Attack on Titan’s Original Draft Reveals Surprising Origins

TOKYO, Japan — Hajime Isayama‘s original draft for *Attack on Titan*, known as *Volume 0*, offers a fascinating glimpse into the early creative process of the now-iconic manga series. Written when Isayama was just 19 years old in 2006, the draft won the Fine Work award in Kodansha’s Magazine Grand Prix and was later included with the anime’s first DVD release in 2013.

The story, set in a world where humanity is trapped by giant humanoids, diverges significantly from the final version. Instead of walls, humanity is surrounded by dense trees, and Titans are the result of government experiments gone awry, turning humans into uncontrollable weapons of war. This concept mirrors the 2015 live-action movie adaptation, where Titans were also created as biological weapons.

The protagonist, Murakumo, shares traits with Eren Yeager, the main character of the final series, as well as other key figures like Erwin and Levi. His protégé, Tsubaki, resembles Gabi and Eren in her passion and determination. The narrative explores themes of suspicion and sacrifice, as Murakumo is accused of being a Titan before ultimately transforming to save his community.

Isayama’s early work also introduces unique elements, such as a Titan’s weak spot being a small orb called a nucleaus, rather than the nape of the neck. The draft’s influence is evident in the live-action movie, where similar plot points and character dynamics appear. Isayama’s involvement in the movie’s production suggests he drew inspiration from *Volume 0*.

While *Volume 0* differs from the final manga, it remains a significant piece of *Attack on Titan* history, showcasing Isayama’s evolving vision and the series’ roots in post-apocalyptic storytelling.