Fungus and Iron

The greatest strength of Fungus and Iron lies in its uniquely original setting, depicting a dystopian world where humanity is dominated by fungi that parasitically infect human brains. In this narrative, the global government "Amigasa" exercises absolute control, depriving people of their freedom by regulating even their emotions and thoughts. The protagonist, Dante, suffers from dyslexia, a unique condition that makes him resistant to fungal control, allowing him alone to perceive the twisted abnormality of the world around him. His encounter with the anti-government organization "Ether" sparks the unfolding of the story. Being serialized monthly, the pacing is somewhat slow, yet its captivating world-building, profound themes, and compelling story firmly place it among the top manga currently available. It’s already being referred to by many as "the next Attack on Titan," largely due to the way Fungus and Iron subtly satirizes contemporary society, similar to how Attack on Titan did.

May 30, 2025

Dante, the protagonist, is innocent and pure-hearted, yet endowed with extraordinary physical abilities and unwavering determination. His growth and internal struggles are central to the narrative, strongly reminiscent of Yuji Itadori from Jujutsu Kaisen. His journey towards self-awareness begins when he meets a girl named Aoi, whose words—"It’s wrong that free thought and conversation aren’t allowed"—inspire him deeply, offering readers both empathy and hope. Additionally, mysteries surrounding the rebel group "Ether," the true nature of the fungi, and the ultimate purpose behind the oppressive regime significantly raise expectations for future plot developments. However, some readers find the manga's distinct art style, youthful character designs, and occasionally explanatory dialogue somewhat jarring, creating mixed reactions due to the contrast with its serious and dark setting. Personally, I find this stylistic gap very modern and appealing. The reasons behind the creation of such an oppressive society and why humanity needed total control remain enigmatic, further increasing anticipation for upcoming revelations. Nevertheless, the manga's distinctive combination of fungi and iron as thematic elements, along with its occasional humor and subtle romantic moments within the grim atmosphere, make for a richly engaging experience. If you're a fan of dystopian stories, survival dramas, or coming-of-age narratives, Fungus and Iron is a title you won't want to miss.

May 30, 2025