Liar Game Returns: New Short Manga Series Launches Ahead of 2026 TV Anime Adaptation

Shinobu Kaitani's acclaimed psychological thriller Liar Game is making a significant return, announcing both a new short manga serialization and a full TV anime adaptation. The new manga, titled Liar Game: The Last Game, is set to begin serialization on February 25 in Shueisha's Grand Jump Mucha magazine. This announcement was confirmed in the January 2026 issue released Wednesday.

The short series will feature a color opening page and follows protagonist Nao Kanzaki as she is pulled into another round of high-stakes mind games. The story takes place immediately following the conclusion of the original manga run.

The TV anime adaptation is slated to premiere shortly after, launching in April 2026. Animation production is being handled by Madhouse. Yuzo Sato is serving as chief director, with Asami Kawano directing the series. Tatsuhiko Urahata is managing the series composition, and Kei Tsuchiya is handling character designs.

The main voice cast has also been confirmed. Saya Hitomi will star as Nao Kanzaki, alongside Takeo Otsuka as Shinichi Akiyama. The anime will air on TV Tokyo and its affiliates, with international distribution managed by REMOW. A teaser trailer hinting at the franchise's familiar deceit and psychological maneuvering has already been released.

The original Liar Game manga ran in Weekly Young Jump from 2005 through 2015, accumulating 19 volumes published by Shueisha. The property has previously inspired live-action films, TV series, and a 2023 stage play. Kaitani's other notable work, One Outs, also received an anime adaptation back in 2008.

Kaitani himself commented that the series' core theme of trust feels particularly resonant in the current climate of widespread global distrust, strategically building momentum right before the anime debut.