CoryxKenshin’s Hit Manga Monsters We Make Vol 1 Gets Wide Release
The massively successful action-horror manga Monsters We Make Vol 1, from YouTube superstar CoryxKenshin, is officially coming to North American retailers this fall. In a major deal, IDW Publishing has announced an exclusive distribution partnership to bring the hit series to a wider audience starting on October 28, 2025. This move follows the book’s phenomenal independent launch, where it sold over 200,000 copies directly to consumers, signaling a powerful new force in the world of manga and creator-owned comics. The new retail edition will feature an exclusive new cover, giving longtime fans and new readers alike a reason to be excited.
This partnership represents a significant moment for the industry, bridging the gap between a massive online creator and traditional publishing. CoryxKenshin, celebrated for his storytelling and editing in the gaming world, has leveraged his platform of over 22 million subscribers to create a genuine publishing phenomenon. He describes the story as one that “epitomizes the human experience,” touching on mature themes within an action-horror shonen framework. For any comic book fan who has followed the rise of creator-driven projects, this is a major success story.
What to Expect in Monsters We Make Vol 1
At its heart, Monsters We Make Vol 1 is a story of shattered dreams and nightmarish survival. The series follows Jabari Booker, a young man who arrives at the prestigious New Edyn Academy with a bright future in music ahead of him. However, on his very first day, that promise is broken, and he is dragged into an abyss of horror. To survive, Jabari must battle not only the literal monsters of New Edyn but also the deep-seated corruption festering within the academy’s walls. The story is a modern narrative that honors the rich heritage of Japanese manga, complete with a traditional right-to-left reading format, while weaving in Western storytelling perspectives.
The project is a true passion project for CoryxKenshin, who draws inspiration from iconic anime like Dragon Ball Z and modern hits such as Attack on Titan. This love for the medium is evident in the story’s structure and themes. Aub Driver, VP of Marketing at IDW Publishing, praised the creator, calling him a “once-in-a-generation storyteller whose creative vision has inspired millions.” The publisher’s commitment to the series includes plans to release Volumes 2 and 3 over the next year, each with their own exclusive retail-only covers. The incredible comic book covers are sure to be a major draw for collectors.
A New Benchmark for Independent Manga
The success of Monsters We Make is a testament to the power of a dedicated fanbase and a creator with a clear vision. Selling 200,000 physical copies in its first week as an independent publication set a new benchmark and proved that there is a massive appetite for diverse, creator-owned stories. By featuring a Black lead character and a diverse ensemble, the series reflects the passionate community that shapes modern anime, manga, and gaming culture.
This partnership with IDW will bring the series to an even larger audience, making it accessible through local comic shops and online booksellers. It’s an exciting development for fans of new comics and a powerful example of how creators can build their own success and then leverage it for broader reach. The excitement from The Comic Book Addicts community for this release is a clear indicator of its potential to be one of the biggest books of the year.
In conclusion, Monsters We Make Vol 1 is more than just a manga; it’s a cultural event. Led by the creative force of CoryxKenshin and now backed by the publishing power of IDW, this action-horror series is poised to make an even bigger impact on the world of comics.
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