Ninja High School Celebrates 200th Issue: A Milestone for Antarctic Press’s Manga-Inspired Classic

In the vibrant world of American comics, few titles have achieved the enduring legacy of Ninja High School (NHS), a manga-inspired series created by Ben Dunn and published by Antarctic Press. As the series reaches its monumental 200th issue, slated for release in 2025, fans and creators alike are celebrating a comic that has deftly blended humor, action, and manga tropes since its debut in 1987. This article dives into the themes, characters, fanfare, and controversies surrounding Ninja High School, while exploring rumors of a manga-style relaunch and addressing criticisms that have sparked debate. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a curious newcomer, here’s everything you need to know about this iconic series.

A Tapestry of Themes: Parody, Romance, and Adventure

Ninja High School began as a three-issue miniseries parodying popular anime and manga conventions, drawing inspiration from works like Urusei Yatsura and Ranma ½. Set in the fictional Midwest town of Quagmire, the series follows the comedic and action-packed misadventures of high school student Jeremy Feeple, who becomes entangled with an alien princess, Asrial, and a ninja, Ichikun Ichinohei (aka Itchy Koo). Over time, the series evolved from a lighthearted spoof into a sprawling narrative with deeper themes, including romance, identity, family dynamics, and destiny.

The early stories focus on the humorous rivalry between Asrial and Itchy as they compete to marry Jeremy, a seemingly ordinary teenager with hidden depths. This romantic comedy setup is laced with absurd situations, such as ninja battles, alien invasions, and time-traveling antics, often poking fun at manga archetypes like the “magical girlfriend” or “chosen one” tropes. As the series progressed, it introduced more serious themes, such as Jeremy’s struggle with his family’s ninja legacy and Asrial’s responsibilities as a Salusian princess with super-strength. The inclusion of a time-traveling daughter from Jeremy and Itchy’s future adds a layer of destined romance, blending heartfelt moments with the series’ signature silliness.

Later issues, particularly after continuity resets and the shift to Jeremy’s younger brother, Ricky Feeple, in NHS Volume 2 and Shidoshi, explore themes of legacy and personal growth. The series also delves into sci-fi and fantasy, with crossovers like Gold Digger and homages to Fist of the North Star and The Terminator. This versatility has kept Ninja High School fresh, appealing to readers who enjoy both slapstick humor and intricate world-building.

The Core Characters: A Colorful Cast of Manga Archetypes

The heart of Ninja High School lies in its vibrant characters, many of whom embody manga archetypes while subverting expectations:

• Jeremy Feeple: The original protagonist, a 16-year-old everyman at Quagmire High School. Beneath his ordinary exterior lies a skilled fencer, trained by his father, and a reluctant hero caught between two extraordinary women. His journey from a typical teen to a key player in interstellar and ninja conflicts anchors the early series.

• Ichikun Ichinohei (Itchy Koo): A spirited ninja from Japan, Itchy is determined to marry Jeremy to fulfill her clan’s honor. Her fiery personality, martial arts prowess, and comedic mishaps make her a fan favorite. Her deeper connection to Jeremy, including their future daughter, adds emotional weight to her arc.

• Princess Asrial: An alien princess from Salusia, Asrial is sent to Earth to marry Jeremy to secure her planet’s political alliances. Her super-strength, derived from her royal lineage, and her earnest attempts to understand Earth culture create a mix of humor and heart.

• Ricky Feeple: Jeremy’s younger brother, who takes the spotlight in NHS Volume 2 and Shidoshi. A skilled ninja in his own right, Ricky navigates his own adventures in a timeline set in the 1990s, dealing with family legacy and new rivals like the Rivalsan Ninja Corporation.

• Anna Feeple: Ricky and Jeremy’s mother, a formidable ninja posing as a housewife. Her strength and secrecy add depth to the Feeple family’s ninja heritage.

• Supporting Cast: Characters like Lendo Rivalsan (a scheming CEO), Tetsuo Rivalsan (his less competent brother), and Yumei Katana (a former ninja turned “normal” girl) enrich the series with rivalries and subplots. Cameos like Hotaro no Kenterminator (a Terminator parody) and Arnie (a nod to Sylvester Stallone) inject pop culture flair.

