The seemingly final chapter of Berserk by creator Kentaro Miura was released in Japan on Sept. 10, and fans are both saddened by the possible end of the series and expressing their gratitude for Miura and his work.
SPOILERS FOR CHAPTER 364 OF BERSERK FOLLOW:
Chapter 364 of Berserk has been released in Japan, and fans are already reacting to what may be the finale of the long-running fantasy series. The chapter was published in Issue 18 of Young Animal magazine, alongside a memorial booklet featuring messages from fans and other manga creators who were touched by Miura's art. The new release is reportedly the last chapter to be completed by Miura himself before his unexpected passing in May 2021 from an acute aortic dissection.
Berserk chapter 364 final page by Kentaro Miura.
— Gilang Gifari (@gilanggifari02) September 9, 2021
Though Studio Gaga still has the possibility to continue the series, this could also be the final chapter of Berserk. I'm grateful to be able to read this masterpiece. #ThankYouMiura pic.twitter.com/gxmMLoqGLR
And with this Berserk Chapter 364 is out, the final chapter Miura worked on.
— Illy Does Vrtra (@IllyXIV) September 9, 2021
The future of the series is unknown going forward but if this is where it ends this last chapter seems to be a good place. While part of me wishes their apprentice would continue I'm content with this. pic.twitter.com/PXF0camoCY
Just read the berserk chapter and I’m not okay man? Those last 3 pages broke me... I can’t believe this is the end but I’m so extremely happy that I got too experience this absolute masterpiece. Thank you Miura sensei for creating my favorite piece of art and fiction... pic.twitter.com/0px96IUhFx
— Raven (@DireRavennn) September 9, 2021
While fans remain divided on the topic of whether the series should continue, the general consensus to Chapter 364 is that, if it is indeed the final chapter of the series, it is a fitting and emotional end for Guts' long journey.
While published Hakusensha says that have "no announcements" to make at this time about the future of the series, rumors continue to persist that the manga may continue under a new author, possibly one of Miura's assistants. Fan reaction to this possible continuation remains mixed: some want to see a more definitive end to Guts and Casca's story, while most posit that Berserk was the work of an auteur, and the series simply wouldn't be the same without Miura's intricate artwork and his unique vision guiding the story.
Young Animal also announced that it will republish Ou-Roh, the manga that Miura worked on just months before the premiere of Berserk. Miura created the art for the series, which was written by Buronson, the creator of the highly influential Fist of the North Star.
Source: Twitter
