The popular World Trigger manga series is experiencing another hiatus, much to the disappointment of its dedicated fanbase. Initially planned to return in the March issue of Shueisha’s Jump SQ. magazine, the series will now be delayed until the April issue, scheduled for release on March 4, 2025. This extension of the break is due to the deteriorating health of the manga’s author, Daisuke Ashihara.
Hiatus Extended Due to Author’s Health
The official World Trigger X (formerly Twitter) account announced on January 29, 2025, that the manga’s break would be prolonged by an additional month. The series was already on a scheduled break during the February issue to allow Ashihara time to focus on the upcoming compiled volume. However, the hiatus has been extended due to health concerns. This marks another instance in the manga’s history where the author’s health has impacted the release schedule, highlighting the demanding nature of the manga creation process.
Recurring Health Concerns for Ashihara
Daisuke Ashihara’s health has been a recurring concern throughout the serialization of World Trigger. In 2014, it was revealed that Ashihara was suffering from cervical spondylotic radiculopathy, a condition involving the painful compression of nerve roots in the neck. This condition led to several breaks in the past. Although the specific nature of his current health issues has not been disclosed, the official statement implies that the problems are significant enough to require an extended break. The author’s health struggles have led to multiple hiatuses since the manga’s debut, including a two-year break from November 2016 to October 2018.
Publication Schedule and History
World Trigger began its serialization in Shueisha’s Weekly Shonen Jump magazine in February 2013. After Ashihara’s health issues, the series moved to the monthly Jump SQ. magazine in December 2018, providing a less demanding publishing schedule. Despite the move, the manga has experienced several breaks, including those in August 2023 and January 2024. The shift to monthly releases was intended to ease the burden on the author, but health issues continue to affect the manga’s schedule.
Impact on the Manga’s Release
The frequent hiatuses have created a sense of uncertainty for fans regarding the manga’s consistent release. The manga’s most recent chapter, chapter 248, was released on December 4, 2024, and the planned return with chapter 249, is now set for March 4, 2025, barring any further setbacks.
Anime Adaptation and Other Media
Despite the inconsistent manga release schedule, World Trigger has enjoyed considerable success. The manga has sold over 15 million copies worldwide as of July 2023. It has also been adapted into a popular anime series produced by Toei Animation. The anime consists of three seasons, with 99 episodes, showcasing the story of Mikado City and its defense against invaders from another dimension. The first season premiered in October 2014, followed by a sequel in October 2015. The second and third seasons debuted in January 2021 and October 2021, respectively.
Anime and Stage Play Adaptations
The anime adaptation has played a crucial role in expanding the popularity of World Trigger. The series has also spawned stage play adaptations, further indicating its broad appeal. The first stage play premiered in November to December 2021, with subsequent productions in August 2022 and August 2023. The fourth stage play, adapting the “Galopoula Invasion” arc, ran in October 2024.
Current Manga Arc and Future Outlook
The World Trigger manga is currently in the “Away Mission Test Arc,” which began with chapter 200. The series follows the story of Osamu Mikumo, a Border agent who, along with his companions, defends Earth from invaders using special weapons called “Triggers”. The manga has garnered a strong following for its complex characters, strategic battles, and unique science fiction setting. The 28th compiled book volume is set to be released in Japan on February 4, 2025.
English Publication
The manga is also available in English through Viz Media and MANGA Plus, both digitally and in print, ensuring that global fans can follow the series. Viz Media has released 25 volumes in English as of the current date, and is planning to release additional volumes.
Community Reaction and Support
The fans of World Trigger have expressed their concern and support for Daisuke Ashihara through social media. The community understands the difficulties of managing health issues while maintaining a demanding work schedule. The fans are hoping for a swift recovery and eagerly await the return of the series in the April issue of Jump SQ. magazine. They are also hoping that Toei Animation will adapt more seasons of the anime, once the manga is closer to its completion.
Conclusion
The latest hiatus of the World Trigger manga serves as a reminder of the human element behind the creation of manga. Daisuke Ashihara’s health is of primary concern, and the delay is a necessary measure to ensure his well-being. The fans of the series are hopeful for his speedy recovery, and look forward to the continuation of the series on March 4, 2025. The story will pick up again from chapter 249, continuing the “Away Mission Test Arc”. The manga’s journey has been a testament to its popularity and the enduring commitment of its fanbase.
