Current Berserk Writer Complains that New Kamen Rider is Very Similar to D Diver, his Manga
The current author and supervisor of Berserk, Kouji Mori, recently sparked controversy by commenting on the new TV series Kamen Rider Zeztz. Mori stated that the series’ plot shows worrying similarities to his manga D.Diver, which involves a hero who transforms and fights within dreams.
Who is Kouji Mori and the manga D.Diver
Kouji Mori is known for his work as the supervisor of Berserk, one of the most iconic manga in history. Additionally, he is the creator of D.Diver, a manga that explores original concepts, including heroes who enter dreams to fight enemies. This project is particularly special for Mori, as it was his last manga created together with Kentaro Miura, the legendary author of Berserk.
Current Berserk Writer Complains that New Kamen Rider is Very Similar to D Diver, his Manga
According to Mori, in the winter of 2023, he was approached by a producer from Toei, the company responsible for the Kamen Rider franchise, to collaborate on a movie project derived from the series. During meetings, Mori shared ideas for the film and presented storyboards, as well as commented on the concept of D.Diver, highlighting the idea of a hero who fights within dreams.
The movie project, however, did not materialize. Months later, Mori discovered details about Kamen Rider Zeztz, a TV series set to premiere, and noticed clear similarities with his manga. Concerned, he contacted the movie producer to seek clarification.
In his statement, Mori described his frustration in trying to clarify the situation:
The movie producer claimed not to be involved in the TV series and not to know Mori’s manga.
The Kamen Rider production team responded that “there are many similar concepts both in Japan and abroad,” an argument Mori considered inadequate since he had never seen a hero fighting in dreams outside of D.Diver.
Mori emphasized that he had collaborated in good faith, providing ideas and storyboards, and that he only expected an explanation regarding the perceived similarities.
The author also stressed that the work is emotionally important to him, being his last project with Kentaro Miura, making the episode even more delicate.
Mori explained that he tried to handle the situation diplomatically but felt there was disrespect and a breach of commitment by Toei. He stated that he does not intend to initiate a legal conflict but regretted that communication failed and that he did not receive satisfactory explanations.
He also asked fans not to make hasty judgments, noting that idea overlaps are common in the manga industry but should be discussed transparently. Mori concluded by stating that he will not respond to comments and will continue to focus on his work, maintaining respect for fans and Miura’s legacy.