This ensemble, often drawn in a super-deformed or chibi style, balances humor with character development, making Ninja High School a dynamic read.

Fanfare and Praise: A Beloved “Amerimanga”

Since its inception, Ninja High School has garnered a dedicated fanbase, evidenced by its longevity and extensive publication history, which includes over 160 issues, multiple miniseries, and fan-driven specials like the Ninja High School Yearbook and Swimsuit Edition. Fans on platforms like Reddit have praised its role as a pioneer of “Amerimanga,” with one user calling it “one of the earliest Western origin manga” and another reminiscing about meeting Ben Dunn in the 1990s, securing original pencil drawings of NHS characters. The series’ availability on Webtoon, including its original run, Volume 2, Shidoshi, and Quagmire USA, has introduced it to new readers, further cementing its legacy.

The comic’s blend of parody and heartfelt storytelling has earned accolades for its accessibility and charm. Fans appreciate its nostalgic nod to 1980s and 1990s anime, with one Reddit user noting, “Ichi Koo was my comic crush for a minute, and Arnie was a badass!!” Others laud its crossovers with Gold Digger and its influence on other Antarctic Press titles like Twilight X. The series’ adaptation into a role-playing game by Battlefield Press and an option for a feature film by Perfect Circle Productions highlight its cultural impact.

Rumors of a Manga Relaunch: Larry Higgins’ Vision

Recent buzz within the comic community suggests Antarctic Press may be considering a manga-style relaunch of Ninja High School, potentially aligning it more closely with traditional Japanese manga formats. Larry Higgins, author of Nyobi (another Antarctic Press title), has been vocal about pushing for this relaunch, aiming to modernize the series while preserving its core appeal. While no official confirmation has been announced, the idea has sparked excitement among fans, particularly given the series’ existing manga-inspired roots. A relaunch could involve updated art, a streamlined continuity, or a focus on new characters, as hinted in plans following the Shidoshi series. However, details remain speculative, and fans are encouraged to follow Antarctic Press’s official channels for updates.

Controversies and Criticisms: A Contentious Tropes Debate

Despite its popularity, Ninja High School has not been without controversy. Critics, including Mike and Mindy Wheeler of Divinity Comics, have accused the series of promoting content akin to child pornography and exploiting minors, pointing to its depiction of teenage characters in romantic and occasionally suggestive scenarios. These criticisms align with broader debates about manga tropes that sexualize younger characters, seen in titles like High School DxD, The Qwaser of Stigmata, Prison School, To Love-Ru, and Miss Mystic. Such tropes, often involving fanservice or ecchi elements, are common in certain manga genres but have drawn scrutiny for their portrayal of minors in provocative contexts.

While Ninja High School is relatively tame compared to these examples, its Swimsuit Edition and comedic romantic rivalries have fueled the debate. Supporters argue that the series’ humor and parody mitigate these concerns, emphasizing its lighthearted intent and lack of explicit content. Others, however, see it as part of a broader trend in manga-inspired works that can blur ethical lines. The controversy has been further complicated by Antarctic Press’s association with politically charged content, with some fans noting Ben Dunn’s public support for conservative causes, which has alienated a portion of the readership.

A Milestone Worth Exploring

As Ninja High School celebrates its 200th issue, it stands as a testament to Antarctic Press’s commitment to blending Western and Eastern comic traditions. With its rich tapestry of themes, memorable characters, and a fanbase spanning decades, the series offers something for everyone—whether you’re drawn to its comedic roots, intricate world-building, or nostalgic charm. The rumors of a manga relaunch add an exciting prospect for its future, while the controversies invite readers to critically engage with its content.

For those interested in diving in, Ninja High School is available on Webtoon and through Antarctic Press’s official store. Back issues and collections can also be found on MyComicShop. Whether you’re intrigued by its legacy or cautious about its tropes, Ninja High School remains a unique piece of comic history, inviting readers to decide for themselves.