Manga UP! Global has added the English release of Sakamegane’s charming VTuber rom-com manga VTuber Kusamura Shigemi: I’m my Oshi’s Favorite (VTuber Kusamura Shigemi: Tōku ni Itte Shimatta Ki ga Shita Oshi ga Zenzen Tōku ni Itte Kurenai Hanashi) — bringing a heartfelt story of mutual fandom, loneliness, and online intimacy to English-reading audiences. If you’re into virtual idols, slow-burn romance, and character-driven comedy, this title is one to watch.
Table of Contents
What is VTuber Kusamura Shigemi about?
At its core, VTuber Kusamura Shigemi is a virtual rom-com about two people who idolize each other. Shigemi Kusamura is a popular VTuber boasting around 1.3 million subscribers. Her oldest and most devoted fan, Nanashino, watches with happiness — and a twinge of loneliness — as Shigemi’s career grows and her life appears to move farther away.
Despite the apparent distance, Shigemi’s personal feelings toward Nanashino have never faded. She continues to reply to his comments and gradually reveals that her affection might be more than just fan appreciation. The series explores the emotional dynamics when a fan discovers they are also the object of their idol’s devotion.
Key characters and dynamics
Shigemi Kusamura — the VTuber star
Shigemi is the glittering center of the story: an online performer with a huge audience, polished streams, and the warm, personal touch that keeps fans coming back. The manga examines the person behind the avatar, showing how she balances the demands of stardom with her private feelings.
Nanashino — the devoted fan
Nanashino represents the earnest, older fan who feels bittersweet about seeing their favorite creator succeed. His internal conflict — pride in Shigemi’s rise and loneliness at feeling left behind — is relatable to anyone who’s ever followed an artist through changing times.
The mutual fandom element
What makes this story stand out is the reversal: the idol becomes the admirer. That mutual adoration creates a tender, sometimes comedic tension as both characters navigate the blurred lines between performer and partner.
Publication history and availability
Sakamegane originally launched the manga on Twitter in November 2023, where it quickly gained traction for its warm art style and emotionally resonant storytelling. Square Enix published the first compiled volume on April 22 and followed up with a second volume on December 22.
For English readers, the series arrived on Manga UP! Global, making it easy to read the official translation online. You can check Manga UP! Global for the current chapters and availability — Manga UP! Global.
Why this VTuber rom-com works
VTuber Kusamura Shigemi blends contemporary internet culture with classic rom-com beats. Here are a few reasons it resonates:
- Relatable character emotions: The mix of pride, loneliness, hope, and awkwardness feels authentic to modern fans and creators alike.
- Focused cast and pacing: The story doesn’t try to overreach; it centers on the evolving bond between two people, allowing emotional moments to land.
- Sharp, expressive art: Sakamegane’s art captures both the performative sparkle of VTuber streams and quieter, intimate moments off-camera.
- Contemporary premise: The VTuber angle gives the romance fresh context — exploring parasocial relationships, authenticity online, and the humanity behind avatars.
Who should read this manga?
If you enjoy:
- Slow-burn romance and character-driven stories
- Works that examine fandom and creator-fan relationships
- Slice-of-life comedies with emotional depth
- Contemporary manga that reflect internet culture and virtual personalities
— then VTuber Kusamura Shigemi is likely to appeal. It’s also a good pick for readers curious about VTuber culture who want a human-centered narrative rather than a technical or industry-focused story.
Tips for new readers
Start from the beginning to fully appreciate the emotional development between Shigemi and Nanashino. Pay attention to small gestures and replies in the early chapters — the series builds its romance through details rather than dramatic plot twists.
Because the manga began on Twitter, you’ll notice short, impactful chapters with expressive page layouts designed for quick consumption. If you prefer binge-reading, the compiled volumes published by Square Enix collect those moments into a smoother reading experience.
Where to follow updates
For official chapter releases and announcements, Manga UP! Global hosts the English translation. Publisher information and print volume details can be found through Square Enix’s official channels and bookstore listings.
Additional reading and related works
If you like the themes in VTuber Kusamura Shigemi, consider exploring other rom-coms or slice-of-life series that focus on creative work and online culture. Official publisher pages and reputable manga platforms often list recommended titles in similar genres.
Final thoughts
VTuber Kusamura Shigemi: I’m my Oshi’s Favorite offers a warm, modern romance that examines what it means to be admired — and to admire someone in return — in the digital age. With charming characterization, sincere emotional beats, and a contemporary premise rooted in VTuber culture, Sakamegane’s series stands out as a thoughtful rom-com worth reading. Whether you’re already invested in virtual performers or simply enjoy well-crafted relationship stories, this manga delivers humor, heart, and a refreshing take on mutual fandom.
