How a single one-shot manga sparked a supernatural club phenomenon

How a single one-shot manga sparked a supernatural club phenomenon
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In short: Before it was a rising star in Shueisha's Jump Square, Phantom Busters began as a single one-shot. Now, the story of a Paranormal Research Club is transitioning from the pages of manga to the screens of anime fans worldwide.

Created by Neoshoco, Phantom Busters follows the unlikely alliance within the Paranormal Research Club at Ryuoh High School in Kamakura City. The story focuses on the conflict between Eugene Korekishi, a top-tier student of British heritage who denies the paranormal, and Mogari Shishikuno, an apprentice exorcist born into a family of spiritual mediums. Their clashing worldviews form the foundation of a story focused on battling evil spirits and the growing friendship of the club's four members.

The club's roster includes Kaoru Kanzaki, a boy burdened by the ability to see ghosts, and Kotaro Tamon, who possesses the unique capability to communicate with the dead. This group, also known as the Phantom Busters, has seen significant critical and commercial traction since its serialization began in Jump Square on August 4, 2023. The series' popularity was reflected in its high rankings in various industry polls, including being ranked fourth in AnimeJapan's 2025 "Manga We Want to See Animated" poll.

The franchise's growth has been marked by several key milestones. After its initial one-shot publication on October 26, 2022, the series moved into regular serialization. By December 4, 2023, the first tankōbon volume was released. The series has maintained steady momentum, with eight volumes released as of October 2, 2026. Looking ahead, fans can expect an anime television series adaptation, which was announced in September 2026 and is scheduled to premiere in 2027.

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