Dead Mount Death Play Vol. 12 plunges headfirst into its most atmospheric setting yet—an abandoned hospital in the heart of Shibuya that becomes the central stage for a deadly, multi-faction convergence. The hospital is more than just a battleground; it’s a place thick with history, regret, and supernatural residue. The volume wastes no time throwing its eclectic cast of characters into the eerie ruins, setting off a chain of conflicts that bring the series’ trademark blend of action, strategy, and thematic darkness into full display.
Polka, the ever-enigmatic protagonist, is navigating treacherous terrain—both literally and metaphorically. His ascent to the hospital rooftop is a quiet but poignant moment, where he reconnects with his magical essence while surrounded by the lingering spirits of former patients. These ghosts aren’t malevolent; they’re lost souls, echoing the manga’s recurring theme of unfinished business and the shadows the past casts on the present. It’s a beautifully melancholic scene that deepens the emotional tone of an otherwise high-tension story.
Meanwhile, the Agakura siblings—Yumeji and Takumi—delve deep into the hospital’s underbelly, facing off against grotesque beasts that toe the line between supernatural horror and science-fiction nightmare. The action is intense, but what really shines is the emotional vulnerability we see, especially from Yumeji. He’s not just fighting monsters—he’s fighting fear, guilt, and the pressure of being strong in a collapsing world. These quieter moments elevate the volume beyond your typical action fare.
The psychological warfare intensifies with the manipulations of Higuro, who uses Shibuya’s residents as pawns, brainwashed into becoming obstacles for Polka and his allies. The idea of everyday citizens becoming mindless threats adds a disturbing realism to the fantasy setting. It also forces Polka to refine his tactics, learning whom to trust and when to act. His development as a strategic leader is one of the most satisfying arcs in this volume, showing how far he’s come from his former role as a detached necromancer.
Shinta Fujimoto’s artwork is spectacular as ever. The abandoned hospital is rendered in haunting detail—crumbling walls, flickering lights, and hallways thick with dread. Every spectral encounter and monstrous clash is delivered with cinematic flair, while still giving space for character-driven emotion. Fujimoto strikes an impressive balance between eerie visual storytelling and expressive, grounded character design.
A delightful addition is the bonus comic at the end of the volume, which pulls back the curtain on the anime adaptation process. Fujimoto’s humorous take on the voice recording sessions is a charming behind-the-scenes moment that adds levity to an otherwise dark and intense volume. It’s a reminder that even in a story full of death and decay, there’s room for humor and creative passion.
This volume is a masterclass in tension and thematic storytelling. The ever-present exploration of destiny, past sins, and the blurred lines between life and death continue to drive the narrative. Every character is haunted—by memory, by regret, or by literal ghosts—and that emotional weight gives the action real stakes. Dead Mount Death Play isn’t just about flashy powers and battles—it’s about who these people are, and what they’re willing to become to survive.
I absolutely loved this volume and can’t wait to see how the series continues. Dead Mount Death Play Vol. 12 is haunting, action-packed, and emotionally resonant. It expertly balances spectral tension with visceral conflict while peeling back layers on its ever-growing ensemble. If the series continues at this level, it’s shaping up to be one of the most unique supernatural thrillers on the shelf today.
