Classroom of the Elite Season 3 made its long-awaited premiere in January 2024 as part of the winter anime lineup. It's a hugely popular series, but is Classroom of the Elite based on a manga or light novel, and is it finished?
Unlike other school-themed anime, Classroom of the Elite intrigues its viewers with its interesting mysteries.
There are a lot of questions that linger on viewers' minds like is Ayanokoji a sociopath? Do the students ever reach Class A? Does Horikita like Ayanokoji?
Now in its third season, it appears that Ayanokoji and the rest of his classmates will face another challenge that will test how deserving they are of staying at the prestigious school.
Is Classroom of the Elite Based on a Manga or Light Novel?
Classroom of the Elite was originally a light novel series illustrated by Shunsaku Tomose and written by Shougo Kinugasa.
It was eventually adapted into a manga with illustrations by Yuyu Ichino before it was adapted into an anime by studio Lerche.
A sequel light novel titled Classroom of the Elite: Year 2 was first released in January 2020.
As of October 2023, there have been 10 volumes and two short story volumes released for Classroom of the Elite: Year 2.
Is the Classroom of the Elite Light Novel Ongoing or Finished?
The original light novel series of Classroom of the Elite concluded in September 2019, having released 11 volumes in total.
Meanwhile, the sequel light novel, Classroom of the Elite: Year 2, is still ongoing, with 10 volumes released so far. The eleventh volume is slated to come out on February 24, 2024.
What Is the Status of the Classroom of the Elite Manga?
The original Classroom of the Elite manga is still ongoing. It was first published in January 2016 and has so far released 12 volumes.
On the other hand, the Classroom of the Elite: Horikita manga series illustrated by Sakagaki has finished serialization. It ran from June 2017 to May 2018, with only two volumes released.
Which Classroom of the Elite Medium Is the Best: Light Novel, Manga, or Anime?
It is important to note that the anime and manga might have some changes from the original light novel source material. Some scenes might've been removed or added to make the story more compelling for the viewers.
For those who wish to know the authentic version of the story, then the light novel is the best choice. The light novel also delves deeper into Ayanokoji's personality and each situation he gets into.
However, those who prefer to follow the story with animations and music should opt to watch the anime instead.
The characters are also brought to life by talented VAs led by Shouya Chiba and Akari Kitou, who voice the lead characters, Ayanokoji and Horikita, respectively.
Either way, Classroom of the Elite is a series that is loved by both light novel and manga fans, as well as anime viewers. The psychological thriller series is certainly a must-watch and a must-read for those who prefer this genre.
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