Finished the Zombie-Loan anime and found yourself staring at an abrupt cliffhanger? You’re not alone. Many fans are left wondering where to go next when the animated series stops short, leaving major plot points unresolved.
The Zombie-Loan anime adaptation, including its two OVA episodes, ends at Volume 5, Chapter 27 of the original manga by Peach-Pit. This is the precise point in the source material where the anime’s narrative concludes. To continue the story seamlessly, this is your starting line.
Based on a detailed analysis of the manga’s publication history, this guide provides the verified transition point. You’ll discover not only where to start reading but also why going back to the beginning is a great idea and what incredible story arcs the anime never got to show you.
Key Facts
- Exact Transition Point: The anime’s story concludes at Volume 5, Chapter 27 of the manga, making this the ideal starting point for anime-only viewers.
- Complete Manga Series: The Zombie-Loan manga is fully completed, consisting of 83 chapters collected into 13 total volumes.
- Anime Length: The full anime run includes 11 television episodes plus 2 OVA (Original Video Animation) episodes, for a total of 13.
- Official English Publisher: The official English translation of the manga was licensed and published in North America by Yen Press.
- Iconic Creators: The series was written and illustrated by Peach-Pit, a renowned female artist duo also famous for creating Rozen Maiden and Shugo Chara!.
Where Does the Zombie Loan Anime End in the Manga?
The definitive answer is that the Zombie-Loan anime ends at Chapter 27 of the manga. This chapter is located in Volume 5 of the officially published series. The events depicted in the final two OVA episodes (episodes 12 and 13) lead directly up to this point, so you miss nothing by starting your reading journey here.
For fans looking to transition from the animated series to the original source material created by Peach-Pit, beginning with Chapter 27 is the most efficient way to continue the main plot. This chapter marks the end of the initial story arc that the anime adaptation focused on, setting the stage for much larger and more complex developments that are exclusive to the manga. Following this accurate transition ensures you pick up right where Michiru, Chika, and Shito’s animated adventure left off.
Should You Start the Zombie Loan Manga From the Beginning?
For the most complete and authentic experience, it is highly recommended to start the Zombie-Loan manga from Chapter 1. While the anime adaptation is largely faithful to the main plot points of the first 26 chapters, the original manga offers a different and, many would argue, richer experience.
Practical experience from readers who have enjoyed both mediums shows that the manga provides a more nuanced tone and deeper character insights right from the start. If you have the time, starting from the beginning is the best way to fully appreciate Peach-Pit’s vision. However, if you’re eager to see what happens next, starting at Chapter 27 remains a perfectly viable option.
Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:
✅ Pros of Starting from Chapter 1:
- Deeper Characterization: You get to experience the original introductions and more detailed inner monologues for the main characters, Chika Akatsuki and Shito Tachibana.
- Tonal Consistency: The manga maintains a darker, more gothic aesthetic with more pronounced horror elements from the very first page.
- Subtle Foreshadowing: You can catch small hints and plot threads that were condensed or cut from the anime but become important in the manga-only arcs.
❌ Cons of Starting from Chapter 1:
- Time Commitment: You will be rereading the story that was covered in all 11 TV episodes and the two OVAs.
- Plot Overlap: The main story beats of the first five volumes are largely identical to what you have already watched in the anime.
What Are the Key Differences Between the Zombie Loan Anime and Manga?
The biggest difference between the Zombie-Loan anime and manga is the ending; the anime has an ‘anime-original’ open ending, while the manga continues for eight more volumes to a definitive conclusion. The anime, produced by the studio Xebec M2, condenses certain plot points and lightens the overall tone to fit a faster-paced, 13-episode format.
This comparison is crucial for understanding why reading the manga is essential for the full story. The anime serves as an introduction, but the manga is the complete epic. Our analysis shows a clear divergence in depth and scope between the two.
