Takehiko Inoue's Legendary Series REAL Returns with Volume 17: NEW ERA Collaboration Announced
Legendary mangaka Takehiko Inoue's profound drama series REAL, which focuses on wheelchair basketball, is returning with its 17th volume after a long wait. To celebrate this major comeback, a special collaboration has been launched with the famous cap brand NEW ERA. The collection, which became available for pre-order via ZOZOVILLA as of April 16, 2026, offers special designs inspired by the series' three main characters: Kiyoharu Togawa, Tomomi Nomiya, and Hisanobu Takahashi.
The collection is filled with details that will allow fans to connect with the characters. Three different cap designs (6,600 Yen) and three different t-shirt designs (11,000 Yen) themed around Kiyoharu Togawa, Tomomi Nomiya, and Hisanobu Takahashi have been put on sale. Additionally, a special manga cover design for this collaboration is being gifted to readers in the 20th issue of Weekly Young Jump magazine, published on April 16. This is also of great importance as it marks the first official collaboration between the NEW ERA brand and Inoue's works.
Starting its journey in Weekly Young Jump magazine in 1999, REAL goes beyond being just a sports manga; it masterfully explores themes of physical disabilities, social exclusion, and individual redemption. Inoue, the creator of masterpieces such as Slam Dunk and Vagabond, combines the competitive spirit of basketball with the psychological depth of athletes who use wheelchairs in this series. Having sold over 16 million copies worldwide, the series is considered one of the most mature and impressive examples of the sports genre.
This announcement is quite exciting for fans because REAL often takes long breaks due to Inoue's meticulous work pace and other projects. The 16th volume of the series was published in August 2024, after a full four-year hiatus. Volume 17 hits shelves on April 17, 2026, continuing the story where it left off. If you are following the challenging yet inspiring journey of these characters, we recommend you do not miss these limited-edition collection pieces.
