The light novel magazine Dragon Magazine (published by KADOKAWA) officially ceased publication with its May 2025 issue, released today, March 19. First launched on January 30, 1988, the magazine has been a major platform for numerous hit light novels that later became anime sensations. The discontinuation of Dragon Magazine marks the end of an era, but KADOKAWA is transitioning to a new web-based media platform called Mekurimekuru, aimed at evolving the light novel industry in a digital landscape.

A Legacy of Iconic Light Novels

Since its inception, Dragon Magazine has been a cornerstone of the light novel industry, hosting legendary series such as:
Slayers
Full Metal Panic!
Saekano: How to Raise a Boring Girlfriend
Date A Live
High School DxD

More recent publications include Our Last Crusade or the Rise of a New World, Spy Classroom, and Akashic Records of Bastard Magic Instructor, all of which have gained significant popularity and anime adaptations.

Final Issue Pays Tribute to Slayers

The last issue of Dragon Magazine features Slayers on the cover, with a farewell message stating:
"Dragon Magazine may be ending, but our adventures are far from over!"

To commemorate its legacy, the magazine includes a special feature on Slayers’ 35th anniversary, along with a newly written short story—the first in 13 years.

KADOKAWA’s Next Step: Introducing "Mekurimekuru"

In a statement, the Dragon Magazine editorial team cited shifting reading habits as a key factor in their decision:
"The role that Dragon Magazine once fulfilled can no longer be sustained solely through print media. This transition is our next challenge, and we look forward to delivering a new kind of media experience to our readers."

KADOKAWA’s upcoming Mekurimekuru will serve as a comprehensive online hub for light novel enthusiasts. It will integrate content from Dragon Magazine and the existing recommendation service Kimirano, which will be phased out as a standalone platform.

According to the Mekurimekuru editorial team:
"This new web magazine will not only cover light novels and character-driven literature but also extend into related entertainment fields such as anime, manga, events, music, and voice acting."

What’s Next for Light Novel Fans?

The Kimirano team confirmed that while the standalone service will close, initiatives like the Next Light Novel Awards will continue under the new platform. They expressed gratitude to fans and reassured them that Mekurimekuru will be a fresh and engaging space for light novel and entertainment lovers.

For updates on Mekurimekuru's launch, fans are encouraged to follow Kimirano’s official X (formerly Twitter) account.

Kimirano’s official X (JP)

Source : ORICON NEWS