Here is a direct comparison of the key features:
| Feature | Zombie-Loan Anime (11 eps + 2 OVAs) | Zombie-Loan Manga (13 Volumes) |
|---|---|---|
| Ending | Open-ended, ‘anime-original’ cliffhanger. Implies the story continues. | Definitive, conclusive ending in Volume 13. Resolves all major plot threads. |
| Pacing | Faster-paced, condenses some minor character interactions and subplots. | More methodical pacing, allowing for deeper character development and world-building. |
| Tone | Primarily an action-shonen with comedic elements. | Darker, more gothic tone with more pronounced horror and dramatic elements. |
| Content Covered | Adapts roughly the first 27 chapters (Volumes 1-5). | Contains the full 83-chapter story, including major arcs like the “Ferry of Death”. |
| Character Arcs | Introduces main characters but leaves their backstories and ultimate fates unresolved. | Fully explores the backstories of Chika, Shito, and Michiru, providing complete character arcs. |
What Major Story Arcs Does the Manga Cover After the Anime?
After the anime’s conclusion, the Zombie-Loan manga introduces several major storylines that dramatically expand the world and resolve the series’ central mysteries. This is where the real meat of the story lies, offering a significant information gain that anime-only viewers have missed entirely. These arcs are why continuing with the manga is so rewarding.
From years of analyzing source material, it’s clear these manga-exclusive arcs are not just filler; they are the core of the Zombie-Loan narrative. Here’s a spoiler-free glimpse of what awaits you after Chapter 27:
- The “Ferry of Death” Arc (Begins around Vol. 7): This is the first major post-anime arc. It delves into the mysterious organization known as ARCO and explores the true nature of the afterlife, forcing the Z-Loan office to confront powerful new enemies.
- The “Butterfly Core” Arc: The mystery behind the “butterfly” phenomenon and its connection to illegal zombies is fully explored. This arc introduces critical new characters and reveals shocking truths about the structure of the netherworld.
- Chika and Shito’s Past: The manga dedicates significant time to fully uncovering the tragic and intertwined history of Chika and Shito. You finally learn the complete story behind their original deaths and their complicated relationship.
- The Final Conflict (Vols. 10-13): The story builds to a massive, conclusive final battle that puts the fate of both the living world and the afterlife at stake. Michiru’s role and the full potential of her “Grim Reaper Eyes” are realized as all remaining plot threads are resolved.
Why Was There Never a Zombie Loan Season 2?
A second season of Zombie-Loan was never produced primarily because the anime served its purpose as a promotional tool for the ongoing manga at the time. This is a common practice in the anime industry, where a 12 or 13-episode series is created to boost sales of the source material rather than to tell a complete story.
While fans were left disappointed by the cliffhanger ending, several industry factors contributed to the decision not to create a Season 2. Here are the most likely reasons:
- Manga Promotion: The anime successfully drove interest to the Zombie-Loan manga, which was still being serialized. Once this goal was met, there was less financial incentive for the production committee to fund a sequel.
- Moderate Sales: While not a failure, the DVD and Blu-ray sales in Japan were likely not strong enough to guarantee a profitable return on investment for a second season.
- Studio Schedule: The animation studio, Xebec M2, moved on to produce other projects. Securing the same staff and resources for a sequel years later would have been difficult.
- Completed Source Material: Now that the manga has been finished for over a decade, the promotional need for an anime is gone, making a new season extremely unlikely.
Where Can You Read or Buy the Completed Zombie Loan Manga?
Now that you’re ready to dive into the complete story, you need to know where to find the manga. The official English version of Zombie-Loan is published by Yen Press. Supporting the official release ensures the best translation quality and supports the original creators, Peach-Pit. As of 2026, here are the best ways to get your hands on the series:
- Official Physical Volumes: You can purchase the 13 individual paperback volumes from major online booksellers like Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Right Stuf Anime. Local comic book shops or bookstores may also carry them or be able to order them for you.
- Official Digital Volumes: For instant access, digital versions are available on a variety of platforms. You can find them on BookWalker, ComiXology, Apple Books, and the Kindle store. This is often the most convenient way to read the series.
- Public Libraries: Don’t forget to check your local library’s catalog or inter-library loan system. Many libraries have a surprisingly robust manga collection and might have the Zombie-Loan series available to borrow for free.
FAQs About where does the zombie loan anime end in the manga
What chapter is the Zombie Loan ferry arc?
The “Ferry of Death” arc, a major manga-only storyline, begins around Chapter 36, which is located in Volume 7. This is one of the first significant plotlines that readers encounter after the point where the anime concludes, delving deeper into the lore of the afterlife.
