Tsuru Taisaku's New Sci-Fi Series "Protocol Ryugu" Begins
One of the beloved names of the manga world, Tsuru Taisaku, is embarking on a brand new adventure. The marine sci-fi series "Protocol Ryugu" (プロトコル・リュウグウ) officially began with the July 2024 issue of Monthly Young Magazine, published on June 18, 2024. This new series, released under the Kodansha label, carries Tsuru's previous success with "Natchun" (ナチュン) into the deep oceans this time.
Tsuru Taisaku gained a wide fanbase in the early 2010s with "Natchun". This work, noted for its original and emotional story, depicted the bond between a dog and its owner, making an impact in many countries including Turkey. Now the author is transitioning to the sci-fi genre. The new series "Protocol Ryugu" takes its name from Japan's famous deep-sea trench Ryugu and promises a sci-fi story set in the unknown depths of the ocean.
The series debuted with its first chapter in the July issue of the magazine, blending ocean-themed mystery and technological elements. While this genre recalls the style of Tsutomu Nihei, known for works like "BLAME!" and "Knights of Sidonia", Tsuru's unique character-driven narrative stands out. The author's previous works include "Nazca" and "Kuro no Kiseki" in addition to "Natchun", but "Protocol Ryugu" is his first magazine serialization. The series will continue on a monthly basis and is expected to be long-running.
This new move by Tsuru Taisaku is especially exciting for fans of "Natchun". Since the author has not previously worked on a marine-themed project, this step shows him pushing his creative boundaries. While ocean sci-fi has remained popular in recent years with works like "Made in Abyss" and "One Piece", Tsuru's more realistic and character-focused approach could bring a different breath. It is also likely that the series will be collected into a tankōbon volume in the coming months. Manga enthusiasts should keep following the pages of Monthly Young Magazine to witness Tsuru's new era with "Protocol Ryugu".
