures.
Ichi the Witch (2024—)
Created by notable authors, Ichi the Witch emerges strongly early in its journey, supported by endorsements from key figures like Kohei Horikoshi. Centered around the unique concept of a boy aspiring to become a witch, it has garnered immediate interest promising its longevity.
Kagurabachi (2023—)
Another title widely regarded as secure, Kagurabachi has all indicators pointing towards an upcoming anime adaptation. The story follows Chihiro Rokuhira’s quest to avenge his father while reclaiming enchanted swords, and its premise has captivated audiences.
All titles discussed are available through the Manga Plus and Shonen Jump platforms, where readers can access the latest chapters for free.
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