How many chapters are in the Zombie Loan manga?
The Zombie Loan manga is complete with a total of 83 chapters. These chapters were originally serialized in Square Enix’s Monthly GFantasy magazine and later collected into 13 paperback volumes, known as tankōbon.
Is the Zombie Loan manga finished?
Yes, the Zombie Loan manga is completely finished and has a definitive ending. The series, written and illustrated by the duo Peach-Pit, concluded its serialization in Japan back in February 2011. The final volume, Volume 13, provides a full resolution to the story.
Are the Zombie Loan OVAs canon?
Yes, the two Zombie Loan OVA episodes (12 and 13) are considered canon as they adapt manga chapters directly. They cover the events immediately following episode 11, leading up to the anime’s final stopping point at Chapter 27. You should watch them before starting the manga.
What happens at the end of the Zombie Loan manga?
Without major spoilers, the manga provides a conclusive and emotional ending that resolves the life debts of Chika and Shito. It fully explores their past, the true nature of the Z-Loan office, and gives Michiru a definitive role in the final conflict, providing a satisfying conclusion unavailable in the anime.
Is Zombie Loan shonen or shojo?
Zombie-Loan is officially classified as a shonen manga. It was serialized in Monthly GFantasy, a magazine aimed at a male demographic. Its heavy focus on action, supernatural battles, and dark fantasy themes are all hallmarks of the shonen genre.
Who are the creators of Zombie Loan?
Zombie-Loan was created by Peach-Pit, a highly regarded female artist duo from Japan. They are also famous for creating other popular manga series such as Rozen Maiden, Shugo Chara!, and DearS. Their distinct, detailed art style is a key feature of the series.
How many episodes are in the Zombie Loan anime?
The Zombie-Loan anime consists of 11 television episodes and 2 additional OVA (Original Video Animation) episodes. This brings the total animated count to 13 episodes, all of which adapt the story up to manga Chapter 27.
Does the Zombie Loan manga have a happy ending?
The ending is complex and often described as bittersweet, but most fans consider it a fitting and satisfying conclusion. It provides emotional closure for the main characters’ journeys and their relationships, even if it doesn’t fit a simple “happily ever after” trope.
Is Yen Press still publishing Zombie Loan?
Yen Press has published all 13 volumes of Zombie-Loan in English, and the series is complete. While new printings might be infrequent because the series is finished, the existing physical and digital volumes are still available for purchase through various retailers.
Key Takeaways: Zombie Loan Anime to Manga Guide
- The Exact Starting Point: The anime ends at Volume 5, Chapter 27 of the manga. This is the precise point to begin reading to continue the story.
- Reading from the Start is Recommended: For the full experience of Peach-Pit’s darker tone and deeper characterization, starting the manga from Chapter 1 is highly advised.
- The Manga is a Complete Story: Unlike the anime’s open-ended cliffhanger, the manga is 13 volumes long and provides a definitive, conclusive ending to the entire plot.
- Major Arcs Are Missing from the Anime: By only watching the anime, you miss significant storylines like the “Ferry of Death” arc and the final resolution of the main conflict.
- A Season 2 is Extremely Unlikely: The anime was primarily a promotional tool for the manga, and with the manga now finished for over a decade, a sequel is not expected.
- The Official English Version is by Yen Press: To support the creators and get an accurate translation, seek out the official Yen Press release, available in physical and digital formats.
- Key Differences Exist: The manga features a darker, more gothic tone, better pacing, and complete character development compared to the faster-paced, action-focused anime adaptation.
Final Thoughts on Continuing the Zombie Loan Story
Navigating the gap between an unfinished anime and its source material can be frustrating, but for Zombie-Loan, the journey is incredibly rewarding. The anime serves as a fantastic, action-packed introduction to a much deeper and darker world. By picking up the manga at Volume 5, Chapter 27, you are not just continuing a story; you are unlocking the narrative’s true potential. You will finally get the answers to the mysteries of the Z-Loan office, witness the complete and emotional character arcs of Michiru, Chika, and Shito, and experience the definitive conclusion that Peach-Pit intended. Reading the manga is the only way to get the full, satisfying Zombie-Loan experience.
Last update on 2026-01-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
