As an expert in the medium, it is a pleasure to dissect a work that has been making waves in the "Death Game" and "Tournament" subgenres. If you are a fan of high-stakes battles and historical reimagining, "The War of Greedy Witches" (known in Japan as *Majo Taisen: 32-nin no Isai no Majo wa Koroshiau*) is a title you cannot afford to overlook. Written by Homura Kawamoto (the mastermind behind *Kakegurui*) and illustrated with visceral intensity by Makoto Shiozuka, this manga offers a dark, supernatural twist on the historical tournament trope.
The Premise: The Walpurgis Tournament
The story begins at the moment of death for Jeanne d’Arc, the celebrated Heroine of France. However, instead of finding eternal peace, she is whisked away to a mysterious, otherworldly realm. She finds herself in the presence of Agrat Bat Mahlat, the Queen of Demons, who has summoned 32 of the most influential and powerful women from across human history.
These women—ranging from monarchs and warriors to scientists and serial killers—are labeled as "Witches." But in this world, a "Witch" is not defined by broomsticks or cauldrons; a Witch is a woman whose "Greed" (or intense desire) was so potent during her life that it manifested as supernatural power. Agrat announces the Walpurgis, a 32-woman single-elimination tournament. The prize? The winner will have her "Greed" granted—a chance to fulfill her deepest, most impossible wish. The cost of losing? Absolute annihilation of the soul.
Demographics and Artistic Style
*The War of Greedy Witches* is categorized as a Seinen manga, serialized in *Monthly Comic Zenon*. Unlike Shonen battle manga, which often focus on the power of friendship or moral growth, this Seinen title leans heavily into the psychological weight of ambition, the brutality of combat, and the moral ambiguity of its protagonists.
The art by Makoto Shiozuka is a standout feature. The character designs are extravagant, blending historical attire with "Magic Vestments" (battle forms) that reflect each woman’s inner psyche. The combat is kinetic, gory, and visually inventive, capturing the sheer desperation of women fighting for their second chance at existence.
The Cast: History Reimagined
The roster of *Majo Taisen* is a "Who’s Who" of historical legends. You will see Wu Zetian, the only female emperor of China, facing off against Elizabeth Bathory, the "Blood Countess." You’ll witness Tomoe Gozen, the legendary samurai, and even figures like Marie Antoinette, Cleopatra, and Catherine the Great.
What makes the manga compelling is how it reinterprets these figures. Each fighter possesses a unique "Magic" derived from her historical legacy. For example, Elizabeth Bathory’s magic revolves around torture and blood, reflecting her dark legend, while Wu Zetian’s power manifests through her absolute authority and imperial will. The protagonist, Jeanne d'Arc, serves as the "wild card," as she initially claims to have no "Greed," leading the other witches to view her with suspicion and intrigue.
Core Themes: The Nature of Desire
The central theme of the manga is the deification of "Greed" (Desire). In many stories, greed is a vice; here, it is the ultimate virtue and the source of evolution. The manga explores the idea that to change the world or leave a mark on history, one must possess an all-consuming hunger for something—be it love, power, revenge, or knowledge.
Another prominent theme is Female Agency. By stripping these historical figures of their traditional narratives and placing them in a literal arena of death, the story examines what these women would have done if they weren't bound by the social or political constraints of their respective eras. It is a celebration of their strength, however twisted or "greedy" it may be.
Why You Should Read It
If you enjoyed *Record of Ragnarok* (Shuumatsu no Walküre), *The War of Greedy Witches* is its spiritual sister. It shares the same DNA of "Historical Figure vs. Historical Figure," but adds a layer of psychological depth and a unique magic system based on personality traits. The stakes feel personal because we aren't just watching gods fight for humanity; we are watching 32 individuals fight for their own selfish, tragic, and beautiful dreams.
In conclusion, *The War of Greedy Witches* is a masterclass in Seinen action. It combines historical curiosity with the thrill of a high-octane battle royale, making it a must-read for anyone who appreciates complex female characters and top-tier manga illustration. Prepare yourself for the Walpurgis—where only the greediest soul survives.
📖 Leer online en Donmanga:
➡️ The War of Greedy Witches – Leer Manga
