Finished the Dimension W anime and feel like the story isn’t quite over? You’re right to feel that way, as the show’s conclusion leaves many of the manga’s biggest mysteries unsolved. You’re likely wondering exactly where to pick up the source material to get the rest of the story.
The Dimension W anime concludes its main story adaptation at Chapter 31 of the manga, which is located in Volume 4. This is the official divergence point before the animated series introduces its own original ending, while the manga’s canon plot continues for much longer.
Based on a direct analysis of Yūji Iwahara’s original work, it’s clear the anime only scratches the surface of the sci-fi thriller’s world. This guide will detail the crucial differences between the two versions, highlight the major story arcs the anime skips, and show you exactly how to continue the complete saga.
Key Facts
- Divergence Point: The anime and manga storylines diverge at Chapter 31 in Volume 4, after the conclusion of the Lake Arc.
- Anime-Original Ending: The anime features a conclusive but non-canon ending created by Studio 3Hz, which is not found in the original manga.
- Complete Manga: The manga series is fully completed with a total of 16 volumes, allowing you to read the entire story from beginning to end.
- Skipped Content: The anime entirely skips several major storylines, most notably the critical Easter Island arc, which is central to the manga’s second half.
- No Season 2 Expected: Due to the conclusive original ending and the significant time that has passed since its 2016 release, a second season of the anime is highly unlikely.
Where Does the Dimension W Anime End in the Manga?
The Dimension W anime adapts the manga up to the end of the Lake Arc, which concludes in Chapter 31 of Volume 4. While the anime has an original ending, the canonical story continues from this point. To read the story without missing any content from the original source material, you should start with Chapter 31.
This specific chapter marks the definitive transition point between the animated series [the 12-episode TV show] and the manga [the original graphic novel by Yūji Iwahara]. Although the anime covers events leading up to this point, it does so at a much faster pace, simplifying many plot points and character interactions. Verified information from the canon source confirms Chapter 31 as the correct starting point for anime viewers.
For fans seeking the full narrative, starting here is essential. But is the anime’s ending the real ending? The answer is a definitive no, and understanding the differences is key to appreciating why the manga is so highly recommended by the community. The anime-to-manga transition for this series is not just about continuing the story; it’s about rediscovering it.
What Are the Key Differences Between the Dimension W Anime and Manga?
The primary differences between the Dimension W anime and manga are its pacing, ending, skipped content, and character depth. The anime adaptation significantly condenses the source material to fit into 12 episodes, resulting in a rushed plot and an anime-original ending that diverges completely from the canon story. Many fans who have experienced both point to these changes as the main reason the manga is considered the superior version.
The pacing is perhaps the most noticeable difference. The anime rushes through early arcs to reach a quick conclusion, which means many character backstories and world-building details are simplified or cut entirely. This leads directly to the second major difference: the ending. To provide a self-contained finale, the anime team at Studio 3Hz created a unique conclusion centered around the “Lost Genesis” concept, which resolves the main conflict in a way that is not present in the manga.
This divergence means entire sections of the manga were never animated. The result is a vastly different experience, with the manga offering a more detailed and coherent narrative.
| Aspect | Dimension W Anime | Dimension W Manga |
|---|---|---|
| Ending | Conclusive, anime-original ending in Episode 12. | Canon story continues for 9 more volumes after the anime’s divergence point. |
| Pacing | Very fast; rushes through the Lake Arc and other plot points. | More deliberate pacing allows for deeper exploration of plot and world-building. |
| Skipped Content | Skips the entire Easter Island arc and other subplots. | Features multiple major arcs not seen in the anime. |
| Character Arcs | Key character backstories (like Kyoma’s past) are simplified. | Provides extensive backstory and development for the entire cast. |
What Is the “Anime-Original” Ending?
The “anime-original” ending in Dimension W refers to the plot of the final episodes, which resolves the main conflict in a way that is not canon to the manga. This self-contained conclusion was written specifically for the TV series by Studio 3Hz, likely because the manga was still ongoing at the time of production. This is a common practice in anime adaptations.
This ending provides a sense of closure for anime-only viewers but does so by creating a narrative path that fundamentally differs from the one intended by the original author, Yūji Iwahara. The entire resolution presented in the anime does not exist in the official story.
Think of the anime’s ending as a “what if” scenario, while the manga is the official historical record of the Dimension W universe.
Does this mean the characters and world you love have more stories to tell? Absolutely. The manga continues for nine more volumes after the point where the anime branches off, delivering the true conclusion to the saga.
What Major Story Arcs Does the Anime Skip Entirely?
The most significant story arc the Dimension W anime skips is the Easter Island arc. This multi-volume storyline is central to the manga’s second half and is completely absent from the animated adaptation. It is one of the most compelling reasons for anime fans to pick up the manga, as it contains revelations that redefine the entire plot.
This arc is not just a side story; it is a crucial part of the main narrative that delves into the fundamental secrets of Dimension W and the coils. The anime’s original ending essentially replaces this entire, sprawling storyline with a much simpler, condensed conclusion. By reading the manga, you get to experience this massive piece of the puzzle that was left out.
The skipped content you will discover includes:
* ⭐ The Easter Island Arc: A massive storyline that reveals the origins of the coils and Kyoma’s direct connection to the “truth of Dimension W.”
* ⭐ New Main Characters: You’ll meet key players who are critical to the final conflict but were never introduced in the anime.
* ⭐ Deeper Lore and World-Building: The manga explains the science and politics behind the coil technology in far greater detail.
* ⭐ The True Antagonists: Discover the real villains behind the coil crisis, whose motivations are far more complex than what the anime suggests.
Reading these skipped arcs feels less like an extension of the anime and more like unlocking the story’s true potential. You will finally get answers to questions the anime only hinted at.
