Marvel and Kadokawa Launch Five New Manga Series

Marvel is expanding its presence in the Japanese manga market through a major collaboration with Kadokawa. On October 11, 2026, five new manga based on some of Marvel's most recognizable characters officially began publication on Kadokawa's KadoComi platform in Japan. The lineup features Iron Man, Spider-Man, Deadpool, Spider-Gwen and Venom, with each project handled by Japanese creators and built around a distinct interpretation of the Marvel universe. Additional details about the initiative were presented during Marvel's "House of Ideas" panel at New York Comic Con.

Iron Man: I Am Iron Man The Manga, created by TERU, revisits Tony Stark's transformation into the armored hero, beginning with his activities as a scientist and weapons company president before a terrorist attack in Afghanistan changes his life. Spider-Man: Shibuya Cross Line by tokitokoro takes a considerably different approach by introducing Haruto Hachidori, a Japanese high school student who gains spider-like powers after being bitten at a shrine. His investigation into a series of murders around Tokyo eventually brings him into contact with Daredevil and places both heroes against a dangerous opponent driven by revenge.

Deadpool: Millionaire With a Mouth The Manga by Hōsuke Momoi explores a more unconventional period in Wade Wilson's career. After becoming an Avenger and achieving worldwide fame, Deadpool finds himself surrounded by merchandise, money and an overwhelming number of job requests. His solution is to establish Deadpool Heroes For Hire. Spider-Gwen: Her Big Debut The Manga, illustrated by Ryūsei Yamada, follows Gwen Stacy as Ghost Spider while balancing superhero duties, her relationship with her police officer father, school life and her activities with a band. Venom: Lethal Protector The Manga by Peperon focuses on Eddie Brock after the collapse of his career and reputation, leading to his encounter and eventual fusion with the alien symbiote that shares his hatred of Spider-Man.

The launch also marks a significant shift in Marvel's publishing strategy in Japan. Shueisha's agreement with Walt Disney Japan concerning Marvel manga ended on September 30, 2026, resulting in the discontinuation of digital and physical sales for several previous titles, including Deadpool: Samurai and Spider-Man: Octo-Girl. Sho-Pro Books had already ended its Marvel Comics publishing agreement on March 31. Marvel is simultaneously restructuring its digital operations, with a new Marvel Comics app developed alongside WEBTOON Entertainment scheduled to launch on November 16, 2026, while Marvel Unlimited is set to end its service in December.