Berserk: Presumed Finale and Future Prospects

The manga series Berserk, created by Kentaro Miura, has captivated audiences since its release in 1988, with its compelling and dark narrative continuing to engage readers through each chapter. The original author's passing in May 2021 has brought questions about the planned conclusion of the series. This article explores when, and if, the series will see its final chapter.

Current Status and Estimated Conclusion

Following Kentaro Miura's death, Kouji Mori, his close friend and colleague, was appointed to continue the story. Mori has been working diligently to finish the narrative based on the information he had from Miura. According to Mori, the series could be completed in ten years, assuming the current pace of one and a half months per chapter.

From 1988 to 2021

Since its inception in 1988, Berserk has become a cultural phenomenon, not only through the manga but also through various adaptations such as films and anime. The manga series has been over halfway complete since 2012, leading to speculation that the stories would conclude around the early 2030s. However, with the author's passing, the timeline has shifted, raising new questions.

Future Under Kouji Mori

As Mori takes over, he emphasizes that he will continue the story strictly based on Miura's revelations, without adding his own content. This approach leaves many unanswered questions and opens the possibility that the series could conclude at any time. Some fans believe that the series might end within the next decade, while others think it could happen even sooner. Given this uncertainty, some might even say the series is already over, as it concluded with the last chapter authored by Miura.

From 2012 to Now

Initially, in 2012, when Berserk was halfway complete, reviewers estimated that the series would see an end by the early 2030s. However, in the wake of Miura's death, these predictions have become more ambiguous. Mori's continuation efforts are based on Miura's revelations, but since he doesn't have complete information about the author's final intentions, there is still a lot of uncertainty surrounding the outcome.

From a Story Perspective

From a purely story perspective, it is unlikely that Berserk will be concluded anytime soon. Although the regularity of chapter releases may decrease with time, the narrative itself remains rich with unanswered questions and unresolved conflicts. Miura's statement that a long and grim story should not have a grim end suggests that he was not ready to wrap up the series definitively. Mori's continuation is strictly focused on what Miura revealed, but this does not negate the possibility of an extended narrative.

Conclusion and Hopes for the Future

While the conclusion of Berserk remains uncertain, it is clear that the series' legacy is one of continuous engagement and exploration. With Mori's dedication to carrying on the story, fans can hope for a final chapter that is faithful to Miura's vision, even if it may take years to come. The future of Berserk may be open-ended, but for its passionate fans, the anticipation is a testament to the series' enduring popularity.