No\Name (ノーネーム No\Name?) is a Japanese manga series written by Rafal Jaki, the creator of Cyberpunk: Edgerunners, and illustrated by Machine Gamu, known for assisting on Gachiakuta. Initially published as a one-shot, the series began serialization on MANGA Plus and Shōnen Jump+ on July 30, 2024. The first chapter is available for free on Manga Plus Creators, and plans for a physical release under the Jump Comics imprint in Japan are underway.
Plot[]
Official Synopsis[]
In a world where people's names grant them superhuman powers, two agents from the Nordic Naming Bureau (NNB), an agency specializing in investigating crimes committed by "Namers," handle the case of a man and his missing wife and son. Things take a turn, however, when the duo comes face to face with the man, who wishes to give his son the same name as himself.
Premise[]
The story unfolds in a dystopian society controlled by the Nordic Naming Bureau (NNB), a police state that assigns names to newborns. These names determine an individual’s powers and socio-economic class, taking away their freedom of choice. Powers manifest only when a child acknowledges their assigned name, creating a rigid system that influences every aspect of life.
The main characters, Ralf and Ursula, are detectives working for the NNB. Ralf, whose name grants him the ability to control wolves, and Ursula, who can transform into a giant bear, investigate cases involving "Namers" who misuse their abilities. Their latest assignment involves a politician, Bodil Ipsen, whose name, meaning "human commander," allows him to control others. Bodil’s wife, Kara, fled from his abuse to protect their child, revealing the dark underbelly of the Naming system.
Characters[]
- Ralf (ラルフ Rarufu?)
- A detective at the Nordic Naming Bureau with the ability to control wolves. Ralf is analytical and compassionate, often questioning the morality of the Naming system.
- Ursula (ウルスラ Urusura?)
- Ralf’s partner, whose name grants her the power to transform into a giant bear. Ursula is headstrong and fiercely protective of the innocent.
- Bodil Ipsen (ボディル・イプセン Bodiru Ipusen?)
- A charismatic yet abusive politician whose name means "human commander." Bodil’s powers allow him to manipulate others, making him a formidable adversary.
- Kara (カラ Kara?)
- Bodil’s wife, who fled to protect her son from his control. Kara’s common name gives her weaker abilities but a strong resolve to defy her husband.
Media[]
Manga[]
No\Name debuted on Shōnen Jump+ and MANGA Plus on July 30, 2024. Its unique premise and compelling characters have garnered attention, with readers praising its exploration of societal control and individuality.
Future Plans[]
A physical version of the manga will be published under the Jump Comics imprint in Japan. Further adaptations, including potential anime or multimedia projects, remain unconfirmed but are highly anticipated.
Reception[]
Critics and fans alike have praised No\Name for its innovative power system and thought-provoking narrative. The series has been described as a gripping blend of supernatural action and social commentary, with comparisons drawn to Death Note and Attack on Titan for its dark themes and complex characters.
External Links[]
- No\Name on Manga Plus (Japanese)
- No\Name (manga) at Anime News Network's Encyclopedia
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