Struggling to find a clear answer on how many Berserk manga volumes there are? You’re not alone; conflicting numbers and different editions make it a confusing topic for new and old fans alike. Getting a straight answer is essential before you start your collection.
As of 2026, there are 43 individual manga volumes of Berserk published in Japan, with volume 43 released in August 2026. In English, publisher Dark Horse Comics has released 42 volumes, with the latest becoming available in March 2026. The series continues under the supervision of Kouji Mori and Studio Gaga.
This guide provides a data-driven breakdown of the official volume count, analyzing every edition to give you complete clarity. You will discover the exact number of volumes available, understand the different formats you can buy, and learn about the future of the series after its original creator.
Key Facts
- Definitive Volume Count: There are 43 tankōbon volumes released in Japan and 42 in English as of late 2026, demonstrating a lag in translation and international publishing.
- Posthumous Continuation: The series is not finished. Following Kentaro Miura’s passing, it continues under the supervision of his close friend Kouji Mori and his assistants at Studio Gaga, based on Miura’s original plans.
- Deluxe Edition Count: There are currently 14 oversized Deluxe Edition hardcovers available in English. These premium editions each collect three of the standard volumes.
- Anime Incompleteness: No anime series or movie adapts the entire manga storyline. The manga is the only medium to experience the complete, unabridged narrative of Berserk.
- Mature Content Warning: The series is famous for its dark fantasy themes and is intended for mature audiences only, containing graphic violence and intense subject matter.
How Many Berserk Manga Are There? A Complete Guide to Every Volume & Edition (2026)
The most direct answer is that there are 43 volumes of the Berserk manga currently released in Japan, while the English-language version published by Dark Horse Comics is at 42 volumes. This discrepancy often causes confusion, but it is simply due to the time it takes for translation, localization, and printing for international markets. The series is still ongoing, with new chapters being produced.
The key is to understand the breakdown between regions and the transition in authorship. As of February 2026, the official count can be separated to provide total clarity for collectors and new readers. The number of volumes is a living figure that will increase as the story progresses toward its planned conclusion.
Here is the current, up-to-date volume count:
- Japanese Release (Hakusensha): 43 tankōbon volumes.
- English Release (Dark Horse Comics): 42 tankōbon volumes.
- English Deluxe Editions (Dark Horse Comics): 14 volumes (collecting standard volumes 1-41 and the guidebook).
How Is the Total Berserk Volume Count Broken Down?
To fully understand the numbers, it’s essential to separate the work of the original creator from the ongoing continuation. This breakdown clarifies the legacy of Kentaro Miura and the structure of the series moving forward.
- Original Run by Kentaro Miura: Volumes 1 through 40, and a significant portion of volume 41, were written and illustrated by the legendary creator Kentaro Miura before his passing in May 2021.
- Posthumous Continuation by Studio Gaga & Kouji Mori: Volume 42, released in 2026, is the first full volume produced entirely by Miura’s team of assistants at Studio Gaga, under the direct supervision of his childhood friend, Kouji Mori. This continuation began with chapter 365.
What Are the Different Editions of the Berserk Manga?
The Berserk manga is primarily available in two physical formats: the standard individual tankōbon paperbacks and the oversized Deluxe Edition hardcovers. Choosing between them is the first major decision a new collector will face. The tankōbon are the original format, while the Deluxe Editions are a premium, collected format designed to showcase the series’ incredible artwork.
What Are the Standard Berserk Tankōbon Volumes?
The standard Berserk tankōbon are the individual paperback volumes that have been released since the manga’s serialization began. This is the classic manga format, perfect for casual reading and collecting on a budget.
- Publisher: Dark Horse Comics (in English)
- Format: Standard-sized paperback (~5″ x 7″)
- Content: One volume per book, typically containing 8-10 chapters (or “episodes”).
What Are the Berserk Deluxe Edition Volumes?
The Berserk Deluxe Editions are premium, oversized (7″ x 10″) hardcover volumes that each collect three of the standard tankōbon volumes. As of 2026, there are 14 Deluxe Editions, covering volumes 1-41 of the standard manga plus the official guidebook. They are celebrated for their exceptional quality and presentation.
- Publisher: Dark Horse Comics
- Format: Oversized hardcover (7″ x 10″)
- Content: A 3-in-1 omnibus format.
- Total Available: 14 volumes.
Which Berserk Edition Should You Buy?
The Berserk Deluxe Edition is best for collectors who prioritize art quality and durability, while the standard tankōbon volumes are better for readers on a budget or who value portability. The Deluxe Edition offers a superior viewing experience for Kentaro Miura’s legendary detailed artwork, but it comes at a significantly higher initial cost and is much less portable.
