Square Enix's New Dark Fantasy Manga "Yagate Kuromaku e to Itaru Saiteki Kai" Released with Its First Volume

Square Enix has taken the first steps of a new series that will excite dark fantasy fans. The first volume of the manga Yagate Kuromaku e to Itaru Saiteki Kai (The Optimal Solution to Eventually Becoming the Mastermind), written by Washiro Fujiki and illustrated by Tagane Kajiken, hit shelves in Japan on May 12. The series blends the "regression" theme, which has become quite popular in recent years, with a strategic revenge story.

The story revolves around a young man named Kaltz, who witnesses the tragic death of his master Altesia, to whom he remained loyal throughout his life. After learning that his master was killed by a conspiracy formed by the six great dukedom houses, Kaltz manages to travel back in time after ten years of preparation. Waking up as a 10-year-old child, our main character aims not only to survive this time but to become a true "mastermind" who manages events from behind the scenes using his knowledge of the future.

Washiro Fujiki, one of the names behind the series, is known for his deep narratives, while Tagane Kajiken's detailed illustrations successfully reflect the dark fantasy atmosphere. The character designs are by ne-on. The manga is actually based on a light novel series published by HJ Bunko (Hobby Japan) and is serialized on Square Enix's digital platform Gangan Online. Such "mastermind" stories are quite appealing to fans who love narratives where the main character uses their intelligence and strategy rather than brute force.

Published by Square Enix, this production focuses on the character's efforts to defeat his enemies.