I’m the Strongest in This Zombie World, but I Can’t Beat This Girl!, Vol. 1 sets up a unique romantic comedy amidst a full-blown zombie apocalypse. The story follows Yuuma Kousaka, a high schooler who gets bitten during the outbreak and believes he’s reached the end. Just as he’s bracing for the worst, he’s approached by Haruka Hyuuga, the younger sister of his old friend. In a bizarre twist of compassion and comedy, she agrees to fulfill his dying wish—offering to become his girlfriend, giving him one last heart-fluttering memory before he turns.
To Yuuma’s surprise, instead of losing his mind to zombification, he remains fully conscious and even gains the ability to toggle between his zombie and human forms. This unexpected power turns him into one of the most formidable beings in this collapsing world. However, despite his terrifying strength and supernatural regeneration, he finds himself emotionally and psychologically powerless in front of Haruka. Her blunt honesty and sharp tongue constantly catch him off-guard, making her his true nemesis in a world full of brain-eaters.
The manga manages to blend absurdity and sweetness in a way that feels fresh for a zombie title. The relationship between Yuuma and Haruka is the core of the story, and while it begins with a ridiculous premise, it evolves into a surprisingly tender connection. Haruka, with her mix of kindness and savage jabs, becomes Yuuma’s anchor in this chaotic new world. Meanwhile, Yuuma’s attempts to understand his new identity create both comedic and heartfelt moments, making their interactions unexpectedly wholesome.
TwinBox’s art captures both the zombie horror and romantic hijinks with flair. The designs are expressive, and action scenes are full of energy. The contrast between violent zombie attacks and Yuuma’s soft, flustered reactions to Haruka’s teasing is drawn with a sharp comedic touch. Even in its darker scenes, the manga keeps a tone that doesn’t lean too grim, maintaining an upbeat rhythm that matches its oddball romance.
I had a great time reading this first volume. The premise is bizarre, but the emotional core is sincere, and the characters are genuinely likable. It’s a refreshing take on both the zombie and romance genres, and the chemistry between Yuuma and Haruka is the kind of slow-burn chaos I love. I’m definitely looking forward to how their relationship grows and how they continue navigating a world where love and the undead collide.
