If you're diving into the captivating world of Oshi no Ko, you're probably wondering just how much content there is to enjoy. The answer to "How many volumes of Oshi no Ko are there?" is a straightforward one, but the availability and ongoing nature of the series make it a topic worth exploring in detail.
The Current Count: Volumes Released
As of today, October 26, 2023, there are 13 volumes of Oshi no Ko that have been released in Japan. This is the key number to keep in mind when you're figuring out how far along the story has progressed. These volumes encompass the chapters published in Weekly Young Jump, the manga magazine where Oshi no Ko is serialized.
The release schedule in Japan has been fairly consistent, with new volumes typically hitting shelves every few months. This regular pace allows fans to steadily follow the unfolding drama and mysteries surrounding Aqua, Ruby, and the complex world of the entertainment industry.
English Release and Availability
While 13 volumes have been released in Japan, the English translation and distribution are catching up. Yen Press is handling the English release of Oshi no Ko, and they are working to bring the series to international audiences. Because of the translation and publishing process, the English volumes are usually a few volumes behind the Japanese release.
Currently, 9 volumes are available in English. This means if you're reading in English, you'll eventually catch up to the translated content, but you might have to wait for future releases to see the latest developments. Checking online retailers like Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Rightstufanime is a great way to stay updated on release dates.
Digital vs. Physical Copies
When considering availability, remember that you have choices between physical and digital copies. Physical copies offer the tactile experience of holding the manga in your hands and adding it to your collection. Digital copies, on the other hand, provide convenience and instant access, especially if you're reading on the go. The number of volumes available might vary slightly depending on the format you prefer.
Both physical and digital versions are generally released simultaneously, so the difference in availability is usually based on the retailer or platform rather than the release date itself. Make sure to check your preferred source for either physical or digital manga to get the most current offerings.
The Ongoing Nature of Oshi no Ko
Oshi no Ko is not a completed series. This means that the number of volumes will continue to grow as Aka Akasaka and Mengo Yokoyari continue to create new chapters. Keeping up with the latest news about the manga's serialization will help you stay informed about future volume releases.
Since the series is ongoing, the story is still developing, and new characters and plot twists are being introduced. This makes it an exciting time to be a fan, as there's always something new to look forward to. It also means the answer to "How many volumes of Oshi no Ko are there?" will constantly change.
Staying Updated on New Releases
To stay in the loop about new volume releases, consider the following:
- Follow Yen Press: Yen Press is the English publisher, so their website and social media channels are great sources for updates.
- Check Manga News Websites: Websites that cover manga news and releases will often announce new volume releases.
- Join Online Communities: Online forums and social media groups dedicated to Oshi no Ko can provide updates and discussions about the series.
- Set Up Release Alerts: Many online retailers allow you to sign up for email alerts for new releases from your favorite manga series.
Understanding the Chapter-to-Volume Ratio
Each volume of Oshi no Ko typically contains several chapters of the manga. This means that even if you're reading the chapters as they're released in Weekly Young Jump, you'll still want to purchase the volumes to have a complete and collected version of the story.
The chapter-to-volume ratio can vary slightly, but each volume usually contains around 4 to 6 chapters. Knowing this can give you a rough idea of how much content each volume covers and how far along the story you'll progress with each purchase.
Why the Volume Count Matters
The number of volumes available is important for several reasons:
- Pacing Your Reading: Knowing how many volumes there are helps you pace your reading and avoid rushing through the story.
- Budgeting Your Purchases: If you're collecting the physical volumes, knowing the total number can help you budget your purchases.
- Avoiding Spoilers: If you're concerned about spoilers, knowing how far along the English release is can help you avoid accidentally encountering plot details from later volumes.
- Engaging in Discussions: Being aware of the current volume count ensures you're on the same page as other fans when discussing the series.
The Appeal of Oshi no Ko
The popularity of Oshi no Ko stems from its unique blend of genres, intriguing characters, and exploration of the dark side of the entertainment industry. The story follows the reincarnated children of a famous idol, Ai Hoshino, as they navigate the complexities of show business while uncovering the truth behind their mother's untimely death.
Aka Akasaka's writing masterfully blends elements of mystery, drama, and slice-of-life, while Mengo Yokoyari's artwork brings the characters and settings to life with stunning detail. The series tackles mature themes such as exploitation, identity, and the pursuit of dreams, making it a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant read.
Oshi no Ko continues to captivate readers with its compelling narrative and complex characters.
In Conclusion
To reiterate, as of today, there are 13 volumes of Oshi no Ko released in Japan and 9 volumes available in English. Remember to check with your preferred retailers and follow official news sources to stay up-to-date on future releases. Happy reading, and enjoy the enthralling journey that Oshi no Ko has to offer!
