Berserk (Beruseruku) is set in a medieval Europe-inspired world, the story centers around the characters of Guts, an orphaned mercenary, and Griffith, the leader of a mercenary band called the Band of the Hawk (Taka no Dan). Themes of isolation, camaraderie, and the question of whether humanity is fundamentally good or evil pervade the story, as it explores the best and worst of human nature. Both the manga and anime are noted for their heavy violence.

The Brand of Sacrifice marks those sacrificed during a sacrificial ceremony in which an Apostle or God Hand is created. The sacrifice must be someone, or something, close and dear to the summoner. They will be devoured by spirits and demons from the Abyss as the new Apostle or God Hand is born.