On the 19th, the manga 'Real' by Takehiko Inoue, the creator of 'SLAM DUNK,' released its latest volume (Vol. 16), marking the first new release in four years since 2020. To celebrate the 25th anniversary of the series, a large-scale transportation advertisement was unveiled at Shinjuku Station in Tokyo.

The advertisement is displayed across four large panels in the underground passageway from Shinjuku Station to Shinjuku-sanchome Station (Shinjuku Metro Promenade), utilizing the Shinjuku Metro Super Premium Set A, B, C, and D. One of these panels features a peel-off ad where fans can collect special novelty trading cards (six types in total) enclosed in envelopes, showcasing selected famous quotes and scenes from 'Real.'

The cards are sized to fit into wallets or smartphone cases (86mm x 59mm). The visuals revealed after peeling off the novelties are also a highlight. Additionally, a commemorative promotional video for the release of Volume 16 is scheduled to be shown on 20 electronic signage panels near the advertisement.

The story follows three main characters: Tomomi Nomiya, who struggles with life after quitting basketball; Kiyoharu Togawa, who lost a leg to bone cancer and gave up his dreams; and Hisanobu Takahashi, who sustained a spinal cord injury after a bicycle accident. Through wheelchair basketball, they fight to live their lives to the fullest.

Serialized since 1999 in 'Weekly Young Jump,' the series has garnered attention for its realistic portrayal of wheelchair basketball and the challenges faced by those with disabilities, by the same author who wrote the popular basketball manga 'SLAM DUNK.' In 2001, 'Real' won the Excellence Prize in the Manga Division of the 5th Japan Media Arts Festival, and the series has exceeded 16 million copies in total circulation.

In Vol. 16, the story unfolds with the Tigers, on the verge of disbanding, receiving a new lease on life after Katsuya, whom they met at the wheelchair basketball camp, joins the team. Although Togawa's poor condition is a concern, the team goes on a winning streak with the championship just around the corner. Takahashi, who built a basketball wheelchair, finally decides to confront wheelchair basketball head-on. Meanwhile, inspired by Takahashi, Nomiya prepares for a second tryout, teaming up with Ohta to pursue his dream of going pro. Each character confronts the present and moves forward in their own way as the story progresses.

Source : ORICON NEWS