How Do You Continue the Story: A Guide to Reading the Dimension W Manga
For those who have finished the anime and are ready to dive into the complete, canonical story, the path is straightforward. Following this guide will ensure you transition seamlessly from the anime to the manga written by Yūji Iwahara.
- Start at the Right Point. Begin your reading at Chapter 31, which is located in Volume 4 of the manga. This is the precise point where the anime adaptation concludes its faithful coverage and begins its original ending.
- Know the Full Scope. The Dimension W manga is fully completed in 16 volumes. This means you can enjoy the entire, finished story without waiting for new releases. The plot continues for another 12 volumes after the anime’s divergence point.
- Find the Official Release. You can purchase the official English release volumes from major bookstores and online retailers. Reading the official version is the best way to experience the high-quality art and translation while supporting the original creator.
FAQs About where does the dimension w anime end in the manga
Is the Dimension W manga completed?
Yes, the Dimension W manga is fully complete. The series officially concluded with its 117th chapter, which is collected in the 16th and final volume. Both the original Japanese version and the official English release are finished, so you can read the entire story without interruption.
How many volumes of Dimension W are there?
There are a total of 16 volumes in the Dimension W manga series. The complete story, from Kyoma and Mira’s first meeting to the final resolution of the Dimension W crisis, is contained within these 16 tankōbon volumes. This includes all the arcs the anime skipped.
Will there be a Dimension W Season 2?
It is highly unlikely that there will be a Season 2 of the Dimension W anime. The 2016 series concluded with a definitive, anime-original ending, which typically signals that an adaptation is finished. Combined with the amount of time that has passed, there have been no announcements or plans for a continuation.
Is the manga better than the anime?
Most fans and critics agree that the Dimension W manga is better than the anime. While the anime is often praised for its distinct visual style and soundtrack, its rushed pacing and non-canon ending cut out crucial plot points and character development. The manga offers a more complete, coherent, and detailed story, making it the definitive version.
What chapter is the Lake Arc?
The Lake Arc, which is the final storyline adapted by the anime, concludes in Chapter 31. The arc itself spans several chapters before this point, but for anime viewers, the key information is that its conclusion marks the exact divergence point between the anime’s original plot and the manga’s canon story.
Who is the author of Dimension W?
The creator, writer, and illustrator of the Dimension W manga is Yūji Iwahara. He is a renowned manga artist who is also known for creating the manga King of Thorn and for providing the original character designs for the popular anime series Darker than Black.
What magazine was Dimension W serialized in?
Dimension W was initially serialized in Square Enix’s Young Gangan magazine. In late 2015, the series moved to the publisher’s sister magazine, Monthly Big Gangan, where it continued its run until its conclusion. This reflects its status as a seinen manga aimed at an adult audience.
Does the manga have a different ending?
Yes, the Dimension W manga has a completely different and far more expansive ending than the anime. The story continues for nine additional volumes after the point where the anime diverges. This extensive final half explores new arcs, introduces the true villains, and provides a comprehensive and satisfying conclusion to the entire saga.
Is Dimension W worth reading from the beginning?
Yes, it is highly recommended to read Dimension W from Chapter 1. While you can technically start at Chapter 31 to continue after the anime, the adaptation rushed many of the early character introductions and plot developments. Reading from the beginning allows you to experience the story at the author’s intended pace and appreciate the many details missed in the anime.
What is the “Easter Island arc”?
The Easter Island arc is a major, multi-volume storyline in the manga that was completely omitted from the anime. It is a critical part of the series’ second half, delving deep into the origins of Coils, Kyoma’s tragic past, and the central mysteries of Dimension W itself. It is one of the biggest and most important pieces of content exclusive to the manga.
Key Takeaways: Dimension W Anime vs. Manga Summary
- The Anime Ends at Chapter 31: To continue the canon story after watching the anime, you must start reading the manga at Chapter 31, located in Volume 4.
- The Manga is the Complete Story: The anime features a rushed, original ending and skips major plotlines. The manga, completed in 16 volumes, is the only way to get the full, official story written by Yūji Iwahara.
- Major Arcs Were Skipped: The anime completely omits critical storylines, most notably the entire “Easter Island arc,” which is essential to the main plot and character development.
- The Manga Ending is Different: The manga continues for nine more volumes after the anime’s divergence point, leading to a much more detailed and satisfying canonical conclusion.
- Reading from Chapter 1 is Recommended: Due to the anime’s rushed pacing, reading the manga from the very beginning is the best way to appreciate the story’s depth, world-building, and character nuances.
- No Season 2 is Expected: The anime’s original ending and the time since its release make a second season highly improbable, solidifying the manga as the only path for story completion.
- It’s a Worthwhile Read: The manga is widely considered superior to the anime, offering a richer narrative, better character arcs, and a resolution to the mysteries the anime left unsolved.
Final Thoughts on Continuing the Dimension W Saga
Navigating the transition from an anime adaptation to its source material can sometimes be confusing, but for Dimension W, the path is clear and rewarding. The anime served as an exciting, stylish introduction to a fascinating sci-fi world, but it is just that—an introduction. The 16-volume manga is the definitive, complete, and canonical experience.
By picking up the manga, you are not just getting “more” story; you are getting the real story. You will witness critical plotlines like the Easter Island arc, understand the true motivations of the characters, and receive a conclusion that is both earned and satisfying. The deeper character development and deliberate pacing allow Yūji Iwahara’s intricate world-building and stunning artwork to truly shine.
For any fan who watched the final episode of the anime and felt a desire for closure, the answer lies within the pages of the manga. The journey to uncover the truth of Dimension W is far from over, and the best part of the adventure awaits.
Last update on 2026-01-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
