HaccaWorks*'s Game Ōe Gets Manga Adaptation: Ōe: Ariake-hen in September 2026
Hashihime of the Old Book Town developer HaccaWorks*'s game Ōe is stepping into the manga world. According to Anime News Network's August 4, 2026 report, this new adaptation will be titled Ōe: Ariake-hen and its first chapter will be released in September 2026.
This news came as no surprise to readers familiar with HaccaWorks*. The company had already won the hearts of BL (Boys' Love) visual novel fans with Hashihime of the Old Book Town, released in 2012. Set in the antique bookstore district of Tokyo's Kanda neighborhood, the story centered around time loops and a mysterious bridge spirit, quickly becoming a cult hit. Ōe, developed by HaccaWorks* after this cult game, also stands out as a work that appeals to fans of a similar atmosphere and deep character craftsmanship.
The Ariake-hen expression in the manga adaptation's title indicates that the story will tell the game's Ariake Chapter. This means readers will be entering a specific slice of the Ōe world directly. The public announcement so far does not include details such as which magazine or platform the series will be published in, or the artist lineup. Still, it is clear that this adaptation is carrying HaccaWorks*'s story universe into a new medium.
Visual novel adaptations serve as an important gateway for manga readers who haven't played the games. Ōe: Ariake-hen also has the potential to bring HaccaWorks*'s storytelling to a wider audience in this regard. As September approaches, announcements about the magazine and artist are expected, so fans will learn who will be behind this new adaptation.