This table breaks down the key differences to help you make the best choice for your reading habits and collection goals.
| Feature/Aspect | Standard Tankōbon Edition | Deluxe Hardcover Edition |
|---|---|---|
| Format & Size | Standard manga paperback (~5″ x 7″) | Oversized hardcover (7″ x 10″) |
| Content | 1 individual volume | 3 volumes in 1 omnibus |
| Art Presentation | Good, but details can be small | Excellent; larger format showcases detailed art |
| Build Quality & Durability | Standard paperback quality | Premium, durable hardcover with sewn binding |
| Cost per Volume | Lower initial cost (~$15 USD) | Higher initial cost (~$50 USD) |
| Cost Over Series | More affordable overall | More expensive overall |
| Portability | High; easy to carry and read anywhere | Low; large and heavy, best for home reading |
| Best For | Readers on a budget, casual reading | Collectors, art enthusiasts, definitive library |
Is the Berserk Manga Finished After Kentaro Miura’s Passing?
No, the Berserk manga is not finished and continues to be published after the passing of its creator, Kentaro Miura. This is a common and important question for fans. The series officially resumed publication in June 2022, a decision made to honor Miura’s legacy and fulfill his desire to see the story completed.
The continuation is in the most capable hands possible. The artwork is handled by Studio Gaga, a team of Miura’s own assistants whom he personally trained for years. The story and supervision are managed by Kouji Mori, a fellow manga artist and Miura’s closest childhood friend. In an official statement, Mori revealed that he had heard the entire planned story for Berserk, including the ending, directly from Miura himself. This unique position allows him to guide the story faithfully along the path Miura intended.
In an official announcement, the publisher Hakusensha stated, “We were reluctant to end his story without sharing it with his fans. We hope that everyone will read the ‘Berserk’ that Miura envisioned.” This commitment ensures that the story’s continuation is an act of preservation, not invention.
FAQs About how many berserk manga are there
How many chapters are in the Berserk manga?
As of late 2026, there are over 375 chapters of the Berserk manga, referred to as “episodes.” These chapters are published serially in Japan’s Young Animal magazine. Typically, 8-10 of these chapters are collected to form a single tankōbon volume. The exact chapter count changes as new ones are released.
How much does the entire Berserk manga collection cost?
The total cost varies significantly based on the edition. Collecting all 42 available English tankōbon volumes at ~$15 each would be around $630. Collecting the 14 Deluxe Editions (covering volumes 1-41) at ~$50 each would be approximately $700. Prices can fluctuate with sales and second-hand availability.
Should I read the Berserk manga from the beginning?
Yes, it is highly recommended to start from Volume 1, Chapter 1. The story is complex and builds upon itself from the very first chapter. While the 1997 anime adapts the “Golden Age” arc, it omits crucial characters and foreshadowing present in the early manga chapters that are vital to the overall narrative.
How do the Berserk anime adaptations relate to the manga?
No anime adaptation covers the entire manga. The 1997 series adapts the “Golden Age” arc (volumes 3-14). The 2026 movie trilogy retells the same arc. The 2016-2017 series adapts the arcs after the Golden Age but is often criticized for its animation quality. The manga is the only complete and definitive version of the story.
What is the correct reading order for the Berserk manga?
The reading order is straightforward: simply read the volumes in numerical order, from Volume 1 to 42. The Deluxe Editions should also be read in order, from Deluxe Edition 1 to 14. There are no side stories or spin-offs that disrupt the main chronological reading order.
Is the Berserk manga appropriate for all ages?
No, Berserk is a “seinen” manga intended for mature audiences and is not for children. It contains graphic violence, gore, explicit sexual content, and themes of trauma and assault. It is well-known for its extremely dark and intense subject matter.
How long does it take to read the entire Berserk manga?
Reading time varies, but a rough estimate is 60-80 hours. With 42 volumes and dense, detailed artwork, most readers take 1.5-2 hours per volume. The rich art encourages slower reading to appreciate the detail, so it is not a series to be rushed.
Final Thoughts
Navigating the world of Berserk can seem daunting at first, but understanding the volume count and edition options is the first step in a truly rewarding journey. Whether you choose the portable and affordable standard volumes or the breathtaking, premium Deluxe Editions, you are investing in one of the most acclaimed works in the history of dark fantasy.
The series is a testament to the genius of Kentaro Miura, and its continuation is a heartfelt effort to honor his legacy. Now armed with all the information you need, you can confidently begin your collection and immerse yourself in the deep, dark, and unforgettable world of Berserk. The journey of the Black Swordsman awaits.
Last update on 2026-02-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
