The Digital Resurrection of 'Don't Cry, Zeffiro'
In an exciting announcement for shogi enthusiasts, Bourbon Comics, led by Nobuhisa Saito, has revealed the digital revival of the acclaimed shogi manga 'Don't Cry, Zeffiro: The Story of the Seikaze High School Shogi Club,' created by Akira Yanagiba. Originally serialized in 'Weekly Shogi,' this cherished title had been elusive for fans but is now fully available in electronic format.
Starting December 29, 2025, the first three volumes of this remarkable title hit various digital bookstores, with the fourth volume set to launch on January 25, 2026, followed by a new volume every month until the complete series of 15 volumes is published.
About the Series
'Don't Cry, Zeffiro' is a compelling narrative that follows the lives of high school students in the shogi club at Seikaze High School in Kanagawa Prefecture as they strive to reach the national tournament. This coming-of-age story intricately weaves important themes such as friendship, romantic feelings, setbacks, and the quest for future aspirations, making it not just a shogi manga but a relatable tale for anyone who has experienced the trials of youth.
The series stands out for its authentic depiction of shogi matches, paying meticulous attention to detail, which gives readers a glimpse into the strategy and passion inherent in the game. Readers have celebrated this title for its praise-worthy work combining youthful emotions with the intricate world of shogi, making it both popular among shogi fans and accessible to a broader audience.
Before this digital release, 'Don't Cry, Zeffiro' had been regarded as 'the legendary work' among fans of shogi manga, as it had not been compiled into physical volumes until now. The entire saga has now been collected, encompassing seven years of serialization from April 2008 to June 2015, with a total of 370 episodes.
Summary of Each Volume
- - Volumes 1-3: These volumes, already available, cover the formation of the Seikaze High School Shogi Club, the diverse group of members who join, and their initial steps towards the nationwide competition.
- - Volume 4: Set to be released on January 25, 2026, this volume depicts the shogi club's participation in the Kanagawa Prefectural Championship, where they encounter fierce competition led by a prodigy known for exceptional chess skills, marking the start of a long-standing rivalry.
The upcoming volumes will continue to explore the various experiences and challenges the students face over three years, each adding new layers of character development and plot depth.
Additional Information
In tandem with the revival of 'Don't Cry, Zeffiro,' Bourbon Comics has announced another project, the 'Sagittarius Logbook Project,' which will publish the Japanese version of the original manga related to the anime 'Space Ship Sagittarius.' This initiative aims to bring to light significant works that have yet to be published in Japan.
Bourbon Comics, established in 2010, continues its mission to deliver exceptional storytelling through digital formats and remains dedicated to expanding the manga experience for readers worldwide.
As 'Don't Cry, Zeffiro' finds its footing in the digital realm, fans old and new can look forward to relishing the heartfelt and exhilarating journey of these young shogi enthusiasts for years to come.